Memphis Group

The Memphis Group for me, as a designer, is something it's impossible not to have an opinion about.  It's certainly had an effect on design.  From Philippe Starck to Karl Lagerfeld.  My feelings change year to year from my first discovery in my art school library to now writing about the group. 

We all have our opinions; do we love or loathe?  

Founded by the Milanese designer and architect Ettore Sottsass, it incited designers of everyday objects - from office chairs to buildings via wallpaper and vases - to break away from clean-cut mainstream modern European design.The Memphis group drew inspiration from such movements as Art Deco And Pop Art including styles such as the 1950s 'Kitsch' and futuristic themes. The group produced and exhibited furniture and design objects, annually from 1981 until 1988. The result was a highly-acclaimed debut at the 1981 Salone del Mobile of Milan, the world's most prestigious furniture fair, where it was reported that it stole the show. 

Why? 

Taking risks, pushing boundaries, challenging the cultural market at the time....  I think they did it right. 

"Suvretta" by Sottsass 1981 

Taylors' "Airport" Cabinet 1982 

    

       

Sottsass' "Quisisana" ceiling light 1981

Read and see more at their own site Memphis Icons of Desire. 

Colouring Brighton - Appendage

We have worked with Hilary from Appendage in Brighton for two years now, designing and making pieces for her unique shop. She is passionate in providing people with cutting edge UK design led and British manufactured accessory products for  home and fashion. 

Appendage has been opened for 25 years and is a fantastic boutique. It is apparent of her background and training all throughout the store. 

It is always a pleasure making these bespoke pieces for her as we too share a passion for colour and surface pattern. Clashing bold colours in our modern 60's take on classic baroque style.

Bright pastel pink teamed with cobalt and matt red in a short baroque black faceted jem necklace.

Beaded Baroque Danglers

A detail of our Bright Baroque chunky bracelet.

Neon colour pieces for Think Boutique

We loved creating some bespoke jewellery pieces for one of our clients - Think Boutique collection is an ethical online boutique and pop up shop platform hosted in Glasgow. They combine wearable styles with eye-catching one-off statement pieces. They carefully chose our wearable bright neon colours in our deco design for their collection.  

Victoria McQuillan has a great eye for design, colour, quality and an extensive knowledge in ethical fashion brands.  A lady after my own heart. 

Check out their carefully selected pieces. Link below.

Fantastic fashion images by Gillian Hayes at Dapple Photography & Think Boutique  copyright.
Product images copyright Uncommonly Beautiful.

Spotty Dotty Day - with our wooden studs!

We are having a spotty dotty day, are you?  

Well visit our shop and add some fun into your life,

 and onto your ears!!

Project work with Industri[us]

We have been working with Industri[us] on a exciting project.


They are a non-profit social organisation transforming 'waste' materials through upcycling, to encourage enterprise, innovation & training on site specific spaces.  People power has begun  and a  celebration has been created called 'The Festival of Upcycling' in Canning Town from June to September.   This will attract Londoners and Olympic tourists with a hub of  interactive events/exhibitions/education/ and markets selling young british products.


This was how we all began more than a year ago in like minded hopes, conversation and ideals.  More info on few days of why Uncommonly Beautiful wanted to help our social community.  



INDUSTRI[us] from Fluid on Vimeo.



The festive of upcycling is taking shape. Check out their Facebook, their blog and get involved! People can make a difference to the world, a little is better than nothing! 

New pieces for winter

Inspired by our AW collection , we've created these three lovely one off pieces using our custom baroque pattern.
In black, emerald green and gold they're a perfect winter staple. See more at the shop....

Styling & Salvage

Definitely my favorite discovery of the week, ingenious re-made project using flooring at 

the Kings Hall in Hackney. 

If you don't know of this man then you should definitely check out his work, 

styling & salvage by Rupert Balnchard: http://www.stylingandsalvage.com/

stunning stuff!

One day I hope one of these little wonders will be mine! :

New studs.....

3 new styles of studs made today, made using reclaimed vintage buttons and set on new 925 sterling silver backs. All available on the online shop now for just a tenner...quite a bargain we think!Limited edition, 3-5 pairs made of each design. 

http://uncommonlybeautifulrecycledaccessories.bigcartel.com/