[ { "product_id": "593", "product_title": "Arne Jacobsen Feature", "product_content": "When researching designers for our Karakter blog and social media posts I'm constantly blown away by how exceptionally clever and skillful the great names of mid-century design were, and how their creations continue to stand the test of time. At our store we have a number of books on mid-century designers so when I was looking for inspiration for this post and found a book on the visionary Arne Jacobsen I knew he had to be the next design icon to feature here.Arne Jacobsen (1902 - 1971) was a hugely influential Danish designer remembered for his architectural achievements and well known furniture designs. The Series 7 chair he designed in 1955 is the world's best-selling Danish object.Jacobsen's mother, one of the first women in Denmark to be trained in banking, encouraged him to study Architecture at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts Architecture School after which he set up his own company and went on to become the formidable designer we recognise now. One of Jacobsen's largest commissions was the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen built from 1956 to 1960, now the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel, for which he designed everything from the building and furniture within it to the airport buses used to transport people to and from the Terminal section. The interior spaces were furnished with his iconic Egg and Swan chairs and featured inbuilt cabinetry. Arne even designed the lamps, glasses, and cutlery for it. As a sidenote for film buffs, his recognisable AJ cutlery also featured in Stanley Kubrick's cinematic masterpiece 2001: A Space Odyssey.In 1952 Jacobsen's first highly successful piece of furniture was launched by Fritz Hansen - the Ant Chair. He cleverly used clay to sculpt the design of the chair and develop its unique shape. This development technique is one Jacobsen regularly used in his process for future designs. The lightweight chair was the first of its kind - the seat and back moulded out of a single sheet of plywood. Out of this Jacobsens talent for furniture design was firmly cemented and Fritz Hansen continues to manufacture many of Arne Jacobsen’s designs including the ever popular Series 7, Egg, Swan and Drop chairs. See photos.We are always on the look out for examples of Arne Jacobsens work and currently have a set of 4 Series 7 chairs in stock, as well as a vintage Stelton Cyclinder coffee set first designed in 1967 by Jacobsen. Email us for more info", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/593\/IMG_20240627_163742.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2024-06-27 04:30:05", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "1", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-arne-jacobsen-feature\/" }, { "product_id": "573", "product_title": "Spotlight: Bruno Mathsson", "product_content": "Bruno Mathsson - Swedish furniture designer and architect1907 - 1988Bruno Mathsson, well known for functional, modern designs, came from a long line of cabinet makers and was taught from an early age the skills needed to follow in his fathers footsteps. He went on to become one of the most famous furniture designers of our time.His use of bent plywood and woven textiles resulted in some of his most well known and praised furniture designs, like the Paris Daybed pictured.We are particularly enamoured with Mathsson's Summer House in Frösakull, Sweden which Bruno Mathsson designed himself for he and his family in 1960. The house clearly shows that being close to nature and the importance of function and simplicity were forefront in Mathssons thoughts and designs. With it's movable walls and stove on wheels, it feels like it would slot well into a warm slice of New Zealand countryside. Also known as the House of Tomorrow, it fell into disrepair once sold but thankfully was privately bought in the early 2000s and has been thoughtfully restored and furnished by it's new owners. Newly acquired vintage pieces by Bruno Mathesson now sit along side original furnishings.We currently have The Supercircular coffee table by Bruno Mathsson, Piet Hein and Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen in stock and online.Image credits: Pamono, Homes2tiny, Smalandsskinnmanufaktur, Fritz Hansen, Mid2Mod", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/573\/AGreen-pic.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2023-12-13 00:36:19", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "1", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-spotlight-bruno-mathsson\/" }, { "product_id": "566", "product_title": "An Exclusive offer for our customers", "product_content": "The past few months have been a flurry of packing up our Melrose Street showroom and settling into our new space on Carlton Gore Road.We’re in the fortunate position of having stock on hand but our new space is smaller and we’re packed to the rafters - literally. We have a new container arriving in a matter of weeks and we’ve decided it’s time to create space with some special moving offers on a selection of brands from Cherner, Eames, Alfred Cox, George Nelson, Gordon Russell, BB Italia, G Plan and more. We’re offering discounts from 10% to 40% on all pieces in stock next week, [from August 22nd to August 26 2023.](https:\/\/www.karakter.co.nz\/) We will be open Tuesday through to Saturday during that week. If you are not in Auckland we’re happy to help you find what you need by phone, email or video call. Terms and conditions:1. Please note that the offers only apply to pieces currently in stock.2. The discounts won't be reflected in the pricing online - please pop by our showroom, email or call us to confirm the discount applied to your chosen piece. 3. If there is anything specific which you can't see online or in store, please let us know - we can check our stockroom for any pieces not online or displayed in store. 4. Shipping is an additional cost5. No holds during the sale period. We would like to get stock moving so all sales will be on a first come, first served basis. Please email or call us if you have any specific piece you don't want to miss out on!", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/566\/Eames_lounge_chair_and_ottoman_angle.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2023-08-15 00:19:17", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-an-exclusive-offer-for-our-customers\/" }, { "product_id": "565", "product_title": "Five Minutes with our friend Sonja Hawkins", "product_content": "We caught up with Sonja Hawkins, long time friend of Karakter and along with her husband Glenn, is one of the founders of My Art. What is My Art and how does it work? My Art is a service that enables people to buy and live with the art they love, and in turn supports artists. It acts like a lay-by, allowing time payment, with no interest to be paid, but as MyArt pay the gallery immediately, the artist can also be paid, and the buyer gets to take the art home instead of waiting until the final payment is made. My Art support our creative community through philanthropic initiatives. Why is investing in art and design important to you? So many reasons, but generally speaking, I am interested in the aesthetic, and want the world to be a place of beauty. From the art I hang on the walls, to the furniture I live with, and even the packaging on the products I buy - I want the view to be pleasing. Not just for me, but for everyone. I believe it is so emotive and can have a huge bearing on your feelings and mood. Plus I cannot emphasize how good design makes our lives better, from the pen in your hand, keyboard at your fingers, to the chair you sit on, or appliances you use - good design enhances our wellbeing. Is there any one attribute that links the pieces of art and design in your collection? I am a maker myself, so I am drawn to materiality, and the tactile. You will find textiles, stitching and layers of paint in our artworks, but also a strong link to botanicals (though some may be abstract), with my love of nature. I try to avoid fashion and look for a timelessness in the aesthetic. What is one piece in your collection that continually challenges you? We have a sculpture by Oscar Enberg, a kiwi artist based in Berlin, From the exhibition named 'Tut Mir Lied Herr Vater' (Father I am sorry). It is a headless and legless bird, made from glazed and rusted ceramic, with antique cutlery, wool and jute yarn. Oscar refers to fables to tell a story and this work sits on our dining table to be admired and considered every day. How do your (Yours and Glenn’s) tastes in art and design align with each other? And what’s one way that they differ? Glenn possibly has a more conservative eye (he’s not at all sure about the bird!) Where I like to be challenged and take bigger risks in the art I choose to live with. That said, we mostly agree on the pieces we choose to bring into our home, through experiences that have brought us to an artist.Who is an artist or designer that you would love to own a piece by and why? Tough question - there are so many. But probably a Kushana Bush painting - for their complexity and intrigue, and a John Ward Knox sculpture for its simplicity and beauty. I also covet a Poul Kjaerholm A PK 24 Hammock Chair - for its brilliance in design, materiality, and timeless quality. Why shouldn’t a useful piece of furniture be beautiful also.Do you remember what it felt like to secure your first piece of art or design? There was the initial thrill, of acquiring something tangible that physically bought joy, and then the sense of it being part of a bigger picture, whereby it was the beginning of building an environment that was ‘our home’ and a refection of who we are. Wherever we choose to live, the things that surround us ultimately create a home. That was the start of the journey, and now after 30 years on there is a whole story to tell - but the journey still hasn’t ended. What do you believe defines “good design”? Aesthetic first sprigs to mind - but it is so much more. The usability, and practicality, longevity and detailing. We must also be mindful of sustainability in our world today, but in short, its form and function.Visit the [My Art](https:\/\/myart.co.nz) website to learn more about this wonderful service and how it can assist you in purchasing your dream piece of design or art. Karakter are proud to be a part of the My Art family and offer their service in store, on all our pieces.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/565\/BB1EAAA0-70FD-4E1C-A123-0FAC3310BDDA_4_5005_c.jpeg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2023-07-26 01:15:52", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-five-minutes-with-our-friend-sonja-hawkins\/" }, { "product_id": "517", "product_title": "Design To Dine With", "product_content": "The most recognisable symbols of mid-century design are often chairs. Whether it's a genuine piece known by name or one of the thousands of mid-century inspired knock-offs, you'd be hard pressed to find someone who didn't have familiarity with the form of pieces like Arne Jacobsen's generously proportioned egg chair or Ray or Charles Eames' moulded side chair. Mid-century seating pushed the boundaries of functional design and reimagined what seating could and should be. New materials and manufacturing techniques were explored, functionality and form were equally valued and the result was a suite of timeless, iconic designs. Mid-century dining chairs feature front and centre in the line up of the era's best pieces and we've selected four of our all-time favourite examples of design to dine with. Eames Moulded Wood Side ChairCharles and Ray Eames were instrumental in ensuring the success and proliferation of the mid-century movement across America. Their practical and innovative approach to design, coupled with an innate sense of style, resulted in elegant pieces that were easy and cheap to reproduce en masse and complimentary to the new way of living that had begun to develop after WWII. The husband and wife duo embraced a playful element in their work, utilising bright, unexpected colours and creating pieces that encouraged a relaxed approach to every day life. Whilst their architectural work is highly regarded to this day, it is their mid-century furniture which has endured and is still in production by Herman Miller and Vitra. The Eames moulded wood side chair is arguably one of their most recognised pieces and remains a sought after design classic - along with possibly being the most replicated chair in history! Available in several finishes and on three types of bases, our favourite is the walnut shell on wire base. Cherner Side ChairImmersed in the Bauhaus movement from his time at Columbia University and MoMa, Norman Cherner began his career in the development of prefabricated housing - an avant garde concept at the time. He would go on to create work across a wide range of disciplines outside of architecture - from graphic design and glassware to lighting and furniture - the latter being what he became best known for. The first prototype of the designer's famed Cherner chair was created In 1958. Utilising new technology that could bend plywood, the chair boasted amplified curves and slender lines that combined to produce a sophisticated and incredibly strong piece of design. Plycraft produced the chair from it's inception through to the late 1970's, during which time it quickly became a must-have for any discerning furniture collector. Decades passed and it was not until the early 2000's that Cherner's sons Tom and Benjamin reissued their father's original designs, manufactured with the same attention to detail found in the original classics. Along with these, Benjamin; an architect and designer himself, has released several new designs to complement his father's famous chairs.under the umbrella of the Cherner Chair Company. Merrow Associates 167 Chair Richard Young was a mid-century British designer, renowned for his distinctive style that showcased the elegance of chrome. After attending the Royal Art Academy in Copenhagen and being taught by the legendary Ole Wanscher, Young returned to the UK with a passion for Danish design. Keen to demonstrate his newfound skills, the designer initially worked for G Plan. Here, he would go on to design several pieces in the style of Hans Wegner. Wishing to have greater say over the direction of designs, Young joined with engineers Wyatt and Peter Weeks to form Merrow Associates in 1966. Clever implementation of engineering principles and the use of luxurious materials quickly became the hallmarks of a Merrow Associates piece. Elegant, precise lengths of polished chrome were used as frames, between which seats and table tops weightlessly hover or cantilever from. By 1974 rising production costs and changes to trends saw the design house close down and it wasn't until 2020 when Young's son, James, was able to re-launch Merrow Associates. Working with business partner and designer Mike Trott, James has recommissioned selected heritage pieces and created a collection of new designs. The majority of Merrow Associate pieces we present in store are mid-century originals, like the Model 167 chair. The examples we currently have in store have been reupholstered in grey leather. Erik Buch Model 49 dining chair Born in 1923 and raised in Copenhagen, Danish designer Erik Buch's work embodied the spirit of modern Scandanavian style in every way. Little is published about his personal life or the development of his career before finding success as one of the mid-century modern movement's most revered designers. What is widely documented though, is his innate ability to produce timeless and iconic designs that remain highly sought after to this day. Buch's work showcased simple organic lines and the beauty of natural timber. Frames were delicately sculpted to appear weightless, whilst still maintaining structural strength and functionality - a testament to this is the sound condition his pieces are still found in today. The industrial designer's most famous designs are arguably the Model 61 bar stool and the Model 49 chair, which we are honored to have in store. The Model 49 chair captures Buch's distinctive style, with it's sculptural form and \"floating\" curved seat. The estate of Erik Buch continues to work with Danish cabinet makers to this day, ensuring all newly produced pieces are made under licence and to the same standards as vintage pieces.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/517\/eames.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2022-09-29 00:34:11", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-design-to-dine-with\/" }, { "product_id": "490", "product_title": "Discover something unique this Autumn", "product_content": "The change in seasons brings about an opportunity to re-imagine the spaces in our homes. Perhaps you'll be encouraged to create an inviting area for indoor dinner parties (like the Cherner set up in Image 1), or to invest some time into setting up the perfect reading nook (Where you could curl up with a copy of the latest issue of HOME, seen in Image 2). Here in the showroom, we love to experiment with new ways to style and use the pieces in our collection. We have every intention (and hope) that we won't be hibernating (read: isolating!) over the cooler months of this year though, so have put together a selection of intriguing, weather-friendly options for you to discover this Autumn. BE INSPIRED: Now in it’s 11th year, the Resene Architecture and Design Film Festival has become a much anticipated and adored event in our mid-year calendars. Expect to find another fascinating line-up of films, that showcase everything from Brazilian Brutalist architect Han Broos to dynamic Finnish textile designer Maija Isola of Marimekko fame, influential Danish designer Grethe Meyer to a film that celebrates the art of Swedish urban planning. The Resene Architecture and Design Film Festival is held over May to June, in various cities across New Zealand. See the Festival website for a full list of films and specific session dates. https:\/\/www.rialto.co.nz\/eventsfestivals\/resenearchitecturedesignfilmfestivalEXPLORE: HOME celebrates the best of Aotearoa's residential architecture in their annual Home of the Year issue. This year's Supreme Award winner, Terrace Edge House by Anna Marie Chin Architects, is profiled alongside the winner's of supporting categories that showcase everything from sustainable design to interiors. The April\/May issue of HOME magazine is available now. https:\/\/homemagazine.nz\/VISIT: In April, Sanderson Galleries present It's All Relative, the new exhibition of works from artist Karyn Taylor. Taylor's two and three-dimensional works explore the state between material and immaterial, energy and matter. Her fascinating pieces investigate form, light and shadow in a way that challenges our perception of reality. It's All Relative is on now till the 8th of May. https:\/\/www.sanderson.co.nz\/DEVOUR: Apéro is a longtime favourite of the Karakter family, consistently delivering delicious offerings from their intimate space on K'Rd. Chef Leslie, who hails from Toulouse, France, prepares food for Apéro the same way her family has for generations — using local produce combined together to be utterly delicious but served simply. https:\/\/www.apero.co.nz\/aboutLEARN: The Nanette Cameron School's two year foundation course provides an extensive grounding in all aspects of interior design. Students are introduced to design history, fundamentals and communication methods, and learn to apply these principles to residential contexts. Learn more at [nanettecameronschool.com](http:\/\/nanettecameronschool.com).", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/490\/xo-gallery-12-1587152339333.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2022-04-19 23:57:18", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-discover-something-unique-this-autumn\/" }, { "product_id": "404", "product_title": "Seeking Inspiration at home", "product_content": "September has begun and being housebound continues for a group of us. In an effort to alleviate that ground-hog-day feeling that inevitably comes with a lockdown, we've put together a selection of inspiring online finds. Whether you're in Auckland with limited options for entertainment - or elsewhere and just interested in seeing or hearing something new - we think you'll enjoy investing some time in the following... DISCOVER: The Design ChaserPrepare to put aside an hour or two to get lost in the world of The Design Chaser... Founded by interior designer Michelle Halford in 2012, the blog shares imagery of her beautifully styled spaces, as well as engaging pieces of writing on architecture from around the globe and updates on the design world. Her quality content, which often has a focus on Scandinavian design, can also be enjoyed via her highly successful instagram page. Visit The Design Chaser at https:\/\/www.thedesignchaser.com\/ WATCH: A Single ManSet in the 1960's and largely shot in the Schaffer Residence, A Single Man showcases an exceptional piece of mid-century architecture whilst sharing the poignant story of a man who has recently lost his partner. Directed by Tom Ford, the film uses the glass, timber, steel and concrete of the home to full effect. Available to hire via Youtube here: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=723PzupKp30 LEARN: Interior Design Masterclass with Kelly Wearstler Known for her experimental and eclectic design style, Kelly Wearstler shares her tried and true tips for creating a memorable and unique space in this 17 lesson course. Subscribe to Masterclass to gain access to this and other courses. Visit https:\/\/www.masterclass.com\/classes\/kelly-wearstler-teaches-interior-design for more information. LISTEN: About Buildings + Cities podcastAbout Buildings + Cities is the highly addictive podcast from Luke Jones and George Gingell. The duo discuss architecture, cities, history and all things creative - including episodes on Otto Wagner, Le Corbusier and Adolf Loos. Visit https:\/\/aboutbuildingsandcities.org\/ to learn more about this podcast. Image Credits (L-R)The Design Chaser 2021, Still from A Single Man, Weinstein Co., Kelly Wearstler - Image via Masterclass, Le Corbusier portrait; Ida Kar.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/404\/TDC_BookBox_AugustSandgren_8479..jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2021-09-13 02:34:15", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-seeking-inspiration-at-home\/" }, { "product_id": "402", "product_title": "Thoughts on colour & mid century design", "product_content": "Thoughtfully experimenting with colour can elevate a space from being good, to exceptional. Colour evokes emotions and the way in which we experience our surroundings, is influenced by the colour choices we make. When a selection of hues is grouped together to form a palette, you may find that it can transport you to another place, or time. Mid-century design often featured shades of orange, teal and chartreuse, paired with bright whites and warm timber tones of walnut, teak and oak. These unique and unexpected colour combinations were embraced and showcased in everything from homewares to upholstery and fashion. The iconic imagery of Slim Aarons, which captured all manner of elegant locales from Palm Springs to Copenhagen, shows just how prolific these colours were. Today, it is the refined lines, minimal detailing and organic forms of Mid-Century design that continue to be widely admired. The ‘form following function’ ethos produced timeless designs that complement our contemporary spaces effortlessly. Incorporating the traditional hues of the Mid-Century era into our homes can be more difficult, as bright, saturated colours have largely been cast aside in favour of neutral colour schemes. Bringing these back into interior spaces can be a daunting task but the effect of adding colour and contrast to our spaces shouldn’t be overlooked. A vintage armchair presents an opportunity to experiment with colour and taking inspiration from the structure of a piece is a good place to start. A frame that celebrates the beauty of simplicity can be paired with a busier, vintage-inspired abstract print, whilst a frame featuring exposed joints or recessed detailing, could be upholstered in single colour – chartreuse velvet or rich tan leather. The thousands of tones that sit within the gray family compliment brighter hues and can be used on walls to ‘tie together’ the colours you begin to introduce. If you find yourself wanting to still play it safe to some extent but are craving for your interior to have some individuality, consider Pantone’s selection of “new neutrals”. These are easily adaptable tones that draw on the colours found within nature, emphasizing a familiarity and warmth that resonates with us all. Click through to Pantone's piece about the new palette [here](https:\/\/www.pantone.com\/eu\/en\/articles\/colors\/neutrals-now). Image Credits L - RCurrent Eames designs by VitraVintage Herman Miller colour chart - Eames shell optionsVintage lounge room via PinterestAndre Vandenbeuck King armchair, Karl Erik Ekselius lounge chair, VZOR swivel chair - vintage pieces reupholstered by Karakter.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/402\/39710632.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2021-08-30 05:00:47", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-thoughts-on-colour-and-mid-century-design\/" }, { "product_id": "401", "product_title": "The appeal of Mid-Century lighting", "product_content": "Mastering the art of creating beautiful spaces is about having the confidence to layer and bring together many elements of design. A truly memorable space is formed by a combination of architecture, lighting, colours and textures. Illumination can have an immense effect on the ambience and appearance of any space, and both can be altered considerably – and immediately - by the lighting choices we make. Glazing can flood a room with light and warmth, whilst selecting a piece of artificial lighting presents an opportunity to make a considered style statement.   Today, pieces of lighting number in the thousands, the best of which are often thought of as works of art in their own right. Designs born out of the Mid-century Modern era struck the right balance of elegance and eclecticism that we find so covetable today, making them a highly regarded choice. From sculptural to understated, we see how the Modernist principle of form following function has resulted in an offering of iconic designs that complement our contemporary spaces effortlessly. It’s hard to believe that these timeless pieces were designed over half a century ago and we love that they allow anyone to bring a Modernist aesthetic into their home, with ease. George Nelson’s Bubble lights are arguably one of Modernism’s most recognisable styles. The lantern-like lights  were designed in 1952 and are known for the soft and luminous light they emit when on, and the uber cool style statement they make when hung. A personal favourite of mine is the Mantis range – created by designer Bernard Schottlander in 1951. A slick, curved shell and precise, sharp lines characterise this striking and graphic range of lights. Schottlander was a respected sculptor, creating monolithic, minimalist pieces. In comparison to the Mantis light, the sculptures were considerably heavier in appearance, yet shared the same consideration to balance and movement. Attracting cult-like following is the PH5 lamp by Poul Henningsen. Designed in 1958 as a response to the changes in shape and size of incandescent bulbs, the light’s architectural form is beautifully sculptural but also functionally useful, filtering the light from within. Like George Nelson’s Bubble lights and Bernard Schottlander’s Mantis collection, the PH5 is still in production today. When looking at Mid-Century design, it could be said that it captured a sense of freedom and restraint. Pieces of design from this era, including lighting, are playful yet refined - which we think gives them a very unique appeal, making them enviable additions to any space. Words by Simran Saseve-DaleImage credits (L - R) Box Interiors, Sichel Home, Louis PoulsenImage on homepage tile: Curbed magazine", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/401\/box-interioris.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2021-08-18 08:06:48", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-the-appeal-of-mid-century-lighting\/" }, { "product_id": "294", "product_title": "CURATED, an exhibition with FHE Galleries", "product_content": "Curated IV brings together the finest pieces of mid century design and a unique collection of painting, photography and object d'art. This is the fourth iteration of the collaborative exhibition, a project between Karakter and renowned Auckland gallery, FHE Galleries. Each year, we work alongside Kathlene Fogarty and James Walker of FHE, to select a number of our most interesting pieces. They then pair these with works from their own collection, selected for the way in which the two complement each other.The result is an interesting and often unexpected showcase of the finest examples of art and design. We love seeing the similarities and contrasts across the works and the the way our pieces come to life in a gallery context. All pieces are for sale and you can enquire with either us or the gallery for further information.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/294\/_DSF5327web.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2021-02-24 00:12:09", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-curated-an-exhibition-with-fhe-galleries\/" }, { "product_id": "87", "product_title": "Five minutes with gallerist Scott Lawrie", "product_content": "After COVID-19 brought The Vivian in Matakana to a close in April, Director Scott Lawrie has arrived at the heart of Grey Lynn with a new gallery space and a new name - Scott Lawrie Gallery.Scott is just as passionate about mid century art and design as he is about the contemporary art he shows at his gallery. Simran Saseve-Dale, our Sales and Marketing Manager, sat down with Scott to chat about one his favourite pieces of mid century art.Karakter (K): What is the name of this work and who is it by? Scott Lawrie (SL) The work I’ve chosen is by Victor Pasmore (1908-1998) and called ‘Point of Contact #2’ from 1965. It's a framed Lithograph of about 560 x 890mm.K: What drew you to this work? SL: Victor Pasmore was a groundbreaking abstract British artist, who explored a particular kind of abstraction that was born out of late modernism. I don't collect many prints, but this is rare and it provides a fantastic snapshot of late modernism in the UK – plus it gives me a lot of joy.K: What is your favourite detail in the work? SL: The colours are incredibly elegant, and the composition is beautifully balanced; restrained, yet exuberant at the same time. It also matches my modernist furniture pieces, which in itself can be quite tricky!Image credit: Victor Pasmore, Point of Contact #2, 1965", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/87\/Scott-Portrait-Pic1-(002).jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2020-10-20 22:27:03", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-five-minutes-with-gallerist-scott-lawrie\/" }, { "product_id": "21", "product_title": "Andy shares his favourite piece of mid-century design", "product_content": "Andy Jones, our Director, shares his favourite piece of mid century design.I first got interested in mid-century furniture whilst living in London . One of our first pieces was a wedding present from my parents. This Hans Wegner teak GE290 chair and footstool by Getama has travelled with us through many rentals, to now sit in our first New Zealand home that we have owned. I love its simplicity and solid build quality. The sprung cushions and wide “plank” arms make it amazingly comfortable.  We re-upholstered it in Kvadrat fabric in 2006. Our delightful cat Pixie also likes the comfort and is giving the cushions a rough time. We're now looking at fabric options to inject some colour into the new house. If there was only one piece to take to a desert island – this would be it for me.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/21\/andychair.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2020-09-10 03:05:41", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-andy-shares-his-favourite-piece-of-mid-century-design\/" }, { "product_id": "20", "product_title": "The unforgettable elegance of an Arne Jacobsen cutlery set", "product_content": "Sena Akpalu, our In-house Photographer and Marketing Assistant shares a childhood memoryI have always loved and appreciated mid-century design, even before I really knew what it was.When I was at primary school, I used to walk home with a friend who lived on the same street. I’d often go to her house; a 1960s architecturally designed classic. There was much about the house and my regular visits, that has stuck in my mind. The thrill and occasional peril of negotiating the narrow but incredibly stylish, wooden spiral staircase is something I remember well. It was in the centre of their home and provided the connection between the more functional family living spaces at street level and the expansive, almost subterranean, downstairs - which had an entire wall of exposed stone on one end. The other half of the room had floor to ceiling windows that invited the Titirangi bush inside. The open-plan kitchen was a warm combination of rich mahogany and stone. One of my clearest memories is of the pairing of delicious European food with mid-century design. Our dinner, consisting of dishes like handmade gnocchi, were always eaten with an Arne Jacobsen cutlery set. Each piece of cutlery was slender, light and smooth. The fork had only three subtle prongs. I loved how they looked - they were interesting and different. The space was serene - even in a busy, energetic house full of kids with lots of noise and movement, it evoked calm. This is the feeling I remember.", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/20\/flatware2.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2020-09-10 02:58:52", "product_code": null, "product_barcode": null, "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-the-unforgettable-elegance-of-an-arne-jacobsen-cutlery-set\/" }, { "product_id": "9", "product_title": "Architecture & Design Film Festival 2024", "product_content": "The Resene Architecture & Design Film Festival is back and has another great line up of films to choose from this year. There's something for everyone but our picks are Maurice and I, the world premiere of a NZ documentary celebrating Sir Miles Warren and Maurice Mahoney's architectural legacy that was all but lost in the Otautahi Christchurch earthquakes; The Promise - Architect BV Doshi, a beautifully shot feature length film about Balkrishna Doshi - one of Indias most influential 20th century architects; and Alfabeto Mangiarotti, a documentury exploring the archievements of the renowned Milanese architect, designer and sculptor, whose work continues to be hugely influential in the world of design today.For more informstion on the festival go to HOME 2024 | RADFF (architectureanddesignfilmfestival.co.nz)", "product_order": "0", "product_icon": "\/media\/commerce_products\/9\/Screenshot_20240507_095621_Chrome.jpg", "product_brand_id": "5", "product_price": "0.0000", "product_price_ex_tax": 0, "product_price_local_tax": "0.0000", "product_created_datetime": "2020-09-02 02:47:28", "product_code": "", "product_barcode": "", "product_is_unorderable": "0", "product_is_shipping_required": "0", "product_inventory_level": null, "product_uri": "\/products\/inspiration-architecture-and-design-film-festival-2024\/" } ]