FUTURE THINKING
Dig out your Moleskin notebook, Semi Permanent, the festival for design buffs, is returning with a fresh line-up of talks and events from leading overseas and local creatives. Speakers include meditative line artist Shantell Martin (work pictured), Kickstarter's Charles Adler, and Ivy Ross, Google vice-president of design. Tickets $319 upwards, August 15-17 at the Aotea Centre. Semipermanent.com
EXHIBITION WATCH
What: In Context Objectspace maps out the built environment
Why: A miniaturised view of New Zealand architecture through the lens of award-winning architect RTA Studio. A 10m imaginary map of New Zealand forms the background to 30 buildings presented as miniature paper models. Visit this if you are interested in the contribution architecture makes to our sense of culture and place.
When: August 10 to September 7 at Objectspace, 13 Rose Rd, Grey Lynn
SHADOW PLAY
Take sophistication in your living room to the next level with the Meshmatics Chandelier. The statement design by Dutch designer Rick Tegelaar crafts humble wire netting around an LED light, which casts an elaborate play of shadows on the ceiling. The chandelier was presented at Milan's Furniture Fair Salone del Mobile in April, and is now available to buy at ECC in two sizes. For inquiries, visit ECC's Auckland showroom at 39 Nugent St and online at Ecc.co.nz
PLASTIC FANTASTIC
Italian furniture brand Kartell has given its bestselling Componibili storage unit a sustainable makeover. The brand teamed up with Italian bioplastic producer Bio-On to create the product using bioplastic made from agricultural waste. The updated unit is available to pre-order and expected to arrive later this year. Priced at $495, the unit comes in four colours: green, pink, cream and yellow. Pre-order at Backhousenz.com
