ReubenMiller

ReubenMiller's Got a Brand-Spanking New Look!

I'm sure you've noticed by now that we've got a fresh new look for the blog. After a lot of coding, tweaking and generally making a mess of CSS, I've managed to get it to look half-decent (let me know what you think of it!) It still remains a work-in-progress. The goal of this redesign was to make it easier to get around and add some more color. After all, you know we're suckers for color!

Last but not least, our large header incorporates the work of a featured artist. We'll be featuring different artists in that space and rotating them over time to keep things interesting. This isn't a sponsored spot, but rather a testament to our support of great artists. Our first feature is of the brilliant and witty Simon Oxley, one of our all-time favorites.

Enjoy!

Alexa's Top 90 Design Weblogs

Want to know the top design blogs according to Alexa? Well, we've compiled all 90 of them. I have no clue how they come up with these rankings, but hey, these are great sites to check out and bookmark! (ReubenMiller ranks 24 - not bad.)

Jason Iftakhar Raw Bench

London-based designer Jason Iftakhar created the Raw Bench from cardboard and strapping material commonly used in shipping. This surprisingly sturdy bench has an interesting profile, which gives it some extra aesthetic appeal. I wonder if the asymmetrical angles are also functional and help make it strong.

More images follow.

Maui Living

"How two designers traded Manhattan for Maui and created an energy-effient, off-the-grid retreat" - ReadyMade.

Good 50X70 2008

One of the many entrants to Good 50X70 2008: "Prepare to Migrate"  Handoko Tjung    (Indonesia).

Lumeta: Peel & Stick Solar

Lumeta PowerPly modules are the world's first commercial-scale, "peel and stick" solar modules. Designed by engineers at California's leading roofing contractor, the Lumeta Powerply uses industry-standard roof adhesives compatible with most commercial roofing systems - making it the easiest-to-install commercial solar module on the market" (via engadget)

Mt. Range Coat Hook

The Mt. Range is a neat coat hook rack by Brave Space of Brooklyn, NY. They make these from off-cuts of wood. The beauty of the FSC-certified maple layers inside is heightened by the irregular angles, giving the rack a very appealing snow-capped mountain range appearance. I love how this can look like a wall sculpture when not in use, but is actually a very functional coat hook rack in disguise.

Continue reading to see more of Brave Space's work and learn more about them.

Repurposing - Gomi Style

Woodworking Leftovers as Fashion Statement

Jason and Lars Dressler, the Canadian twin brothers and woodworkers of Brothers Dressler, make terrific furniture.  Above is a photo showing off the attractive form of their onedge ottoman + lounge. Besides being phenomenal woodworkers (and twins to boot) there is something else special about Brothers Dressler: they use their leftover wood cuttings to make equally attractive jewelry and curious toys.

Off-cuts of plywood from their furniture are turned into one-of-a-kind bangles and small wooden toys called cutlets. I'm not sure if I like their furniture or jewelry better - but why decide? I'd add both to my wish list.

Cardboard Play Kitchen

I'm alway on the lookout for cool repurposing projects. Especially when it comes to kids toys. Why bother running to big box department stores and doling out loads of cash for made-in-china toys?

I think Anna's little kitchen unit built entirely from recycled (as in, salvaged from the dumpster) corrugated cardboard is brilliant. Now I'm wishing her plans might become 'shareware'.

Read more here.

[Thanks GoodyBlog]