WEmake is a new design studio operating London since July 2003. Using the world's most common latext object, WEmake created a series of eight ceramic salt and pepper shakers. All the objects in the series, Called "Condoments," are handmade in London, and are limited editions -- only 100 of each shape will be produced. The salt and pepper shakers appeared in several design shows through the Fall, and are now available via mail order and in selected UK design shops.

More info: www.wemake.co.uk

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The Spyropoulos brothers - Theodore and Stephen - have recently launched a design and architecture studio in London called Minimaforms. They've completed a variety of web projects including the site for Pressuredrop and One Eye Records. Minimaforms is an experimental studio investigating communication and responsive environments using architectural elements and interactive design. In addition to teaching at the AA shool of architecture, Theodore has worked as an architect in the offices of Eisenman Architects and Zaha Hadid. Stephen is completing a masters in in Interactive Design at Central St. Martins School of Art and Design in London while also working as a freelance Art Director for Samsung Interactive. Their web site shows samples of their designs and thinking, and promises more to come.

More info: www.minimaforms.com

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Sumajin is a 3 year old industrial design firm based in Singapore. Their "Smartwrap" project, a one-piece cable management tool, won a Design Distinction award in the ID magazine Design Review of 2002. This inspired them to begin designing their own products in small quantities. Their latest product is "Flex," an anthopomorphic key fob in bright colors. With easy access to local manufacturers, Sumajin can produce and distribute their items in a cost-efficient manner. Upcoming products include tableware, candles, and furniture. Sumajin products are currently available via mail order (contact the company directly) but they are in negotiations with design shops in Singapore, Sydney, London, Tokyo, and New York.

More info: www.sumajin.com

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Marco Colasanti, an Italian designer based in Rome, recently won an Honorable Mention in 2003 eMotion in Motion design competition, for his "Daffy" project. The entry, a tea kettle with grips facilitating use by people with various handicaps, was cited for it's innovative use of materials.

More info: www.mcd.it

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DW Product Development Inc, a Canadian design consultancy based in Ottawa, recently worked with Black & Deckeron a third product in a line of extremely accurate and affordable consumer leveling products, for the Do-It-Yourselfer. Released in November 2003, the Black & Decker 360 Auto Laser Level provides users with a 120 degree or total 360 laser level line, for the best possible clarity in daytime use.

The 360 Auto Laser Level uses magnetic damping to quickly produce level lines, providing for level installation of many home projects. The unique design of the integrated tripod allows it to serve as a protective case for the unit when not in use. The telescoping segments click and lock when extended (up to 5 feet) and a fine adjustment feature allows for accurate height targeting. Additional features included a custom strap to hang the laser unit at extreme heights for added versatility.

More info: www.dwcanada.com

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Product Ventures Ltd has just completed a redesign of the coffee can for the Folgers brand, owned by Procter & Gamble. A plastic coffee can is an industry first, and the new structure will replace the signature red metal can that has been on store shelves for nearly 150 years. The package has an integrated grip area and peel-off seal for greater convenience - no more can-openers or sharp edges.

More info: www.productventures.com

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NY/LA creative studio Trollbäck & Company recently completed an identity program for WhatGoesAround.org, a new, not-for-profit organization and Website that allows users to register charitable organizations into a "give list." The site lists over 900,000 organizations that people can select as their choices for donations. The users then share this list with their friends and relatives, simplifying the process of donating in someone's name. The identiy uses the metaphor of a dandelion seed, to reflect that idea that giving can spread like the wind, and where many small, individual actions can result in large changes.

More info:
www.whatgoesaround.org
www.trollback.com

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Product Development Technologies won an Editors Choice Award from Popular Mechanics at the 2003 CES show for thier work on a five unit family line of GMRS radios from Cobra Electronics. The line, ranging from a low-end, entry-level radio for kids to high-end models with advanced features for serious weekend warriors, used a common design language to tie them together visually, while allowing for differentiation of the individual models through the use of by color, size and form. Prioritizing function buttons and using consistent locations underscores ease-of-use, a primary goal for the designers. Textured areas provide a secure grip, while robust antennae and power buttons accent the product line's positioning as a rugged, reliabile performer.

To show that they can work with the female persuasion as well, PDT recently completed a project for Medela, designing the "Harmony" breast pump. The goal here was to create a pump that feels and functions as comfortably as natural breast-feeding. Designed for maximum comfort, the pump features a "SoftFit" breast shield that conforms to mother's shape and gently massages while she pumps. The innovative ergonomic handle swivels for easy positioning and one-handed use, while its cushioned surface reduces fatigue. Because it contains fewer parts than traditional manual pumps, it is easy to assemble and clean.

More info: www.pdt.com

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The 2-Way side table can currently be spotted on the set of the TONIGHT SHOW with Jay Leno. The base of this versatile piece can be flipped to hold the tabletop in two different orientations, completely changing the look of the table. Designed by the New York-based group TRUCK Product Architecture, the 2-Way side and cocktail tables will be available in May 2004 through the Pure Design catalog.

More info:
www.the-truck.com
www.pure-design.com

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