Collection by Jordan Kushins
ICFF 2010: First Look
It's definitely springtime in the Big Apple, and New York is buzzing. Though ICFF veterans notice the fair feels still a bit smaller than years past, there seems to be a sense of optimism running through the booths at the Javits Center, which hosts the exhibition, and across the design events that dot the city. Most of the designers are there with their work, and are more than happy to talk you through their pieces. Their inspiration begets enthusiasm and, in a tight economic time, innovation, to make the most of what they're producing in concept and in practice. In this slideshow, I share a few things that caught my eye.
Richard Schultz looking good, lounging in one of his new double Wing loungers in daffodil yellow. He said it was based on a piece he designed in the 80s—a prototype made out of cardboard—that was made possible to manufacture with laser cutting techniques. "The great designs have always been extremely practical and comfortable," he says. When his old friend Bruce Hannah stopped by, they shared stories of working with some of the other big name legends: Jens Risom and Harry Bertoia.
"I like the idea that one piece needs the other," designer Kurt Dexel said of his Wedge side tables. HIs company, Dexel Crafted, is located in Vancouver but does custom pieces—using traditional woodworking techniques—for customers across the US
New York designer Lindsey Adleman's electric candelabra, "Agnes," is part of the new collection from Roll & Hill. The new lighting company launched at the beginning of this year, and all the products are manufactured in Brooklyn.
Pop-up bike basket! One of the latest items from Mio is this cool flat-packed carrier for your Schwinn.
These Throwing Stones from iglooplay are covered in 100% wool, and can be stacked, sat on, and tossed around. A nice option for kids' furniture that doesn't look immature.
The aptly named Scrappers nesting tables are "scrap wood, toned down," explains designer Michael Iannone. He uses FSC-certified wood for the frame, and insets reclaimed pieces to create each unique pair.
Streetside seesaw! There was a little girl and her dad playing on this when I passed by, but when I got my camera out they had moved on.
This Chain Saw Bowl by Andy Manley and Ricard de Ath was made from a tree felled from a road widening project in Dominica. It was part of "Love Freedom Flow," a presentation of new Caribbean design that focused on traditional craft techniques and indiginous materials to the region.