Video: Doshi Levien Expresses the Joy of Fine Design

Irwin Weiner ASID - How refreshing to hear two designers talking about their work, stressing the importance of joy and fun in their designs.

Yes, good design is functional design, but form doesn't have to always follow function. Looking at cookware as an expression of culture and tradition, looking at shoes as a wrapping of materials around the feet, and drawing attention to the decorated backside of a usually-hidden part of a sofa - this is the wit that Nipa Doshi and Jonathan Levien bring to their Doshi Levien collaboration.

Design without a sense of humor is a sterile, bad business. Steer clear of it, and always look for that tongue-in-cheek touch for any design project to elevate your mood and put a smile on your face.

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John-Richard Introduces Furniture Line by Florence de Dampierre

Irwin Weiner ASID - Steeped in an antiques tradition, designer Florence de Dampierre just launched a new line of furniture, art, and accessories with John-Richard, and it's a lot of French chic classic-with-a-modern-twist that moves it into the mainstream of what's currently popular. Glam white and silvered finishes, pops of trendy color (the tangerines, the blues, etc.), and some unexpected surprises await designers and homeowners who are in the market for something new and conversational. The designer talks about her line in this video from trends and news website, The Home.

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Design Video: Marc Newson's New Furniture Book

Irwin Weiner ASID - Iconic describes furniture designer Marc Newson and his amazing body of work. Taschen has just come out with a new book of his work - click here for more information on Marc Newson Works - and this video is the rare treat of seeing the UK designer actually thumb through the proofs with us and comment along the way. Pictured above is Newson's well-known Lockheed Lounge, one of the most expensive pieces of furniture ever sold at auction. (How's this for self-effacing? On his own website bio, Newson is described as "the most acclaimed and influential designer of his generation.")

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Color-Infused Glass in the Works of Paola Petrobelli

Irwin Weiner ASID - Yesterday's toilet paper post now has me on a color jag - and I immediately thought of Paola Petrobelli, the amazing London glass designer (who was once a pro motorbike racer and has an infectious diseases masters degree). You'll see the Murano glass influence on the Padua-born Petrobelli's work, but she has her own simple, elegant, colorful style. Click on each photo for more information.

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