Metal Planters

With spring around the corner, it’s time to look for some budget planters.  DWR has the Gratia planters on sale, but I’m going to go one better.  Since the Gratia is made of bronze, it’s a bit pricey-especially when you need more than one.  The Gratia will weather beautifully and achieve a nice patina over time…if you want it to.  Below is the TJ Maxx version of a simple metal planter, not stellar quality at only $29…but nice simple lines at a nice price.  I like them as is, but if the plain metal is too cold a look for you and you want the weathered patina, consider applying a patina finish yourself on the planter. I’d use the same stuff I used for the stair rail – it is a liquid patina found in art stores.

March 29 UPDATE: Just saw that CB2 has now posted some as well ranging from $15-40.

Vintage Ice

I’m always on the prowl for good vintage anything and I just spotted a tres cool pendant/swag light on Metro Retro.  E-bayers will know this guy – he always has good stuff..although prices keep creeping up.  I’ve included 2 of the photos…there are more at the site.  The light is chrome and glass, although you could change out the chrome chain that dates it and make a new cord and ceiling cap for hard wiring.  It’s a great example of how to take a vintage piece and tweak it a bit with minor updates. For $299…you can have a conversation piece that is truly unique.  Since he only has one, if you like it, better go for it!

Now That’s Smokin’

$39 from gnr8.biz
$39 from gnr8.biz

Incense gets a bad rap.  A beautiful, scented candle is nice, but at $40 a pop…froogs need alternatives.  No, I’m not a hippie who drenches myself in patchouli.  I do, however, think a nice bit of cedar or sandalwood incense can make the room feel cozy and fresh at the same time.  Whatever your preference, if you use incense and are always tucking it behind vases etc.. so it’s not visible…I have found the solution.  No more dregs of ash spilling over your dish if you use sticks…(cones are so much neater anyway). This little gem designed by Jan Harman is $39 on Gnr8.  Made of beech and stainless steel, it’s a mini modern wonder.

Glossy and Smooooooth Panton!

$175 from White on White
$175 from White on White

Verner Panton’s 1968 “S” chair is one of the more copied items in the knock-off underworld.  Problem with them was the texture.  All I ever saw was a piece of injection molded plastic with a grainy, nubby texture instead of the smooth, glossy look of the original (which had fiberglass coating).  Looks as though some retailers have finally gotten the look right.  Still stackable etc…but not $1400 each like the authentic re-issues…how about $175 each?  I talked with the guys at White on White to verify this latest version they just got in stock was indeed the smooth finish….it is!

Modern Dose is showing a special online for the S chair as buy one get one free for $265.  I couldn ‘t get anyone on the phone to verify it for me though! Modern Dose claims their chairs are a single piece of molded plastic and come in black, white and red, with both matte or glossy finish.  White’s are fiberglass in orange, green and white.  Personally, I think the White version will be the better chair, but I also feel obligated to share any other deals I know of out there.

Those Wizards of Oz

The latest issue of Dwell had me nodding my head vigorously as I read the cover “Why are the world’s best houses in Australia and New Zealand?”

The Aussies have also got this building material I’ve been trying to source in the US – unsuccessfully, so this is a call for help if anyone knows.

The magic I’m after is concrete crib walls and concrete “sleepers” or rail ties.  Concrib in Australia makes the crib wall retention systems I’m so fascinated by – they are used in big commercial projects such as highway bridge erosion control.  Engineering genius- and I think the look is stunning – softer than solid hardscape.   The other option I seek is the concrete sleepers. The photos of those here are from Modular Concrete Sleepers and Boonah Landscaping.

I have a retaining wall situation in my 70’s modern home with a 6 foot high tower of crumbling, chipmunk infested, rotten wood sleepers.   I especially like the sleek joining of sleepers with the metal beams.  Anyone who has some knowledge to share will be my hero.