DESIGN FOR MEN

One of my New Years resolutions: Get better organized.  Relying on my iphone, sketchbook, and work calendars had become cumbersome to say the least.  I realized that despite all of the wonderful tablets, phones, and other gadgets that I couldn’t rely on technology.  I am a paper and pen kind of guy especially with my need to sketch and create lists pretty much constantly. So, I had to go old school and find a planner that combined calendar, project to do list, and sketchbook with some flexibility to organize by project.

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The Circa system by Levenger was the answer – essentially a flexible notebook system that allows you to create the planner or notebook that works for you.  The ring binding with custom holes allows you to move around pages.  I was sold but alas – while the weekly planner and project to-do list inserts were available, blank pages for sketching were not.  Almost a deal breaker until I did some research online and found that Levenger finessed the technology originally designed by Rollabind who sells blank pages.  Everything came together and I am pleased with my choice!

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I even found a way to customize the cover.  My model making skills came in handy as I cut some illustration board and glued down some fabric samples…the front and back cover are different but I dig the results.

Bring it on 2011 – I am ready!

My advice: everyone works and thinks differently.  Be creative and you can find a system that works for you!

Image Credits: Levenger

Victor Klassen, started by the artist/scupltor himself, features innovative wood-working technique from exterior doors and other wood doors, to coffee tables, home accessories and other unique modern furniture pieces. These contemporary styles always exude a life of their own. They get their inspiration from the blend of natural forms and the illusion of movement, which is why their artistic furniture designs curve and flow with an exquisite rhythm.  Speaking of simulating movement through dynamic form…the stunning buffet above features is a personal favorite featuring ubiquitous sweeping curves and integrated pulls.  The following are just a taste of the wonderful pieces on the site:

Curve Table

Skeletal Sofa simply wow!

Nook Coffee Table (also available as console and breakfast tables)

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Doors: Wave and Chaotic


All of their pieces incorporate the best quality materials including premium grade Red Cedar and American Ash which are mainstays in their collection. No wonder they pride themselves on modern furniture pieces that are perfect for longevity and stability.

Enjoy your journey through their site by clicking here, and be immersed in the artistic work of Victor Klassen.

IMAGES by Victor Klassen

Blik provides a line of self-adhesive wall decals (large stickers) that can be used to inexpensively and temporarily transform your space.  Blik decals can be applied to any flat surface including walls, windows, mirrors, ceilings, tabletops, or flooring.  When you tire of things quickly like I do, then you can simply remove and re-envision.  Also, decals can be customized to work with your vision of your space.  The photo above illustrates a custom installation in a home.    The following are my favorites:

Flying Paper Planes $35

Chandelier $35

Race Ya Re-Stik $35

Ambition Killed the Cat $45

Birds of a Feather $40

IMAGES from Blik.com

John Beck, owner of John Beck Paper & Steel, is a humble craftsman based out of  Edwardsville, IL.  Beck has channeled his passion for welding and working with his hands into a successful business.  He is doing what he loves and I must say that I am loving what he is doing.   Here are some stand out stars from his work.

Furniture

ANTI-TRUNK (pictured above) 1/8” steel sheet construction, hand painted, distressed and waxed. You can choose the number.

LIMITED EDITION TABLE Sheet Steel Construction, Solid Wood Core

DESK 3 Steel tube frame with glass top

ADJUSTABLE SHELVING UNIT Steel frame w/ adjustable steel shelves

Kitchen

ADAM ISLAND Steel sheet top, under counter storage with built in cutting board and knife storage

Lighting

LIGHT ONE & MINI LIGHT ONE Steel tube / with wire mesh shade / 30W Edison style bulb

GREEN DEPOT CHALKBOARD PENDANT This steel sheet lamp shade can be written on to send a message.

Custom Projects John Beck will do just about anything custom including exhibits, signage, work stations,  furniture, and lighting.  At Treo Salon, JBPS designed the monolithic bar with backlit logo, pendant fixture, as well as the cutting station in the rear.

Transformations The team at JBPS also transforms vintage finds into functional furniture.  The stunning table above was created using steel frame, reclaim wood drawers turned, and glass top.

Sliding Doors 2” steel frame, sheet steel insert panels.  Includes hanging track and wheels.

IMAGES FROM John Beck Paper & Steel