Selectism

No excuses, we like Scandinavian design here. First produced in 1935, Alvar Alto's arm chair 400 is packed with appealing curves. It also always an endless possibilities inregards to covering. Most importantly, perhaps, the design is modern without screaming "MODERNISM." Thus, fits cleanly into a contemporary setting without turning the whole scene into an exercise in eclectic collecting. For more information goto Skandium. (via Retro to Go). 

As you may have guessed, we are a big fan of stools. Several reasons. 1. Great design at affordable prices. 2. A distinct form that can take a multitude of shapes. Eero Saarinen's Tulip Stool has the same distinct look as the Tulip chair and table. Vertigo Interiors has them now. (via Retro to Go). 

London's Liberty is known for its prints. It is also a renowned champion ofcontemporary furniture. Celebrating the legacy of Knoll, Liberty is hosting an exhibition of "Past, Present and Future" pieces from the famous furniture manufacturer. Representing iconicwork from some of the worlds finest designers, the collection of material will remain on view until September 4. 

Brazilian designer Fernando Akasaka fuses the saddle and the stool, two seating options becoming one. Made of a stainless steal post and stirrup base, the stools resting point is a Akasaka's signature jumping saddle. Options are black, brown and dark oak. The piece is inspired by The Cowboy Junkies. (Via Cool Hunting). 

Vitra Edition is the radical arm of the Swiss design firm. From September 10 through 27, Phillips de Pury will host an exhibition of 24 objects from Frank Gehry and Konstantin Grcic (among others) at their London location. These pieces will be, for the first time, on displayoutside the Vitra campus. All the work was unveiled during 2007, and this year will be met by more eyes. 

A few highlights after the jump.

This coffee table was designed by Alexander Girard for Knoll in 1948. An asymmetrical side and one straight side makes it rather versatile and space saving. The top is made of a walnut veneer. Still in production from Knoll with original proportions, the table canbe found at Design Within Reach. 

Retro to Go alerts us to a stunning double rocker from James Design. Built of English oak, with the customers choice in upholstery, the seat takes mid-century stylings and offers it up for two. A beautiful option in seating furniture. 

Yet another well proportioned take on 1950s modernism (and an ode to a favorite of ours, the Eames arm chair). Sergio Fahrer's coconut, or fitto chair, has a eco friendly pau ferro wood veneer. The ottoman, equally striking is a needed extra. (via retro to go). 

Designer Carl Menary has come up with an ace way to recycle tires. Important because a) tire fires are dangerous and b) public seating is a good thing. Menary's "Re-Tyre" bends the disused tire quite simply into able seating furniture appropriate for parks, gardens, patios and adventurous lofts. (via yanko).

Typically one views Target as the big box with style and flair. However, the Stockholm set from Walmart does impress. Light veneer, white and orange accents. The metal feet give it a lift and make it just airy enough. For a taste of mid-century design without the typical cost, the Stockholm series works well. And, to be blunt, it is a bit of a surprise find. Thanks Retro to Go. 

Check the cabinet after the jump.