alexfultondesign

And the winners are...

2012-02-23T13:32:00.002+13:00

Firstly, thank you all for entering. There was a huge response, so go you guys!

And because it makes a difference to what I do knowing that you are all out there loving design, I added two more draws to the pool.

That means there are 3 winners!

Kym - who wins the 'So Fancy' print

Charlotte Dunning - who wins the 'Every thread' tote

Melissa Fisher - who wins the 'Do Stuff' print.

Congratulations to you three! Please email me at alex@alexfultondesign.co.nz and I will post to you asap.

Thanks again to Alana and her beautiful creations at Foundry.

A year ago today: 22nd Feb 2011, Christchurch Earthquake

2012-02-22T16:36:00.000+13:00

A day for remembering back on last years events.

It's been a hard year with many more "aftershocks" effecting our lives. We, and our children will never forget what happened, the day that changed everything.

A year on, we are still avoiding potholes, dealing with the EQC, staring at cracks in the walls, feeling "shakies", unsure of our future, staring at containers, and making back-up plans for any situations.

All a result from mother nature doing what she did.

BUT life does go on and it's one foot in front of the other.

I heard a quote today and it said:

"People or things may knock you down, but it's only up to you to get yourself up"

You can read my account and my daughters accounts from last year, here and here.

I'm grateful to all of you for reading and continuing to support my design endeavours. This part of my life keeps me sane and grounded. It's who I am. It's helped me get through situations I was unsure I could handle. That makes me proud and very happy to be me.

Alex.

Looking at: The Design Files Open House

2012-02-21T13:04:00.000+13:00

If you missed out on seeing Lucy's Design Files Open House, you can now see it via video.

What a fantassy concept and an excellent way to "see" what the Design Files Blog would look like if it was a real-live-house.

Well done Lucy. Clever.

Spotted: At Spotlight

2012-02-20T15:32:00.001+13:00

Cheap pouffs and colourful rugs. Found at Spotlight.

Only $54.99 NZD each

The back colourful design "balloons" and main piccy "falling spot" would be my picks. $179.00 NZD.

Bargs.

Good Prod Friday: Kolher Bathtub

2012-02-17T15:25:00.001+13:00

Holy m of g!

There has been much talk of bathtubs of late (too soon?) and this one is killer (def. too soon sorry).

Kohler has knocked this bath outta the park with just the addition of a few simple stripes. So simple but so good.

It's want/need stuff.

**Image found over at Cush & Nooks. Just found Vic (creator of said blog and store) and she is me. A clever wee me/she. Poor her - it just means I like her carriage very much. Go and read/buy her please.**

Giveaway: Foundry (Prints and Totes)

2012-02-16T16:47:00.000+13:00

Oh yes design buddies, it's giveaway time!

AND I couldn't be more happier to announce that next week (Thursday 23rd Feb 2012) I will draw out of the hat, a lucky person to WIN a product of your choice from the one, the only, the best...

Foundry.

That's correcto-mondo. Your choice of a print or tote.

All you have to do is go to Foundry's website and choose the goodie you want to win and post in the comments below.

Extra entries if you "like" Fancy! NZ Design Blog and Alex Fulton Design Facebook pages. Just let me know in the comment section.

Good luck.

Easy art squeezy.

About Foundry:

I'm a massive fan of Alana's design blog - Fancy! and now, she has branched out and shown us some of her very own home-grown new zealand goodness.

Her design aesthetic features colours, pattern, and type which really hits the mark in cool.

I am very happy to be supporting her work and ever grateful that we can giveaway some 'Foundry' right here on this blog.

Guest Posting: For Li'l Magooile

2012-02-10T11:43:00.002+13:00

Just in case you want more of me (who doesn't) you can find me once a month guest blogging over at my good bud Li'l Magoolie's blog.

What a spunk-rat

She shares my passion for pigments and asked me to talk about interior stuff - so I did and do.

This month I'm talking about "The White room" and here's a clue - it's not just white. I know, crazy hey.

Enjoy and keep reading her blog as she has some seriously good stuff featuring. It's a mustie!

Go on - off you go then.

Clever sausage: Carl Kleiner

2012-02-08T06:27:00.001+13:00

I've featured this brilliant bratwurst before here and now he's back collab'ing with IKEA. This time with their tableware.

It's Carl Kleiner of course.

(and found at SNAPassembly)

Dishy.

New kid on the block: Sparkk

2012-02-07T16:55:00.002+13:00

This is no sponsor - this is just a super company with equally exciting products.

Seriously - the sampling alone had me hyperventilating!

Sparkk was started by The family Rysenbry's. It seems that textiles and furnishings run in their blood as they originally started Mokum back in 1979.

Having recently sold they have started a new venture which simply and creativity digitally prints onto fabric and wallpaper.

I KNOW RIGHT! Very exciting for a many reasons.

1. They don't hold stock and print to order - this means lower $$ and they can stay up to date with current (I hate this word) trends.

2. They can customise designs and colours to suit a particular project or idea

3. The have three fabric base-cloth and wallpaper types (to suit the job i.e. upholstery, drapery, bathrooms etc)

4. The scope! I mean they can print ANYTHING in ANY COLOUR. That, my buds, is music to my creative ears....

Lookee look at just some of the designs (over 60 and counting) and colour combo's (165 and counting).

AND you can order all through me!

Good Prods: Strange planet animals

2012-02-03T13:10:00.003+13:00

Git me some of these.

Made by Thegoodmachinery - you can buy them here.

Actually at a loss for words. They are that good.

(this post was written last week and have since seen on Coolhunter and Fancy! Great minds eh...)

Love it or hate it: Petitcollin Pop Lamp

2012-02-02T13:37:00.001+13:00

Well, I LOVE it. So much so I have one. I got it a while back at IkoIko in Wellington. I remember it was quite pricey but I can't remember how muchie.

I get many reactions, mostly negative I have to say, so I wanted to ask what you think?

Here's mine in situ.

Yes that is the lamp cord....

It's made by the french traditional doll maker Petitcollin (est 1860).

For such a established company that has made dolls and baby for generations, I think they have stepped outside the 'boite' which is very commendable.

And stepped out they did. Available in pink, orange, blue, nude (hehe), and green.

To do and not to do: February

2012-02-01T14:32:00.002+13:00

Ok. Here's what happening.

It's February and for no other reason than 'to just do stuff' I have set myself two challenges.

1. To do

The February Photo challenge from Fatmumslim

I love a good instagram, so having to be told to do one a day couldn't be that hard surely shirley?

We'll see - you can follow my progress on Instagram. Or on my facebook page

2. Not to do
Drinking alcohol that is.

The Febfast. This event enables people to come together to give young people with alcohol and drug related problems a second chance at a healthy life.
I would love to tell you I have joined and become all official - no. BUT I will abstain in good faith (except for a wee break at Rippon Festival this weekend - Shhhh, it's a two year event and I can't be 100% perfect!)

Go me and go you if you want to join me.

Fairytale fun: Pistacchi Design

2012-01-31T11:05:00.000+13:00

I've found it! A Russian doll set to rival my Lady GAGA nesters...

Made by the talented team at Pistacchi Design, they have tapped into the world of make-believe and happily-ever-afters.

Look there is more...

A bit Kartelly - but lots of funny.

Found over at Follow the colours

and The Fabulous Web

I'm back: From Summer hols

2012-01-26T16:26:00.001+13:00

Hello! Gosh it's been a while but Camp Fulton have had a wee breakiepoos.

Lake Tekapo

Dalefield, Queenstown. I WILL LIVE HERE ONE DAY.

View of Frankton Arm, Queenstown

Ruby Island on Lake Wanaka

The dash of our faithful kombi - she got us their and back in one piece.

Rested, tanned and full of the joys of life - I'm back and ready to blog-party.

Fun things are a-bound for 2012. I can just feel it.

There will be a few changes and additions with some killer giveaways to boot. All will be revealed in the next couple of weeks. Lookin' forward to you'll joining me.

Graff-Art at my fav Sandwich shop at The Colombo (fav mall)

Colour on my buds.

Visiting: Christchurch

2011-12-26T10:16:00.000+13:00

The place where I live. Shaky ol' Christchurch.

Yes we had another couple of shakes yesterday which crumbled our positive stride and made us remember that they are not over.

BUT we will survive. Its been one hellava year.

Our christmas eve day was spent helping our friends and fellow cantabrians shoveling liqufaction. The stuff that just keeps on coming after any major shake - and believe me folks there has been many.

The kids sung "Everyday we're shoveling do do do do do do do"
That pile took 2 hours to make - 7 adults and 5 kids.

This stuff is ruthless - it's sticky, heavy and when it dries it's dusty as an ol' boot. You can not imagine.

We turned up to people's home where this stuff was knee-deep and it's not the first, second or even third time. We heard over and over again that they just can't be bothered cleaning it up and I don't blame them.

That's where we come in. And we did - on mass! With shovels, spades, wheel barrows and man-power. We only helped a few people but we hope we made a difference.

There was Al the 81 year old who was house and garden proud. Again he was out with the shovel and barrow cleaning up his property. We turned up and he may have had a tear in the eye. His lovely wife baked scones, biscuits and tea.

That turned out to be a common occurrence - home-made goodies to help our tiny army shovel and shovel.

I'm knackered but I'm grateful for what we have. Onwards and upwards please.

Merry Christmas to you and thank you for reading and making this all worth it.

Best Bathroom: Christoph and Lisa (Berlin) from The Selby

2011-12-20T06:24:00.000+13:00

HARK - seeing this bathroom made my heralds certainly sing.

Amongst the xmas blogging maddness I found this most audacious bathroom.

Posted by Candelier Creative and from the eponymous Todd Selby from The Selby

Also Christoph Niemann

My tiler already thinks I'm a fruit requesting coloured grout - I think this would send him over the edge. Time to find another tiler.

Just so frickin right

Bookie Book: SURRUR

2011-12-14T20:46:00.000+13:00

New books are like new shoes for me - when I get a new one (a pair) I just can't stop obsessing about it (them).

SURRUR is my latest and best purchase EVER.

It's got it all... A heady mix of Marimekko, designy norwegians, colour, patterns, craft stuff and funny stories.

The name of the book is an onomatopoeia of the sound a sewing machine makes. Kooky lot those 'wegians.

Add caption

It has over 60 projects to make - from a car cover to hand puppets. All uber cool. Example below

The colour is strong with this one... Anya Brighouse

2011-12-13T13:12:00.000+13:00

The latest Homestyle mag is yum - new editor Brenda Ward is settling in and doing very nicely I must say!

Highlight was Anya Brighouse's colour home.

"like"

Read the article here or even bets go buy your own copy!

New kid on the block: Foundry

2011-12-12T09:30:00.000+13:00

Foundry is the new adventure for Fancy! blogess Alana.

She emanates cool and it shows with the first range.

She's keeping it special with numbered prints and limited editions.

Totes also have been the cool-treatment

"put all of your items in this, then go somewhere"

Look out peeps - she's one to watch!

Something is just not right here: The cushion room

2011-12-09T14:36:00.001+13:00

It might be the fact that I've just had my second general Anesthetic for the year but I got some serious 'no-likees' going on for this room.

It is scary and soulless.

It has too many cushions.

Just because you put up silver curtains (ugs), you don't have to use the leftover fabric for more goddamn cushions.

And why is there a mattress and yet another cushion on the floor?

Pet hate #42 is having a TV in the bedroom.

That's all for now you silly room you.

Designer: Eric Kuster (his catch phrase is Metropolitan Luxury - he's one smooth dutch dude)

Image: found over at Desire to Inspire - heaps better stuff than above so don't let this image put you off!)

Footnote: This is my bedroom so you can see why I am what I am (it's also my office for the next couple of days!) Go bed-rest!

Attending: Handmade 2012

2011-12-08T13:18:00.001+13:00

Get out your diary's you saucy crafters you.

The Handmade 2012 programme has just been announced and guess who is taking a masterclass?!

Me you stoopids!

My wee bit is just one tiny bit in a whole weekend of handmade goodness based in Wellington over Queen's Birthday Weekend.

It's all very exciting and I'm already gearing up to give my talk about making "Honest, Happy and Eclectic Interiors"

Should be fun weekend and I would love to catch up with any of you that are around. WINES!

Want to know more? Look here:

Twitter

Facebook

Website

Just finished: AFD Beach pillows

2011-12-05T12:50:00.001+13:00

I've been sewing up a storm recently to produce my newest range of beach pillows.

Made for a recent fundraiser craft fair, they sold like hot cakes and I've been asked by many-a-folk to feature them on the blog so they can order from me. Sure I said.

These super comfy pillows can be stuffed with clothes, togs or a pillow inners to be used poolside, beachside, in the car or anywhere you need snuggly toweling goodness.

Pink Polka Dot

Zebra with Hot pink back

Pink Navy and Sky Stripe

Red and Yellow Stripe

Navy Red and White Stripe

Grass Green and Blue Stripe

Yellow, Red, Baby Blue stripe

Yellow Navy and white stripe

Features include a chunky zip at one end.

The backs are usually in a plain toweling

They do not come with inners

$50 each plus postage and they can be yours! Great chrissy pressies.

Contact me on 021 622900 or alex@alexfultondesign.co.nz

Cushy job: The Rug Company

2011-12-05T11:49:00.000+13:00

The Rug Company is the iconic UK based company who believes that every item they make are destined to be a family heirloom.

They mix traditional techniques with contemporary design.

Point in case the Home Cushion by Committee.

And here it is in lounge! Yes my lounge! AND THERE ARE ONLY THREE IN THE WORLD TO DATE!

But sadly it's not mine to cry into - I stole it from my friend Charlie who has a very generous UK based sister who understands the theory of "Consumable goods help with emotional pain" It's her gift to her sister getting through 8000 odd earthquakes. Awwwwwww.

It was nice to have on my person for a quick photo shoot.

Giving it back was a bit like this:

Me: Here you go Charlie - it's amazing in real life! The quality, the details, the weight, the colours!

Charlie: You can let go now...

Charlie: Alex, let go!

(Alex runs away and hides behind her car)

Charlie: I can still see you, you know.

Alex: Go away - I've gone home.

Suffice to say I gave it back.

Just Finished: 'Out of the Box' Styling

2011-11-30T21:55:00.001+13:00

Busy days. But finally "Out of the Box" project has opened!

Karen Sheridan, local lady, has opened her pop-up-store Out of the Box here in our local community Nayland St, Sumner.

Karen Sheridan

The turn out was grand - all excited to see what was in the two containers.

Full to the brim with 'inspired by' design.

Dulux colours for the art installation

Karen will be open Thurs/Fri 10am-6pm and Sat/Sun 10am-4pm or by appointment you can call her on0274 775 060

The invite turned into a lucky-dip with the winner getting an 'inspired-by' ghost chair

The Box!

Box-girls

Styling and design concepts: Alex Fulton Design

Fitout/Design: Martin Exon

Importer: KS Imports

Good Prod: Victoria Saddle Bag

2011-11-23T21:20:00.000+13:00

A seat that's a bag, a bag that's a seat.

Images and story seen at Designmilk

Gotta love multi-use products and this is no exception. Add a great colour range and you have yet another item for Santa's list.

Just have to add the bike now...

A-rama o' the week: Chevron

2011-11-22T08:27:00.000+13:00

I do love a good "a-rama" and this week's a-rama is from that show-off pattern CHEVRON.

Yes folks it's a Chev-a-rama.

Would happily adopt this room as one of my own but alas it was just a styled fake.
Clever no matter.
Multi-talented melbourne stylist Heather Nette King created it and Mike Baker photo'ed it.

It's punchy, bold and in ya face. My kind of pattern.

Shop it up: Combi Design Giftware

2011-11-21T14:16:00.000+13:00

On my weekly run to Spotlight (that money sucking craft store) I came across a new wee design shop in "The Colombo" Mall.

Kinda a pop-up shop (isn't everything pop-up here in Christchurch) which grabbed my attention because of the life-sized Kombi tent.

They sold great gifts and stocking stuffers as well as COLOURED TOILET paper! In single rolls no less - the same brand as mine from Design Denmark. Just a heads-up-fyi as I know ooodles of you good design folk wanted to get their greedy wee hands on some (or bottoms as the case maybe).

Other items of note are:

* Battery powered candles

* "Make Hey while the sunshines" book by Pip Lincolne

* Drumstick chopsticks

* Beer-o-meter odometer

* Picnic plates that form a picnic box first

Real essential stuff that my husband just LOVES.

Located at 363 Coloumbo St, Sydenham - say hello to Nicola and tell her I sent you and I'm sure she will give you free stuff (probably not).

OMIWIHTOT: Pillow Fight Cushions

2011-11-18T12:43:00.000+13:00

Yup - another "Oh man, I wish I had thought of that" segment.

Today's product is a set of Pillow fight cushions designed by Bryan Ku

Found at the ManMade blog

I wonder what the girly range would look like - probably a lot of handbags. Not that that's my weapon of choice. I'm more of a nunchuck girl.

Bad to the bone mother funkers (not really).

Reader Request: Wooden Trees

2011-11-15T12:56:00.001+13:00

Yo ho ho (Street-wise Santa greeting) peeps.

Just had a reader question that I will share with you.

She writes:

Hello Alex,

I recently saw your home in Homestyle Magazine and thought you and your house was the best ever in the world.

I also loved the white wooden tree - where do I get something like that? I want to be just like you one day.

Love Your biggest fan

P.S You are so pretty and talented

I immediately replied:

Hello Your Biggest Fan,

Thanks for the letter and the pair of batman underwear with lipstick marks on. Not necessary but sweet all the same.

Now - the tree - it was brought from Simon James Design and it's made by designer brand Swedese.

Hope that helps and good luck with being me - I find it hard work so

I can't imagine how you will find it. Go nuts.

Love Alex

Well, that was that, I thought. But NO, she replied back.

Dear Design Goddess,

Oh how you shine with your knowledge and perfect perceptions.

That tree you mentioned is way too expensive. Any cheap ideas as I live in a shoebox and wanted to use it as my Christmas tree?!

How cool does that sound right? I know you will think so as I'm now you as well as you being you and we are on the fecking design pulse sista! I'm alive!

Love Me (You)

I replied (under duress and with a lot of trepidation)

Dear Freak Show,

You are giving me the willies right now and I did a wee vomit in my mouth.

BUT as I'm a consummate professional, I will give you a solution to your sad-ass problem. Go to the Mocka website and check out their wee coat-stand trees - they come in all different colours and shapes and are only $49.95 (NZD).

Now go away and harangue another design deity.

Love Me (the real and ONLY me)

Mocka coat stand tree $49.95 NZD!

(words and meanings may have been altered or misinterpreted to make me look awesome and her a stalker-weirdo - she was actually nice and polite with little to say about doppelganging).

Vintage Value: MyPoppet Shop Cushions

2011-11-15T12:32:00.001+13:00

Craft goddess with the best nails in Melbourne - Cinti from MyPoppet, has made a collection of stunning vintage cushions.

Limited edition ya'll!

Buy them from here

Ezi breezy beautiful online shopping: Ezibuy

2011-11-15T10:10:00.000+13:00

Talk about cheap and cheerful for pending summer daze...

Gumball Pouffs $129 NZD

Large Owl Vase

Keandra Cushion $19.99 NZD

Floor Cushions $29.99 each NZD

Cuckoo Clock $39.95 NZD (I know right!)

Bamboo Bowls $39.95 NZD

Akela Cushion $19.99 NZD

Cheap as ol' chips.

I love BJ's

2011-11-14T12:51:00.000+13:00

Life is busy man. I have lists. Yes lists. Coming out my arm holes.

So what does one do when there is so much on?

You cook up some Edamame beans (super salty) and browse your over crowded google reader.

Sorry but even that was so so until I found this:

Thanks Plastolux. Awesome times a mill.

Bet the owner of this home has no lists.

PS: Happy Birthday to my husband. He's 40.

* Said a public HBD to my beloved

* Posted a mini post so that my readers still know I'm alive

Well that's two things off my lists.

Just finished: HRV Offices (Christchurch, NZ)

2011-11-03T10:57:00.001+13:00

Finishing a project is gratifying but this one even more so when it's the second time in 18 months you have designed the same offices!

The pixel concept: I needed punch on a boring wall. My concept came to life via the amazingly talented super graphic designer - Kara Burrows. Mixing warm air with cool air (all about the company branding). Adgraphix did an awesome job with the graphic stickies.

Pisel concept taken through to the frieze strips along all the internal windows

Chair from Nood - more pixel friezes.

Because of the devastating earthquakes here in Christchurch, the HRV offices were destroyed back in Feb this year.

The building was demolished and rebuilt by a forward-thinking property developer - he did not let such silly things as earthquakes so progress and rebuilt on the next door site.

A reminder brick from the first building which was demolished

That's why the hardy-bunch at HRV can are now back in their new-new offices just 8 short months. Hair maybe be greyer, nerves shot and patience tested but it's done.

PS: This refit was done in 2 months! Phew-fa.

The red/blue kitchen - all the internal cupboards are red (why open to white when you can have red!)

Waiting zone with kitchen in background

Pixel on pixel

The Direct marketing team's "585". Again Kara was the master of graphics.

Happy DM team leader!

Waiting zone with matching CRONZ rug

Sneak peak into the boardroom.

File continuity with red files

To all who helped put in all the hours - thank you.

Owners: Simon and Shalene Dickson HRV

Project Manager: Mel Lewin, HRV

Interior Designer: Alex Fulton Design

Graphic Designer: Kara Burrows
Joinery: EzyKitchens

Printers and Images: Adgraphix

Commercial Furniture: John Cochrane Commercial Furniture

Paint: Resene

Kaynemaile: Kaynemaile (NZ) Ltd

Rug: CRONZ

Happy Hallo

2011-10-31T12:00:00.001+13:00

Not that us kiwi's celebrate it much over here - but I LOVED these funky pumpkins.

Image found over at Designmom

Happy Halloween. Us over here in the southern hemi will try and do our best to be all scary during day-light-savings! Just not right...!

Good Prod: IKEA Klippan 2 seater sofa

2011-10-27T16:47:00.000+13:00

This Klippan cutie from IKEA is available via My Flatpack for $699 (NZD).

If you could get it from an IKEA shop it would only cost ya $299 (AUS). Ah well.

The Klippan Sofa in Dottevik red - a 30 year old classic

I have mentioned My Flatpack before, as they bring in ALL IKEA products for us poor kiwi's that have no access to the cheap and cheerful world of flatpack swedish goodness.

Rumour on the vag̈ is that this Auckland based company is also opening a showroom so you can buy directly rather than having to wait for your order to come. Handy.

Miniature cool: MoMA Play House

2011-10-16T17:17:00.000+13:00

(pardon the absence but it's been school hols - away for another week but snuck home to give you this wee gem)

It features some great elements such as walls! (see clip to explain!)

Found via interior stylist, LeeAnn Yare and available from the girls at Paperroom for just $39.99. Bargs.

Don't rush the good wood: Y'a pas le feu au lac

2011-10-06T14:05:00.000+13:00

Merde! I'm blown away daily but the clever people out there.

Today's find is a frenchie company dedicated to good wood.

Y'a pas le feu au lac or YALFAL to their mates was started by hubbo and wife team, Grégory and Marie BODEL and FX BALLÉRY, designer.

Their passion for creation, their love of wood as well as their Jura origins gathered them around a common project: to create a French brand of wooden contemporary, useful and elegant objects and small pieces of furniture.

The name of the company, which is based on a French expression, means “no need to rush”. Created by designers around the world the YPLFL products are an invitation to take your time, to contemplate your environment and to share with friends.

Inspired by traditional know-how and current technology, these objects primarily use wood as a poetic, aesthetic and functional vector.

It's all great, lovely, stylie etc but still leaves me with a "wish I had thought of that" moment.

Only slightly jealous or should I say légèrement jaloux.

Girls vs Boys: Wildlife rooms

2011-10-05T09:48:00.000+13:00

I'm a sucker for animalia paraphernalia (in the context of a children's bedroom)

Here's two ripper examples

Image from here

Image from 3Suisses

Which do you prefer? I'd do both thanks.

Knitty Gritty: Melanie Porter

2011-10-04T12:11:00.000+13:00

Even though we are heading into Sumner over here in the southern hemisphere I couldn't not show you some nifty knitting from Melanie Porter.

Her furniture and products are lovingly restored in pearls and cables with a mixture of colours and patterns. Grannie Genius.

Owning one of her pieces, you will be so "on trend" as it's your own personal yarn-bomb in your own home.

Online love: Presse Papiers

2011-10-03T10:28:00.000+13:00

Stationary always brightens one's day and you can get your fix right here online at

Presse Papiers.

A New Zealand based online stationary store that has beautiful and affordable yummyness - letter writing packs, wrapping supplies, MT washi tape, stickers, party invites and MORE!

It's also their 1st birthday so go and help them celebrate (go in their birthday giveaway!)

Many happy's Charlotte and Olivia - keep up the great work!

Reader request: Karate-chop cushions

2011-09-26T09:55:00.001+13:00

You asked and I will provide.

Q: What prey-tell is a karate-chop cushion?

A: Possibly one of the silliest way to present a cushion.

Examples:

child-based chopping

bright white chopping

double chopping (chop chop)

(all these images from here)

Extreme chopping - rabbit ears styles
(image from here)

This phenomena is in too many places to be ok.

Just like it's counter-part, the 'camel-toe', you just can't help but staring at the 'pillow-toe' and you desperately want to look away but can't.

They are the fortune cookie of the pillow world. I predict that they suck.

Something is not quite right here

2011-09-22T13:46:00.000+12:00

I'm all for individualism and rule-avoidance as much as the next man but....

Photo found at Casapinka Blog and photo taken by David Giles

...there are some got-it-rights and some got-it-wrongs.

Goods:

* Rainbow freeze

* Pink coff tab

* Myriad of designer chairs

* Dado rails and wood panelling

* Parquet floor

* Shape of the couch

* Fancy fire place all in white

Bads:

* Rainbow freeze (just make it a little smaller - and take it 'round the corners for the love of god)

* The Couch. WTF is it covered in? I would recommend a bright coloured heavy duty wool or a faded out dark denim.

That's all

Actually, no it's not. Uncover that lamp as it's a fire hazard. Mind you - if you could guarantee that it would burn off that hein fabric then I'm fine with mini fires.

That's now all.

Goodbye Winter

2011-09-21T10:06:00.000+12:00

The thought of Summer coming is rather exciting.

Me in Koru Lounge last month

It means I can put away my winter woollies.

GPPF: 1st Dibs and Rachel Callaghan

2011-09-16T09:43:00.001+12:00

Bah - A week since posting. Many sorry's. It's been madness here at Camp Fulton.

Back to business.

My good peep o' the day is Rachel Callaghan - she scouted out some goodness that I just have to pass on.

She found this post from Blue Fruits

The project was designed by Architects: Studio mk27 Marcio Kogan

Container are "so hot right now" here in Christchurch so it's great to see such innovation.

Good prod was from 1st Dibs. They pop up in my inbox and tempt me on a regular basis. It's unfair and unkind as they are usually out of my price range and on the other side of the stinkin' world. Here are just a sample of favs.

Organic Settee by Torbjorn Afdal

Hans Due Optima Mini Pendants for Fog + Morup

Mid Century Danish Modern "Papa Bear" Chair by Hans Wegner

Scandinavian Tray Tables

Swedish ceiling light with opal glass shade

70's Big Flower Pot hanging lights by Vernor Panton

Poul Dinesen Bench

That's some good looking peeps and prods right there.

Good Peeps and Prods Friday (or GPPF to you)

2011-09-09T10:54:00.001+12:00

I'm thinking that friday may just be the right day to summerize some bad-ass prods that web buddies have pointed out too me.

They have obviously taken time-out of their busy-creative days to contact me, so the least I can do is let them know they are coolio's.

Coolio's are as follows:

Justin Leadbetter from Leadbetter Carr Architects (Christchurch)

My man Justin struggles with "over-designed and too slick tapware" We hear you over here at AFD and agree totes. He pointed out this range.

Astra Walker Tapware - simple and un-slick!

Of course I love.
I raised him this range.

Fruity taps by Fima Carlo Frattini

Anyone got any other suggestions?

It made me think...
Why has Caroma not brought back the "classic" range from the 1970's and 80's.

I have very fond memories about our all-red bathroom with EVERYTHING matching; handrails, looroll holder, towel rails, shitter, mirrors, towel hooks and yes EVEN THE DOOR KNOB.
Colour committment at it's best.
These are the ONLY images I could find to show you what I mean. (Sorry for all the shouting but it's a passionate memory).

Found here at Ian Wong's Webbie

Matching knobs!

Pilgrim Lee from Draw!Pilgrim

Funkster Lee forwarded me this image:

Via Pinterest from Sadie and Stella - Kate Spades shop

Great wall sista. Walls musta been a 'thing' as this week as I was also sent this by...

Maddie from Lil'Magoolie

Ticks the colour and pattern boxes. Via Instagram

Thanks to you all and keep them coming!

Springy

2011-09-06T16:11:00.001+12:00

Ahhhh hello Spring. You have burst in on the scene with light, warmth and colour.

Oldey but a goodie - Squint sofa from an old issue of Living etc.

Boy have you been missed. Let's hope that with new life comes less earthquakes.

It's been a tough old year (the 4th of September marked the one year anniversary of the first of 7500 odd shakes).

Great news also is that our house has now been confirmed to be the "green zone". That feels good I can tell you that for free.

Onwards and upwards I say.

Winners of the Zoe Ingram Prints!

2011-09-02T13:02:00.000+12:00

This is novel - giving the gifts on my birthday!

Anyways.. there are two lucky ducks and they are:

1. LinaMariePony

She has won this print - Bonjour Bear

2. Katie Etheridge

She has won this print - It's time for Deer

Congrats to you both (please contact me at alex@alexfultondesign.co.nz with your address and we will sort delivery).

My work is done - I'm off to party like a bear/deer.

NB: Persons chosen by Random.org.

Birthday Wish List

2011-09-01T13:42:00.003+12:00

Just in-case you are stuck...

Jonathan Adler "Virgo" key ring. This list just reinforces by Virgoeness really!

LemLem top - in fact anything from them would be fine.

Capsule chair by Ziglam & Brook (from Deadgood)

Coral Bangle from Dinosaur Designs

Retro Neon Art from Neon Boneyard (as I don't have enough colour in my house!)

Tom Bins necklace - I did say WISH list muther funckers

Cactus Chair by Valentina Gonzales Wohlers (found at Amzing Central) - why? well why not I say!

Lets hope that the spikes are optional!

Neon Pink Tags (see I can be cheap too) from Knot and Bow

Vase by Pierre Charpin ( accessorised with Quake Wax o' course!)

Art by Tim Garwood

Yellow "Lean" floor lamp by Workroom Design available from Douglas + Bec online store

Super cute DIY Cloud Makekit from Harvest Textile Studio

Garland from Castle and Things (great things alright)

Mexiccan inspired Swedish designed by Glimpt (found from Dezeen)

Crafty deer heads from Cuckoonest (she's my fav and best - told her to up her prices as she's way too cheap for her skill-to-price-ratio). Available at Felt NZ

All wrapped in this please! From draw!pilgrim

Just saying... A card is fine (not really)

Giveaway: Zoe Ingram Prints (x2)

2011-08-25T12:23:00.002+12:00

After posting about the talented graphic goddess Zoe Ingram I got a lot of fantastic feedback about her work (not surprisingly).

Well....great news is AFD is giving away 2 x A3 prints!

Plus Zoe is throwing in some cute-as buttons. So nice.

What's also pretty exciting as it's a special giveaway because it marks my

ONE YEAR BLOGAVERSARY.

That's right, one year of color-infested posts of wonder.

So, it's just my way of saying thanks for looking and I really hope you win.

All you have to do is to go here and look at the A3 prints and tell me in a comment which one you would you choose if you won.

Extra points (entries) for "liking" Zoe's and/or my facebook pages (just tell me in your comment if you have liked).

So that's up to three entries per person to win one of two prints. Those are good odds right there!

P.S It's an international giveaway - open to all, and drawn on Friday the 2nd of September (which also just so happens to be my birthday, so it's a celebration all round!).

'Cause you are all choice.

If you love it so much then marry it: Edna 1 and Edna 3 by Anthony Hartley

2011-08-23T13:29:00.003+12:00

Yay, I'm back with another item that I want to wed. Slutty, I know, but look and you will understand.

Anthony Hartley (UK) has designed crazy-assed draw units that blow my mind.

Called Edna 1 and Edna 3.

They are all like squished lollies oozing. Yum.

Also look at the interior of those draws. Behhh. So good!

I have a 'thing' for internal things that don't match external goodness, so I give you 11 outta 10 for not being boring on the inside.

Found at: Follow the colours

(Which is a top notch blog FYI and even better if you can read ~~spanish~~ correction
Portuguese! Carol from Follow the Colours told me!)

You asked for it: Renova Coloured toilet paper

2011-08-23T11:08:00.000+12:00

I have been blown away by the amazing reaction to my house via Apartment Therapy blog post.

The most amazing part being the reaction to the pink loo paper featured. Sooooo I thought it was time to introduce the 'wee' star.

My bathroom!

Come on down Renova coloured toilet paper!

image from The Swag Mag

I would love to tell you all that I use it everyday but alas, no. It's my fun-times wipe. Mainly coming out during photoshoots. Quite the talking point though...

In New Zealand you can buy the all colours from Design Denmark (only available in a 6 pack) or $30.

Super cool poo-tickets

Available in Black, Red, Fuscia, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Orange.

Happy ablutions my friends.

Exhibition: Megan Hansen-Knarhoi

2011-08-21T16:17:00.000+12:00

There is not much on the artist herself except that she resides in Napier, New Zealand and is a graduate of Elam Art school in Auckland.

She has a real 'thing' for Jesus as he's featured in many of her recent works. She states that there is not enough religion in contemporary art these days. I have no opinion on that really but I do have an opinion on the technique...

Strands upon strands of french knitted wool making up the human-head sized Jesey-Chresy. All held together by many a nail. He's also equipped with a crocheted multiple cross speech bubble which is meant to be something about speaking in tongues.

I can vouch for it being pretty darned incredible as I got to see it in Nelson.

You too can see her if you are in Wellington at The Dowse Art Museum in Lower Hutt - Knitted and Knotted

Here are some more articles if interested:

Nelson Mail

The Suter

Mary Newton Gallery

Visit from: Lil' Magoolie

2011-08-19T16:30:00.000+12:00

For those of you that have not been hiding under a blog rock you will know about the wonderfully talented Maddie from Lil' Magoolie.

She is one hot Mumma that rules the Mummy-blogging world. She is a fellow colour-beast and has a keen eye for finding good prods and talented peeps.

Today I to spent some time with her while she photographed my house for Apartment Therapy. I know!

It's going to be a shame to loose her from Christchurch, but I wish her well with her adventures in Australia.

Getting crafty with it: Hama Bead Frames

2011-08-18T20:27:00.002+12:00

Oh I do love a good craft, mostly other peoples, but occasionally I have a wee go.

Usually I leave it up to the multitude of Mofo's out there that actually are good at it and are able to offer more than just a passing fling.

Ask my Mother - she will tell you that I was always pretty bad at finishing things. She was the crafty beaver, and usually ended up having to complete my half-assed-attempts. Sooooo if I do attempt craft it has to be quick, instant gratitudie and fun.

(See what I did there - talking them down in case you hate them and you think I'm a mong)

You need:

Old frames

Paint (for the old frames)

Scissors

Glue

Hama Bead creations (steal from children)

Coloured card

What to do:

Paint, cut, glue, hang (It's not rocket science)

That was probably my first and last craftorial.

Yours, Martha

Chair Love: Alex Fulton Design Furniture

2011-08-18T14:30:00.000+12:00

The newest edition to the AFD furniture collection has just been finished.

Rather happy with end result. Tots up-cycled.

NB: earthquake-chic-concrete-styling.

Home love: Gemma Ahern's House

2011-08-16T15:57:00.001+12:00

Gemma is sister of Abigail Ahern and part of the Atelier Abigail Ahern Company.

This house is totally yum with it's high voltage colour contrasts.

The pops of fluoro is so good that I even forgive the use of the bus sign.

She has also written a book called A Girls Guide to Decorating. You too can turn your place from "crash to flash" (her words not mine!).

Wash away a shitty day

2011-08-11T21:07:00.001+12:00

Bit moaney today. I shouldn't be, but I am. Where do you turn for an emotional pick-me-up?

Why Pinterest of course.

This image jumped out as a visual anti-depressant. It speaks to me like a dolphin speaks to Megan (Bridesmaids Movie joke).

My pulse slowed and a colour-induced-calmness washed over me - then I noticed the

WALL BOOBS and CHAIR ON CEILING.

Back to the black mood... Don't worry, nothing a good sleep won't fix.

I'm also Day 11 of being alcohol-free. That explains all really.

Outside the box: Boxpark

2011-08-08T11:45:00.000+12:00

This is such an ace concept and one that many developers and local business peeps here in Christchurch are and should be considering.

This wee ditty is from Boxpark based in Shoreditch, London. Inovative and exciting.

All ideas and ideas are good. Let's now 'do' those ideas CHCH.