Dwell on Design

Imani Waddy

An example of what was on display

By Dale Youngman

Cutting-edge design turned up everywhere at the “Dwell on Design” interior-design showcase that took over the downtown Convention Center June 24-26.

Modern sleek and streamlined wares mixed with world-class craftsmanship to entice the eager design –enthusiasts who flocked to the consumer show billed as a “Three day celebration of Modern Design.” Hundreds of would-be interior decorators made their way through booth after booth of creative designs, materials, fixtures and furnishings for the home. Stunning kitchens (professional chef stoves, built-in wine closets, speed ovens), bath concepts, (walk-in tubs, sexy Jacuzzis), new building materials, from sleek veneers, “Thin Brick” (at Arto Brick) to wide wood planking, bamboo alternatives and Italian ceramic tiles from hundreds of international companies left no one unsatisfied. Completing the picture - contemporary art, sculpture, and unique lighting applications to accessorize the home you’ll never want to leave.

With a focus on becoming more environmentally-conscious, the “Energy & Resources” area had companies promoting solar –heating, organic gardening, “landscape architecture” (at Shades of Green LA) indoor/ outdoor living, pre-fab housing, (Bluhomes.com and Roger Kurath) and a myriad of alternatives for living a greener lifestyle. Recycling, re-using and re-purposing items continued to be a prevalent theme. Some of my favorites - “A Zillion Ideas” that uses vintage Japanese kimono fabrics for baseball caps and casual clothing, as well as decorative skateboards. Hate air-conditioning like I do? Look up “Big Ass Fans-” that are energy –efficient, attractive, and most importantly – quiet!

Furniture -as -art, art-as-carpeting, contemporary paintings for outdoor patios (like Bradford Stewart’s big outdoor abstracts) … technical designers, craftsmen and artists coagulate to deliver some of the most attractive functional art-as-furnishings for sophisticated high-style and comfortable living. Don’t miss next year’s Dwell On Design and become your own favorite interior decorator!

 

ADVERTISEMENT