LINEMODERN is literally about modern lines, with their sleek Adela and Lita chairs composed of layers of laminated baltic birch plywood. The result is an regular, striated appearance that flows from top to bottom and subtly emphasizes every curve. Veneered edges bring the repetition to a graceful close and simultaneously reveal the “true” grain of the wood; these pieces seem as if carved directly from a tree, and are stunning representations of nature in modern garb.
linemodern.com

LIKE THE OCEAN ITSELF Karim Rashid’s beautiful Tide dresser rhythmically beckons. The wardrobe’s rippled front is composed of staggered horizontal flaps; the effect is a mesmerizing pattern that constantly shifts as you move about the unit. Two top drawers are standard; choose from either a full-length flap front or two deep drawers for the bottom; the stylish stainless steel base is also optional (we prefer it with).
$3,299, gnr8.biz

BUILD IT YOURSELF is MuNiMulA’s approach to seating, and it’s surprisingly efficient. From a simple aluminum frame and Maharam wrapped cushions come an entire array of furniture: cocktail and end tables, seats, ottomans and benches all can be assembled on the fly. The secret lies in the cushions; add a special cushion back to form a chair, or remove the cushions entirely to create a table. The entire system is stylish to boot, with five different colors and a tight, minimalist design.
$350-$900, puremodern.com

COLOR WHEELS HAVE NOTHING on Mary Lynn O’Shea’s vibrant Salon Chairs. Minute touches like ultra-suede piping and spring reinforced cushions are easy to lose in the rich jacquard fabric, but make no mistake–these are thoughtfully designed pieces, built not only for comfort but conversation.
$2900, guild.com

IT’S NOT AS SIMPLE AS IT LOOKS, which is perhaps for the best: the Zero-In Coffee Table is all about suspension of disbelief, as anything on its surface seems to float on thin air. Glossy molded polyester walls angle inwards, placing additional focus on the glass which appears invisible thanks to being essentially flush with the table.
$1,350, momastore.org

THEY CALL IT PINCH because that’s exactly what will happen if you happen to slip into the space between the seat and backrest. Funky design notwithstanding, Established and Sons’ Pinch chairs are actually quite practical. Made from durable powder-coated aluminum, up to four can be stacked: great for parties in (forgive the pun) a pinch.
$595-$765, mattermatters.com

THE SOFT GEOMETRY of the Lipla Bed is a conscious effort to accommodate both modern styles and more comfort-seeking sensibilities. Hard, angular lines are wrapped in fabric, making for an interesting combination of the industrial and the sensual. Note that the clamp-shaped headboard is optional, although it seems rather integral to us; also available are a wide range of colors–electric green has never looked so good.
porro.com

CONTRAST AS A FEATURE: Skram’s Wishbone Desk is brimming with juxtapositions. Chiefly a conflict between the hand-rubbed rosewood top and the powder coated steel frame, pairs such as solid vs. delicate, wood vs. metal and positive space vs. negative space make for odd bedfellows. All of this makes for a distinctly modern table with a healthy splash of traditional style.
$2,300-$4,400, 2modern.com

SWANK BUT COMPACT, the Tiny Living’s cotton twill Sit Sit Chair is a boon to modern aesthetes in small apartments and cramped quarters. Sit Sit includes an ottoman that docks underneath the chair but also can serve as an a la carte seat. Our favorite feature however is the back pocket: perfect for holding magazines and remotes, this is a coffee table for those who just don’t have the space.
$299, tinyliving.com

SIMPLE AND SUSTAINABLE, West Elm’s White Bamboo serving bowls also make for eye-pleasing entertaining. A whitewash finish gives this set a light and airy ambience, while the organic and concentric texture adds a touch of nature to the dining room. The bowls come in three sizes; a round serving tray with integrated handles is also available.
$14-$34, westelm.com

LIGHTING AFICIONADO Pablo Pardo takes his craft into the world of seating with his Light Table Bench, which promises to cast a translucent glow on rumps and rears the world over. Composed of acrylic (with steel and aluminum hardware), the bench includes a continuous dimmer switch and looks nearly as stylish off as it does on.
$700, dwr.com

FOR MODERN WORKER BEES, Gubi’s Hive is a slick shelving system made from bent aluminum and wrapped in oak or American walnut. The Hive is sold in individual two-shelf units which are joined by a flat connector and remind us of barbells. This design allows for horizontal as well as vertical expansion: stack up to four shelves on aluminum lacquered steel legs.
gubi.dk