Let’s face it, sometimes new design prototypes work and sometimes they don’t. You have to ask the question, “does the streamlining of the new solution answer my needs or is it just something that makes me laugh?” Well, there is nothing wrong with a laugh but would you fork over your hard earned cash for it?  You be the judge. Here are two, new products out of the Netherlands.  One is an attractive range hood, the other a whimsical (get this, digital) toaster. They can be seen at www.inseq.net.

Here are three very different interpretations of chairs in the style of James Mont from LA shop, ORANGE. Goes to show you how great design can both stand the test of time and be personalized. The most traditional version, with a nod to Asian design, is finished in black lacquer and upholstered in patterned silk. My favorite pair feature canary yellow frames and black & white graphic seat cushions. The duo finished in lime green lacquer and a floral print is more casual, yet an appealing update on this classic mid-century form.

If you are looking for that certain wow effect in your home that no one on the cul-de-sac has yet to replicate, look at some of Europe’s finest designers at Bergner Design.

We love the utilitarian dining chairs around the organic wood dining table. The pop of green in the kitchen’s backsplash definately will brighten up the 6am bacon and eggs.

Elizabeth Bonan, owner of West Palm’s Pierre Anthony Antiques & Interiors, has a keen eye for those one of kind items that could take center stage in your home. This vintage Billy Baldwin custom headboard and bedframe is a sensational find, covered in its original kelly green cotton velvet - king size no less! Another plush piece from the collection is the Milo Baughman “slinky chaise,” covered in soft taupe mohair velour. The set of four Lucite club chairs with their original chocolate brown velour seats and back cushions, maintain a cool ’60’s vibe. And for real drama, check out the Mohair Dog Bone Sofa -a classic mid century modern form, in an arresting color.

We love the furniture and textile collection at Interieurs because of its rich use of natural materials and simple nod to modernist lines. The Marcelle Platform Bed, while rustic in material, still uses the forms and shape typical in modern interiors. Likewise, their goat hair rug and brazilian pillows/ throws, made of merino wool and cashmere, have a stylish flair due to their organic nature.

There is an abundance of charm & glamour in the seaside vignettes showcasing Kemble Interior’s Plam Beach showroom. Even if you’re typically drawn to more beachy clean surrounds, it’s hard not to be captivated by this eclectic collection of sea-inspired furnishings and accessories.

The essence of modern, chic living - that is what Room Service purports to be. Even the site’s music will make you feel hip. The Room Service Store offers an eclectic mix - catering to most every taste but with a modern twist.

Even though the warmer months are fast approaching, Bowran’s plush Shearling Design Rugs look remarkably fresh right now. These large-scale botanical patterns created in mod Kool- Aid colors like Mango, Merlot, Cherry and Peach, would be great in a teen’s room or any chic, modern setting. Other highlights from Bowran’s area rug collection include “Penny Lane” a contemporary green floral design, “Traverse” a brown & pink graphic, and “Zebra” a modern classic. Handcrafted from quality lambskins in New Zealand, the area rugs come in several sizes.

Looking for that mid-century, antique glam look but not sure you want to make the investment in truly Vintage? Kravet offers many chic, sophisticated furniture pieces based on mid-century modern lines and forms.

New York City has a magnetic vibe during the month of May, offering beautiful
weather, great shopping, and impressive goodwill efforts. The design community rallies as well, and again participates in the Fourth-Annual “Design On A Dime” charity event. The benefit takes place in NYC, May 8th-9th, and showcases room vignettes created by the nation’s 30 top interior designers, where you can shop and buy new furniture, housewares, and artwork all at 70% off retail. Real Simple magazine is presenting the event, co-chaired by actress Maggie Gyllenhaal, and proceeds from sales will benefit the Housing Works, one of New York’s most important HIV/AIDS organizations. For tickets to the VIP Preview Benefit on Thursday evening, May 8th, log on to www.housingworks.org/dime. The Friday and Saturday sale is open to the public. Photos shown here are from previous Design on a Dime Events, featuring vignette by Delphine Krakoff and Sharon Simonaire, respectively.