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My thanks to Kawaii Pen Shop for sponsoring The Pen Addict this week.
Welcome to your ultimate destination for all things cute and creative! We are a one-stop-shop for beautifully designed, high-quality, and unique stationery items that inspire and delight. From pens, notebooks, and stickers, to a variety of desk accessories, we have everything you need to make your stationery dreams come true.
We are thrilled to introduce our limited edition Summer Mystery Pack, available for a short time only. Packed with 15 delightful and secret items, it's an adventure in every package. While it contains a mix of themed items, not all are summer oriented - so you're in for a real treat!
Originally priced at $70, now it's your chance to grab this wonder-pack for just $28! But hurry, it's available in limited quantities. Don't miss out on the fun, order your Summer Mystery Pack today.
High impact meets compact design in Division Twelve’s new Twigz café collection, created in collaboration with design duo Jones & de Leval. The furniture family’s throughline is a minimal frame with a small footprint, proving you don’t need visual heft to make a big impact. Twigz’s design details are ready to add plenty of interest to any small space, with both indoor and outdoor options available. Combine stackable chairs, benches, and tables to create a unique setup that’s all your own.
Twigz offers plenty of options to make it happen. Steel or upholstered chairs, round or rectangular table, and 20 powder coat colors are your creative playground. The one thing you won’t have deliberate is whether to play up form or function – Twigz does it all. Furthermore, the collection does so while being fully carbon neutral. Watch below to learn more about Twigz:
Sponsor support is very important to me here at The Pen Addict. My sidebar advertisers put their faith in me to deliver good value for them month in and month out, and I want to shine the light on the best of the best for you. If you are shopping for pens, paper, inks, and more, please check out these great companies and see what they have to offer. Some recent highlights:
Pen Chalet hits the road with the Voyager’s Collection of fountain pen inks from Van Dieman’s.
Goldspot unleashed the Summer Vibes with a wide selection of colorful pens from brands such as Esterbrook, Lamy, Leonardo - and more - to get you in the spirit of the season.
Vanness Pens turns up the temps with the TWSBI ECO Heat, which is sure to be one of the hottest releases of the year.
JetPens brought in a wide selection of Guridrops Glamorous Glass Pens from Japanese glass studio Guri Koubou.
🌸 Welcome to Kawaii Pen Shop! 🌸
Welcome to your ultimate destination for all things cute and creative. We are a one-stop-shop for beautifully designed, high-quality, and unique stationery items that inspire and delight. From pens, notebooks, and stickers, to a variety of desk accessories, we have everything you need to make your stationery dreams come true.
Also available at Kawaii Pen Shop: Zebra Sarasa Clip Vintage Colors …
Our selection is curated with an eye for whimsical design and practical functionality, ensuring that every product not only looks adorable but also elevates your productivity and organization. Shop with us to add a splash of fun to your workspace and unleash your creativity.
And now, we're thrilled to introduce our limited edition Summer Mystery Pack, available for a short time only. Don't miss out on this unique offering!
Packed with 15 delightful and secret items, it's an adventure in every package. While it contains a mix of themed items, not all are summer oriented - so you're in for a real treat! 🌈
Originally priced at $70, now it's your chance to grab this wonder-pack for just $28! But hurry, it's available in limited quantities. Don't miss out on the fun, order your Summer Mystery Pack today.
My thanks to Kawaii Pen Shop for sponsoring The Pen Addict this week.
Sponsor support is very important to me here at The Pen Addict. My sidebar advertisers put their faith in me to deliver good value for them month in and month out, and I want to shine the light on the best of the best for you. If you are shopping for pens, paper, inks, and more, please check out these great companies and see what they have to offer. Some recent highlights:
Goldspot received the new Esterbrook Botanical Gardens fountain pen, featuring another knockout material.
Vanness Pens has all 15 nibs of the Pilot Custom Heritage 912 available. That’s right, 15 nib choices!
JetPens has all three colors of the new Sailor Pro Gear Slim Mini Recontre fountain pen, featuring grey, blue, and red barrels.
Pen Chalet is also on the Sailor high seas with the release of the 1911 Pen of the Year 2023 Golden Olive fountain pen, available only in North America.
Just because a product exists doesn’t mean you should stop trying to improve upon it. Such is the case with 3form’s Flek Pure, a 100 percent recycled material primarily sourced from 3form’s own in-house waste. Flek originally made its debut in 2019 using roughly 75 percent recycled material. Now, Flek Pure achieves 3form’s long-term goal of maximizing the amount of repurposed material used while also maintaining its translucency, unlike most recycled products on the market.
“The most exciting part of the design process was our motivation to keep innovating,” says 3form’s product development team, who spent the better part of a decade bringing Flek Pure to life. “We didn’t stop when the Flek Collection first launched because we knew we wouldn’t be satisfied until we reached 100 percent recycled material. This was a challenging, extensive process, but the result is so rewarding.”
During the manufacturing process of Flek Pure panels, internally sourced edge trimmings, returned samples, and reclaimed materials of 3form’s signature Varia resin are upcycled. These remnants are encapsulated and the pellets are carefully sorted by 3form’s optical sorter for clarity and cleanliness. The final product is a texturized, terrazzo-like material that’s sustainable and durable, as well as full of depth that allows for beautiful shadow play.
After Flek’s introduction in 2019, 3form wanted to upgrade the production process of the panels to further reflect the sustainable end product. The product development team sourced new materials and updated the supply chain, increasing Flek’s recycled content from 71 percent to 100 percent for Flek Pure applications.
From process to product, these sustainability achievements are a culmination of 3form’s nearly 20-year commitment to Align, a program of earth- and people-centric initiatives focused on three main pillars: people, product, and planet. Align effectively re-doubles 3form’s efforts to pursue environmentally and socially responsible design. Extending to all members of the 3form family, they strive to develop materials with intentionality that will empower architects, designers, and consumers to make smart choices about how they buy and build. By creating a closed-loop product, like Flek Pure, 3form raises their internal standard for future products and contributes to the restoration of our planet and the betterment of human lives. Align is the next step toward net-positive manufacturing within all 3form companies.
As architects and designers strive for higher sustainability standards in the materials they use, Flek Pure delivers closed-loop solutions to privacy partitions, room dividers, accent pieces, exterior walls, and more. Professionals can also contribute to 3form’s waste reduction. When designers order any of 3form’s Varia materials or return product samples to 3form’s Salt Lake City headquarters (using prepaid shipping labels), the materials are pelletized to be used for Flek.
Flek is part of 3form’s Varia product platform, which carries a Greenguard Gold Certification, is Declare Red List Free, and has an Optimized Environmental Product Declaration label. Flek is available in 4’x8’ and 4’x10’ panels, with 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ gauges, and a two-week lead time.
Flek Pure is a clear colorway made using 100 percent recycled content. The material’s translucent appearance offers the best of both worlds, allowing for natural light while maintaining separation and a level of privacy. Color can be added with Flek Bask (peachy gold), Flek Crescent (neutral taupe), and Flek Charge (electric yellow), as well as nine other colorways.
To learn more about the benefits and capabilities of Flek Pure or to order a free sample, visit 3form.com.
Everything that Signature Kitchen Suite creates is a masterclass in demonstrating respect for food at every level. From performance to intelligent design to precision, the brand honors the ones who are producing and preparing it – and, of course, the lucky individuals who get to enjoy the fruits of their labor. It’s through these details and dedication that the brand stays True to food and wellness. Now, Signature Kitchen Suite has introduced the 48-inch Built-in French Door Refrigerator/Freezer, providing never-before-seen capacity and functionality – imagine the possibilities!
Ideal for large families, entertainers, and home chefs, the 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer is a true workhorse that features innovative preservation features, a sleek design, and more. A standout element is the 5-mode convertible drawer that allows you to select a temperature zone to best suit what you’re storing. Choose between Chilled Wine, Fridge/Deli, Meats/Seafood, and Cold Drinks – or drop the temperature to turn the entire unit into an extra freezer. This functionality goes a long way toward increasing food freshness and lifespan, while also making the appliance work in the way that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Dual compressors, a stunning metal interior, and engineering to minimize temperature fluctuations to +/-1° F provide further enhanced food preservation.
Signature Kitchen Suite’s latest episode of True to food with Mark Bittman features Kaitlin Guerin, owner and pastry chef at Lagniappe Bakery in New Orleans. Guerin stresses the importance of using fresh ingredients and being able to control time and temperature when in the kitchen. These are the main elements that decide how long it will take to produce different parts of her pastries – be it hours or days. As Guerin shares, the desserts she makes can only be as good as what goes into them, and high tech refrigeration like that from Signature Kitchen Suite keeps ingredients at their peak for longer. Once the various components of the desserts are created, everything is stored at different temperatures for different lengths of time using temperature zones. “These pastries are temperature controlled so they maintain their balance of flavor and texture,” Guerlin explained. What she does and how she achieves it is truly an art form, with Signature Kitchen Suite eliminating worry of freshness and helping Lagniappe Bakery achieve success.
Signature Kitchen Suite puts a lot of effort into designing and bringing to life appliances that will improve your quality of living. But beyond exceptional food preservation, what else can you do to increase well-being and eliminate stress within your kitchen? With spring on the horizon, we spoke to experts Sarah Barnard, Blair Costello, and Diana Ryu to learn some ways to easily create a joy-filled space where we look forward to spending time.
The 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer’s ample capacity is impressive, with enough space to accommodate the largest of trays and tallest of bottles. Say goodbye to contorting containers or relegating leftovers to the basement fridge – there’s space enough for it all and then some right here.
The overall design also makes it easy to see what you have in stock. Blair Costello, of Vera Iconica Architecture, designs retreat experiences, workplaces, and life experiences at home with health and holistic wellness in mind. With so many seasonal fruits and vegetables making their appearance this month, there are more options at hand than we’ve had all winter. “Being part of the [cooking] process kicks off digestion and hones your relationship with food, and with yourself.” Costello suggests stocking a diverse pantry full of whole grains and legumes – as well as spices – to help boost nutrition and give you the tools needed to change up meals rotated through on a regular basis. Fresh foods are many things, but boring is not one of their qualities.
Costello added, “Digestion begins with the eyes, so put healthier snacks (fresh fruits, fresh bread, fresh vegetables, etc.) within eyesight to encourage those habits. These small environmental nudges can have a big impact.” Costello added, “Our mind and body are truly connected. What you eat will impact your body function, mental function, and state. Invest in quality food. For me, wellness in the kitchen space revolves around the quality of the ingredients, with a big focus on locally grown produce and locally raised and pastured meats.”
The 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer also has something special for the ice lovers – you know who you are. The freezer includes a dual ice maker that gives you the option of traditional ice or slow-melting, spherical Craft Ice. If your cocktail game is strong, this is a way to take it to the next level. Relax more with your afterwork beverage or entertain with ease while enjoying this fun feature.
Putting groceries away and meal prepping just got a bit more stress-free with Signature Kitchen Suite’s exclusive Lift and Go Drawers. They make interacting with the appliance incredibly easy, with minimal effort on your part when it comes to lifting. The drawers also make regular cleaning and accidental spills easier to remedy, something we can all appreciate when it comes to unwelcome messes.
Sarah Barnard, WELL AP + LEED AP, is a leading designer of personalized, sustainable spaces that support mental, physical, and emotional well-being. When it comes to a more convenient kitchen, Barnard suggests creating a setup while spring cleaning that will help streamline daily routines and reduce moments of friction apt to build up throughout the day. This can be as simple as knowing where regularly used items are stored and keeping countertops clean for a peaceful start to cooking. Digging deeper, it might mean utilizing a pantry to its fullest capabilities or purging cabinets of their belongings to create more order. “It’s also essential to ensure that the kitchen is more than a place of utility and includes items of joy,” Barnard finds. “If listening to music is part of the cooking experience, having quality kitchen speakers will make a substantial difference in the pleasure of preparing food.”
We can also bring more wellness into our kitchens through good light and a view of nature. This doesn’t mean you need to knock down an exterior wall and install floor-to-ceiling windows – there are workarounds to make both elements a part of your cooking space. If you do have windows in your kitchen, take advantage by making sure the blinds or curtains are open and letting in fresh spring air when weather permits. And if those windows happen to face a backyard or greenspace, all the better.
Diana Ryu is the owner of Namu Home Goods. The brand strives to highlight the natural beauty of wood, sourcing gallery-quality woodwork from Korea with a Korean-American aesthetic. She recommends adding a table lamp to brighten up the room, something that we’ve been seeing more of recently in kitchens. It adds a layer of comfort and warmth that can make a difference during those lingering dark mornings of spring.
Ryu also suggests creating a relaxing ritual. “I keep an incense chamber and incense that I light every morning when I put my kettle on for tea. I like the ritual of lighting the incense, smelling the scent, and hearing the water start to boil.” Easing your way into the new day sets the tone for the rest of it, and savoring even a small moment can make for a stress-free start.
When it comes to incorporating nature, the solution may be as simple as a windowsill garden that can be utilized to add flavor and vitamins to your favorite dishes – and it’s the perfect time of year to start one. “I love growing my own produce, and having that experience extend into my kitchen space has become a significant part of the joy of cooking,” Barnard said. “I keep a small garden on my windowsill of herbs and plants I’ve started from vegetable scraps and have views of my garden from my kitchen, which helps make the gardening experience feel like an active part of my food preparation. Being conscious of where my food comes from and having that be a part of my kitchen design makes me feel more mindful and connected to what I’m cooking.” Adding a garden space in your kitchen can also nicely coexist with creating efficient systems for recycling and composting.
Costello recommends we stay away from cookware coated with Teflon or other “non-stick” coatings when enameled, cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel cookware have been proven non-toxic. “Invest in high-quality, heirloom cookware and bakeware. It will be healthiest for you (from a toxicity standpoint) and future generations will get to share in the use and experience of these items as well.” You can also choose to swap out pieces seasonally for more variety when sitting down to a weeknight dinner or entertaining on the weekend.
Many people don’t view the kitchen as a room where art belongs, but we have to disagree because it brings joy, just as Barnard mentions. “It doesn’t have to be fine art,” Ryu suggests. She suggests doing a quick spring refresh by adding “Prints, beautiful ceramic plates, cups from small artists, pretty spoons and forks – and lots of big bowls on the counter filled with fruits and vegetables. They’re attractive and also healthy.” Barnard adds that visible storage of produce may also encourage the prioritization of these foods, which is something to make a habit of.
Spring’s warmer weather is the impetus to come out of hibernation, optimize your kitchen space, and welcome life back into your home. Ryu and Barnard agree that the positive experience circles back to who you’re surrounding yourself with, with Ryu adding, “There’s nothing better for our health than a loving community.” Technology, like that used in the 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer, can help further improve upon these times spent together with its capacity and capabilities. “Increasing options in diverse refrigeration systems can be a great asset when hosting, giving guests more independence and hosts more privacy and time to socialize,” shared Barnard. Pastry chef Guerin agreed, adding “There’s always a reason to celebrate, there’s always a reason to eat good food, to be around family and friends.”
The 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer is available panel ready or with accessory stainless steel panels. Through temperature control, capacity, and flexibility, Signature Kitchen Suite’s refrigeration products can help you confidently keep your food fresh longer and improve on your time spent in the kitchen. To learn more, visit signaturekitchensuite.com.
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Leonardo Momento Zero Pink Sands, a Goldspot exclusive.
Sponsor support is very important to me here at The Pen Addict. My sidebar advertisers put their faith in me to deliver good value for them month in and month out, and I want to shine the light on the best of the best for you. If you are shopping for pens, paper, inks, and more, please check out these great companies and see what they have to offer. Some recent highlights:
Pen Chalet has the just released A.A. Milne Winnie the Pooh Retro 51 Rollerball and Mechanical Pencil.
Goldspot dropped the Leonardo Momento Zero Fountain Pen in Pink Sands, a limited edition store exclusive.
Vanness Pens received a huge amount of Octopus Fluids standard and pigmented fountain pen inks.
JetPens launched several new Leuchtturm1917 notebooks, including the new Dark Blue Bullet Journal 2nd Edition.
The new Design En Rogue Architecture collection from S. Harris, part of Fabricut since 1954, translates a story many modern design lovers can appreciate – that of the Bauhaus school – into pattern and texture on fabric.
We got a sneak peek at the new designs that will be launching later this spring.
Known as a place as well as a method of teaching in pre-war Germany, the avant-garde Bauhaus brought together beauty and function, mass production and artistic vision, and disciplines from art to architecture. It was something never before seen, but has inspired creatives ever since.
The Design En Rogue Architecture collection unites designs based in organic and industrial art with those of architecture, taking inspiration from the Bauhaus artists who first introduced the world to this study of color, form, shape, and silhouette.
“This collection is full of highly structured textiles with a feminine essence – textiles that strike a chord.” said Jodi Finer, S. Harris Creative Director. “They’re movement-centric, statement-oriented, and evoke positivity. Inspired by the notion of moving forward through constant change as the only stabilizing force, we continue to test limits.”
You’ll find ten patterns in the Design En Rogue Architecture collection: Walker Fields, Isle of Capri, Senicio, Vastu, Off the Cuff, Sheeler Modern, Abstract Lines, Nouvel, Piston Mini, and Usonian.
A modern take on the classic floral print, Walker Fields found its inspiration in the wild landscapes of Walker Canyon and the Temescal Mountains in Lake Elsinore, California. A super soft alpaca fabric provides a subtle background to the brighter embroidery.
On the coast of Italy you’ll find Capri and its breathtaking scenery that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Isle of Capri brings to life the island’s landscape that’s scattered with luxury hotels and impressive yachts. It features intricate embroidery on an alpaca-blended wool.
Ahead of his time, artist Paul Klee was a master of color, shape, and form through his use of complicated geometries. Senecio is modeled after Klee’s 1922 portrait “Senecio,” alternatively known as “Head of a Man Going Senile”. Senecio is available in four colorways – American Blue, Amour, Java, and the aptly named Klee – that highlight the angles and perspective of the portrait.
The ancient Indian practice of vastu shastra is a way of organizing the home through architecture and planning of the space. The goal is to fill a home with good energy and positivity. Vastu takes its cues from the role of geometry within these principles. Choose from Citron, Natural Black, Mineral, and Pebble colorways.
Taking advantage of a more abstract interpretation of geometry, Off the Cuff showcases repetitive lines and closed, curving shapes. There’s a feeling of movement and energy that brings this fabric to life. Available colorways include Abyss, Citrus, and Shipwreck.
The work of modern artist Charles Sheeler depicted the American Heartland, where machinery and factories changed the landscape of work. Sheeler Modern borrows from the complex nature of modern machinery and translates it into a composition of shape, value, color, and repetition.
Abstract Lines combines detailed embroidery with an energetic color and soft, alpaca-blended wool. Flowing lines are embroidered in metallic purple thread that makes both the pattern and bright-yellow background pop.
Featuring a geometric pattern in metallic cut velvet, Nouvel offers texture and depth. Inspired by French architect Jean Nouvel, who is known for using contrasting forms to create visual interest, Nouvel plays with shadow, light, and positive and negative spaces. Nouvel is available in Boysenberry, Honeycomb, Passion Plum, and Tamarindo.
A smaller version of the Piston pattern at S. Harris, Piston Mini features the same rounded, expressive geometric shapes. Made of 100% cotton, this fabric is ideal for use in bedding and draperies. It is available in Pink Sun and Sand Castle.
Usonian looks to Frank Lloyd Wright for its name and design. Mimicking Wright’s use of minimal details and utopian principles, its boldness is a surprise and a delight. Choose from New World Blue, Red Tribune, and Terracotta.
Great design starts with a story. Born in metropolitan America at the turn of the 19th century, S. Harris continues to celebrate its roots in pattern, color, texture, and innovation. Every collection is designed as a love letter to the natural world, a tribute to history, the romance of travel, and a platform for storytellers. The brand’s pursuit of progress is alive in every fabric, wallcovering, trim, and accessory they make.
Explore Design En Rogue Architecture, launching this spring, and the full catalog of fabrics, trimmings, wallcoverings, and finished home goods at at fabricut.com/sharris.
We came, we saw, and we talked. A lot. Seeing the newest products and innovations at KBIS 2023 did not fail to impress, and we’re already looking forward to what’s to come in 2024. Our DMM Talks Lounge, put on in partnership with Modenus Media, was packed every day. Attendees enjoyed panels on everything from creative collaboration to the rise of generational living. If you weren’t able to attend the show, or too busy to sit in on the discussions, you can now listen to all of the conversations on the KBIS website.
We also want to thank the sponsors that helped make the DMM Talks Lounge possible:
Signature Kitchen Suite
Wellborn Cabinet
Fisher & Paykel
nobilia
Moen
Functional kitchenware is wonderful, but when it’s also aesthetically pleasing we’re likely to love it all the more. Meet Milo bakeware, Kana’s newest addition to the brand. Ergonomically designed with large handles, tri-ply clad stainless steel, and an aluminum core for even heat distribution and retention, this dishwasher-safe bakeware features all of the strength and versatility that we love. You can use these pieces as bakeware, grillware, and serveware because they’re all rolled into one. Thanks to sturdy construction, you can even use them on your open flame outdoor grill – the bakeware is resistant to temperatures up to 1000º F!
The design of Kana’s non-toxic Milo bakeware pulls from the brand’s mission of versatility, durability, elegance, and values. Rethinking the status quo and turning utilitarian pieces into everyday staples worthy of your cabinet space was the ultimate goal. A durable alternative to stonewarDe, this thoughtfully designed bakeware gracefully moves between the heat source and the dining table, leaving you with more space and fewer dishes to wash.
The individual pieces of the collection are made in standard bakeware sizes – the perfect fit for pre-cut parchment. The tri-ply clad stainless steel that makes up Milo bakeware uses two layers of stainless steel to sandwich an aluminum core. The aluminum ensures perfect heat distribution, while the outer layers of non-toxic stainless steel keep your food from coming into contact with the aluminum. It’s even suitable for commercial use.
It’s obvious that Kana puts as much thought into the aesthetics of the design as they do the technology and engineering. Milo Bakeware came to be after two years of research, development, and prototyping. Marise Perusse, Brand General Manager at Kana, worked with Dikini, a talented industrial design studio based in Montreal, to bring together the right material, size, and finish that would make cake pans and sheet pans a versatile staple in the kitchen. Every detail has a rhyme and a reason in this timeless, eco-friendly bakeware line that’s meant to be a focal point while dining with the people you love. None of the sustainably sourced and recycled materials compromise on quality. Just as good, the pieces are designed to last forever – or they’re biodegradable so as to leave no trace.
“Goods Made Better” is the ethos behind everything that Kana does, not only through the durable, sustainable materials used, but also the people and places the brand works with. Furthermore, Kana offsets 100% of the carbon emissions released as a result of shipping items, and invests in projects that reduce carbon emissions by the same amount. The brand also works with 1% for the Planet, an environmental initiative supporting non-profit organizations for a better future.
Aside from Kana’s Milo bakeware, the brand also offers an original collection of cookware, Dutch ovens, textiles, and parchment paper. It’s reassuring to know that every purchase – no matter how small – helps make a real difference in your home and around the globe. Learn more at kanalifestyle.com.
The following post is brought to you by A’ Design Award and Competition. Our partners are hand-picked by the Design Milk team because they represent the best in design.
Whether you’re an emerging designer or one who has new projects in your portfolio to share, the A’ Design Award & Competition will help get your designs out onto the world stage. This year’s competition is closing soon so start your registration and application today – this year’s submission deadline is February 28, 2023!
While there are many reasons why you should take the time to enter this competition, the biggest reason is it provides a platform for you to get your name, design, and portfolio out into the design industry, which can be hard to do in this day and age. Obtaining valuable feedback from industry experts and media is also hard to come by, but this contest offers that as well during the judging process. There are over 100 categories of design, as well as special awards (like the Good Industrial Design Award and the Good Architecture Design Award), under which you can submit your design, whether it’s a concept, prototype, or finished product.
Learn more about the A’ Design Award & Competition here and check out some of last year’s lighting design winners below for some inspiration + encouragement. We’re excited to see who this year’s winners are which we will announce on April 15, 2023, so check back soon!
Tulip Candlestick by Peiyao Cheng
Coral Blanche Floor Lamp by Yongwook Seong
Tomori Aid Lantern Kit by Yuji Yanagisawa
Aeronautics Lighting Fixtures by Igor Lobanov
Magpie Table Lamp by Sha Yang, Kaifeng Zheng and Yang Ma
Cubes Lighting by Monica Pinto de Almeida
The Porthole by Harry-Hongwei Yang
My thanks to Vitrazza for sponsoring The Pen Addict this week. Use code BRAD15 to save 15% and transform your work experience, just like your first fountain pen transformed your writing experience.
The Vitrazza Glass Office Chair Mat is that much of a difference maker. The smooth surface makes moving around your workspace nearly effortless. It's like writing on 80 gsm micro-coated paper when all you've ever known is bargain printer paper. A Glass Chair Mat is like the paper to your pen.
When choosing Vitrazza for the upgrade your workspace needs, not only will you get a luxurious piece that will last a lifetime, you get free shipping, free returns, a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee, AND a Lifetime Warranty! Have we made a believer out of you yet? If so, use code BRAD15 to save 15% on any order.
Do you remember the first time you wrote with a fountain pen? If you love pens as much as we do, it must have completely transformed an otherwise mundane writing experience into a whole new world of elegance, customization, and satisfaction for you. Do you want to relive that "wow, why aren't more people using these" moment? Well then, allow us to introduce you to the Glass Office Chair Mat by Vitrazza. First-time Glass Chair Mat users report a similarly transformational experience as pen aficionados!
The smooth surface of a Glass Chair Mat makes moving around your workspace nearly effortless. It's like writing on 80 gsm micro-coated paper when all you've ever known is bargain printer paper. A Glass Chair Mat is like the paper to your pen. Now pair that with Hubless Office Chair Wheels, and you just might make your favorite roller ball pen jealous. But our favorite commonality between luxury pens and Glass Chair Mats is durability. Pen enthusiasts like us balk at the idea of using cheap plastic disposable pens, and we most certainly won't be caught without our trusty writing companion. Even if we say we don't have a pen on us, we do … we just don't trust others with it. So if you refuse to use junky pens, why continue to use cheap plastic chair mats that crack, dent, and yellow within a couple of years? A Vitrazza Glass Chair Mat is the last chair mat you'll ever need to buy and helps keep plastic out of landfills.
Vitrazza offers a wide range of Glass Chair Mat shapes and sizes:
For the Practical:
The Brava Collection - Four of the most popular and space-saving designs.
For the Premium:
The Prima Collection - Sixteen size options to fit any workspace with class.
For Namiki Owners:
The Sola Collection - Hand-painted works of art in a Glass Chair Mat And if you prefer a more bespoke approach, Vitrazza can create a totally custom Glass Chair Mat design - a Vista Collection design!
Not only will you get a luxurious piece that will last a lifetime, but when you choose Vitrazza, you get free shipping, free returns, a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee, AND a Lifetime Warranty! Have we made a believer out of you yet? If so, use code BRAD15 to save 15% and transform your work experience just like your first fountain pen transformed your writing experience.
My thanks to Ēnsso for sponsoring The Pen Addict this week.
Back in 2015, ēnsso designed the Pen UNO, a minimalist pen to hold Pilot Hi-Tec-C Coleto refills. The pen was very successful due to its simplicity, and innovative retractable cap system. This week, ēnsso released the UNO XL, a full-size version of the pen for the standard Hi-Tec-C refills.
The UNO XL is machined from stainless steel, featuring a retractable cap that also serves as grip section, with diamond knurling to improve grip and comfort. It measures 135 mm in length, has a diameter of 11 mm at the grip section, and weighs 37 g. It is currently available to preorder on Kickstarter at up to 55% discount off the future retail price.
Nahvalur Original Plus, via Pen Chalet.
Sponsor support is very important to me here at The Pen Addict. My sidebar advertisers put their faith in me to deliver good value for them month in and month out, and I want to shine the light on the best of the best for you. If you are shopping for pens, paper, inks, and more, please check out these great companies and see what they have to offer. Some recent highlights:
JetPens received a wonderful supply of Limited Edition Midori 3 and 5 Year Diaries.
Pen Chalet released the excellent Nahvalur Original Plus, their new vacuum-filling fountain pen.
Goldspot has their latest collaboration with Kaweco in stock, the beautiful AL Sport Very Peri.
Vanness Pens has the full Visconti Van Gogh Ink series ink stock, featuring 12 coordinating shades.
Back in 2015, ēnsso designed the Pen UNO, a minimalist pen to hold Pilot Hi-Tec-C Coleto refills. The pen was very successful due to its simplicity, and innovative retractable cap system. This week, ēnsso released the UNO XL, a full-size version of the pen for the standard Hi-Tec-C refills.
The UNO XL is machined from stainless steel, featuring a retractable cap that also serves as grip section, with diamond knurling to improve grip and comfort. It measures 135 mm in length, has a diameter of 11 mm at the grip section, and weighs 37 g. It is currently available to preorder on Kickstarter at up to 55% discount off the future retail price.
Ēnsso is a pen manufacturer and design studio based in California with 15 successful Kickstarter campaigns. The studio is the recipient of the Red Dot Award and the Good Design Award.
My thanks to Ēnsso for sponsoring The Pen Addict this week.
The Design Milk X Modenus Talks Lounge, also known as the #dmmtalks Lounge, is back at KBIS with a schedule that’s jam-packed full of presentations and conversations covering design business, social media, and trends. Also returning are the popular BrandTalks that give exhibitors an opportunity to speak about the vision and mission behind their brands, as well as introduce audiences to new products and innovations. We’re excited to dig into these hot topics at the Kitchen & Bath Design Show January 31st to February 2nd, 2023 in Las Vegas with our partner, Modenus. If you’re not already signed up to attend the show, you can register here. Check out what’s in store for the Lounge located in the North Hall at N1577 below!
9:15 AM
KBIS Newbie Kickoff: What Not To Miss at KBIS 2023 – RSVP HERE
KBIS 2023 is a big show, and we invite you to start your experience in the #dmmtalks lounge to learn about major show highlights, cool new pavilions and exhibits, and VIP opportunities for you to benefit from as influencers.
Presenters: Modenus Media CEO, Veronika Miller + Principal at White Good, Sherry Qualls
Sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite
10:30 AM
The Design – Build Collaboration: Pitfalls, Processes, and Profits – RSVP HERE
The relationship between the designer, builder, and the client is critical to the success of every design build project and communication is at the heart of every successful relationship. Join LuAnn Nigara as she moderates a rock star line up to discuss best practices between designers and builders.
Moderator: LuAnn Nigara, Keynote Speaker, Author + Podcast Host at The Well Designed Business
Panelists: Brad Leavitt, President AFT Construction, Susan + Paul Kadilak, Owners Kadilak Homes + Hosts Renovation Rekindle
Sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite
12:00 PM
Efficiency is Beautiful: Essential Automation for Design Firms – RSVP for Lunch
If you’re saying or doing anything repeatedly, there’s a potential opportunity for automation. Learn how to implement key automation – for marketing, sales, and operations – and sleep well knowing the work is getting done.
• 3 categories of automation that are useful to almost any design firm
• What can be automated… and what can’t? How to quickly tell the difference
• How to actually make it happen – from tech to internal process
Presenter: Nicole Heymer, Owner + Creative Director Glory and Brand
Sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite
1:30 PM
BrandTalks: Wellborn – Meet The Brand
Each 15 minute presentation is followed by an opportunity to ask your most pressing questions and meet company leadership face-to-face.
Sponsored + Presented by Wellborn Cabinet
2:00 PM
BrandTalks – Fisher & Paykel: Kitchen Perfection – RSVP HERE
Learn about Fisher & Paykel’s design philosophy and their latest initiatives around sustainability, the connected home, and Kitchen Perfection. Each 15 minute presentation is followed by an opportunity to ask your most pressing questions and meet company leadership face-to-face.
Sponsored + Presented by Fisher & Paykel
3:00 PM
Behind the Curtain with Claire Jefford: Pricing Projects: Disclosing Design Fees & Deliverables – RSVP HERE
Posting a pretty picture on Instagram is one thing, but the actual process and documentation created for implementing a client project is something no one really shows you. And whether designers are charging an hourly or a flat fee to their clients, how do they come up with these numbers? Here you’ll get a rare peek ‘Behind the Curtain’ of Kitchen and Bathroom projects by well-established designers. We’ll be reviewing three custom projects, sharing details of the scope of work, design proposals, presentation slides, and fee structure.
Moderator: Principal at Claire Jefford Inc. and Interior Design Business Coach
Panelists: Jennifer Stoner, Principal Jennifer Stoner Interiors, Sheri Bruneau, Principal Sheri Bruneau Interior Design
9:15 AM
Influencer Breakfast: Top Tips For Maximizing New Ideal Client Acquisition While Avoiding Social Media Burnout – RSVP HERE
Do you find yourself feeling burnt out being on social media? Attend this one hour talk with Leslie Carothers, founder of Savour Partnership and the #designwealthcommunity on Facebook, and get her top tips on proven strategies for new ideal client acquisition – while minimizing the time you spend online.
Presenter: Leslie Carothers, Principal Savour Partnership
Sponsored by nobilia
10:30 AM
Diversifying Income Streams by Creating New Profit Centers – RSVP HERE
Increase the bottom line with new profit centers found within your existing business infrastructure. Diversifying your services, adding new products, and finding hidden revenue is the best way to hedge against any downturns in the marketplace. We are creatives folks! Let’s get creative with not only what we can offer our existing clients but appeal to new prospects too by getting them engaged with your brand even if they are not currently in the market for a larger ticket sale. Success these days is often defined one client at a time.
Presenter: Cheryl Clendenon, Principal In Detail Creative Group
Sponsored by nobilia
12:00 PM
Creative Collaboration for Diversifying Your Design Business – RSVP for Lunch
Navigate today’s working challenges by creating collaborations to diversify your design business. We’ll discuss how aligning with kitchen and bath retailers and skilled tradespeople can build powerful relationships that could create significant revenue streams.
Presenter: Wendy Glaister, Principal Wendy Glaister Interiors
Sponsored by nobilia
1:30 PM
BOSS Academy Roundtable with Claire Jefford – Establishing Trust with Clients: Solid Relationships are Everything – RSVP HERE
When clients aren’t fully invested in you and your design ideas, it’s because there is a lack of trust. The best clients are the ones who fully trust you, don’t push back on your fees and design ideas, nor do they demand changes to your contract. The sooner you can successfully establish trust, the more enjoyable the design experience is for everybody – including your trades and staff. Here we’ll share actionable items, starting with a well-thought-out website and various touch points throughout the working relationship to ensure you only work with clients who value you as a respected Interior Design BOSS.
Moderator: Claire Jefford, Principal at Claire Jefford Inc. + Interior Design Business Coach
Panelists: Nicole Heymer, Owner + Creative Director Glory, Ariana Lovato, Owner + Principal Honeycomb Home Design
3:00 PM
BrandTalks – Moen: Around the Globe to Your Kitchen – RSVP HERE
Go behind-the-scenes with Principal Industrial Designer Jessica Birchfield to explore how firsthand trendspotting and research informs the design of Moen products. Uncover the style inspiration that led to their latest kitchen faucets, including the use of unique materials and industrial-inspired elements.
Sponsored + Presented by Moen
3:30 PM
Happy Hour – The Rise of Multi-Generational Living – RSVP HERE
Between the pandemic and anxieties of inflation and an uncertain economy, many are making the practical choice to combine households. But what does this mean for home design? Join us to learn more about how flexibility, accessibility, and a balance of private and common spaces must be considered to support the well-being of all who occupy a home – and how to support these needs in a way that still allows for beautiful design.
Moderator: Pamela McNally, SVP Marketing + Digital NKBA
Panelists: Sydney Marshman, Occupational Therapist and CEO Happy At Home Consulting, Patti Carpenter, Trend Forecaster + Principal Carpenter + Company, Danielle DeBoe Harper, Senior Creative Style Manager Moen,
Jessica Birchfield, Principal Industrial Designer Fortune Brands
Sponsored by Moen
9:15 AM
BrandTalks : NKBA Design Bites – Behind the Scenes
10:30 AM
Designhounds Influencer Meetup – RSVP HERE
You see them everywhere at KBIS, Modenus Media’s Designhounds have been scouring trade shows around the world in search of best in class design trends and innovations since 2011. Join us for Donuts + Coffee to learn what it takes to be a Designhound and what’s next for the network of over 700 design influencers that have joined the ranks of the most successful design influencer program in our industry.
If you’d like to attend the show, you can register here.
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