Fiona Thomson Lights and Speaker

by Tim Yu

Fiona Thomson revisits iconic 19th century forms, adding a modern twist by using simple technologies to create and adapt products for the 21st century. Recently unveiled at the New Designers event in London, each of her works cleverly transforms what were purely ornamental objects into functional and useful objects.

One such standout example is Thomson's take on the traditional candelabra. She modernizes the romantic object with electricity but maintains the important portable characteristic by making it cordless. Much like other similar lighting devices we've seen in recent years, the Cordless Candelabra's charging station means it's more eco-friendly too.

Another modern upgrade to old-world decor, "Ode to Beethoven" is a speaker and iPod dock ironically concealed within a bust of its namesake. It also ups the visual status of an object that you usually try to hide.

Following the same theme, "Sit" is a lamp inspired by the large animal statues found outside grand 19th century homes. By re-appropriating the stately dog statue and adding light, it becomes a different sort of companion.

Unfortunately, only Sit is presently available for purchase. Available in black, white and porcelain for £250, contact Thomson directly at fiona_jean19 [at] hotmail [dot] com for purchasing details and visit her website for more info. We hope to see the Cordless Candelabra and Ode to Beethoven pushed into production soon.

Dr. Martens Monkey Boot

by Tim Yu

Peeking into what's next from Dr. Martens as they continue to revamp themselves for today's market, we found a couple of good options for Fall and Winter. New monochromes and a neon series are a very "now" treatment of their iconic heavy-soled boots, but we also like the more traditional look of their Monkey Boot.

First released back in the late '60s as a lighter-weight alternative to their more traditional styles, the reissue is now available in both leather and suede with either white or tan transparent soles. With a classic silhouette, subtle stitched details and rigid construction, it's a shoe that's sure to last a long time. The no-frills design is testament to Dr. Martens values, further proof of their role as one of the most consistent, unwavering and timeless boot brands.

Available soon from Dr. Martens for $130.

A Figurinista: Cute Monsters Jewelry

by Phuong-Cac Nguyen

At one time or another you've likely experienced some type of pareidolia, the mind's trick of seeing a face where there isn't one. Brazilian designer A Figurinista embraces the concept with her Cute Monsters jewelry. The collection repurposes vintage pieces to make brooches that resemble eyes, ears and a mouth for a result that's as adorable as it is eclectic.

Is it just me or am I seeing similarities to Muppet characters among some of them?

Each goes for $176. Contact A Figurinista to learn how to get a hold of her pins.

Picture China

by Tim Yu

As is to be expected when it comes to the world's preeminent sports meet and (perhaps more importantly) cultural event, coverage during the first weekend of the Olympic Games was heavy on cheesy montages and stuffy commentary. For a richer, more authentic look into China and their way of life, we recommend NYC-based photographer Dan Eckstein's recent project entitled Picture China.

A documentary and fine arts photographer, Dan Eckstein spent a few months traveling 10,000 km through China in 2006 to document contemporary life there leading up to the Olympic games. The photo essay depicts scenes from the rural Tibetan plateau all the way to the East China Sea, exposing the diversity and rapidly changing culture. We also get a look into the demolition of the Hutongs (traditional Beijing neighborhoods) to make room for the modern buildings seen there today. Eckstein's approach makes for documentary photos with vibrant color.

The series as a whole serves as an intimate look into the host country's landscape and life providing an unfiltered and rare look into China. Currently back in Beijing to document the Olympic experience for the likes of PBS and the New York Times, be sure to visit Eckstein's personal site and his photo blog, Look Closer, to view his other works from around the world.