New + Noted

True to form I'm kicking off with some design news from Denmark, but the rest is all from Down Under today. I'm loving all this local talent and I'm excited to share it with you.

If you've been following TDC for a while you may remember the Danish brand Woud that I introduced you to here. Launched early last year, they have just showcased a new collection for 2016 with some beautiful new furniture, lighting and home accessories. The elegant Baenk Bench designed by NUR (also available in light oak) is a favourite. I also love the sleek lines and curved edges of the S.A.C Dining Chair, designed by Naoya Matsuo. Shown alongside the playful Dot Pendants by Rikke Frost, I actually have so many favourites I could go on and on, but I'll let you check out the full catalogue here. Now the great news is, Woud has made it to Australia, exclusive to the the lovely Melbourne-based online store Resident GP.  I think I can hear the collective sigh of relief...  

Images via Woud

ESKO is a new Sydney design studio that brings Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics and high quality craftsmanship in a new range of ceramic homewares. Founder and designer Mandy Simpson has launched with a set of storage pots made in collaboration with ceramicists in Ubud, Indonesia. They feature a minimal yet distinctive design, and a certain purity in function inspired by the design history of Northern Europe and Japan. I also love the matte ceramic finish and simple palette of clean white and earthy cinnamon. The range of sizes allow for all types of storage in the kitchen, bathroom or office. They would also make great planters. 

Taking the utmost care in partnering with organisations with a commitment to ethical standards and preserving artisan skills within the community, Mandy says "how they are made is just as important as how they look. There is a value in the uniqueness of the handmade process and exceptional craftsmanship. It gives ESKO the texture, the look and the feel I wanted but also a certain depth in knowing each pot is hand-made in a supportive community environment”. ESKO also commits to donating 10% of net profits to a registered Australian charity. In 2016 this will be MakerSpace & Company, a community collective for Australian artists and makers. Visit ESKO to shop online (international shipping is available) and to keep up with new products, follow on Instagram. 

Photography by Maree Homer Photography 

Images courtesy of ESKO 

Kate & Kate have done it again with another incredible collection, Exhale. Showcased for the first time at Life InStyle in Sydney, the inspiration for this season came from a shared desire to pause, reflect and forge a considered path forward. The result? A stunning collection of gradient greys, nuanced pinks and blues, free-form shapes and luxurious natural fibres - brought to life in Kate & Kate's signature Blankets, Linen Throws, Napkins, Cushions and Towels. Exhale’s reflective mood is expressed not only in design, but also in a fine hand-stitched finish, superior quality materials, and for the first time.. wait for it... an exciting exploration of luxurious Alpaca wool. Ahhh... nothing beats the softness of Alpaca. In the words of Kate & Kate "Take time. Breathe it in. Create space. Exhale." Oh, we will. 

Campaign styled and shot by The Descendants

Exhale is now available for online preorder (with March delivery) at Kate & Kate. To see more of the incredible campaign, check out the Exhale Lookbook and watch how it was created with this cool behind the scenes video. 

Images courtesy of Kate & Kate

David Moreland Design is a NZ studio known for producing high quality, innovative furniture and lighting solutions. Their latest release sees two new table collections, Helix and Area. The Helix Tables have a very accurately engineered aesthetic but still appear soft and light. I love the graphic look of the white steel base, in contrast with the warm and textural oak plywood. The base is also available in a black matt powder-coat and the top in a clear or smoke grey glass, which you can see here. 

The Area Tables, available in matt white laminate or oak, feature a unique, minimalist design. They come with the option of being paired with a black edge, cleverly accentuating the clean lines. I like the idea of mixing a couple of each of the side tables (pictured above), and there is also a larger coffee table option. See the full range here. 

Images courtesy of David Moreland Design