nude. chaise. lounge.

I don't usually go in for white fiberglass furniture but I'll make an exception for this racy little number from Twentieth Art & Design. At $3,000 the price tag seems a little much for what you get, but you can use it indoor or out so that adds a bit of value. It comes in other colors too. I don't know why it's called "nude" unless the designers are referring to the lack of any cushions or coverings...or maybe they just want to be provocative.

archipel.

Archipel is a series of asymmetrical "elements" that can be joined in many ways: stools can be armrests or storage centers, some pieces can be slid over others, etc. You can even get it with gas springs" so the backs can be raised another 3" or so. The modular design lets you build "an island kingdom that can be assembled to taste and used at will." Sweet! The pieces range in price from $1,188.20 to $6,141.20. (You'd think they could spot you the $.20, but I guess not.) There's also this bit of description that I don't understand: "The formation of folds in Leolux products cannot be avoided, due to the design and the preference for comfort." Whatever that is, it's a small price to pay for Archipel island living, I say.

oscar.

Oscar is billed as an outlet protector/multiplier to keep dangerous cords under cover and away from curious kids. It's such an awesome design though that the kid in me immediately wants to play with it, so not sure how safe it will keep the children, but I think it's far more attractive than the PowerSquid everyone has been ooing and ahing over. So far there is only a European version but Nony says if they get enough interest they'll make one for the US too, so let's all start writing them.

morning. glory.

This amazing lamp by Diana Harrison is made out of cast Unryu Japanese paper to look like a blossoming Morning Glory. It takes a 75-watt bulb and stands just under 6 feet tall (okay, it's 5' 11" if you really want to know). Will cost you $510 and another $45 in shipping. Money well spent I say.

saab. roadster.

I'm not a huge fan of Saab cars, but this wooden Roadster for "kids" has me drooling and wishing Santa would come back and give me one. It's based on the design for the original Saab, Sixten Sason's prototype 92001. The steering wheel is made of wood, Saab says, "just like the old sports car steering wheels." The rest of it is ABS plastic and metal. (I thought I read somewhere that the wheels were made by Goodyear but now can't verify that.) "A Saab Key Chain Car is packed by the Car for free!"