Cool Hunting

by Laurice Parkin

Following last year's debut of the Botanist Line, this year Orange 22, Dario Antonioni's LA-based design studio, will reveal the Botanist "Blank Canvas" Series at the ICFF and we're pleased to bring you the exclusive sneak preview. Eight collaborators were tasked with putting their own design mark on the simple shapes made from single sheets of aluminum. The diverse line-up of creatives includes the iconic Milton Glaser (I heart NY) to the ubiquitous Karim Rashid (most recently of the cone-shaped Dirt Devil fame). (Rashid's design pictured above right, Glaser's below left. See more images and details after the jump.)

But, these innovators will be doing more than just putting their own artful spin on the simple, organic-inspired forms. Each will choose a charity of their choice and Orange 22 will match their profits for donation. It is a unique collaboration of both altruism and creativity.

For Antonioni, the Botanist line, which is manufactured in all ways green, is also a way for the design community to give back. As he puts it, "Creativity empowered for positive change." It's always good to know that design is doing more than just making your living space look hot.

If you can't wait to purchase a Blank Canvas Series, you can check out Botanist at a store near you. Look for Orange 22's Blank Canvas Debut at ICFF, 17-20 May 2008 at the Javits Convention Center, NYC.

Milton Glaser

Claude Zellweger for One & Co.

Kahi Lee

Karim Rashid

Margo Chase

Joe Ricchio

Massimo and Lella Vignelli