Design wise

David Moreland in the Simon James Design Gallery with his bodyraft wooden sculpture. Photo / NZ Herald

Furniture designer David Moreland's latest piece of work, the medieval inspired and cutely named Knight Light, is currently being exhibited as part of the NZ Room at the Venice Biennale - and Kanye West recently featured it on his blog too. Moreland, whose modern furniture designs make use of clean, simple lines, spent several years as part of David Trubridge's Cicada Studios, and now works for Simon James Design in Auckland. He launched his namesake line around 2003, which is stocked at high-end design stores around the country. His simple and modern design aesthetic is reflected in his 10 favourite pieces right now.

TEN FAVOURITE THINGS

1. Knight Light

This peach-coloured bedside lamp was specified by Katie Lockhart and features an old Rendell's powder coat finish. It was nice to break away from the standard black/white colourway for this design and do something a bit different.

2. Aroha Lamour prints

These prints are part of a gorgeous range and are available in any colour - I love Rakai Karaitiana's designs and these two favourites sit proudly on my wall.

3. Kitsch BBQ plates

Where would any New Zealand house be without some classic kiwiana? These plates have been inherited through the family and still get daily use, especially when summer rolls around.

4. Tall Tank by Alexander Taylor

This floor-standing lamp is a beautiful design from British brand Established & Sons. Like all their pieces, it has great proportions and is constructed perfectly.

5. Peter Baker Bread Tags

Gerrit Rietveld and Clifford Brown feature on these works. Jazz and architecture are two of my passions and definitely Peter's as well.

6. Polder Sofa by Hella Jongerius

This sofa is so on the wish list, it comes in some great colour combinations and is super comfy. The different sized cushions and buttons add nice detailing to this refined, simple design.

7. Nan's photo cube

This is the same as my nan's which has been sitting on her fridge for quite a number of years now and I intend to do the same with mine. It always reminds me of her and Grandad, and their prize-winning jersey cow, Rona.

8. Torch Lights by Sylvain Willenz

These lights for Established & Sons are made out of moulded textured plastic and are very aptly named. I love the in-set diffuser which reinforces the "torch" aesthetic.

9. Model Bodyraft by David Trubridge

One of New Zealand's most famous furniture designs, which is currently manufactured by Italian company Cappellini. I made this smaller version when I was working for David a few years ago, I love it as this miniature can actually fit in my lounge!

10. Steelwood Family by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec

Near perfection in my view. This range is a stunning combination of steel ... and wood. One of the most elegant designs from these French brothers who have an incredible portfolio of work.