December 30th, 2009
This year was a great one for lighting, and we saw more amazing designs than we can could post here. Every one of these pieces is a work of art, nearly all of them are handmade and all extremely unique. As is the case with the glass pieces, each is absolutely unique, as there is no other light that will exactly matching another. Here are our favorite lighting designs of 2009 in no particular order. Take a look at some of our favorites from the year, and also visit our lighting category for more spectacular designs.

Studio Italia Design - Magnetita
This past year there was one very sleek and stylish desk lamp that we just absolutely loved by Studio Italia Design. The Magnetita was designed by Designer Denis Santachiara, and gets its name from the magnetic system that it uses in its innovative balancing system which is based on the use of multiple magnets that gives it a smooth and precise movement. Learn more at: sid-usa.com
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December 28th, 2009
Amsterdam has a nice variety of amazing and rare architecture ranging from Gothic, Dutch Renaissance, Baroque, neo-styles, Art Deco, Amsterdamse School, modern architecture and more. When touring the architecture of Amsterdam there is something for everyone to enjoy! Famous for its canals, Amsterdam’s city center canals provide an excellent view of 17th and 18th century buildings and houses. Each building has its own story, as the Keizersgracht, number 123 is famous for the ‘House with the Heads’ story where it is said that a maid caught six burglars red-handed and beheaded them with an axe. Building number 546 has one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful clock gables.
The Architecture Centre Amsterdam (ARCAM) works to promote the beautiful architecture in Amsterdam. In 2003, they completed the build of this new location with its fabulous modern style. The design of the ARCAM was done by architect René van Zuuk and the Centre continues to be an excellent source of information about Amsterdam’s vibrant architectural scene.
When you think of Amsterdam, many people think of the city center canals. In addition to these canals there are also modern canals which provide a stark contrast to the 17th- and 18th-century designs that dominate the old city and the original canals. The 21st century residences Eastern Harbor Islands are man-made peninsulas which show interesting modern buildings in a variety of styles and designs.
Here are a few pictures of notable architectural designs in Amsterdam. Click any image for a larger version:

Amsterdam City Center Canals
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December 23rd, 2009
Here is a list of the most read blog posts of 2009. Click the links to read the full article. Thank you for helping us have a wonderful year!
Have a Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
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Top 15 Cars
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Missoni Fashion
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Cool Vintage Light
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Montecito Project
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Crooked Skyscraper
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Arcoiris Cuckoo
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Kitchen Cabinets
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Max Blank Berlin Fireplace
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Klaus Haapaniemi
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Sustainable Interior Design
December 22nd, 2009
We have seen some amazing Christmas Decorations this year and thought we could put a small list together with the most beautiful decorations from around the world. Happy Holidays!

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The 2009 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has always been a favorite around the country and the world. This year the tree, a 76 foot Norway spruce weighing about 10 tons, came from the home of school teacher Maria Corti of Easton, Connecticut.
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December 16th, 2009

In the world of eco-chic, sometimes style is sacrificed for the sake of the environment. But what if you could minimize your carbon footprint while still maximizing innovation and creativity? fluid faucet’s future-forward fixtures do exactly that. Meet a brand of bath fixtures that feature meticulous curves, unique angles, mirror-like polished surfaces, and industry–breaking water saving technology. The choice for LEED-certified projects. Green has never looked more fluidTM. Visit the fluid website at: fluidfaucets.com
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December 15th, 2009
Bold, but subtle. Striking, yet serene. The Yoko Suite exemplifies harmony, filled with balanced elements and lush textures that contrast and complement. Inspired by the Japanese bath, this stunning but understated design merges Eastern tranquility with modern features.
Intricate details epitomize the Cristal de Lalique Bambou faucet. A carved bamboo pattern brings a touch of nature to the sleek design. The matte finish of the crystal handles contrasts beautifully with the polished surfaces of the chrome faucet. The slender tub filler anchors the faucet, its geometric lines softened by curved edges.
The freestanding Yoko bathtub is a statement in style. Lined in leather, the bathtub is a unique addition to the suite; its texture complements the metallic interior of the Vasque sink. Hammered in chrome, the basin appears as a rippled pool even before a drop of water touches the bottom. The shower set features two rainfall showerheads for a luxurious experience. All pictures provided by THG. Click on any image for the larger version.

Yoko Faucet Handle Detail
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