Winner of the GOLD Prize contest by Aisin Seikin, the XL table concept sewing machine is designed to look like a piece of purposeful decor when not in use. To me it still looks like a sewing machine folded up but it does possess clean sleek lines so if you’ve got a modern home and you love to sew, why not right?

Designer: Lysandre Follet

If you are like me and live in a place that has pressed dirt for walls (a.k.a. dry wall), the idea of hanging art, window shades or especially a book shelf, is not only an engineering feat in itself, but also a serious anxiety inducer. These types of walls seem to crumble at the very idea of being punctured by a screw, nail or dirty look. In a perfect world, all walls would be made from super durable, screw loving materials.

Designer: Denis Oh

The persistence of time has never been more impressive as when witnessed by the subtle movement of this “D/A Clock” by Alvin Aronson. His ingenious design counts each passing minute and hour with raised expectations. This time piece fades through its 24 hour cycle with a series of digital LED inspired bas-reliefs. The white on white color scheme seems to reinforce the idea that time may not actually exist, and yet, I will never the less be counting the minutes until I own one of these.

Designer: Alvin Aronson

Nothing translates the language of fine crystal like stainless steel…wait, huh?! Just checked my notes and yes, what you are looking at is Japan’s new flagship store for crystal kings Swarovski. Located in Ginza, Tokyo, this palace of retail reflection is covered in thousands of stainless-steel reliefs that create the illusion of actual crystal reflecting the urban landscape that surrounds.

Designer: Tokujin Yoshioka

Being in my 30s, I have finally settled on an image in my head of what I look like. I know this image does not precisely resemble how the world views me, and that’s ok. Aesthetically speaking, I never seemed to be on the same page with my self image as how others saw me. I either thought I looked better than I actually did or worse. I had to learn to let go of such narcissistic thoughts and focus on pursuits that satisfy me on more intellectual levels.

Designer: Jean-Marie Massaud

Like frogs sitting on lily pads, so goes the experience when visiting the “Blue Frog Lounge” in Mumbai, India. Architectural firm Serie, have created an entertainment space that is both attractive and stand-offish at the same time, mirroring its patrons casual chic attitudes. For unobstructed people and performer watching, staggered heights and angled booths atop a glowing blue lake of light, give the impression of floating in a warm lake under the spring moonlight, waiting for the mating ritual to begin.

Architect: Serie

“I love the smell of Napalm in the morning…” - Robert Duvall (Apocalypse Now). Though I question anyone’s sanity that might actually mean those very words, it does speak of the fundamental truth that a particular scent has the power to instantly transform our moods.

Designer: Abiogenesis Design

Horizontal heaters are so passé. Or at least says the mind behind this aptly named “Wall Ceramic Heater” by Andrey Vostrikov. Andrey claims this heating concept provides better energy efficiency, faster heating times and measurable noise reduction.

Designer: Andrey Vostrikov

If we all took 15 mins out of each day to just focus and stay silent, it would do a world of good. Of course in today’s world space is a premium. The minimal domestic altar establishes a sacred place within the home providing a focal point for contemplation, mediation, and ritual.

Designer: John Paananen

Deep in the heart of Lorraine, France stands the Church Saint Eucaire de METZ. This church is home to one of the most extraordinary collections of custom crafted furniture on God’s green Earth. Inspired by visions of the New Testament’s version of the apocalypse. With flowing vertical lines representing the ascension of Jesus Christ and reflections of water flowing into infinity, this future gothic furniture has heavenly aspirations.

Designer: Frank & Stanimira Rafaschieri