One of the smartest things I did when I set up my home theater system was to bite the bullet and purchase a Universal Remote Control. Sure I could have sat there and juggled the four remote controls, but they have all been set aside forever and the fully programmable MX 950 Aurora complete control has taken over. This modern answer to "getting up" allows you to program up to 255 different devices into one remote and bounce back and fourth between components with ease thanks to a backlit LCD screen. You can customize the function key icons to accommodate exactly what your system requires and you are set. Features include custom graphics, hard buttons, audio, and a flexible memory structure. $699
The Caffe Novecento Espresso Coffee Machine from Ariete is for serious coffee drinkers only. This beauty boasts an elegant and sophisticated look made entirely of chrome plated steel complete with top quality finishes and details. Its professional brass filter holder with Thermocream System dispenses an intense and creamy coffee like the one you find at your favorite coffee bar. The Caffe Nouvecento whips milk in just a few seconds with the Maxi Cappuccino device. Convenient features include a thermometer in clear sight, removable tank, and removable coffee grounds drawer for easy cleaning. Availabel Here
Bridgeport is a small cabinet table offered by David Edward. This piece of furniture has two pull-out sections. The first is a storage drawer that is coated in laminate for easy cleaning should you need store things that may require cleaning from time to time. The second handle leads to a leave that comes out that acts as a writing surface. This is a neat feature if you need to write things such as if this were a bedside table. Interestingly enough, the design roots of this table were intended to be used as a nurse's bedside table. Notes could be taken on the leave while other items are stored in the drawer. Bridgeport is constructed of maple wood and features drawer handles that are ADA compliant. Dimensions: 22"l x 22"w x 30"h. More information: here.
Furniture Fashion has sung the praises of a "less is more" design concept for a long time, and here is the home to surround the furniture we usually talk about. The Ring House by TNA Architects of Japan has a wide open theme with segmented rings as the main structure. The Ring House was designed as a retreat with a 360 degree view of the forest which meant planning the rings and windows at heights that would allow visual access to the outside, as well as hiding undesirable utilitarian features. Take note of the Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair which is one of my favorites and a great choice for a minimalist contemporary décor. Via
Pictured here is the Gingko Light coffee table from Tomita Designs. This is a custom piece of furniture made by designer Ken Tomita. Gingko features a classic combination of colors using natural wood contrasted with black. The wood coffee table is constructed of sustainable bamboo. The legs have been stained black with sumi ink. An interesting piece is the small table underneath the larger table leaves. This is a great place for storing remote controls and other items that you may not want visible on your coffee table at all times. Via.
