Eames Lounge Chair Wood

This one needs no introduction. Eames chair at its best. When I first moved in to my current apartment, I was looking for a single sofa/chair for the living room. Given the limited space that I have (which, is pretty much the theme for all NYC apartment, isn't it?), I had my eyes on this Eames Plywood Lounge Chair. Being one of the world's widely recognized and highly coveted chairs, the chair itself is a piece of art. I especially love the grains of the plywood, the simple design that connects the seat and the backrest with a spine, and the low-slung seat. Hailed by Time Magazine as the Best Design of the 20th Century, the chair continues to be an icon of Modern Design. 

My favorite thing to do when I'm lounging at home, is to sit on the chair, next to my fig tree, with a cup of coffee and a good book. It gives you a slight sense of ritualization that you feel like your day has become a little brighter and you are a little calmer despite the busy world spinning around us. 

Marimekko Tea set

It's no secret that I'm a coffee snob - I'm very serious about my coffee and I can't function without my first cup in the morning. However, in my off days, a.k.a. the weekends, I like to have some tea for a change to help me ease into the weekend mode. Like what I do with everything else, before you become a pro, you start with the gears. 

Marimekko, the Finnish brand established in 1960s, is nothing but the direct opposite of a typical nordic design. They use all kinds of bright colors, bold stripes, large flowered prints, and distinctive patterns. Going into their store is like a kid going to a candy store - your mood will be instantly lifted 3 levels up. It's always a treat and happy experience browsing through their clothing line and home furnishings. However, being a minimalist that I am, when I decided to pick up a set of tea pot and tea cup from Marimekko, I naturally went with this black and white Rasymatto pattern. First instinct was that it would match the white backdrop of my interior and I'm always a sucker for polka dots. After getting it, I realized the clean line and serene character of the tea pot was actually inspired by Japanese design. It's made of stoneware with wood handle, which, unlike those delicate bone china, is something that's more suited for everyday use. It's simple, cute, and is the best compliment to any home and interior. And most importantly, every time you use it, it brings out a smile on your face. 

Stendig Calendar

When I first saw this simple, classic and yet shockingly beautiful calendar, I immediately thought, I need this in my life, right now. It's an art by its own and is perfect to decorate your wall with. After doing some research, it came at no surprise that the Stendig calendar is the only calendar in the design collection of the Museum of Modern Art. It was designed in 1966 by Massimo Vignelli. After 48 years, it still exemplifies the perfect modern graphic design. 

When I finally got my hands on this highly sought after piece (it's gone very fast, so place your order early for the next year!), I couldn't help but to praise its simple and classic design. It really molds into your interior decor and still has this quiet and compelling quality that draws your eyes to it over and over again. I hang it above my dining/working table, so now, every time I look up and see it, my heart is filled with content and happiness.