In these shaky financial times, straightforward goods and tried-and-true techniques are in vogue. At London’s 100% Design, this proclivity was seen in the accent on craftsmanship and preference for such honest materials as wood, metal, and leather. - Julie Taraska
 

Cork it
Although the pattern on the Bamboo wall covering looks like stitching, it is laser-etched onto the panel’s cork surface. The sustainable slabs dampen sound and are offered as either a single sheet or in a custom, multipanel design. Sam Pickard, South Molton, England. www.sampickard.co.uk

[Reader Service: January 2009 #206]

 

Bright idea
Tom Dixon’s Blow light generates significant illumination with its low-energy, compact fluorescent bulb. Three quarters of the exterior of its latest version is wrapped in pure copper, while its interior contains a vacuum metallized film. ABC Carpet and Home, New York City. www.tomdixon.net

[Reader Service: January 2009 #205]
 

Book smart
Fashioned from a patented lightweight wood used to build ships, La Bibliochaise measures 29” high x 33” long x 40” wide and stores 16' of books. The frame comes varnished in a choice of white, black, or aubergine. Prices begin at $5,580 with cotton cushions, $6,060 with leather. Nobody & Company, Milan. www.nobodyandco.it

[Reader Service: January 2009 #208]

     

Wood works
Having launched his eponymous, Arts and Crafts—inspired furniture line last year, Matthew Hilton returns with the Manta dining chair and Fracture table. The former, a stackable seat with a solid wood frame and sculptural back, is suitable for residential and contract applications; the latter comprises three free-form coffee tables with powder-coated steel legs that can be used separately or together, forming a square. Both Manta and Fracture come in a choice of oiled American black walnut or white oak. De La Espada, New York City. www.delaespada.com

[Reader Service: January 2009 #209]

Throwing curves
Made of MDF, Interlam’s decorative, sculpted Art Diffusion panels are available in over 100 patterns. Finishes include any color latex paint, membrane films in most wood grains, metal options that will patina, pressed foils, and bonded sand. The horizontal SOU-009 pattern with a medium Sydney maple membrane finish is pictured. Interlam, Claudville, Va. www.interlam-design.com

[Reader Service: January 2009 #204]