My Three Favorite Modern Design Websites

George Nakashima (1905-1990) Desk, New Hope Pennsylvania, 1977 (Lot 324,   Estimate $8,000-$10,000)

George Nakashima (1905-1990) Desk, New Hope Pennsylvania, 1977 (Lot 324, Estimate $8,000-$10,000)

As I catalog modern furniture, art glass, and other great design pieces for my June 28, 2014 Modern Design auction, I try to take a moment here and there to appreciate the pieces individually and think about where they could end up. How will the buyer place this Nakashima chair in her small apartment? Will this delicate art glass lamp end up in a place of honor in a collector’s living room?

One of the best ways to feel more inspired about objects and design is to see examples of beautifully designed rooms and elegantly solved design problems. I’ve always enjoyed  magazines and books on design, but of course nowadays there’s also a wealth of information online.

These wonderful sites will inspire you to take some time out of your busy day and dream about what could be possible in your own home.

1. Apartment Therapy

If you haven’t seen this site yet, you’re in for a treat. The tag line is: “Saving the World, One Room at a Time,” and I have to say that this site very well could accomplish that goal. With posts on everything from color and kilims (Persion rugs) to toilet paper roll covers, you’ll find solutions and creative ideas for both large and small design projects. You can even post your own questions and seek the advice of other visitors to the site.

2. Arts & Crafts Collector

The elegant yet simple design of Bruce Johnson’s site mimics the style of the Arts & Crafts movement. I recommend signing up for the newsletter to receive regular updates including practical tips and history about Arts & Crafts objects. Bruce Johnson also runs the annual Arts & Crafts Conference in North Carolina.

3. Design Milk

This widely popular site aims to bring readers “what’s fresh and new in art, architecture, interior design, furniture and decor, fashion, and technology.” Scroll through the posts to find ingenious, simple, and innovative designs. You’ll find everything from furniture collections to individual pieces of art to a fish tank that looks like it’s about to fall off the table.

What design blogs and websites do you turn to when you’re seeking inspiration?

Originally published November 1, 2011. Revised and updated June 5, 2014.

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