KITCHEN tools
my finds and reviews on cooking accessories, gadgets, tools, small appliances and kitchen linens
With Mother’s Day in less than two weeks, I spot more gift ideas for moms who enjoy hosting outdoor entertaining for her family and friends.
My first suggestion is Late for Dinner, a new melamine collection at Anthropology.
My encounter with these pop-art flora plates on Hostess with the Mostess started the ball. For there, I looked for outdoor tableware that I can harmonize with Late for Dinner patterns.
My search brought me to the grandma macramé look of these Crocheted Food Cover shown here in Yellow and dark green. At the same time of the pop-art trend, the crocheted look was hip. The look reminds me of grandma, because we should not forget grandmothers on Mother’s Day.
The morning-bright flora of the Fresh-Squeezed Juicer and the Painted Garden Pitcher complete the communal look.
As you can see from the pictures, you can mix those with many solids and patterns.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Late for Dinner melamine plates at Anthropologie – price: $25.26 CAD - $24 USD set of 4
Buy online: Crocheted Food Cover at Anthropologie – price: $18.95 CAD - $18 USD
Buy online: Fresh-Squeezed Juicer at Anthropologie – price: $25.26 CAD - $24 USD
Buy online: Painted Garden Pitcher at Anthropologie – price: $18.95 CAD - $18 USD
Via: Retro-Mod Melamine [Hostess with the Mostess]
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
OUTDOOR
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, May 04, 2008 3:27 PM | Feedback (0)
A couple years ago, the Spanish brand Lekue introduced the nifty Luki Lemon Squeezer designed by Luki Huber. This silicone lemon squeezer is practical because each half lemon has its mold and you can store everything as it is in the fridge.
The Lekue Duo Silicone & Ceramics Quiche Mold combines the perfect materials for the job. The scratch-resistant ceramic base assures the right colored dough and the flexibility of the silicone makes it easy to remove.
Luki Collection for Lékué Is Expanding
New silicone kitchen tools are in. Right in time for summer, the reusable Lekue Luki Steam Case is a more ecological way to cook fish en papillote. And there is no risk of finding a hole in your paper. Steam Case brings cuteness and fun to healthy meal.
Another way to eat healthier meal is by cooking with Lekue Luki Steamer. Available in two formats, Luki Steamer fuses tradition and innovation. Two stacking steamer compartments and one lid are included. The regular size Steamer fits 8” diameter sauce pans or casseroles.
The silicone Lekue Ice Cream / Ice Pop molds are a treat for adults and kids. Make your own flavor in no time. Simply put pieces of fresh fruits, pour some milk or juice, close with the cap, freeze and enjoy the sweet. You can make frozen Margaritas or Caipiriñas or Mojitos for a grown up party.
All Lékué products are made of 100% Platinum Silicone. Check out ShopFosters.com (Foster's Homeware) to watch a few short videos of these silicone products in action.
Update: Arthur Quentin carries several Lékué products. They do not have the steamer or the quiche mold yet. They do carry the Lemon Squeezer, the Ice Cream molds, the Steam Case, the Sushi mat and other products I did not talk about.
Arthur Quentin
3960 Saint-Denis Street
Montreal, QC H2W 2M2
p 514.843.7513
open Monday to Saturday
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Lemon Squeezer at Foster's Homeware – price: $15 USD for 2
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Ice Pop Mold at Foster's Homeware – price: $25 USD for 4
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Steamer at Foster's Homeware – price: $45 USD
Learn more: Arthur Quentin - web site in French only
Learn more: Lékué
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Wednesday, April 30, 2008 11:20 AM | Feedback (2)
To answer a reader request, I searched for more sources of Koziol. This time I searched in Canada.
I told you this week that was harder to find retailers in North America for Koziol. A sad thing!
A Confirmed Retailer in Montreal
I am happy to report that a small retailer in Montreal carries many Koziol products. Chez Farfelu Maison just received a new shipment of cool kitchen and bathroom accessories.
Missing Opportunities
As many small retailers in Quebec, Chez Farfelu Maison does not have a Web site. Specialized independent retailers often carry unique stuff but the lack of a well documented Web site makes the task of finding them a lot harder. I made 7 phone calls to dig one retailer that carries Koziol.
I think that retailers are missing on a great opportunity. With the current trend towards fun and colorful housewares and interior design, this should create a demand for Koziol products. A design that might not have exists in the past. Moreover, Koziol products are affordable for the masses.
I just sent an email to the Canadian distributor. I hope to get news soon It was quick (15 minutes in a Sunday afternoon, I should have checked back my email before posting). Diana Arn suggested Chez Farfelu Maison and Crash.
Update: Paulla Maxey of Crash contacted me. She told that they carry a fairly extensive inventory in Koziol and review the line continually for updates.
I dug so far three Canadian retailers:
Chez Farfelu Maison
838 Mont-Royal Avenue East
Montreal, QC H2J 1X1
p 514.528.8842
Crash
1551 Johnston Street, Unit 7
Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
p 604.684.9922
open daily 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
- I found a store on eBay Canada Your New Gift with a few items. Unfortunately the coolest products I presented to you are not in the inventory except for the Pic Up.
I keep you posted on as I discover new sources.
April 29th, 2008 Update: Diana Arn also sent me retailers for Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary.
RELATED POST:
+ Bring Happiness in Your Kitchen with Koziol
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, April 27, 2008 3:24 PM | Feedback (4)
Living in a 4 season climate enhances the joy that we feel when the warm weather comes back.
It is the best time to introduce the summer 2008 collection from a brand that symbolizes Design, Happiness, Life and Values. I am talking about Koziol, the German company that was founded in 1912 by Bernhard Koziol.
Design, Happiness, Life and Values was the 4 world themes that they presented at the Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt last February. The summer 2008 Koziol collection hit the shelf mid-March 2008. I am showing my favorites.
Outdoor Entertaining
A must outdoor entertaining is the new PURE series with carafe, cups, bottle cooler and tray. A specially engineered lid keeps out dust and insects. Cool! The same lid keeps in ice cubes and lemon slices while pouring.
An ingenious combination of porcelain and plastic surrounds the AROMA series. The stylish companion for your breakfast, you can choose between a cup, an espresso cup, a cappuccino cup, a latte cup and a bowl called AROMA BIG. The AROMA series is available in orange, raspberry and tuerkis (aqua).
PIC UP is a fun Party Fork Set. Use this handy tool to serve tapas, olives, antipasti and cheese chunks. For a family barbecue party, you cannot go wrong with PIC UP.
The OXYGEN partition recalls pebbles or the bubbles in carbonated drinks. I may install an OXYGEN partition wall like in front of my urban terrace. I wish for more privacy that carries an airy lightness. The vibrant green and turquoise of OXYGEN partition elements create the perfect backdrop for my pool. It was designed by the Spanish team Harry & Camila.
Picnicware
Old products are also hot this summer. Designed in 1995 by Rainer Lehn, the FROSCHKÖNIG bottle opener wears new colors. The OLLI Lunchbox keeps food fresh and mobile since F. Person and J. Hansen designed it in 1996. What I like about this lunchbox is its form. It must be easy to carry it around.
Hanging on the tree like fruits are the cute BOSKOP Lunchboxes. You will get no problem fitting double-layer and triple-layer sandwiches inside the BOSKOP. And your fresh fruit will still be intact on destination. The cute leaves work as the snap closure. This brand new design BOSKOP emerged from the brain of Luisa Finke.
Kitchen Cleaning and Storage
TIM & TWEETIE brushes wear the cool colors of summer 2008. The are so lovable.
HEIDI is a floral tie fastener. For party favors at Mother's Day, a Sunday brunch or a bridal shower, HEIDI will enhance your packaging. And your guests can reuse this cute band. Adorned with its pretty flower, the band dependably seals bags and pouches. HEIDI opens at will, as often as you wish.
Where to Buy
The German retailer Design 3000 carries the entire Koziol catalogue. Design 3000 is a heavenly shop for me with tons of wonderful brands. They got all the colors, even in hues that I did not talk about. Koziol seems harder to find in the United States since the distributor has closed down. Design 3000 ships to the United States and internationally.
In Canada, specialized retailers across the country carry the Koziol. As usual, Canadian retailers are shy when it comes to publish their inventory online, so I cannot provide you with specific links. So shop around, you can find the Koziol products in Canada.
Sourcing:
Buy online: PIC UP Party Fork Set by Koziol at The Well Tempered Kitchen – price: $14.50 USD
Buy online: Lunchbox Boskop solid green at design 3000 – price: 9,95 €
Buy online: AROMA Latte Cup strawberry at Design 3000 – price: 12,55 EUR
Buy online: Carafe Pure transparent by Koziol - price: 14,95 EUR
Buy online: Oxygen Partition transparent turquoise - price: 4,95 EUR
Buy online: HEIDI grass - price: 1,95 EUR
Learn more: Koziol brand Web site
RELATED POST:
+ Follow-up story | My search for retailers of Koziol
Tags:
fun,
colorful,
picnic,
kitchenware,
kitchen,
entertaining with kids,
european,
modern,
outdoor party
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
KITCHEN tools
OUTDOOR
GIFT ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Thursday, April 24, 2008 3:36 PM | Feedback (4)
The common theme is obvious this week. I am presenting you a dinner party invite, a kitchen gadget and a beautiful tabletop.
black . white . bliss for twoguitars :: Let's Eat
I enjoy the vintage look of these charming Gocco-printed invites from twoguitars on etsy. Twoguitars is inspired from his various obsessions and addictions: filmmaking, photography, music and travel.
Produced by a graphic designer, black . white . bliss showcases beautiful design things black, white and a few shades in between
GlamNest for LUXURY BEAT… On Tired Feet – Day One
This post reviewed what is going on at The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. If you are planning an upscale kitchen, you probably look at pot fillers, those handy faucets that hover over cooktops and ranges to make pasta boiling more convenient.
Hansgrohe innovates with the first countertop-mounted unit. Before pot fillers were restricted to wall mounting. Now homeowners have more flexible design options.
Toast and Tables for Design LIFE! Nicole Sassaman's table setting
I enjoy reading Toast and Tables. It is not surprising since Sarah and I share a love for nicely dressed tables.
This tabletop was created for DIFFA’s Dining by Design event by the celebrity designer Nicole Sassaman. Nicole teamed up with Viking and displayed for the occasion the aluminum and white square dinnerware from West Elm. The result is fresh, modern and elegant. I like this tabletop because it is not over ornate. Over ornamentation was my major complaint about the 2008 DIFFA’s Dining by Design edition.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Lets Eat, Set of 5 Gocco Dinner Invites by twoguitars on etsy – price: $12 USD
Buy online: Aluminum and white square dinnerware from West Elm – price: $16-39 USD
Categories:
PAPER goods
KITCHEN tools
TABLEWARE
posted @ Monday, April 14, 2008 1:15 AM | Feedback (0)
One year ago I told you about the Surya table linens by Simrin. Earlier this year, Simrin introduced rectangular trays, round trays and coasters.
The Construction
The trays and coasters are made with the same 100% handmade woven cotton from India used for the table linen collections. The fabric sits between ridged vinyls. The trays and coasters are shaped under heat and high pressure.
The trays are spill resistant and stain resistant. Manual labor plays a big role in making and finishing a tray. Therefore, each piece is unique.
The Patterns
Two out of the three linen patterns are available: Surya and Nature. The back of the Nature tray is brown while the back of the Surya tray is white. The Surya line carries a spring /summer breeze. Both patterns would look great at a party any day of the year.
I appreciated the level of sophistication impregnated in the collection. I refer especially to the the fact that the patterns differs from size to size and shape to shape.
Shopping Watch
Note that the Nature Coasters are cheaper at Velocity Art & Design than at Elsewares. Everything else is at the same price. Other online retailers carry Simrin products; simply Google them.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Surya Rectangle Trays at Velocity Art & Design – price: $50 small, $70 medium, $100 large
Buy online: Surya Coasters at Velocity Art & Design – price: $30 USD
Buy online: Nature Trays and Coasters by Simrin at Elsewares – price: $40-$100
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
LINENS
posted @ Friday, April 11, 2008 12:52 PM | Feedback (0)
As more and more people are concerned with what is happening to the environment, many are looking for party ideas on how to throw an eco-friendly party. Recycling things makes a huge difference. With a little bit of imagination, you can find new purposes to used objects.
So instead of heading to the store for new stuff, hunt the flea market to dig vintage tabletop items and home accessories. Throwing an eco-chic party is an excellent way to persuade your friends that they can both live in style and care for the environment.
And you are not limited to the rustic look anymore. I found items that rock. I selected four eco-friendly products and an eco-friendly idea to help you prove your case to your friends on Earth Day.
Corks
Corks can also protect your tables and countertops from hot pots and pans. Martha Stewart designed a cork trivet. You will need about 50 for a medium sized trivet. Use corks as a holder for the table place cards, to display the cheese tags for the cheese platter.
The bended Cork Tray looks pretty cool. Designed and developed for Branch, the Cork Tray is a more sustainable version of Urbana Design’s bended plywood tray. A big advantage of using cork, the top creates a non-skid surface.
Bamboo
The Golden Brown Serving Trays are by Bambu, the maker of Veneerware. The trays are 100% organically-grown bamboo, with non-toxic adhesive and natural food-safe wood oil.
I introduced Veneerware last October as the most stylish eco-friendly disposable dishes. I still think that.
Recycled Glass Dishes
The rustic charm of the Del Sol green tinted bottles comes from used glass containers. The glass is shaped in molds and then, embellished with rustic seams and thick rims. These 32 oz. stoppered bottles can be used for dressings, oils, vinegars, lemonade, ice tea and water.
The bad news for North American tree huggers is that the Del Sol tableware collection is made in Spain. Old glass bottles, bowls and plates can be found at the flea market.
Recycled Tires
Some items can be fun like the Six-Pack Coasters made of recycled tires. The package-storage is quite ingenious. Inspired by the conventional 6-pack, simply pop out each individual coaster for use. When finished, pop it back into its handy "ring" for storage. The Six-Pack Coasters are handmade by JoshJakus in Oakland, California.
Sourcing:
How to: Cork trivet on Martha Stewart
Buy online: del sol recycled bottles at Sundance Catalog price: $25 USD for 3
Buy online: Serving Trays: Golden Brown by Bambu – price: $22 USD sm, $42 lg
Buy online: Cork Tray at Branch – price: $150 USD
Buy online: Six-Pack Coasters by JoshJakus – price:$18 USD
Categories:
EVERYDAY
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Tuesday, April 08, 2008 2:16 AM | Feedback (3)
This week is all about the drum shape and fashionable fun patterns.
My 4 picks of the week
Purple Area for Clarissa Hulse
The Urban Jungle range enlivens a classic ivory and black with punches of neon pink, aqua and sweet pea. Clarissa Hulse emulated the urban landscape by the bright lights of city life.
One of the most distinctive textile designers in the UK, Clarissa Hulse is designer of luxury housewares specializing in wallpaper, cushions, throws and lamp shades. Fabrics by the meter are also available.
GlamNest for Getting' Steamy in Here! The Hottest Vent Hoods Ever
Like a movie star, the shining, glossy steel of Platinum does not go unnoticed. I am especially fond of the models that like a lamp shape. Look at Grace, Platinum, Twin, Star and Wave for the hottest island vent hoods on the market.
The high-end appliances produced by the Italian brand Elica are both stylish and technologically advanced. If you live in North America, you will be sad to know that these most daring and fashionable vent hoods are neither available in Canada or the United States for the moment.
Decor8 for Arthur's Circus
The vintage look is all the range for many. The Japanese tableware for kids does not escape this trend. If this is your taste, check out the inventory from Arthur's Circus. This small online retailer from Australia specializes in old-fashioned toys and vintage style housewares.
Arthur's Circus carries this cute Cat plate set by Shinzi Katoh. There is also A Rabbit Plate set online. Both are so cute.
Oh Joy for happy friday + new orla!
I adore this 60' style dress from the Orla Kiely Spring/Summer 2008 collection. Orla Kiely described the SS08 in Collection in these terms:
The silhouette of theis modern, simple and sophisticated with a boyish charm, cute dresses, knee-length shorts and mini summer trenches.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Wingnut & Helix large tapered drum lampshade at Clarissa Hulse – price: £195
Learn more: Hottest Island Vent Hoods by Elica
Buy online: Cat Plate Set by Shinzi Katoh – price: $35 USD
Learn more: Orla Kiely Multi Rhododendron Dress – price: £252
Buy online: Front Bow Floral Print Dresses by Orla Kiely – price: $342 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
KITCHEN tools
FAMILY style
posted @ Monday, March 24, 2008 10:54 AM | Feedback (0)
I followed the International Home and Housewares Show 2008 in Chicago mostly through the eyes of The Kitchn. From what I have seen so far, these cooking tools are my favorites.
Emily Henry’s Flame-Top Collection in Figue
I told you earlier about the Urban Colors for the oven and tableware collection of Emile Henry. Take a look at the Flame-Top line in figue (fig). It is so cute. The rich purple color of Figue mixes nicely with the Granny, Litchi (pink) and Muscade (nutmeg).
Kitchen Gadgets by Chef’n
Manual kitchen tools are the new frontier for green living. They use fewer parts, are smaller and do not consume electrical powers. If your kids enjoy cooking with you, they are less dangerous to handle. But young children should never be left alone when they help you in the kitchen.
The Chef’n Palm Peeler is an interesting cooking preparation gadget. Apparently, people who are less agile or have less strength will find the Palm Peeler easier to handle. The strength of your entire hand is transferred to the palm peeler making it easier to peel hard skin fruits and vegetables.
You can extract the juice, measure and catch both pulp and seeds in one step with the Juicester Citrus Juicer. If you have a small electric juicer that is showing its age, this is a great replacement option.
For our day to day cooking, a small food processor can save us time. Chef’n proposes a model that reminds me of the Starfrit Manual food processor that I own. I stopped using mine because I lost the handle. You can watch the demonstration video of Chef’n Manual Food Processor filmed by The Kitchn.
This rotating power is similar to pull spinning handle of the older Zyliss salad spinners. From 10 years experience with my Zyliss salad spinner, I can tell you that if you retract extremely hard, it is possible that the cord gets disconnected. To avoid that, simply put the cord between two fingers so you can always stop the cord in case of emergency. It may sound confusing right now but you should understand the process if you try it.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Chef’n Palm Peeler at Amazon.com – price: $4.99 USD
Buy online: Chef’n Juicester Citrus Juicer at Amazon.com – price: $14.99 USD
Via: Fresh Colors from France: Emile Henry's Figue Clay Pots on The Kitchn
Via: Video: Manual Food Processor from Chef'n on The Kitchn
Via: Chef'n Palm Peelet on The Kitchn
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Saturday, March 22, 2008 1:56 PM | Feedback (0)
It is not because you are born in 1850 that you are not young at heart. Urban Colors shows a younger, hipper side of Emily Henry.
The Urban Colors collection injects a sense of fashion into the traditional ceramic cookware brand. And to stay current, Emile Henry adds two more colors and new shapes to the Urban Colors collection.
You now have a choice of five tasty colors, each named after a food: Muscade (nutmeg), Poivre (pepper), Figue (fig), Granny and Litchi.
Accessorize your kitchen
With the open shelving trend in the kitchen, you need remarkable vessel. We may admire the bold and lively kitchens that we see in the magazine but must people are not ready to commit. Kitchen cabinets are such a huge investment that we select materials that we can live with for a long time. This fact typically translates into neutrals.
The easiest way to update any neutral kitchen is by infusing a punch of colors through accessories. Why not do it through your everyday oven and tableware? When you get tired to see them, you simply hide them in your closed cabinets.
The quality
All Emile Henry cookware are made using Ceradon, an exclusive process which improves the qualities of traditional pottery. Three good reasons to buy Emily Henry:
- A highly resistant glaze which does not scratch or craze
- Highly resistant to chipping
- Highly resistant to heat and cold
Sourcing:
Learn more: Emile Henry
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
TRENDS
TABLEWARE
posted @ Friday, March 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Feedback (2)
Doing a major kitchen renovation or buying a brand new house is the right moment to update your kitchen accessories not just the big appliances.
After all you just paid a fortune to redo your kitchen. Why spoil your new design with old, mix-matched housewares?
Buying these new gears can add up so why not give beautiful kitchen gears and accessories as a housewarming gift? Make a pool to buy a collection of items or try to coordinate the purchases with your friends to buy gifts that complement each others.
One company that offers slick housewares is Simplehuman of Los Angeles, California. Simplehuman concentrates its energy in making efficient products that are affordable.
Four housewarming gift ideas
The new Steel Frame Dishrack has unique features like a bamboo knife block, a pivoting spout to direct water into the sink, flip-out cup holders, and an extendable drip tray. Naturally, a fingerprint-proof coating was applied to the steel dishrack. In fact, most of their collection has a fingerprint-proof finish.
If you have a friend that look gadgets, the latest Sensor Soap Pump is the right gift for them.
The Utensil Holder stores both small and large utensils, and a removable, dishwasher safe spoon rest integrated into the unit.
Opting for a slim trash can with a twin buckets is a great option not only in small spaces. I disliked the idea of placing the trash can in the kitchen cabinets. It is a question of hygiene. So I prefer a standalone unit. The Fingerprint-Proof Butterfly Recycler is pretty and does not take a lot of floor space. It has one bucket for the trash and the other for recycling. The name butterfly came from the opening mechanism.
Simplehuman has a blog. Since I am relatively new to the SMS, I taught their omg, text terms r gr8! was useful. ttyl – i.e., talk to you later
Sourcing:
Buy online: steel frame dishrack – price: $69.99 USD
Buy online: utensil holder – price: $24.99 USD
Buy online: sensor soap pump – price: $39.99 USD
Buy online: fingerprint-proof butterfly recycler – price: $189.99 USD
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Thursday, March 06, 2008 3:40 PM | Feedback (0)
I want to fill my kitchen with the Kähler ceramic. Their unique shapes of their modern designs and the remarkable craftsmanship make the ceramic by Kähler second to none.
Founded by Herman Kähler, this Danish company started designing and producing handmade ceramic pieces in 1839. Today, they still pursue the same level of excellence and innovation that made their success.
Each individual ceramic piece bearing the name Kähler has been shaped in skilled hands from a technique passed down from one generation to the next.
Their current team of innovative designers is all issued from Danish design schools. These ceramic pieces are more than a pretty face, how well they function testifies of the level of thinking that goes into creating these products.
Unique modern centerpiece
Wonderful as a dinner table centerpiece, FIDUCIA is a set of candlesticks and flower vases linked by strong magnets. You can separate the pieces at will. Let you creativity flow and arrange them in a snakelike line, make small clusters or pair them.
FIDUCIA was created by the talented Louise Campbell who graduated in 1995 from Danmarks Designskole as an industrial designer. Louise Campbell was named 2005 Designer of the Year by Bo Bedre.
The new Kähler’s collection
If I got the MARMITTA at home, I would seek for time to cook more often. Søren Thygesen designed this roaster in three sizes to suit your needs. An ingenious touch is the bottom rim that provides a stronger grip when you carry the roaster.
Louise Campbell also designed CAMMEO, a collection of adorable jars. The pure and fun shapes make them ideal for open shelving displays. Each of the small, medium and large CAMMEO jar is available in four color bands.
PURA is a set of dinnerware designed by Cecilia Manz. Small and large bowls, a Café Latte cup, a mocha/green tea plus the standard coffee/tea cup, a jug and a dish / plate available in small and large sizes compose the PURA series. It is wonderful line for every day usage. The versatility of PURA means that you can use them as serving pieces as shown.
The BULBO designed by Jeanette List Amstrup is available in black, white and yellow, three hot colors this year. The fun, organic shape will look as great in a kid room than in a living room.
Americans can buy FIDUCIA at A+R Store. For the other Kähler's products, I do not know where to buy them. So if you know stores in North America that sell these 5 products, please inform me.
Sourcing:
Learn more: English site version of Kähler Design
Buy online: Kahler & Louise Campbell 's Ficucia Magnetic Vases + Candleholders – price: $180 USD for 5 pieces
Via: Better Living through Design
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Thursday, February 28, 2008 3:32 PM | Feedback (0)
With the death of packaged theme for home decor, the art of coordinating can scare some of you. Not everyone knows all to mix products into a tailored yet cohesive design.
Beginners who wish to mix styles can rely on a proven, simple method. Start by finding one thing (furniture, accessories, painting or plate) that you like and derive the rest from that element.
Practice with small projects like designing every week end a new tabletop. Why not reinstate the old-fashioned family dinner every Sunday? Use this occasion to also practice new recipes and food plating. Ask your family for help so everything runs smoother the next time you have guests over for dinner.
My 5-step guide to better design your tabletops
To teach you the basics, I developed a 5-step guide. More design rules are involved but these 5 steps will help develop your sensibility.
- Consider all the dinnerware and the home accessories that you have on your house.
- Examine them carefully individually and collectively.
- Pay attention to the shapes, colors, textures, finishes and emotions.
- Look for both similarities and contrasts.
- Let flow your creativity and explore compositions and concepts.
If you are new to this, practice often and you will see that it becomes easier. Remember that not everyone has the inner style to be a designer, so do not discourage if you have trouble successfully mixing stuff. Some people are great at sports, others at design.
New video series
Since I know that nothing beats seeing someone doing it, I will start publishing instructional videos on how to create tabletop next week after I planned a little recording studio.
My first video will feature the nature Asian inspired Chirp dinnerware set by Lenox. I will demonstrate several table linen options including the Birds 'n Trees placemats by Modern-Twist that I bought at Lekker while I was visiting Boston.
Flatware as jewelry for your table
Just changing the flatware can totally change the look of your table. Think of it as jewelry. To get the right look, do not be afraid to rent flatware for your events. In fact, Sarah Dennis of Table and Toasts said the same thing on an interesting post yesterday about Trends in flatware rentals.
I displayed Beaded Antique flatware by Towle available at Cooking.com, several models by MEPRA available at Lekker and the fun colored Fantasia Millennium Flatware by MEPRA available at Plastica.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Chirp Dinnerware by Lenox – price:$99.95 per 5-piece setting
Buy online: Silicone placemats by Modern-Twist at Lekker – price: $22
Buy online: Beaded Antique by Towle – price: $49.95 per 5-piece setting
Buy online: Natura ICE Five Piece Place Setting – price: $37 per 5-piece setting
Buy online: Italia ICE Five Piece Place Setting – price: $44 per 5-piece setting
Buy online: Levantina ICE Five Piece Place Setting – price: $47.50 per 5-piece setting
Buy online: colored Fantasia Millennium Flatware by MEPRA – price: $50 per 5-piece setting
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Wednesday, February 27, 2008 12:34 PM | Feedback (1)
I learned that the multidisciplinary design studio Ontwerpwerk created a new line of kitchenware for the Jamie Oliver brand.
This is a black and white collection made of melamine, synthetic resin, bamboo or polyethylene. And they delivered some innovations.
It is more hygienic to use different surface to cut meal and vegetables. Ontwerpwerk thought about that fact when they design two easily identifiable surfaces for the cutting board. Cut your vegetables on the white side and cut the meat on the black side. A two in one, I love that!
Unfortunately, I cannot find an English-version of the Ontwerpwerk Web site. But I read on David Report blog that:
The line consists of bowls in different sizes, a colander, storage boxes, sealable measuring cups, cutting boards, a salt and pepper mill, knives and a knife set.
The products distinguish themselves by their sober design, functionality, quality and affordability. Ed Annink, partner at Ontwerpwerk, has created a timeless design which enhances the products’ sustainability.
The line looks promising. I cannot wait for its introduction at Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt, Germany from February 8 to 12, 2008. Hopefully, I will be able to tell you more after the launch.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Ontwerpwerk voor Jamie Oliver
Via: Jamie Oliver kitchenware on David Report
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Sunday, February 03, 2008 10:09 AM | Feedback (1)
Instead of a design mood board, I composed one around potential gift ideas. I will tell you all about why these items have baby shower written all over them.
Aprons
You probably know by now that I adore aprons. And with a new baby, the mother needs more than one for years to come. It is not because you have a baby that you should stop being fashionable. Since you have less time for yourself, it is better to protect your clothes while you are running your daily errands in the house. For example, when you start to give solid food to your baby, the apron protects your clothes up to a certain point.
This Cherry Tart Chef Apron is from an etsy’s seller called BellaBeeDesigns. A hostess version was also available; I just bought it. Every Bella Bee’s apron is handmade with designer fabrics that are 100% pre-washed cotton fabrics. She used designers like Amy Butler and Joel Dewberry. These aprons are created to withstand many years (even generations) of use and washings.
One special attention of Bella Bee is the recipe that comes with her beautifully packaged apron. Matching potholders, tea towels, totes, handbags and a few baby bibs complete her collection.
Cocktail Napkin Holder
For a dash of retro, go for this Brown Pineapple Cocktail Napkin Holder available at To Bee Named. When you do not have a party, you can put inside hand towels or use as a tray for small baby items.
Flip Flops
Because you want an uncomplicated, comfortable shoe to walk around the house, get the Expecting in Style Flip Flops by Bonnie’s StylePress to the mother-to-be. Theses flip flops have a sculpted arch for added support. Other illustrations are available.
Invitations
Because no baby showers should be held with a proper invitation, I went shopping at Tiny Prints. I selected a new addition to their line, the gender neutral yellow Teddy Shower. Cute and cheerful!
Anything can be the inspiration for a party décor. One way to assure that the gifts go together is to consult each other or to give a wide enough theme to everyone.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Cherry Tart Chef Apron by Bella Bee Designs – price: $45 USD
Buy online: Brown Pineapple Cocktail Napkin Holder – price: $21 USD
Buy online: Blue Expecting in Style Flip Flops by Bonnie’s StylePress – price: $29.95 USD
Buy online: Yellow Teddy Shower at Tiny Prints – price: $31.25 USD for 25 invites
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
BABY showers
GIFT ideas
posted @ Thursday, January 31, 2008 10:30 AM | Feedback (0)
I have to admit that I am not a fan of dining out on Valentine’s Day. The restaurants are too busy. I prefer a romantic, more intimate dinner at home sitting on the cushions near the fire place.
Since typically a home cooked meal requires minced garlic or onions, what do you do with the smell on your hands? Stainless steel bar soap is the solution.
Rub-A-Way Bar
I have to admit that I was skeptical. But I tried the Rub-A-Way Bar at my brother’s house last Christmas. It really works! Do not be afraid to make your own sushi or cook fish that night; just rub your hands on a stainless steel bar.
I have been told that Canadian shoppers can find from time to time the Rub-A-Way Bar at Winner or Home Sense (I am not sure which) for about $5.
How does it work?
These gadgets use oxido-reduction, a natural property of steel, to effectively remove strong odors. You can get rid of onion, garlic, fish, even nicotine scent in minutes.
Orka DEOS soap
Being displayed at New York's Museum of Modern Art is a sign that Orka DEOS is out of the ordinary. DEOS provides the added benefits of a nail cleaner located at the tip of the teardrop-shaped steel soap. As I wrote this, Amazon.com is temporarily out of stock of DEOS.
Royal VKB Garlic Crusher
If you are short on time, go for the stainless steel Garlic Crusher by Royal VKB. The crushing action enhances the garlic flavor. Rinse immediately the garlic crusher and rub your hand on it. You clean up the kitchen tool and your hands in the same operation. Voilà!
The Garlic Crusher was designed by Ineke Hans in 2005 and won the prestigious Red dot design award that year.
Last words of advice
My brother’s girlfriend told me that rubbing your hands on a stainless steel sink works too. Since I do not own a bar yet, I gave it a try the other night. It might not be as stylish and practical than those bars but my hands were odorless after a few cycles. Now you have no excuses for lingering scent on your hands.
Sourcing :
Buy online: Amco 8402 Rub Away Bar at Amazon.com – price: $6.95
Buy online: Orka Deos Stainless Steel Soap at Amazon.com – price: $9.95
Buy online: Garlic Crusher by Royal VKB at A+R – price: $24
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Sunday, January 27, 2008 10:32 PM | Feedback (1)
The best way to teach children good eating habits is by teaching how to cook at a young age. And since kids like to imitate grownups, they are typically excited by this activity.
Cooking tools for kids
This idea is born while browsing through the catalogue of Sagaform for another post. If you wan tot develop the habit to cook with your kids, it is best to get gears designed for them.
From Sagaform, teach your kids good taste by giving them a cute hand painted Pastry Board with Rolling Pin made of birch. Sagaform To make cakes, get the Baking set completed with a Spatula, a whisk and cake tins.
A mother herself, Sophie Conran proposed a Mummy's & Mine cooking set. Part of the Sophie Conran for Portmeirion collection, it has everything young boys and girls need to start baking. This gift set contains a child's hat and apron, two star cookie cutters, a porcelain mini-jug, a mini pouring bowl, plus a box paper cups.
Do not let the name distract you, it is for daddy too. Cooking with kids, when it is not done in the middle of the afternoon is a pleasing way to pass time together.
Recipes for cooking with kids
Specialized books target the family with kids. The Family Kitchen invites kids into the kitchen to help, teaching them kitchen skills, encouraging them to discover new flavors and bonding with them. Each breakfast, lunch and dinner recipe lists tasks that kids (even little ones) can enjoy doing.
Another favorite is Williams Sonoma Kids Baking. Reviewers commented that they cook with their kids of 3 to 6 age old with this book. Parents enjoy receiving gifts that involved their kids. I am adding family cooking books on my best list of unique hostess gifts.
Since you may not have time to go shopping for books, try out the Chocolate Pudding recipe from Martha Stewart. This week-end, go ahead and plan a baking session with your kids and their friends.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Pastry board with rolling pin by Sagaform - price: £22.95 at Forma
Buy online: 4-piece Baking Set by Sagaform - price: £14.95 at Forma
For Canadians: Sophie Conran Mummy's and Mine Set - price: $59.95 at Linen Chest
For Americans: Sophie Conran by Portmeirion Sets Mummy's And My Cooking Set - price: $50 at Amazon.com
Buy online: The Family Kitchen
Buy online: Williams Sonoma Kids Baking
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
KIDS party
CAKES
FAMILY style
posted @ Friday, January 11, 2008 4:54 PM | Feedback (1)
This tableware collection integrates the lessons of modern Scandinavian design. Simple beautiful lines modulate into perfect functionality.
Making life at the dining table more beautiful, more pleasant and more practical resumes the philosophy behind Höganäs Keramik since 1909. They are not afraid to mandate open minded Scandinavian designers and it shows.
Like the little black dress, this product series is versatile. Plates and bowls are offered in a variety of shapes from round, square and triangular The possibilities do not stop with shapes since everything is available in ten colored glazes.
Lots of options in colors and in shapes
With no many options, you can personalize your table settings at will for all occasions. Savor your breakfast, use the Pick Up tray for a quick coffee and sandwich at lunch and then serve the dinner at the table while never feeling like you use the same set.
A tableware collection designed for every day usage. Yet, it can look amazing for a formal dinner. It does not stop at the dining table. You infuse a dash of color in your kitchen too. Equip your kitchen with complementary jars, mixing bowls, serving bowls, dishes, pitchers, tea pot with a strainer, herb pots and cooking tools.
Höganäs Keramik is sold around the world. It is distributed in Canada and the United States. Look at their Web site for details.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Store Locator of Höganäs Keramik
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:30 AM | Feedback (2)
It is simpler to separate a cake into identical pieces, but the fact of the matter is that everyone wants a different size. When it comes to desserts, the host needs to please the dieters, the large appetites and the ones in the middle.
You can cut the pieces at different sizes yourself but these pre-shaped pieces look better. And you will always have enough portions with this neat invention by Konstantin Slawinski.
How it works?
S-XL Cake SL14 is a silicone cake mold that produces 15 portions from small to extra large. The pieces vary in widths and heights. In my opinion, S-XL Cake would not be ideal as a birthday cake but it becomes handy on the dessert buffet table. Decorate each piece individually while creating a unique overall design. You can put some berries over a little coat of frosting or whipped cream.
If you are planning a baby shower, you can bring a coffee cake done in it. Test the cake mold by baking a Chocolate Cake a la Vera Slawinski. The recipe is published on the back of the SL14 postcard available online via the Download button.
If you are interested, you will need to wait because the S-XL Cake Mold is out of stock at Vessel right now. Or you can preorder now and pay less at Charles & Marie. Canadians will be happy to know that you can order at Vessel with no duty charges.
Sourcing:
Buy online: S-XL Cake Form at Vessel – price: $49 USD
Buy online: S-XL Cake Mold - Presale Feb. 2008 at Charles & Marie – price: $33 USD
Learn more: Web site of Konstantin Slawinski
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
CAKES
posted @ Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:47 PM | Feedback (1)
If you read my blog often, you already know that Gogoglass is a favorite of mine. I owned her Lemon Reamer and it works like a charm. My husband used it when he plays the barman to extract citrus juices.
When I went to their Workshop Sale on December 1, I took some pictures of their latest creations. Once again, it was a pure pleasure for the eyes.
For your home decor
Karine Bouchard of Verre Minuit makes stunning witch balls. She hangs a bunch of witch balls as a large wall structure. Several times customers asked her to take a picture of her composition and then buy the whole things. They used her picture as a template to reproduce her composition when they get home.
Karine's witch balls come in 3 almost sizes starting at $25 CAD for the small balls. Witch balls are a popular holiday ornament that you can keep all year around.
If I am not mistaken, Karine and Annie Michaud collaborated to create these amazing flower vases. Otherwise, it is a creation of Verre Minuit. A plate with a small hole can sit on the top. This design enables you to put a single branch on a large vase. Look and versatility combine in one vase.
For your table
Annie Michaud creates many tableware products. The French name Main-de-sel ($52 / 62$) sounds more lovely than Salt container. Annie created a glass container with a two-sided spoon for serving sea salt at your table. When you entertain more than six persons, I suggest you place two salt containers. A ratio of 3 to 4 persons conveys a sense of refinement.
I tried out Annie’s own mortar & pestle($95 / $105), the one she used to ground her pepper at the workshop. Wow! It works as well as it looks. I put one on my Christmas wish list; we will see soon if Santa Claus selected it. Otherwise, I will get the bright orange one myself.
A new product is the fruit vase ($45 at the workshop). It is really pretty when you make a row of identical fruits. I could see that used as a centerpiece.
If you are in Montreal, know that the prices of Annie Michaud’s pieces are sold on average for $10 less at her workshop. That is why I put two prices.
Gogoglass
385 de la Commune East (marché Bonsecours)
Montreal, QC H2Y 1H2
phone 514.397.8882
Sourcing:
For Karine Bouchard : Web site of Verre Minuit – her latest creations are not there
Buy online: Web site of Annie Michaud
Categories:
HOME decor
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Friday, December 21, 2007 6:06 PM | Feedback (1)
If you are a regular reader, you probably recalled my post about the colorful glass cooking tools of Annie Michaud.
Next Saturday, December 1st, 2007 is the annual sample sale at Gogoglass. Once a year, Annie Michaud and Karine Vanasse sells blown glass pieces with tiny imperfections, outstanding stock of custom jobs and prototypes.
The imperfections can be in the color, a small difference in the diameter or the shape. Nothing major. Arrive early if you want to get your hand on a slightly imperfect lemon reamer ($15 CAD) or mortar & pestle ($45 CAD). With more than 50% off, I am interested to equip my kitchen with both.
Their Old Montreal studio will be open from 10 am to 6 pm on December 1. Glass blowing demonstrations will be held during the day.
Gogoglass
385 de la Commune East (marché Bonsecours)
Montreal, QC H2Y 1H2
phone 514.397.8882
Sourcing:
Buy online : Web site of Annie Michaud
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Monday, November 26, 2007 7:25 PM | Feedback (2)
For my first Holidays gift ideas of the season, I got inspired by the pleasures of eating at home on cold winter nights near the fire.
These gender neutral gift ideas symbolize friendly atmosphere after skiing or skating. Price ranges go from stocking stuffer to indulgence.
Log Tote by Felt Studio
Made in Canada using industrial manufactured felt, Log Tote is a hip design to transport wood logs. Felt Studio was founded by artist Kathryn Walter.
Knitware Vases by Alyssa Ettinger Design
These vases are hand-cast porcelain. The patterns vary from large knit to large cable knit up to small cable knit. I feel good just looking at Alyssa’s designs. It is perfect for the season. She sells her Knitware ceramics through her etsy shop.
Fingerprint potholder by Menu
Design by Jacob Wagner for Menu, the Fingerprint potholder is made of heat-resistant silicone. It was inspired by the designer own fingerprint. For added practicality, a magnet is inserted at the center. And a little self-adhesive metal plate is supplied so you can hand them anywhere you like. Menu is Menu is a Danish design company that celebrates Scandinavian living.
Roast and Serve and Silicone Locking Tongs by Cuisipro
The Cuisipro Roast and Serve garnered the 2006 Housewares Design Award in the Best Kitchen Tool category. You use it to roast, lift and serve your birds and large roasts. It is available in two formats to best suit your cooking needs.
I own the Cuisipro Silicone Locking Tongs and I am very satisfied with them. I feel that the push and pull locking mechanism works better than the standard one. The non stick silicone ends grab well the food for serving and when cooking.
Bodum Chocolatière at Crate and Barrel
This chocolate maker works for hot and cold chocolate drinks. A manual propeller rod blends the chocolate powder and whips up a delicious froth. Since it is makes by Bodum, I feel it should work well. All parts are dishwasher safe.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Log Tote by Felt Studio - price: $80 CAD
Buy online: Knitware Vase by Alyssa Ettinger Design– price: $120 USD for the small, $150 for the large
Buy online: Fingerprint potholder by Menu at Panik Design – price: £25
Buy online: Cuisipro Roast & Serve Roasting Rack at Kitchen Kapers – price: $19.99 USD
Buy online: Cuisipro Silicone Locking Tongs 9.5 Inch in Red at Amazon.com – price: $11.95 for 9.5 inch long, $13.95 for 12 inch long
For Americans: Bodum Chocolatiere at Crate & Barrel – price: $29.95 USD
For Canadians: Bodum Chocolatiere at Muffet and Louisa – price: $38 CAD
Via: 30 Presents under $30 #8 Bodum Chocolatiere on Oh Happy Day and Cuteable Finds on Cuteable
Categories: