
Charles and Ray
Eames are legends in the design world. Their furniture designs, from the molded rocker to the Eames lounge and ottoman, are pieces any modernist worth her salt is either saving for or proudly displaying.
The Eames are also known for their modular work, which was first seen in the 1940 Organic Design competition, and established the beauty and practicality of a modular approach to architecture.

While I love the simplicity of modern, minimalist design, it often seems a little chilly. That's why I love it when my design-savvy friends warm up their sleek homes with touches of girly wonder. From pink throw pillows to simple, curvaceous vases, these ladies know how to make a design statement that's both modern and wonderfully feminine.

When the owners of this New Zealand home asked architecture firm Pacific Environments to renovate it, the firm created a stunning, minimalist vision for the 40-year-old house. Taking advantage of shipping rigging, stainless steel tubing, metallic finishes, and diagonal lines, the house has been transformed from its prior incarnation. To get the tour, check out the slideshow.

Think you're au courant on current-day styles and those from thirty-odd years ago? Put that belief to the test when you take my quiz! Some of these photos are from slideshows of current houses, while others are from the 1971 book Decorating and Design by Jacqueline Inchbald.

Designed in 2004 by
Max Longin, a German designer and mathematician, the Float Bed was inspired by the idea of suspension. This unusual design also comes in unusual packaging. The bed can be easily packed away and moved, since the packaging is part of the frame itself.