Metropolis Magazine - Metropolis Magazine April 2009
Natural Selections
With the earth seeming more fragile by the minute, many people are looking for ways to reconnect with the natural environment and behave in more eco-friendly ways. Product design can help, whether through a giant fan that gently cools a room, an umbrella that lets you enjoy the outdoors without the UV damage, or a beautiful wool rug that reminds…
Aging Gracefully
The shifting demographics here in the United States, and in Europe, are producing bathrooms that defy the traditional trappings of old age.
Kitchen Aid
Trying to save money by cooking at home? Investing in the right equipment can ease the burden.
Unsung Heroes
The low-key firm of Bentel & Bentel could be the most famous restaurant designers you’ve never heard of. That may change with their newest creation, Rouge Tomate.
Young Blood
Fritz Hansen produced some of the 20th century’s most iconic pieces. Now the company turns to a new designer for fresh ideas on the 21st-century chair.
Two-Man Band
An American designer and his Japanese collaborator prepare to take on the big contract-furniture companies, pretty much all by themselves.
The Big Apple Store
New York tourism gets a 21st-century interface.
A Legacy of Innovation
In our winter of discontent, a perfect day in Green Bay can renew hope for a brighter future.
Light Industry
Having conquered the consumer market, a modern-lighting retailer sets its sights on design professionals.
The Art of Collaboration
Still flush from receiving an AIA Collaborative Achievement award, the photographer Peter Aaron discusses the complexities of working with architects.
A Rehabbed Center
With an inspired new adolescent facility, a Massachusetts school at last has architecture befitting the spirit of its mission.
Dutch Treat
A pavilion honoring the settlers of Lower Manhattan provides a fresh opportunity to Ben van Berkel.
Local Flavor
A working-class community in Rotterdam gets an economic boost, thanks to an ingenious snack truck.
Fixture Perfect
An online service from Symmons delivers prototypes to designers—free of charge.
Colorful Digressions
Maybe it’s a response to the gloomy economy: polychromatic products are suddenly everywhere. Reminiscent of the Color Field paintings of the 1960s, these pieces are lively without being chaotic, occupying a welcome middle ground between out-of-control patterns and bland neutrality. April 1, 2009 Categories: Uncategorized
Distilling the Classics
Muji’s latest collection has two high-profile designers updating Thonet standards.
Paola Antonelli
Paola Antonelli talks about her job, her love of obituaries, and Battlestar Galactica.
A New Dutch Settlement
The House of Blue is the main attraction at Droog’s new 5,000-square-foot store in New York. You might find yourself wondering what exactly it is—even after a visit to the space. The ever-morphing display can be purchased in part or as a whole, but it’s also a loose model for interior elements that can be customized (the shape, form, and…
An Invitation to Gather
In reinventing two faded inns outside of London, Ilse Crawford
honors the age-old desire for comfort and companionship.
Shades of Green
Plenty of retailers are trotting out their green credentials lately, but the building-products supplier Green Depot—which opened a new flagship store in Manhattan two months ago—distinguishes itself with its rigorous transparency. Each item in its diverse stock is labeled with detailed environmental information. And since there frequently isn’t a single perfect choice for a given product, informed customers can select…
