We’ve seen some great examples of emergency and disaster-resistant architecture before, from Architecture For Humanity’s Biloxi Model Homes to monolithic domes, and considering the likelihood that we will be continually faced with more and more natural disasters in our lives, we think it is hugely important to redirect some architectural attention towards disaster-resistant housing design. [...]

Yet another charming website devoted to all things French, including enamel thermometers, willow baskets and Cote Bastide china. Basic French (a lifestyle thing), is an online collection of “petite” house-wares, linens and accessories for the home.

Here’s a brilliant idea that leaves us wondering – why didn’t we think of this first? Despite our penchant for 2-in-1 furniture, we’ve never seen anything quite like this before. Regardless of attempts to be organized in the modern world, most of us continue to be ashamed of one (or eight, in my [...]

Sustainability is a multi-faceted and complex issue with no single right answer to any problem. Manufacturing in developing countries can be a double edged sword when it comes to sustainability. From a fair-trade perspective it can be an important way to support growing economies, but, carbon footprint aside, from an environmental and labor regulation [...]

POSCH is a line of tote bags created by Montreal designer Luce Beaulieu out of reclaimed fabric. She designs the bags to minimize waste and maximize style. I spotted them on the sustainable style group and was immediately smitten by not just the bag’s design, but also the bright presentation.

June, the month for weddings. Don’t you wish you could do it all over? Not the spouse, silly, we are referring to the registry, the ornate wedding, and the hoopla? Why do so many brides register for silly things like spatulas at Crate and Barrel? How about great antique hotel silver sold through Paris [...]

Shouldn’t your bedding embody the same plush design elements you desire for your other home furnishings? Husband and wife team, Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia draw on their extensive experience in the couture fashion world to infuse style and elegance in their home textile designs. Each of their many bedding collections, [...]

If you aren’t lucky enough to be in the Hamptons this summer or one of Mecox Garden’s other retail sites, don’t miss out on their unique, one-of-a kind pieces. They offer a plethora of garden furniture and accessories as well as vintage furnishings and custom designed items. If you entertain a lot this is [...]

Thanks atHome for the wonderful spread in the June issue- it’s amazing what fresh flowers and a cooperating pooch can do to make a house magazine ready. I want to highlight my very favorite purchase, the UFO dining table, which I bought online from Space from just a thumbnail image. It was quite [...]

Chad and I have recently decided to take a break from daily posting on Modern Self. Work has recently become pretty hectic and honestly I am just exhausted after the Smallest Coolest Competition. Add Modern Self to your RSS feed and that way you will know when we start posting again. We [...]