Lorenza Filati Homeware

Reinterpreting patterns and colors of traditional Guatemalan crafts for charming decor

Despite its very Italian name, Lorenza Filati is a Guatemalan homeware brand that reinterprets indigenous materials in modern ways. Founder Lorena Figueroa says that she chose an Italian brand name upon noting that “names from other countries were selling well” in Guatemala. She picked one that also plays off her own initials. It was a labor born of insomnia—initially Figueroa spent her late nights painting …

Wei Li’s Encased Leather Luggage

3D models of the human form meet handmade leather for functional art

While exemplary luggage brands abound, we’ve never quite seen anything like artist Wei Li‘s most recent collection, dubbed “Encased.” Li evokes physical attributes, by way of body, balance and tension—from actual human models. 3D renderings lead to mold construction, as Li ultimately modifies high end leather so that it bears something sensual, equal parts soft and strong. “I guess I didn’t start the project knowing …

ilovedust at Andaz Liverpool Street London

The design studio tells us about decorating their room at the Shoreditch hotel

British multi-disciplinary studio ilovedust has a wide range of projects under its belt, having worked with companies like Carhartt, Absolut Vodka and Wired. But among its latest projects is an unusual assignment; not creating designs for a brand, campaign or event, but for the hotel guests at the Andaz Liverpool Street London hotel. The Andaz chain has a reputation for stylish, unusual hotels that really …