Filed under: Fun Stuff, Design, etc, News & Trends
The 20-year-old winner of the ShelterPop & SCAD Design Challenge takes to the floor of the New York International Gift Fair for the first time and shares his favorite pieces.I am like a kid in a candy store here at the 2011 NYIGF. It makes sense: It's basically the equivilent for any design-obsessed adult. I want to write about everything, but let's be realistic, you don't want a novel on design. So let's focus on what products I want for my own home -- these pieces are so much fun, I have a feeling you might want them, too.
SCAD/ Corey Green
I kept an eye out for the important elements: An attraction -- do I like the product? A connection -- does it fit in with my lifestyle? And yes, that little something extra. That pinch of magic that makes a product stand out and rise above the rest.
As an Industrial Design student at SCAD, I'm constantly learning to weed out the weak designs and hone in on the good ones. So this was a great real-world experience.
NYIGF 2011 Product Pick 1: Drinking glasses by William Bounds
Corey Green
I recently got my own apartment and have been on the lookout for drinking glasses -- but something a little different. And different can be hard to find. But my search ended with these pieces. The only problem is figuring out what style I like the best. I'm leaning towards the Gloww, which has the green liquid in it. Perfect for wow-ing guests at your next dinner party.
NYIGF 2011 Product Pick 2: Lunchbox by Black + Blum
Corey Green
This is a necessity for anyone who is constantly on the go. I balance work and college so I'm obviously drawn to its convenience! My pick is the round lunchbox which would be great for soups or salads. The item is brand spankin' new, so it won't be available until April. Can't wait? Their rectangle and square lunchboxes are a great alternative. Bonus: If you always forget the fork like I do, no need to fret. The utensil is integrated into the design.
NYIGF 2011 Product Pick 3: Mr. + Mrs. Muse Bottle Stoppers/ Salt & Pepper Shakers by Jonathan Adler
Corey Green
These salt and pepper shakers (and bottle stoppers) by Jonathan Adler are a play on typical tabletop design. Out with the boring salt shaker and in with this chic couple! Mr. and Mrs. Muse will become an extension of your family -- but don't worry, they keep to themselves. While these may not be the most colorful items out there, they are drenched with personality. It's that "extra" factor I mentioned earlier that caught my eye here.
Product #4: Balloon Vases by Working Class Studio
Corey Green
Yes, yes, I know it is shameless self-promotion. In my defense, the balloon vases are the reason why I am here blogging for your reading enjoyment. They are the result of SCAD and Shelterpop's Design Challenge that I was fortunate to be a part of during the fall quarter during my internship with Working Class Studio, SCAD's pre-professional product venture. They come in three different sizes and are completely customizable (that's a standard party balloon so you can switch out the one it comes with!) They will be available in August from Working Class Studio line, so if you like them, keep an eye out.
As a first-timer at the New York International Gift Fair, I was impressed by all the functional designs. They're not just beautiful -- they're easy to use. It's easy to buy too much, but if you use the guidelines, you can buy smart. Plus, you never know -- the next product you consider for your home might be designed by me.
Don't miss the rest of our NYIGF coverage.