SHOPPING

Once thought of as a dated material, rattan is now back in the spotlight. Often used in handmade furniture, rattan gives a bohemian atmosphere that is sought after in a design world that is becoming increasingly aware of sustainability issues. Do you know that the palms from which we get rattan grow faster than other trees? These pieces (right) show how rattan fits perfectly in contemporary aesthetics.

2. Naturalis Historia Chesnay Cabinet, $1,498, from Nid D’oiseaux, www.ndo.com.sg 

KEEPING VIRGIL

Fresh off recent collaborations with fashion and furniture brands like Louis Vuitton, Timberland and Ikea, DJ, architect and artist Virgil Abloh has partnered Vitra for an installation at the Vitra Campus titled Twentythirtyfive. He created spin-offs of three items, namely a ceramic block, the Potence wall lamp (originally designed by Jean Prouve in 1942), and the Antony armchair (another of Jean’s works in the 1950s, now in clear plexiglass shell), all in his iconic orange finish.

LOVE OF BASKETRY

Artisanal crafting has always been at the heart of French fashion house Hermes’ philosophy, and it remains the focus for its new collection. This Rubans Casaque basket features a plaid design, braided with natural cowhide and Epsom calfskin, and is available in three sizes. The seductive colours and plush, buttery feel of the superbly finished leather will leave you mesmerised and captivated.

A WHOLE NEW WORLD

Wall maps are a great way to inspire the avid traveller and now you can jazz up that plain poster of the world with a three-dimensional one that lights up, too. This version, dubbed the Wooden World Map 2.0, o ers multi-tiered country pieces and fun wooden pins of key sights, such as the Egyptian pyramids, Sagrada Familia, the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal, so you can easily create your own travel story on your living or bedroom wall for all to see. The soft LED backlight adds an element of fun and functionality as well.

A GOOD LAUGH

Poke fun at your guests with kitchen towels that say “your turn to clean up” or other quotes, in American brand Blue Q’s range of quirky items from oven mitts, tote bags and purses to socks. They are great as gifts too. You’ll find something for everyone: home-proud cooks, pet lovers or that one friend who seems to have everything!

GO BOLD WITH ETRO

Fans of maximalism will undoubtedly go gaga over Etro’s latest home collection. While Etro’s paisley motif may seem a tad overwhelming on large furniture items, the look is absolutely fitting for its Masai armchair, which is an emblematic tribute to Africa both in its form and metallic ring decorations.

Visit www.etro.com for pricing and availability of the Masai armchair.
 

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Toshiba You Me aircon is designed with the environment in mind. Not only was the system awarded a five-tick effciency standard, it is also said to release up to 72 percent less CO2 emissions. It has a self-cleaning function: After the aircon is turned o , the blower continues to run at a low speed for up to 20 minutes to dry the fan coils, ridding it of built-up moisture and preventing mould growth, for healthier, cleaner air at home.

Find out more about Toshiba You Me aircon at www.toshibayoume.com.