HDTV So Good, Viewers Will Watch HD Shows They Don’t Even Like

A recent Motorola survey found that consumers with HDTV were so astounded by the picture on the screen that they watched almost anything that looked good, whether they were really interested in the subject or not.

And, the survey found that all those brilliant images had an unintended side-effect for nearly one in five of the respondents: Real life now looks blurry when compared to the crisp picture on their hi-def TV sets.

Of those watching the brilliant picture on their high-definition plasmas and LCD screens:

• 30 percent said they are “watching more nature shows than they did in 3rd grade”
• 12 percent said they are watching sports, even though they don’t like sports, and
• 11 percent are using HDTV to their delight in pointing out celebrity blemishes and flaws

I guess this is not good news for people who already admit they watch too much television.  I’m starting to have clients as me to plan for HDTV in the kitchen so they will stop eating their meals in the family room.

By the way, the number one movie respondents want to see in HDTV is “It’s a Wonderful Life.”  I’m not sure if that is due to when the survey was taken or if it is because this 1946 classic is such a chart topper.

I hope you have the happiest of holidays!

Studio Forbes

The founder of Design Within Reach, Rob Forbes, has started a new blog called “Studio Forbes.“ 

The mission of Studio Forbes is to bring attention to good design all around the world.  His blog also covers additional topics like travel and food and wine.

I especially liked the post about Rem Koolhaas.

Children’s Bed Cupboard

Most of my whole house projects involve some sort of built-in.  They can be anywhere from dining rooms to hallways.  But, I have yet to be asked to design a child’s bed.

These images from the Netherlands based Kid’s Factory are so much fun.  I always wanted a sleeping compartment as a child and I would have pestered my parents to no end if I thought I could get one as cool as these. 

    

Source: Remodelista

Petite Tub Perfect for Small Spaces

If you are remodeling a loft space or if you’ve ever wished you could have just one more bathroom in your home but you are tight on space then the Ladybird bath might be the perfect solution.

Lift the sink top off and your have a petite bathtub.  While this may be a little tight for adults it is perfect for children or grandchildren.   I think it’s free-standing design is also lends itself well to being used in an all-purpose room for washing the family pet or cleaning up after crafts.

Designer: Coco Reynolds, Australia

Sub-Zero Launches Green Website

Did you know the largest Sub-Zero refrigerator consumes less energy than a 100-watt bulb? 

You can learn more about the tip above and other ways of being eco-friendly at a new webiste from Sub-Zero and Wolf dedicated to all things Green. 

Their site, Growagreenkitchen.com discusses everything from use of electrical vehicles in their plants to using non-toxic cleaners in your home.

It’s a beautifully designed site that’s worth a peep.  I especially like the links to Local Growers.

 

GE Recalls Microwave/Oven Combo Unit

GE is recalling about 92,000 micro-oven combo units sold between 2000 and 2003 under the GE, GE Profile and Kenmore brands.

The door switch on the microwave can overheat igniting some plastic components.  Consumers are advised to stop using the unit immediately. Reports indicate the oven can continue to be used.

GE and Kenmore are offering a free repair to the unit. Rebates towards new units are available.

For more information and to check your model number visit  GE’s website or Kenmore’s website.

Antilia Cast Glass Lavatory

This cast glass lavatory sink from Kohler has slight ripples in the surface that captures light in a way that resembles water.

The slab-like lavatory measures a generous 28×17 inches and stands 2 1/2 inches high.  The Antilia lavatory is available in Ice and Storm colors.  Kohler describes the Ice as resembling acompressed glacier ice.

This sink joins two others in Kohler’s Nature’s Chemistry Line.  Kohler has created this collection of natural products that transform indigenous materials, like metal , glass, clay and stone, into evocative fixtures for the kitchen and bath while retaining intrinsic properties.