Weekly Whois: Philippe Starck

Nobody in the world of design doesn't know Philippe Starck. He is probably one of the leading designers of the late 20th century. From interior design to product design, he believes in functionality and most of his creations can be used in our day to day living.
Here is one of his latest designs for Microsoft - an optical mouse.

He also designed these wireless speakers (called Parrot Speakers) for the Ipod and Iphone.

I think these are stylish pieces for a modern home. (Photos from http://zikmu.parrot.com)

He also designed these timeless pieces.
The Louis Ghost Chair for Kartell. Durable, stackable, and timeless...Pinkberry is the US had the Victoria Ghost chairs similar to the Louis Ghost chairs.

The Bubble Club Chair for Kartell. Weatherproof and UV resistant, durable enough to be used outdoors.

La Boheme Stool is another fun furniture piece designed for Kartell.

There are a lot of furniture pieces designed by Starck icluding the Ero ISI which you may have seen in a lot of places.

He has also designed a number of hotel interiors and restaurants around the world including a restaurant in The Peninsula, Hong Kong and Le Lan in Beijing (below) and numerous chic bars in Beverly Hills.

Faena Hotel+Universe in Buenos Aires

 Plaza la Independencia, Madrid, Spain

Born in Paris in January 18, 1949, he will always be one of my favorite designers of all time because his creativity evolved from fashion and novelty to integrity and durability. His designs will definitely endure the times.

Gray Matter

Today, I went and ran an errand for the store and chose a color for one of the rooms. The shade that I was supposed to look for was a gray shade. I never have considered gray as a room wall color before but after seeing a few interior photos, I think I am loving the color! Check out these cool rooms with gray walls.
I like the bleached floors and the gray wall. So chic!

Room Design by Stacey Smithers & Stephanie White
Photography by Michael Graydon

Light fabric sofas can be look so elegant against dark gray walls. Framed sketches become more interesting.
Design by Axel Vervoordt

Vibrant colors match gray walls. Bright yellows, pinks and wood seem more warm against this neutral gray.
Image from Design Sponge

Image from Design Sponge

This shelf would not have looked as interesting.
Home Office designed by Emily Clark
From classic to modern, gray has made a statement in interior design this year! If only I can repaint my walls in this shade.

Easy Napkin Folds

I am a newbie when it comes to entertaining guests. If my husband suddenly decides to invite his boss for dinner, all my time will be used up thinking what dish should I prepare and preparing it. I would have overlooked the minor but important details of casual (yet formal) dining....and one of these details is how to fold the napkin.

I browsed the net and found these easy napkin folds which can impress guests and which are totally doable.
Scarf Napkin fold (this is the easiest - my favorite)

Traditional Napkin fold

Rolling Napkin Fold (I like this one too, it is so neat)

Tailored Fold

You can easily google up the how-to's for these napkin folds. All you need are napkins that fit your style and matching napkin rings which can be affordable and practical.
By the way, all the napkin and napkin rings featured are available in Pottery Barn, Dubai as part of their Fall Collection!