Archives for April 2011

International Mulch Company is in the process of recycling more than 300 million pounds of tires, or approximately 19 million tires, into landscaping and playground products by the end of this year. The International Mulch Company will be exhibiting at the National Hardware Show, where the company will be showcasing a variety of new spring 2011 products such as Rubberific Edging. This product is the latest design in the company’s ever-growing line of recycled rubber products. As many well know, decorative borders can be costly and hard to maintain, so these experts in the field came up with a solution, Rubberific Edging. Available in 3’ lengths, Rubberific Edging comes in Weathered Gray and Tan to match any outdoor landscape design. The rubber design is geared to save time and money as well the benefits of easy installation. Additionally, unlike decorative river rocks, Rubberific Edging won’t chip or crack. For information on more 100% recycled rubber products from the International Mulch Company, visit www.internationalmulch.com.

The new iTouchless Toilet Seat by iTouchless Housewares & Products is extraordinary. Designed to rise upon approach and lower after usage, the iTouchless toilet reduces the amount of bacteria and grime. Simply put, we chose this innovative product because it makes life easier and healthier. The front-mounted sensor detects an approaching occupant, while the second sensor located in the center of the seat cover keeps the lid open for as long as the occupant is present. For males, the lid can be lifted automatically by placing a hand over the top sensor. The lid is not only beneficial for health reasons, but it is also ideal for elderly persons, children and those with disabilities. The iTouchless Toilet Seat is able to fit all standard-sized toilets and is easy to install. Give it a try at the show. Well, at least take a look. For more information about the iTouchless Toilet Seat or other iTouchless products, visit the company’s website at www.iTouchless.net.

Johnson Level & Tool is one of the leading manufacturers and the marketer of “Job Site Tough” professional quality spirit levels, laser levels and other various construction measuring tools. Exhibiting at the National Hardware Show in May, Johnson Level & Tool will be introducing a new level called 1404 -1000 Magnetic Torpedo Level. This solid cast aluminum frame with three high powered v-groove magnets embedded in the gauging edge is top of the line. The Magnetic Torpedo Level measures 10” in length and features Johnson Level’s SurroundView vial system which reflects ambient light for easy reading in dimly lit spaces. Additionally, the durable precision block vials will not crack leak or fade over time. All Johnson Level & Tool levels come with a lifetime warranty on accuracy. For more information about the 1404 – 1000 Magnetic Torpedo Level, visit www.johnsonlevel.com.

Osram Sylvania, headquartered in Danvers, MA, is one of the leaders in lighting solutions and specialty products which feature new and innovative designs as well as energy-saving technology. Known for producing high quality, high performance products, Osram Sylvania is now introducing the company’s new series of LED lamps called the Sylvania Ultra Professional Series. The series, ideal for retail, hospitality, museum, and high-end residential settings, rivals today’s halogen lamps. Currently available in four lamp types, the Sylvania Ultra Professional Series includes superior color consistency, robust dimming functionality and high-lumen output. Offering color rendition with a color rendering index of (CRI) of 95 paired with an R9 color rating, this series is truly one of the most advanced LED products on the market today. For additional information, visit www.sylvania.com.

The National Hardware Show is just around the corner. The event is the industry’s largest trade exhibition show, offering the latest inventions and products from companies in hardware & tools; homewares; lawn & garden/outdoor living; paint & accessories; plumbing & electrical; storage & organization; and tailgating, camping & picnicking. In addition, first-time categories like outdoor recreation, DIY security and energy-efficient products will be introduced to the sold-out event in Las Vegas, May 10-12.

This year’s show is shaping up to be a premiere exhibition. Attendees ranging from designers, builders, trade professionals and media members are sure to be impressed by exhibitors and the latest product innovations and technologies the market has to bear. For the second year in a row, the ECPR team has an alliance with the show, showcasing exhibitor’s products in our “Sneak Peek” article series on the ECPR blog. Our “Sneak Peek” series is a great way to preview the show and allows media members to easily learn more, whether they plan to attend or allow us to serve as their “eyes and ears.”

In the following days and weeks, we will be posting several “Sneak Peeks,” so be sure to check back regularly for the newest posts. Each will be linked to our media contacts’ applicable online outlets and channels, giving exhibitors more opportunities for being noticed by trade- and consumer-oriented media professionals. These include editors and publishers of select online or print magazines and newspapers as well as some key television and radio producers.

As you follow our posted series in late April and early May, feel free to add your comments under each narrative / photo. Products with the most comments will be considered for our post-show “Best of Show” feature series. We are looking forward to sharing valuable information and trends with our fans, followers and readers. Connect with us on our social media channels, and see you at the show!

~ The ECPR Team

As you may be aware, the ECPR team first showcased the Architectural Digest Home Design Show “Sneak Peek” series prior to the show last month. Immediately following the show, we published a follow up about the show entitled “The Best of Beautiful Design from NYC,” dated March 25 on our blog.

Since then we have begun the “Best of Show” series, featuring the latest and greatest products and companies ranging from art, home furnishings, accessories, kitchens, appliances, and more. Be sure to read Part I for the full introduction to the “Best of Show” series.

Naula Workshop made its 4th appearance at the show this year, officially debuting The Plaza Bed. This luxurious bed designed by Angel Naula from the company’s new collection of customizable home furnishings has clean, modern lines in an effort to showcase its new minimalist designs. The Plaza Bed was featured in Esquire’s SoHo Penthouse “Bachelor Pad” last year. Since 2002, Angel Naula has brought together a group of artisans and designers to create a workshop that thrives on the idea that, at its inception, each piece is of its own unique design. All furnishings are manufactured, lacquered and upholstered in Brooklyn, NY. To view more of Naula Workshop’s new home furnishings line, visit the company’s website at www.naulaworkshop.com.

The Exclusif Sectional by Didier Gomez for Ligne Roset is as comfortable and luxurious as the picture portrays. The sectional sofa was highly popular at the Architectural Digest Home Design Show, particularly, in a stunning gray fabric sure to set new trends. (Shown here in light gray). Designed with great emphasis on extreme softness and comfort, this sectional would be a perfect addition to a family room with panache or a modern condo or apartment well-suited for entertaining. Uniquely, there are two types of armrests from which to choose: a low, wide rectangular version and a high, narrow trapezoid version. They can be combined with one another for what can be considered an asymmetrical element. Additionally, and most impressive to us, the Exclusif Sectional can be designed to the customer’s liking. When juxtaposed with the piece’s eye-catching styling, this flexibility is unlike all others we encountered in the category. Given standard and customized options, the plush Exclusif Sectional allows for a wide range of seating, from loveseats and banquettes to lounge sofas and ottomans.

Ligne Roset, an international contemporary furnishings company based in France, was founded in 1860. The company features high-end, design-forward lines of household furniture, lighting, accessories, and textiles geared toward the modern lifestyle. Ligne Roset has stores worldwide, including premiere U.S. locations in New York, Miami and Philadelphia. These stores were represented at the show in an exhibit space well-liked for its bold essence. For additional information on the Exclusif Sectional or to view more furnishings and collections from Ligne Roset, visit www.lignerosetny.com, www.rosetphilly.com, and www.lignerosetmiami.com.

Derived from an original Mayan stone sculpture, TON Art’s Mayan Wheel has started a new generation of art speakers. It is one of the more creative show examples of form and function, in that, the sculpture acts as wall art as well as audio speaker. With its rough, hand-crafted, and painted surface resembling the original’s ancient stone, the speaker’s design made a positive impact at the show. The Mayan Wheel has two gold-leafed boxes illuminated by soft incandescent bulbs. Additionally, it boasts four speakers, two on each side. Each state-of-the-art speaker provides exceptional sound for large areas. Collaborating with designers, artists and craftspeople, the company’s art speakers are able to replace traditional speakers to create a serene, organic look. TON Art has a variety of speakers for indoor and outdoor use, all of which incorporate top-of-the-line technology and are able to connect easily with any sound system. For additional information, visit the company’s website at www.tonartllc.com.

The Grothouse Lumber Company’s Walnut Sink was brilliantly showcased at the Architectural Digest Home Design Show last month. Its wood composition made it stop show-goers in their tracks. Earning a nomination for the “Best of Show’ series, the Walnut Sink is available in over 60 species of wood with distressing and custom-stain matching. The company’s wooden sinks are a unique alternative to stainless steel, stone and ceramic sinks. Every hand-crafted solid-wood sink is coated with an exclusive Durata® permanent finish.

The company was founded in 1994 by Paul Grothouse. His extensive knowledge and background in woodworking and engineering resulted in starting his own company. With a 20,000 square foot, solar-powered facility in Pennsylvania, The Grothouse Lumber Company strives to be environmentally-friendly. While it did not surprise us in the least, the company’s award-winning designs have been featured in a number of magazines, books and on one of our staff’s favorite television shows, “This Old House”. In addition to the line of solid wood sinks, the company also crafts fine custom wood countertops, butcher blocks, table, and bar tops. The Grothouse Lumbar Company distributes worldwide and each organic surface ships in 2-3 weeks. Installation and blanket-wrap delivery are available in select markets. Last, but not least, FSC & LEED products are available, offering designers and homeowners the sustainability factor. Visit www.glumber.com for more information.

* To vote for your favorite “Best of Show” product, add your “Comments” below. Be sure to indicate the name of the product in your comment. At the end of our article series, the product with the most comments will be awarded the top “Best of Show” status.

Note: Click on the above photos to enlarge them.

~ ECPR

As readers of our blog and other channels, we hope you have been enjoying our pre- and post-show coverage of the Architectural Digest Home Design Show. Most of you already are aware our team has been working to feature select companies and products in our two article series. These include the “Sneak Peek” profiles prior to the event, which took place in New York City last month, and our new “Best of Show” series, first addressed in the article entitled, “The Best of Beautiful Design from NYC,” dated March 25.

Today we commence with a well-researched and collaborative review of some of the very best the show had to offer trade and consumer attendees. For those not having had the pleasure of seeing the show first-hand – as well as media members seeking content and articles for your own magazines and websites – follow our multi-part “Best of Show” article series now through early May.

With real estate still flat for the most part, homeowners are renovating and redesigning their current homes at increasing percentages. Product manufacturing experts and retailers of lifestyle inventories agree that consumers are spending more time, thought and budgets on the re-creation of existing living spaces. They are staying in their homes longer, yet giving them fresh new styles by adding furnishings, art, accessories, kitchens, appliances, and more. The effect is an again-growing Home and Design Industry, whereas supply and demand are showing positive signs of balance. The result involves expert companies in the trade producing and showcasing the best of the best for home design. So begins our “Best of Show” reviews…

The Tortoise Commode, designed by Christian Lyon for Matsuoka International, is a one-of-a-kind casegood. The piece was inspired by an amber and dark brown tortoise shell the artist had seen several years before constructing the commode. Christian spotted the Zebrano veneer at the Matsuoka International factory, which resembled the image of the tortoise, capturing the spirituality and beauty of the animal. The Tortoise Commode is beautifully designed with an Asian theme, ideal for traditional or modern interior design spaces. Its essence is perfect craftsmanship very much like that of superior art, yielding a piece that is both functional and conversational for those fortunate enough to own one. To view more furnishings from Matsuoka International, visit the company’s website at www.matsuokainternational.com.

Sun Valley Bronze’s Goose Neck Faucet is timeless. Precision machining and superior components ensure exceptional functionality and durability. Made from only the highest quality grade bronze, the Goose Neck Faucet is available in white or silicon bronze. Featuring world class craftsmanship, this faucet from Sun Valley Bronze is available in several choices of elegant patina finishes. Designers will find it of high interest to their clientele. The Cremone Bolts, also from Sun Valley Bronze, are a beautiful way to accessorize a door or gate. They are available in passage, dummy, patio, and entry functions. Any escutcheon design can be used on the exterior side of the door. Cremone bolts are available in any length. Like possibly no other feature we saw at the show, these bolts will provide a warm and welcoming sense of place for thresholds to beautiful rooms and spaces. For additional information on Sun Valley Bronze products and accessories, visit the company’s website at www.sunvalleybronze.com.

This energy-saving, environmentally safe Grando rigid pool cover from CoverTech is a new and innovative design, one that caught our eye and those of both trade and consumer show attendees. With enhanced safety features and clean lines, Grando is the future of pool covers. A main reason for this is the fact the rigid-slatted covers float right on the water, which keeps evaporation to a minimal level. Additionally, the Grando pool covers do not slide out of place. Instead, they are designed with a locking mechanism using plastic moldings and stainless steel pins to secure them, preventing leaves and other particles to creep into the pool year round. Uniquely, this German-made pool cover can be custom designed to fit any pool shape. For additional information on these state-of-the-art pool covers, visit www.poolcovertech.com.

Heritage Metalworks showcased a traditional hanging lantern made from a symphony of glass and paktong, an ancient non-tarnishing metal with a golden-silver hue. The company created the Meta Lantern from a design by Matali Crasset. At first look, the distinct personality the lantern portrays takes the breath away for a moment, making a design statement that is quite memorable. Designers will find this lantern of particular applicability when seeking a dramatic way to bring light to a home’s foyer or dining room. Preferred to modern float glass because of its intricate details, the Meta Lantern is made up of 102 different shapes of paktong, which meticulously hold the hand-blown glass panes. It is lit by an internal pendant made from hand-blown, milk-white glass in a style and shape purposely reminiscent of the glass encasement. The lantern is suspended by a paktong chain with a unique repeating link, designed to obscure the flex. It is a unique counterpart to other designer lanterns, sconces, chandeliers, and various lighting pieces the company creates, including the Maker’s Mark Collection, which was also displayed at the show.

Heritage Metalworks’ Matt White, the company’s creative leader, and his colleagues are quickly making a name for their company as one of the nation’s top metal design and fabrication specialists. Readers can learn more information about the paktong Meta Lantern and Heritage Metalworks by visiting www.heritage-metalworks.com.

* To vote for your favorite “Best of Show” product, add your “Comments” below. Be sure to indicate the name of the product in your comment. At the end of our article series, the product with the most comments will be awarded the top “Best of Show” status.

Note: Click on the above photos to enlarge them.

~ ECPR

Appearing in the upcoming April issue of Casual Living, ECPR wrote an article about our client ShadeScapes Americas. For our blog followers who work in the outdoor lifestyles retail, hospitality contract and landscape design markets, you can read a special preview of the article here…

An important function for outdoor living retailers is staying informed about products the market has to offer. One company, ShadeScapes Americas, has done its part to search the world for high-end, diverse shade solutions, making them widely available.

Woodline Picollo

For nearly a decade, ShadeScapes has been supplying shade solutions to the design trade, hospitality and contract markets. Co-owners Jo and Ron Edmondson began the company when research indicated a missing link in the category. “We addressed an obvious need for sourcing the finest and most architectural shade designs from around the globe, and adapting them for applications specific to the Americas,” Jo Edmondson says. With an established presence in the design and hospitality markets, ShadeScapes prides itself in unparalleled shade solutions for clients’ projects.

ShadeScapes presently is launching a retail program by offering exclusive dealerships to premier outdoor furnishing retailers. “Our invitation is to select, successful retailers with high-end customers who demand unique outdoor products with longevity,” Edmondson says. With this expansion, her company is accepting requests from specialized retailers seeking regional market exclusivity.

By combining three premium brands with excellent worldwide reputations, ShadeScapes has pioneered shading luxury spaces. Creative shade options include side posts, giant umbrellas and umbrella systems, shade sails, and personal shade designs.

Umbrosa Eclipse

In September 2010, ShadeScapes became the exclusive North American, Caribbean and Latin American distributor for Woodline shade solutions. Headquartered in South Africa, Woodline exports world class shades to 46 countries. The product line consists of eight artistic, architectural and commercial-grade shade products, including cantilever, center pole and dual-pole designs. By combining distinct designs with many sizes and three shapes, the line totals more than 100 options for elegant commercial and residential use. “Woodline’s blend of marine-grade aluminum, Eucalyptus hardwood and stainless steel allows for long-lasting beauty,” says Edmondson.

Germany-based May Sunshades selected ShadeScapes as its exclusive distributor for the same markets in 2009. The line consists of seven sophisticated European shade designs offered in round, rectangular and square shapes. Styles include flexible side posts, striking market umbrellas and 40-plus giant umbrella sizes ranging from 15-33 feet. With limitless flexibility, dramatic style and German engineering, May Sunshades protect outdoor settings with all-day shade.

Umbrosa Venus

Since introducing the Belgium-based Umbrosa Collection to the same markets five years ago, ShadeScapes has evoked much interest in the line’s three artful solutions. Based upon nature, and known for sleek ergonomics and contemporary lines, each ensures stylish sun protection. The popular Paraflex European-styled umbrellas are a one-of-a-kind system, mounting to a wall or pole, with one pole accommodating up to five canopies. The centerpiece is a six-foot-long flexible arm with extensive positioning. As for Rimbou, individual fabric arches spread and tilt like a giant leaf as the sun moves, dispensing shade for each chaise. Ingenua is the first fully integrated shade sail system with removable poles and adjustable sails, affording expansive shade for residential and commercial spaces with square, rectangular and triangular shapes. This spring, ShadeScapes is introducing three new Umbrosa designs; Spectra, Eclipse and Icarus, each having received rave reviews at the 2010 European outdoor design expos.

Hallmarks of the brands include superior manufacturing, innovation, commercial-grade materials, excellent quality control, and easy-to-use mechanisms with minimal maintenance. “Our combined lines provide a complete spectrum of the highest quality shade solutions,” says Edmondson. “We are all set to provide quick-ship, on-time delivery for spring.”

ShadeScapes will be exhibiting at The Hospitality and Design Expo 2011. To learn more, www.shadescapesamericas.com.