Shop The Look // Mid Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern refers to the style of furniture, art and architecture popularised during the mid-20th century, the term being cemented by Carla Greenberg in her 1983 book "Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950's". It is seen as one of the most popular, collectable and dynamic periods in international design history.
Designs from the mid-century period combine beauty, innovation , and function for an aesthetic that is utterly timeless. Characterised by their pared-down forms, sweeping clean lines, variety of colour, unique materials and superb quality, the modern day popularity of these mid-century pieces is a testament to the talent of designers of the time such as Charles and Ray Eames, Hans J Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, Eero Saarinen and Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe.

Shop the entire Mid-Century Modern range now at Utility.

Featured Product

Mid Century Modern Complete - Tome
Price: £60.00 at Utility
The definitive survey of mid-century design, offering a rich overview of all aspects of the subject including furniture, lighting, glass, textile and architecture.

SPECIAL OFFER

Spend £300 or more on Mid Century Modern furniture, design or gifts and you will receive a free copy of Dominic Bradbury's Mid Century Modern Complete tome.

Click here for more information.

Eames Desk Unit EDU
Price: £985.00 at Utility
The Eames Desk Unit from Vitra was created in 1949, when Charles & Ray Eames developed a new system of free-standing multi functional shelves.

Saarinen Tulip Chair
Price: From £1,140.00 at Utility
Though it epitomises 1960's styling Eero Saarinen's Tulip Chair was actually designed as a project between 1955 and 1957. The moulded aluminium base and fibreglass reinforced plastic shell completes its classic look.

Eames LTR Table
Price: From: £205 at Utility
This small variable side table from Charles & Ray Eames is available in Black, White or Gold and can be still seen today in the Eames House.

Barcelona Chair
Price: From £4,908.00 at Utility
Designed by Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe for the German Pavilion at the Exposicion Internacional de Barcelona, it was actually used as a throne for King Alfonso XIII at the exhibition's opening ceremonies.

Womb Chair & Ottoman
Price: From £4,884.00 at Utility
The Womb Chair & Ottoman, designed by Eero Saarinen for Knoll, was the first piece of mass produced furniture with an integrated seat shell made of reinforced plastic. Saarinen developed the chair at Florence Knoll's request as she really wanted something to curl up in.

Arco Floor Lamp
Price: From: £1,565.00 at Utility
The Arco Lamp from Flos is the epitome of a design classic. Designed by Achille Castiglioni in 1962 it remains one of the most enduring pieces of Italian design.

Frisbi Pendant Light
Price: £280.00 at Utility
A classic 1978 design by Achille Castiglioni. It consists of a polished black and chrome lamp holder under which is suspended a round cream/white disc diffuser on three tensile wires from the cable.

Luminator Floor Lamp
Price: £395.00 at Utility
Designed by brothers Achille & Pierre Giacomo Castiglioni in 1954 the Flos Luminator represents a simple tripod stand with a long galvanised stem on which the bulb is mounted.

Snoopy Table Lamp
Price: £640.00 at Utility
Everybody loves Snoopy don't they? Snoopy is a 1967 design from Flos by Pier Giacomo and Achille Castiglioni and its profile and monochrome colouring reminds us of Charlie Brown's silent yet extroverted beagle.

Alessi Citrus Basket
Price: £94.00 at Utility
This classic Citrus Basket from Alessi was designed in 1952 by Ufficio Tecnico Alessi and is one of the earliest projects of industrial design still in production by the company. No self respecting Alessi collector should be without this one!

Sunburst Clock
Price: £252.00 at Utility
This gorgeous re-edition Sunburst Clock from Vitra by George Nelson embodies the spirit of the day when it was first designed - when everyone wanted to be modern and everything seemed possible.

VITRA Doll No 4
Price: £87.50 at Utility
Based on originals found in the Girard Estate held by the Vitra Design Museum, the partly joyful, partly grim-looking company dolls makes a charming enhancement to any interior.

Hang It All
Price: £207.00 at Utility
Originally designed in 1953 by Charles Eames, it seems almost too good to cover with coats and hats. It was designed to encourage children to hang up their coats, hats, toys etc. When you have something as beautiful as this to them on you would - wouldn't you? Shop the entire Mid-Century Modern collection at Utility today.

Introducing UMBRA Shift

Here at Utility we get super excited when beautiful design meets superb functionality. That's why we're so happy to introduce the new Umbra Shift collection from UMBRA.

When starting Umbra Shift, the Umbra design team focused on imagining something they wanted to take home themselves. Beyond making something beautiful, the collection was born through a need to create products that would live perfectly in smaller spaces, live/work studios & apartments. The collection is therefore compiled of products that move easily from room to room, that serve double duties and that look good enough to be left out on display.

Shop the Umbra Shift collection here

Stay tuned for more Umbra Shift products coming soon to www.utilitydesign.co.uk

"SOLID" from Terence Woodgate

We've been selling the Sussex, Tactile and Dot sideboards from Spanish furniture company PUNT for a number of years, so when we found out that the award winning British designer behind these iconic designs, Terence Woodgate, was releasing his own brand of lighting, we were absolutely delighted.

Not one to disappoint, Woodgate has created a beautiful collection of pendant and ceiling lights that seamlessly combine simple design with cutting-edge technology. The collection which is made from pure, solid materials in Oak, Carrara and Nero Marquina marble are beautiful in their appearance as well as application, fully utilising the formidable benefits of LED technology.  

Each product in the lighting range comes complete with a MEGAMAN® LED lamp. MEGAMAN® is a leading global brand in high-performance, energy-efficient lighting and an innovative leader in LED lamp design whose advanced research and development facilities ensure a continuous supply of new, exciting, energy-saving lamps come to market every year.

Of the new "Terence Woodgate" lighting brand, Woodgate says that the "aim is to create exceptional lighting, by designing and engineering innovative products that are relevant, ultra-efficient and beautiful". In our eyes, the SOLID range goes a long way to meeting that brief.

The SOLID pendant and ceiling lights are now available to buy online at Utility - Shop the collection here.

Mooore MOOOI

Moooi have been impressing the design world for years, with furniture & lighting that is visually strong, highly functional and individual, such as the Smoke Chair, Light Shade Shade Chandelier, Pig Table and Horse Lamp. 

During Salone 2014, under the art direction of Marcel Wanders, Moooi presented their "Unexpected Welcome" exhibition, showcasing their new and exciting 2014 range in an interactive experience that had all of Milan talking - You can view the panoramic display by clicking here.

We have been steadily adding to and improving our online catalogue of Moooi products and are happy to announce that best sellers such as the Bart Sofa and Container Tables are now available to purchase at www.utilitydesign.co.uk

Joining these best sellers are a host of brand new furniture and lighting pieces that were introduced during Salone 2014 including the playfully elegant Zio Coffee Table and Sideboard, the versatile Prop Light range and the Bassotti Coffee Tables that merge the solid grace of marble table tops with the shiny lightness of classically shaped legs.

Shop the new Moooi collection here now.

Lee Broom Lighting

Lee Broom founded his eponymous British company in 2008 and has since gone on to become one of the UK s leading product and interior designers. In his short career, Lee Broom has launched five furniture and lighting collections, designed over 40 retail, restaurant and bar interiors and has won awards including the Designer of the Year at the British Design Awards in November 2011. 

The latest lighting collection from the man dubbed "the pin up of British manufacturing" is now available to purchase in our online store. Here are some of our favourite pieces.

One Light Only - OLO

OLO is a collection of striking pendant lights that draw on Lee Broom's fashion background. Characterised by its gem-like faceted exterior, OLO references both Art Deco jewellery and late 1970's fashion photography. 2014 sees the introduction of three new finishes. Two stunning matt finishes - matt white and matt gold - producing sharp lines and graphic, angled shadows on its surface. The form of the light is also reinterpreted in solid walnut - the wood grain adding a natural and tactile element to the geometric shape of the shade. A polished gold interior ensures a warm glow is emitted on all.

Shop the OLO Pendant here

Crystal Bulb 

Taking inspiration from the delicate craftsmanship of crystal cutting, the Crystal Bulb combines industrial influences with decorative qualities, transforming the everyday bulb into a beautiful ornamental light fitting. Each lead Crystal Bulb is handcrafted using traditional techniques and hand cut with a classic crystal pattern inspired by traditional whiskey glasses and decanters. The Crystal Bulb, winner of the British Design Awards for 2012/13 is available in a clear or frosted brushed brass pendant or five piece chandelier.

Shop the Crystal Bulb series here

Tile Lamp

The Tile lamp, from the award winning Heritage Boy collection, draws on traditional British manufacturing techniques and is a great example of combining classic shapes with unexpected application. Available in two sizes - blue and white - the Tile Lamp explores the use of traditional glazed tiles on lighting. The lamp is clad in a classic formation giving the impression of an upper surface of a tiled column. The Tile Lamps use genuine twice flared ceramic tiles made the same way they have been for 150 years. The moulds are hand carved and monogrammed for authenticity and are produced by the same factory that produce tiles for the London Underground.

Shop the Tile Lamp here

Introducing 'WRONG for HAY'

Initially showcased during the London Design Festival 2013, "Wrong for Hay", the collaborative venture between Danish design label, Hay and London based designer Sebastian Wrong, enjoyed a successful global debut at Salone Milan.

The collection, which comprises  furniture, textiles and accessories from designers such as Nathalie Du Pasquier, Faudet-Harrison and Lucein Gumy, is based in London and is clearly inspired by the city's creative energy, eclecticism and willingness to explore new working relationships, products and markets. 

 "Wrong for Hay is an opportunity to push the boundaries in terms of curation. We can be experimental and sophisticated but also pragmatic. It's a platform for new work that celebrates London's design culture" says the brands creative director, Sebastian Wrong. 

Hay's principle of good design at accessible prices is central to the collection with Wrong stating that "a huge part of the brief was to hit a certain price point, which is very important for us, and I think we've succeeded in doing that". 

We've compiled a list of what we think are the most exciting products from the new collection and made them available in our online store. Come and take a look!

Click here to view the collection.

NEW - Diesel Living with Foscarini - The Collection

"From rock to Pop, from casual to vintage and from graphics to art."

Foscarini has created some of the most iconic lighting designs of recent times and the Successful Living collection in conjunction with fashion company Diesel promises to do the same through expanding on a range of lights that reflect the company's raw, industrial credentials.

The latest instalment in the Diesel with Foscarini partnership, now available at Utility, is this completely new collection of lamps that speaks a multitude of languages, tells different stories and expresses an unmistakable style: the Diesel lifestyle; Ironic, unconventional, fun, fiery and creative. A way of being and of dressing that also becomes a way of furnishing.

> Click here to view the DIESEL collection.
> Click here to view the entire Foscarini Lighting collection.

New lighting additions from Flos

Launched in Milan this year Flos have now released three new designs which are now available to order. The Aim Light by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec is a fantastic 'installation' suspension light which does as it's name suggests and can be directed in different positions. Used singularly or grouped together in a maximum of 5 from one rose it's available in black or white.

Reinterpreting a design classic is a modern these in contemporary design and the Goldman Lamp, by Ron Gilad, is no exception. Goldman gives the original banker's lamp a whole new, refined image. Referencing the past in original green and bronze there's also a bang on trend version in nickel and smoke - ideal for the modern office.  Soft touch LED technology adds to its allure.

Finally Orotund by Marc Newson rounds up the trio. In white polycarbonate this round wall light combines practical illumination with sculptural flair for a statement any wall would be grateful for.

Sale and Clearance Now On!

We're in July which means one thing - our mid summer clearance and special offers sale is now on! With 15% off all our key brands including Vitra, Kartell, Carl Hansen, Fritz Hansen, Magis, Muller, Cassina, E15, Tom Dixon, Gubi and many others we've also reduced Artemide Lighting and Lightyears Lighting brands by 10%. It doesn't stop there though. We're giving away a free 500ml Waterbobble with every 3 tier Kartell Componibili purchased - which is already reduced at 15% off. Buy any three Orla Kiely items and we'll give you a Multi Stem Tea Towel absolutely FREE! Finally, don't forget to check out our warehouse clearance sale section. With big savings on a number of stock items this is your chance to bag a bargain at a fraction of the retail price. New table, lamp light or chairs? Take advantage now - and happy shopping!

New Collection from Foscarini

Foscarini have released a brand new collection of lighting solutions which exhibit new dimesnsions in sculptural forms. Each offer a spectrum of illumination possibilities from soft and diffused to intense and precise. This is particularly visible in the Magneto Desk and Floor Lamp, the diffuser and structure joined only by an electrical cable and magnetic force. Through the use of a spherical magnet, the diffuser can balance in a wide range of angles and positions - free to travel up and down the stem which is embossed with rounded impressions.  The Solar Floor Light was inspired by the subdued glow experienced during sunrise and sunset, the rounded shape enticing you to sit around its circumference - perfect for socialising. The atmospheric illuminations can be adjusted with a slight tilt and is available in indoor and outdoor options.

However the Birdie range, designed by Ludovica & Roberto Palomba, is where Foscarini have excelled through simple and organic forms to create a sophisticated collection of table, wall, ceiling and floor lights. Each are instantly recognisable via the classic shade and offshoot growing from the stem - beckoning a bird to perch upon it. The Birdie Ceiling Light is a contemporary chandelier (pictured), unlike any other ceiling light seen before and is available in a range of configurations ranging from one shade to three, six and nine for an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Congratulations Plumen

Earlier this week the Design Museum, London, announced the seven category winners for the Brit Insurance Design Awards 2011. The Product Award went to the Plumen 001 lightbulb, a collaboration between Hulger and Samuel Wilkinson. This stylish take on the low-energy lightbulb has been a hit in our store since we began stocking Plumen last year and it looks great in a variety of light fittings. You can see Plumen light bulbs on display with the NUD Collection in our home store.

Orb Lighting

A contemporary take on the the classic orb light, these beautiful additions to our Tom Dixon collection are available in two sizes.  Each of the perfectly formed blown glass spheres are embellished with a satin brass collar for that little touch of luxury.  The simple opaque glass orb emits a soft diffused light, creating a flattering and atmospheric luminosity.

Orb Pendant Lights by Tom Dixon from £425.00

Summer Sale - Now on at Utility

Our Utility Summer Sale has started online today, so boys and girls get logging on to find that beautiful design piece you've always dreamed owning of at a discounted price during our Summer Sale.

There's up to 30% off Lighting, 15% off Furniture and Accessories and up to 50% off selected lines and ex-display items.

utilitydesign.co.uk

New Utility Spring/Summer Catalgoue - get yours now!

Arriving today into our Head Office and hitting doormats of those of you who have already subscribed to our mailing list, the new Utility Spring/Summer Catalogue is here!

Full of fantastic new accessories for your home and gifts to share, plus the very best of our selection of furniture and lighting. To get yours, just sign up to our mailing list, or email info@utilitydesign.co.uk.

What's hot on the home front!

The authority on colour, Pantone, announced the Colour of the Year to be turquoise, 15-5519 to be precise! So to inspire you to rejuvenate your home and put the dull and dreary days of winter behind you, we have chosen a selection of our favourite turquoise pieces from across out furniture, lighting and home accessory ranges.

Add a splash of excitement to neutral interiors with a touch of ocean turquoise lighting or furniture, or dream about paradise as you sip from these pretty lagoon coloured tumblers.

Coro Tumblers set of 4 £15.00

Happy New Year

A new year means a fresh start, so why not brighten up these dull (and snowy) days with these beautiful Fly pendant lights.

Available in the whole rainbow spectrum, they look fantastic alone, or in a group over a dining table.

And at £116.10 each until 31st Jan, there's a beautiful bargain to be had.

The emerald green has to be my favourite, providing me with thoughts of spring yet to come. Just what I need to get me through this cold weather!

Utility Winter Sale up to 50% off!

Our Winter Sale starts 4pm Christmas Eve online and with up to 50% off, you'd be mad to miss out.

We are offering up to 15% off furniture, 10% off lighting and up 50% off ex-display and discontinued items.

So make a note in your diary to check out www.utilitydesign.co.uk from 4pm, Thursday 24th December!