Just Scratching the Surface

A new line of tile from Ann Sacks introduced me to a new term: "sgraffato." Sgraffato is technique where a surface is scratched to create design and texture. Each of these tiles is a one-off, but certain motifs are followed to allow for some pretty stunning murals.

Perhaps not for an entire backsplash, but I could imagine something like this behind the cooktop.

New Idea Monday: No Wires Attached

The Leviton Wireless Sensing Solution combines the energy saving benefits of occupancy sensors with self-powered and wireless technologies.

From an energy-saving point of view, occupancy sensors are a no-brainer. In fact, this technology is law in countries like France. I won’t lie … it takes some getting used to. But after a couple days you’ll find yourself wandering through your house or apartment with a smug grin on your face. Why? You’ll never worrying about finding a light switch again, and you’ll have reduced your carbon footprint that much further.

As if that wasn’t enough, the whole system is wireless. Simply wire the Wireless Wall Switch Receiver into a standard light switch, mount the remote sensor on the ceiling, and add as many wireless switches as you like, and you’re done! No new wires, no holes in the wall, no wondering why the light in the other room doesn’t work because your electrician accidentally disconnected the wrong wire.

Proof Apple is Evil Empire 2.0

Paul over at Kitchen and Residential Design gives his review of the new iPhone app from Benjamin Moore. Called "Ben" (after BM's new line of Ben paints), the app allows you to match colours from photos you take with the BM colour catalogue.

If the iPhone learns how to draft, I'm in trouble.

Yin Yang Island

First of all, you've probably noticed a lack of content on useful spaces. Fact is, my paying job just got really busy and time has been scarce. I haven't forgotten you, but money talks ...

This beauty of an island comes to us from Japan's Toyo Kitchen. Called the Isola S, it can be re-arranged into a variety of shapes to suit its use and environment. It features a 3 burner cooktop, a sink and more LED lights than they used on the set of Battlestar Galactica.

Toyo has no North American distributors I can find (I don't read kanji, sorry), so you'll be importing this one yourself!