forcute

I am not feel particularly inspired by shopping deals today, so what I thought would be fun instead to share with you a few pictures of Barcelona, from a sidewalk perspective. I find that doorways are all to often neglected parts of architecture, leaving room for little more than basic function and utility. Not all doors are aluminum and glass. They are unique gateways to the places we live, work and play. If only all doorways could be as beautiful as these. I get the they feeling this may not be my only installment of “doorways”. Enjoy.

I saw the coolest bike this morning outside my building. Its called De Fietsfabriek. Made in Holland. Anybody who knows the Dutch, knows they love their bikes. These bikes are rustproof and made for durability, and can accomodate up to a 90 lb. basket in the front.

It might not the be the space-age titanium alloy-type bikes we are all used to using, but I think bikes are meant to be ridden, not carried. Comes in a variety of models and prices, from about $1,200, and yes, they are available in the US. I want one!

De Fietsbabriek

If you are ever looking for a few good photos for your desktop wallpaper, look no further than InterfaceLIFT. They have photo sizes that will fit any size screen, and you’ll find updated content almost everyday, including anything from flora and fauna to cityscapes and abstract photography.

InterfaceLIFT Desktop Wallpaper

I have learned something about myself over the last several years. I have an unusual fascination with packaging and foodstuffs from foreign lands. Whenever I am in a foreign country (or foreign city for that matter) I make a special point to check out the local grocery, bakery, or drugstore.

I think it all started when a college friend brought a big bag of amazing candy from Japan. They did things with candy I couldn’t have ever imagined. Then there was my trip to Amsterdam. I was fascinated by their hundreds if not thousands of smart, single-serving items in their gleaming, brightly colored supermarket. It was like they had this grocery thing all figured out!

So naturally I was very excited when my husband sent me a link to this funky German website. I cannot read german so I really have no idea what it is all about. But from what I could gather, it is the project of a very miticulous photographer who likes pre-packaged foods very much. Its a great concept actually.  There are three photos in each series - showing package details and also the “actual” product; whether that is good…or in many cases bad! 

Check it out! Just click on the small thumbnail to get started

Pundo 3000

UPDATE: Be sure to check out the trendy little YouTube Video they put together. The link is provided on the site.

Freitag means friday in German. Given that its monday, you could say my timing is a little off. Besides, Freitag products are made in Switzerland, not Germany.

Anyway, Im very excited by the prospect of a new Ipod case or messenger bag using one of these great brightly colored canvases. These products are made from recycled materials such as truck tarps, seat belts and airbags from all over Europe. You can purchase any style and color of bag you want, and they even offer a custom bag builder. Buy these online, or use the storefinder to see if there is a seller near you.

Freitag

Who doesnt love a little flashy lame every once in a while? I am a big fan of American Apparel’s bags, and this is their newest style of duffle ($26), which measures about 20″x9″. Rumors are there are a few more colors in the pipeline…Im especially excited for the cinnamon/black combo.

American Apparel Lame Duffle Bag

Just like calendars, I cant get enough of planners. Not that Im particularly diligent about keeping them up to date, they are something that everone should really have. Whats more fun than a planner with a little bit of personal expression thrown in? This great line by Taschen  includes themes for anyone, including Cuban style, historic maps, photos from Paris, African culture, as well as  numerous great artists such as Gaudi, Botero, and Kahlo. Holidays from around the world are included on the calendar for an especially international flair.

2008 Taschen Diary

Check the time in any part of the world with this cool clock. Features 24 cities in 24 time zones. Just roll it so that the city of your choice is on the top. Works at home and for travel. $160

Moma World Time Clock

What a great ring! I just love its unique and minimalist design, but upon reading further, it was actually created to to support the Design 21 network by contributing to UNESCO supported themes such as education, arts, peace, literacy, urban planning, and cultural diversity. This gourgeous ring is available in a variety of metals including stainless steel, silver, titanium, gold and acrylic. Designed by Dutch industrial designer Richard Hutten. ($35-$2,500).

For those of you interested in reading further, UNESCO World Heritage sites are actually quite fascinating. There are a total of 851 in the world, and are considered to be sites of irreplaceable history, natural or cultural significance. You may have just been to a few of these world heritage sites and not even known it! Click here to read more. 

Allumonde Ring

Anybody who has ever looked for a pet carrier, a good one is hard to find. This great expandable pet carrier for small pets is useful when you need it and collapses to just one inch width when not in use. Originally $90, its now on sale for $30!

Expand-a-Pet Carrier