Financial Padding

No, these aren’t real bills, but they sure do look real from afar. the. has created this “Financial Padding” as a green — literally — alternative to traditional packing materials.

They say, “Give your next shipment extra security and your recipient a pleasant yet disappointing surprise with Financial Padding, a package cushioning alternative to foam peanuts. These crumpled up paper banknote lookalikes are reusable, recyclable, and biodegradable.”

Philippe Starck for Baccarat

Baccarat has introduced a series of chandeliers in Milan at Salone, and this one from Philippe Starck stood out quite a bit. Called Marie Coquine, this Zénith 12 lights chandelier is topped with an ivory umbrella with a chestnut wood handle, as if protecting it from the rain. Limited to an edition of 120. Don’t open umbrellas in the house cause bad luck?

Hi

This photo by Roman Lysenko made me smile. Love giraffes.

Mixed Messages Mug

The Mixed Messages Mug sports its own do-it-yourself ransom note. Hijack a mug and make it say whatever you want!

Otaat bags

Los Angeles-based design label Otaat has released a second series of modern canvas carriers designed by creative director Albert Chu.

Joining the Bagby and Tu Bag, the Space Bag and Canoe Bag follow in the same Otaat tradition of multi-function and usability while teetering on the absurd.

Gigantic Inflatable Climbing Icebergs.

I wish I had a bigger pool so I could buy one of these Gigantic Inflatable Climbing Icebergs.

Wahroonga Preparatory School by GGF Architects

This rainbow-colored school, located in Australia, was designed by GGF Architects . The bright exterior draws much attention from the street and echoes the stained glass window of the adjacent church. It looks like a giant LEGO building.

Magritte hanger

Igor “Rogix” Udushlivy has created a coat hanger with a shape inspired by René Magritte paintings.

The Postcup

The Postcup™ (postcard mug) is a refreshing take on the postcard concept. (Your greetings are permanent once baked.) Lovely idea! So, how’s that handwriting of yours?

Lego Architecture

This is Lego architecture. I want them!!  Thanks Isa!

Broadway Penthouse created by Joel Sanders Architect

This Broadway Penthouse created by Joel Sanders Architect changes the perception that living in New York City can’t be both green and rich with plant life. I love the sculpture and wall art near the fireplace.

From the architect:

Pushing green design beyond the familiar incorporation of a list of sustainable materials; this Broadway penthouse renovation rethinks the notion of an urban garden by literally bringing the outside in. Exterior wood decking and vegetation flow into the heart of the loft forming a planted core, a living green veil that screens the public living/dining room from the private master bedroom. The stair bulkhead doubles as a skylight and provides access to a roof terrace planted with sedum and grasses. This green core is tactile as well as a visual: the owner can bathe surrounded by lush vegetation visible through a glass wall that separates the bathroom from this planted zone. The rear of the bathroom is clad with modular plant panels. Surmounted by a skylight, this living wall is yet another element that vertically links roof and interior. An eco-friendly palette of natural and synthetic materials confound traditional distinctions between natural and artificial. When seen from entry, the planted core merges with the living lounge: the upholstered floor and seating evoke a textile garden, the interior counterpart to the roof terrace, where a bed of sedum defines a walk-able planted surface.

Landscape design by Balmori Associates.
[via Architizer]

First Crescent in South Africa by SAOTA

This dramatic contemporary home by SAOTA (Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects) is located in Camps Bay, South Africa.  The original home on this site was demolished with the exception of a small basement area, converted into a guest suite. The oddly-shaped lot offers beautiful views of the Camps Bay beach and Lion’s Head to the north. Everything about this home takes advantage of the views from the windows to the outside space and cantilevered roof.

Architects: SAOTA (Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects)
Location: Camps Bay, South Africa
Interior Design: Antoni Associates
Project Area: 676 square meters
Project Year: 2007
Photos: Wieland Gleichand Karl Beath

[via ArchDaily]