#Modern Chinese Style Furniture

[cliozaur]

Hauteville House. Part 1

I’ll start with the oriental motifs in the interior of Hauteville House. Hugo was one of the intellectual founders of orientalism: though he never travelled to the East, he held strong opinions about it and was never shy in sharing them. The entire house is a curious mixture of oriental and gothic elements. He had a particular love for low divans inspired by Muslim interiors—they’re everywhere. But the strongest sense of oriental influence is felt in the so-called Red and Blue Rooms, both designed as sitting rooms.

The Red Room evokes a theatre and was partly inspired by Hugo’s childhood in Spain, but it also features African figures and Asian ornaments. The Blue Room, on the other hand, is covered with damask and adorned with chinoiseries. Hugo and his son scoured shops on Guernsey and in England for various pieces of Chinese furniture. A beautiful set of blue and gold glass-bead embroideries, originally bought for his lover Juliette Drouet (who lived next door), adds a stunning touch to the room’s decor.

This mixture of oriental and gothic aesthetics is present throughout: a medieval mirror against Chinese wallpaper, and Chinese figures above the entrance of his eclectic Delft-style dining room.

A gift from Hugo’s close friend, Alexandre Dumas, a bronze scent burner.

My favourite orientally-inspired piece is the two wooden panels in Hugo’s private room. He personally carved a story of a knight and a dragon (reminiscent of St. George's legend) for his grandchildren. The dragon itself is very oriental—it was inspired by another piece of Chinese furniture on the ground floor of the house. He used to tell his grandchildren stories about the dragon, and then he carved and painted it. The panels feel strikingly modern, almost Art Nouveau. You can even see Hugo’s initials carved in the lower corner.

[munchin-cheese]

My Current 1.6 Mod list: Deco and Fashion (3/3)

🪑Furniture

I'll try to list this category as best as I can. I have a lot of furniture mods and I'm still getting a lot more ☆(＃××)

TheDeafProphet's : Furniture Catalogue | Dining room | Rugs

Orangeblossom's : Basic Bedroom Furniture | Too Many Swatches II | Too Many Swatches Furniture Recolor | 500 kudos milestone gift | Furniture Catalog | Not so Basic Kitchen Add ons | Seasonal French Doors Windows | Basic Dining Set | Vintage Chich Interiors | Greenhouse Set

PlatinumCat's : Painting | Rattan Furniture

Twinkle22's : Opulence

Farmerbeans's : Pirate Furniture and Decorations | Bathroom Furniture

Himetarts & Wildflour : Farmers Marker Furniture - Wildflour set | Bathroom furniture | Fairy Garden Furniture | Fairy Garden Indoor Furniture | Farmers Market | Bakery set | Fish Butcher | Greenhouse | Plant lovers Furniture | Magical Furniture

Others : 8BitAlien's Cottagecore Furniture | Guxelbit's Funiture | Asters Big Furniture Pack | Cute Cottagecore Furniture | Desvudiary's Chocolate Brown Furniture Recolor | Divine Offerings | Dustbeauty's Inudstrial Furniture | Hojicha Furniture | Idalda Furniture Recolor | Lacey Rugs 2 | Lively Table Decore | Logo's Hodgepodge | Mioudew's Elegant Victorian Furniture | Modern Gothic Interior | More Doors PIF | Nano's Retro style furniture | NPC Furniture and Wallpaper | West Elm Furniture by Atlast | Song Ke's Chinese Fish Tank And Lotus Tank | Cozy Chocolate Furniture | Maximalism | Nostalgic Old Furniture Collection | | Vanilla Furniture Tweaks | Yellog's Dark Brown and Cream Furniture | Blight's Furniture pack1 | Hayao Miyazaki Style Furniture

🚪Wallpaper and Flooring

Pretty Wallpaper | Wallpaper and flooring Hojicha | K10_FTW's Woods Wainscoting and Floors | Rustic Country Walls and floors

🧣Fashion

I only have one for new haircuts, it works without fashion sense

╮(￣ω￣;)╭

Fashionable Hairstyles Gentlemen Edition

I hope this mod list helped youu, if you're curious about anything feel free to ask ! (´ ε ` )♡ (Part 2 here) (Part 1 here)

[avaantares]

Guardian Bonus Bingo: Answer

Okay, I'm going to have to cheat a little on this. I do have an absolutely IDEAL scene for the @guardianbingo "Answer" fill, one that contains the exchange

"Does that answer your question, [name redacted]?"

"If I say no, will you repeat the answer?"

...but I realized I can't post it as a fill because it's the penultimate scene in the (very long) story I'm (hopefully) about to start posting, and as such it would be a spoiler. And since there are a few dozen chapters ahead of it -- most of which I still need to finish editing, and definitely won't have ready before the end of the amnesty period -- I can't just post the rest of the story early to fill the prompt. >.<

So since that can't go live just yet, and I doubt that two lines of dialogue out of context constitutes a bingo fill, I'm going to tackle a question that probably has no definitive answer (see what I did there?). It's one that has mystified me every time I've rewatched this series, and which (conveniently) I was prompted to ask again while pulling gifs from episode 3 for my last bingo fill. The question is:

"Why Do We Even HAVE That Library?"

(If you read that in Izma's voice, you get it.)

The SID has a library. We see it several times throughout the series. But we aren't sure why it has a library, because Zhu Hong straight up states that it's not functional:

...And looking at the books, it's clear that the SID library really is the collection of all time. What's the theme? By what criteria are books selected for inclusion? How are the books catalogued? Why are half of them upside-down on the shelves? Why are there a dozen duplicate copies of several titles? WHO KNOWS?

(Well, probably Sang Zan, eventually. But he's not here yet.)

To probe this mystery, I decided to zoom in and see what I could make of the books. And lo and behold, some of the books have legible titles!

Bottom shelf, left to right:

BLOOD RITE Dominique (not sure if that's an author or a subtitle)

CLASSICAL NOVEL (very original title, that)

Arletta (the Comic Sans nightmare that appears all over the place in various cover colors)

(indecipherable; I think it's both in Chinese and upside-down on the shelf, but it's out of focus)

the statue of liberty (style preserved)

LUXURY HOTELS

Read It Yourself With (last word cut off)

CENTURY

BLOODY HARVEST: The Killing of Falun Gong for Their Organs (I am actually surprised by this one; I had assumed this book was banned by the CCP, but there are multiple copies here)

CENTURY (upside-down this time!)

THE CATCHER IN THE (presumably RYE)

Next shelf:

The People's Lawyer

Unicist Organizational Cybernetics

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE (volume numbers obscured by Zhu Hong's hand; it's the book she's taking down)

Something with an approximation of the American flag and a bunch of languages on the spine

untitled

untitled

BLOOD RITE Dominique (same book as lower shelf)

OUYE Sofa + Furniture (this one's repeated all over the shelves, along with CENTURY and Arletta)

Basics of Modern Economic Management (translated title)

Corporate Finance (translated title)

the 10Ks of Personal Branding

GLOWIENKA

GLOWIENKA (but upside-down)

In addition to many duplicates of these books on other shelves, other titles visible on the wide angle pans include:

Anne of Green Gables (good to know this classic also exists on Haixing)

The American Journal of Medicine (we already suspected America existed on Haixing, given the flag stool in ZYL's apartment)

Imperial Crown

Charles Darwin: The Descent of Man (parallel evolution on Haixing? *rimshot*)

The Hotel Book

None of these titles seem particularly relevant to the SID's function -- except, perhaps, for the Justice of the Peace regulations, which Zhu Hong was actually looking for -- which makes me think there must either be a secret code of some kind, or the SID once raided an IKEA OUYE and took all their prop display books into evidence, and then someone at the SID later saw all the books and assumed it was a reference library.

A lot of the titles in this scene aren't really clear, but when I have time to pull up later episodes that have scenes dealing with the library specifically (Zhao Xinci visiting, et al.), it might be fun to grab some frames, enhance with the magic of Photoshop, and put them on my 4K display to see if I can find other interesting titles.

Also, I don't have time to go looking just now, but I'd bet the books in the library are duplicates of the ones in Shen Wei's apartment, which I seem to remember being pretty random. They recycled so much of the set dressing, I can't imagine there would be more than one collection of weird shelf-fill.

Zhao Yunlan's tastes, on the other hand, are a bit narrower. The most prominently-displayed book in his apartment is just titled Furniture.

[ask-missparker]

—This is your place?

—

Arron & Mia - Father Daughter Duo

Continue this fanfic

Summary: Sometimes your father can see right through you while you’re still alive…

Mention of -> May Parker, Skye, and her friends

Warning: Some angst and fluff

——

After the simple agreement was made by the two parties, they headed out to one of the homes in the small village. And if anyone had to be honest, The Afterlife, was actually kinda beautiful.

Greenery everywhere, people with powers young and old walking around, guardsmen at some point of entrance and other things. It was actually quite common and comforting with its architecture as well. Modern architecture with a classic design inspired by European and Chinese architectural elements.

Arron led his daughter to his quiet home in the mist of the valley.

This is your place? She wondered.

It seem like any other classic rustic style house, with wood floors, gray walls and a combination of modern furniture with a comfortable vintage interior. To be honest, she liked it. It seemed like a house you could see in a whole wooden doll house. Arron could sense she liked it, even if Mia wasn’t going to admit it.

He gestured for her to sit down and get comfortable.

As soon as Mia sat down on the black leather couch and lean back against the cushions she hummed. She then asked, “Alright..what do you want to know?”

“Hold on.” He replied softly chuckling as tossing her a water bottle, guessing she might be thirsty or something. Of course she caught it.

Mia nodded as her lips pouted slightly and looked around. She didn’t see any signs of other life in the house or anything. She thought she would see a woman’s jacket or even a bra laying around, but she saw nothing of the sort. Stupid posters on the wall, weapons laying around and an empty box of junk food? Nope. He was probably hiding them somewhere safer.

No beer bottles either? Maybe in the kitchen he has them? She wondered.

She didn’t know weather to lie here about her thoughts about—she realized it was silent for too long.

Suddenly she politely says, “This place looks nice..”

Arron smiled, “Thanks. Are you hungry? You were asleep for a while.”

“No. I’m fine.”

Lie. Arron clocked that from a mile away.

She was starving.

“I’mma get you something to eat.” He said before walking away.

“But I’m..” She says trying to protest but was caught off by his sudden tone.

He repeated firmly, “I’mma get you something to eat.”

Moments went by before Arron returned with a simple sandwich. Ham and cheese. She glanced at it for a moment in hesitation as she took the plate from him. After a few seconds, she took a bite and murmured in disbelief, realizing that he added two different slices of cheese with turkey ham.

Swiss and cheddar cheese with melted butter, layered with a nice slice of ham, between two slices of wheat bread.

“This is good.” She mumbled before taking a few more bites.

Truth. Arron clocked that too and smiled.

“Didn’t think this would be your definition of ‘get you something to eat’..” She mumbled as she ate, glancing up at him.

He cross his arms and scoffed, “What were you expecting? A bag of chips and a bottle of beer?”

“Well when you put it that way, it sounds pretty much the exact idea one would expect.”

“A beer with a bag of chips, would not do well after you been asleep and injured.”

“How did you..?”

“Don’t ask. I just know.”

She stayed silent and just ate.

Arron obverse her as he took a deep sip of water. His daughter’s face with completely May Parker, except her eyes and hairline, that’s all him. Hell, the way she looked at him in the sunlight, he clocked her skin tone to be similar to him. The way she sat reminded him of his sister.

Her smile and the way she presented herself, was her mother’s but her quiet attitude was him.

An impulsive spirit and a strong desire or sense to fire when ready, if she’s not trusted by anyone.

However. There was this glow to her that he couldn’t quite understand, this sweet little girl, had still been trying to figure out how the world worked. This flickering grin in her eyes that’s clearly been knocked over but rebuilt over time and time again.

There were other features he could not quite grasp yet.

He wondered if she was loved and appreciated by others…

It’s one this ability allowed him to see, the truth and lies within someone. And because Amelia was in a vulnerable position, it was a matter of whether he can see all of it or just none.

“Wha..?” Amelia said softly as she finished eating and looking at him.

“Nothing..just, you look so much like your mom. It’s scary how much you reflect her…and me.” He replied in a hush tone, his thick voice shining through.

“Oh. I thought people just said that as a compliment to a daughter and mother…”

“For your case, from the last time I saw your mama, yeah, you look pretty much like her.”

That actually got a smile from Mia. An actual smile, not the half-ass ones that he used to see. Her soft smile lit up her cheekbones and her eyes.

Arron couldn’t help but smile back at her. It was infectious.

“Well, I gotta ask. How—what are your abilities? Aside from the skills you already possess.” She asked leaning her elbow against her couches armrest and rest her chin in her hand.

He smiled a little knowing that was probably on her mind but nonetheless he answered her. He scoffed, “I can see if someone is lying or telling me the truth about whatever it is that happened last. It’s how I did—still do my job.”

“Oh, wow. Nothing gets past you, huh?”

“Not always, I have to be focused and present myself to do it. I can sense it coming internally.”

He wasn’t even going to tell her about the shadow part, that was only meant for him to see. But the rest was correct in what he said.

“That’s actually kinda cool.” Mia said in a deep blunt yet soft tone, her normal high pitched voice still shining through.

He gave her a half smile and chuckled, “Yeah? Here I thought it was funny joke to someone like you.”

“Well, I mean, you’re kinda like a human lie detector, if that makes sense…?”

“Yeah, no, that’s right. It just means I’m honest for the sake of being honest.”

There was a moment of silence that washed over them before Arron decided to ask, “So, what do you do?”

“What?” She asked taking a sip of the water bottle.

“Our deal was that I get to know you a bit, right? So, what do you do skill wise?”

“Oh, ummm, I’m a field agent and a bit of a technical expert at SHIELD. Scouting places, going on tours, hunting down people and recruiting the right ones for the job.”

Arron couldn’t help but grin hearing that. He wasn’t the least bothered concerned about her job, he should be ashamed or worried about her health seeing how she was injured, but he was impressed.

Look at her size. She was tiny and she managed to keep up with the big gun?! And young too! He thought.

However his attitude slipped into his lips as he said, “No way in hell, you do all of that. I don’t even think you can handle that much weight on your shoulders or skill level.”

She blinked not expecting his response to be that and shifted in her seat, “W-what is that supposed to mean? Your insulting me my line of work?”

“No, no, sweetheart, just don’t expect for you to do all of that. You got your ass handed to you on your way here.” He replied smoothly.

“I—well, in my defense, i did not expect to be blasted and I been having a rough day so far…”

“Okay, we’ll see later in the field how well you can fire a gunshot. What about power wise?”

“Power wise?”

——

Arron gave her a look, as if she was dumb. It’s not like he asked her to take a shit in a hole or something. He just asked for her abilities. Mia was brought in due to her lack of knowledge of her own other skills, not for her relation to other players.

“Look, I’m not gonna you shit if you don’t start talking.” He added leaning against the wall to look down at her frame, then sighed realizing he sounded harsh and spoke again, “Sorry. I’m not gonna push you then if you’re not willing to tell me. And that’s okay, angel.”

If Mia had to be honest, she would’ve never thought she would be in this position ever. She seen countless of time like this, where people would have absolutely no interest or sympathy for telling her story. Or, she was on the other end of it all, listening to people’s opinions and concerns about their lives.

How they were treated by others, traumatized, looking for some kind of purpose and sympathy. The list goes on. Hell, some of her friends were still going through their own struggles with their trauma and transition to be better.

She was always the one to listen, humor the other person or try and convince them to speak out about their own problems. Lending a comfortable hand and words of support for them.

She spent half of her time making sure everyone else was okay and never really cared to talk about her feelings, pushing them away or in particular trying to make herself look good. No one really asked or knew how to comfort her, it was always her doing the job for them. They don’t always notice the signs but she does.

So the fact that Arron was asking her about something like this…that was a first.

Coulson, May and maybe even a friend or two would be truly concerned for her. But this was a big first.

After a moment she spoke, “Power wise..I can sense, manipulation and control someone’s emotions. I can feel their presence and thoughts in a way.”

“How did it happen?” He asked softly, surprised she actually told him.

“After a rumbling trip to Puerto Rico islands…an accident occurred between us trying to get an item before Hydra did…but it didn’t go as planned because Skye went down there, in the caves, with a fellow agent…that’s when the destination came, a huge pile of debris and rock came crashing down..I rushed in to get Skye and um..Tripp…soon enough I was blasted back and surrounded by rock..”

“Oh jeez…oh damn! Are you kidding me right? You actually survived that long trip?”

“Yeah, I survived and everyone was questioned about it..even scanned for any kind of damage…but I kept getting headaches and nausea..a weird sensation in my chest, in my head..like I can barely breathe…”

“You were being consumed by your powers. They were slowly coming in…w-was there anything specific that must’ve triggered it?”

“Did you not just hear the whole incident?”

He chuckled light and scoffed, “No, I heard it. You sensed a lot all at once. But what exactly happened that you remembered?”

“We were grieving an agent, a friend of ours..Trip was down there with Skye, when i rushed in, all I saw was Tripp’s ashes and rock surrounding where he once stood…and back at base, everyone was fighting, sad, and distant with each other..” She explained with a slight scoff, “..umm, at a lot of anger and frustration..I almost snapped..”

“Did you? Did you snap?”

“..eventually I snapped, I accidentally fell into a trap where I screamed at the group and manipulated them to stop their anger for a second…they looked at me confused…everyone didn’t question it and went on with their grief, until I went to the a friends place to try and convince myself I was fine..”

Amelia kept explaining what she could remember and Arron just listened, no advice or cheesy comments of support. He didn’t even try to downplay how she felt, like one of her friends did. He just listened an awful amount of listen as he went to side beside her. Occasionally he nodded or said something in comfort.

Yes, she was still dealing with a lot and couldn’t control when it happened, or when people got mad. Other times she would downplay her own behavior or chalk it up to her going crazy. But she felt kinda good, being able to talk about it and the cool breeze from the window helped.

After a moment Arron said, “I think you were sent here to try and relax, Amelia. Get away from your worries and struggles, try and control yourself for a bit…maybe meet someone who gets it?”

“What do you mean..?” She asked softly.

“From the stories I heard from being here, the second you start acting different or your character becomes more…oddly enough not the version of you people like, they start to behave differently.”

“They judge you for some simple action that happened to you…all my friends met me, before this incident, and now I am just a bit different.”

He gave her shoulder a small squeeze and then rubbed small circles on her back. He wasn’t sure if he should give her a side hug yet, but Mia lean against his shoulder instantly. That cause him to wrap an arm around her gently. She buried her face into his chest feeling a sense of comfort and felt his compassion, despite it being under that tough exterior and tension.

——

The two went on to talk about other things. School, friends, life experiences and cracking a few jokes more often than not. There were moments where the topics got serious, like when he asked about her dysfunctional relationship with her friends or her line of work.

The two even joked about favoring certain types of films than others. Hey, they did need some conversation starter!

Arron often tried to give her a simple explanation when she asked him about his past missions, people he met in life, his relationship with his sister Bobbi and how he met her mother. He honestly thought he wouldn’t have to talk much about May, but he knew it was coming.

“Your mother was honestly one of a kind in her own right.” He said with a soft grin, “Creative, strong, sweet as hell and stubborn…when she knew she wanted something, she did it. We honestly fought a lot about stupid things…but I never remember how I met her.”

“How? Mom said it was a trip to a friend’s wedding when you met.” She said smiling.

“Yeah, some friend of mine had a wedding he was doing to and he thought, he could bring me as a plus one. I went to humor him and at the party, h saw your mother standing outside the balcony talking with someone. And I walked over. She smiled.”

“Yeah? Cause I know my mom got a pretty smile but still…”

“Well, she had her smile, her short hair and a hot black dress that—”

That’s when Mia made a face and shook her head, “Nope! Nah, nuh uh, don’t finish that sentence. I get it..I got the picture.”

Arron smirked snickering at her reaction, “Hey, you asked!”

“But that’s not what I meant..”

“Yeah, sure, but that’s what I meant by remembering that day.”

——

There was still uncertainty and speculation about whether this was a good thing so far. It hung in the air. But so far, it wasn’t so bad. Yeah, sure, they had some stuff they still didn’t address about their relationship, question they needed to ask themselves and things that possibly might be useful for Mia’s stay here.

That was just the surface level stuff. But honestly, it seemed like neither of them wanted to go beyond that level anyway.

Plus, Mia was itching to check on Skye as well, despite knowing she was possibly okay and trying to adjust to the circumstances of her life. The situation in general.

But before Arron or Mia could say anything else, there was a knock on the door. He held up a hand when he saw her reach for her pocket for a gun. He shook his head and stood up to answer it.

The moment it was opened, Mia got a glimpse of who it was.

In front of her stood a young man. Dirty blonde hair, a light complexion and soft yet sharp green eyes. He wore a burgundy shirt, dark brown pants and boots, but you can tell he had a weapon in his pocket. He smiled at Arron but then caught sight of Mia.

He spoke to Arron for a few moments, talking about security measures and a few new developments in the area. How there were a couple of other people who wanted to talk with him about shipping containers and supplies. Arron nodded gently.

He then noticed how Mia was catching the blonde’s gaze and how she responded with a small smile.

Arron put a hand on her shoulder before saying, “Jeremy, this is my daughter Mia.”

Jeremy smiled holding out a hand, “Jeremy Michaelis.”

Mia shook his hand smiling, “Amelia Parker. Nice to meet you.”

Arron smiled, “I have work to do. How about Jeremy show you around?”

“Great.” Mia replied softly smiling.

“Cool.” Jeremy added right after still smiling as he chuckled.

With that, Arron left leaving the two of them alone to their own devices.

——

Ahhh! That’s all folks and that’s how she met Jeremy 😉

Please let me know what you think about Mia and her dad so far?

- @gcthvile @meiramel l l @aidanxsophxoxo @blueboirick @wizzzardofoz z z @finlayholmes @ethan-lensherr @elzabeth-stark k @marvelsfavoriteuncle @sci-fi-lexcon @ask-starrk @therealdaydreamstark @luna-d-marsh @rickb-chaos @the-x-ladiesofnyc @trulysummersprivate @missstrawbs2001 @purpleprincessonfyre

[irinaseverinka]

Bokhai bedroom

A set of furniture and decor for the decoration bedroom. In a modern Scandinavian style with elements of Chinese culture.

The set includes 11 objects:

bed

bed canopy

bed plaid (right + left)

end table

ceiling lamp

table lamp

dresser

chair

poster

DOWNLOAD TSR

[jonnyparable]

Siheyuan 四合院

The sprawling traditional Chinese courtyard home, known as the Siheyuan features several buildings built around a series of courtyards.

The main door of the Siheyuan is usually located in the lower south corner of the house, and opens to a forecourt that leads to another centrally located doorway that leads to the house proper. This stops passersby from being able to look into the main spaces of the house.

This property, known as the Austere Official's Home, has been restored and given a modern facelift, while still in keeping to its classical roots. Much of the home's layout is based on ancient beliefs of how energy moves in a space, while the overall home itself represents the Chinese obsession with walled spaces, with a Siheyuan often consisting of walls within walls of walled yards, gardens and liminal spaces, connected by a covered walkway.

Contemporary Chinese interior design is a fascinating design niche, that can draw on design principles and material use anywhere from the Qing to the Han Dynasty, and Chinese aesthetics can be anywhere from ostentatious and overwhelming to refined and restrained.

Many associate Chinese interior aesthetics with red lacquer, silk furnishings, whimsical carpentry and gilded surfaces in excess but more often than not, classical Chinese interiors are more likely to feature more sedate tones of dark grey, black and deep brown, with hardwood furnishings in clear lacquer, with grey brick walls. or white plaster walls, as well as stone floors and granite paved exterior spaces.

The Austere Official's Home's makeover is based on a popular movement in Chinese interior design that draws on more consistent and refined use of materials and colours, with a recognisably Chinese aesthetic, while incorporating more contemporary ideas on the usage of space. A style popular with hotels in particular, being fairly accessible to international palettes while still being "Chinese" in feel.

Many Siheyuans require a lot of retro fitting and renovation to match our modern use of interiors, however. For instance, classical Chinese homes did not have living rooms, or dining rooms, or in fact, rooms at all. Chinese architecture typically does not rely on load bearing walls to support the structure, and as such, do not have the division of space seen in Western builds. Chinese spaces are therefore riddled with supporting wooden columns, which are joined by dividing screens and folding doors that create the "rooms" of a building, with the whole carpentry being held down by a wonderfully heavy and graceful roof. This actually makes them fairly earthquake resistant structures.

Typically this means a building in the Siheyuan is all encompassing in its function. It features a bedchamber, a study and a reception hall. Things like dining and ablutions are restricted to furniture and wherever they are placed. How this translates into a modern restored interior is interesting. For this build, much like a shell challenge I kept the structural pillars intact, while moving around the divider walls to reconfigure the space, while buildings can now be repurposed to house the rooms modern inhabitants would need.

Thank you for reading! 谢谢

[santi-u]

[ bie thassapak hsu, demi-man, he/they ] Look who just landed! SANTI AMARIN-ZHAO, I sure hope you packed all you need. Perhaps you’re not worried as the CEO of X ACADEMY. The city has plenty of spots for a��29 year old SIGHIR like you. You’ll be known in the city soon enough as THE PEACEMAKER, being CHARISMATIC and INSTIGNANT. 

❯ tags — interview — bio — headcanons — wanted connections & plots

OOC Information

Fayn / PST (Vancouver, Seattle, Los Angeles) /  They/Them 

Muse: Santi Amarin-Zhao 

Tagging System: here

Interview: here

Muse’s Statistics

Full Name: Santi Amarin-Zhao | สันติ อมรินทร์ | 兆三緹

Nickname: Silk / Xiao Ti (小緹) / Titty (lmao)

Date of Birth: 28 May 2376

Gender: Demi-Man

Pronouns: He/They

Sexual Orientation: Queer

Romantic Orientation: …Ask him when he’s drunk. (Queer)

Current Age: 29

Modification: Sighir (Classified) Human :)

Affiliation: X Academy

Birthplace: New Jakarta

Current Neighbourhood: Sora

Occupation: CEO of X Academy, Philanthropist, Insider Threat, Dog Papa :)

Known Languages: English, Thai, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Bahasa

Appearance

Faceclaim: Bie Thassapak Hsu

Height: 6'0"

Eye Colour: Dark brown, almost black

Hair Colour: Naturally black, tends to dye it dark, reddish brown 

Clothing Style: Has an extensive suit collection, surprisingly only a fraction of which are custom tailored. Wears more eccentric and femme-leaning blazer choices when feeling up to it. Tends to wear layers and long sleeves even during warm weather. Wears a hat to disguise himself in the Slums. Occasionally wears glasses.

Jewelry:  Watch he inherited from a mentor. Occasionally wears a bracelet and necklace with no real sentimental meaning, just only for the vibe. 

Tattoos: N/A

Marks/Scars: An innumerable amount of scars all over his body, even his face, as a result of testing done on him. They’ve all healed nearly perfectly thanks to his Sighir powers, and as a result, they’re nearly imperceptible / basically invisible unless you know what you’re looking for and are literally up in his business. He doesn't usually let anyone get that close, physically or emotionally.

Modifications: N/A

Scent/Fragrance: Tom Ford Ébène Fumé — overall woody and smoky; has notes of incense, palo santo, black pepper, violet leaf, leather, and labdanum

Personality

Positive Traits: Charismatic, compassionate, loyal

Neutral Traits: Guarded, resourceful, analytical

Negative Traits: Hyperindependent, manipulative, self-destructive

Peeves: His lunch getting double booked, expense reports, interviews, people who pet Khoi without asking Khoi if he’d like to be pet, people who don’t respect nature

Fears: A particular part of the city he now avoids going to at all costs; locked, windowless rooms; his parents; vulnerability

Skills: Partnership management, B2B commerce, research design, organizational management, public speaking, tying the perfect tie in one shot, being able to tell what kind of spices were used in a dish, inhuman-like terrifyingly high pain tolerance

Goals: Autonomy and control over his own fate

Favourites

Likes: His black golden retriever (Khoi), a tasteful accent pocket square, street food, boba, bugs (butterflies in particular), a certain Overseer :)

Dislikes: The smell of antiseptic, stainless steel furniture and decor, loss of control 

Hobbies: Cooking, going out to Bartori or the Marwar Market in disguise to eat street food

Habits: Sleep talking, overworking, checking the app on his phone to make sure Khoi is okay at home

One Cherished Item: The chrysalis of a butterfly he helped raise in secret from a caterpillar when he was a child

Biography

UNN's Class of 2405: 30 Under 30 Interview with Santi Amarin-Zhao, CEO of X Academy

Date: September 12, 2404 Time: 13:57 PM NJT Location: X HQ, Santi’s Office

The interview takes place in the sleek, ultra-modern headquarters of X Academy, a towering structure that dominates the skyline of New Jakarta. The office is a blend of glass and metal, with a panoramic view of the sprawling city below. Santi sits behind a minimalist desk, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp, betraying the meticulous mind behind the polished exterior. The interviewer, an experienced journalist from the United News Network, is acutely aware that this is more than just a profile piece—it’s an opportunity to peel back the layers of one of Mars' most enigmatic young leaders.

Interviewer: "Santi Amarin-Zhao, thank you for joining us today. It's not every day that we get to sit down with one of the youngest CEOs in New Jakarta's history. Let's start from the beginning—being born and raised on Mars is still not an everyday occurrence, and especially not nearly three decades ago. How has your upbringing shaped the leader you are today?"

Santi offers a warm smile, the kind that has won him the admiration from many of the million citizens of New Jakarta, but behind that smile is a carefully crafted persona. He knows exactly how to play this role, the heir to a legacy of power and innovation.

Santi: "Thank you for having me. My upbringing was nothing short of a privilege, and I recognize that every day. My mother's side was instrumental in the initial colonization efforts, and my father's side were some of the original Braax mine owners. Their combined legacy is something I take very seriously. Growing up, I was always taught that with great power comes great responsibility—not just to my family, but to the people of New Jakarta."

As he speaks, Santi’s thoughts drift momentarily to his childhood, where lessons were taught not in classrooms, but in boardrooms. His mother, a brilliant scientist, would often take him to meetings where breakthroughs in Martian terraforming and mineral research were discussed, while his father, a shrewd businessman, exposed him to the intricacies of corporate strategy. From a young age, Santi learned that every action, every word, was a move in a larger game—a game he was expected to win.

Interviewer: "That's a powerful ethos to live by. Many would say that you were born into success, but you've clearly worked hard to maintain and build upon that legacy. What drives you to keep pushing forward, especially in such a high-stakes environment?"

As the interviewer asks this, Santi leans back slightly, as if contemplating the question. The truth is, the drive to push forward comes not from ambition alone, but from a deeper, almost primal need to assert control over a life that has always been orchestrated by others. But that’s not something he can admit out loud.

Santi: "You know, it's easy for people to assume that everything was handed to me on a silver platter, but the reality is far more complex. Yes, I had opportunities that others might not, but I was also held to incredibly high standards. From a young age, I was taught the importance of hard work, and that success is not just about what you achieve, but how you achieve it. I’ve always believed in leading by example, which is why I make it a point to be in the trenches with my team, whether it's working late nights on a project or navigating the complexities of our latest research initiatives."

He recalls the countless nights spent in the labs of X Academy, not because he needed to be there, but because he wanted to understand every aspect of the institution he would one day lead. He wasn’t just a figurehead—he was determined to know the ins and outs of every department, every project. The long hours weren’t just about work; they were about proving, perhaps to himself more than anyone else, that he was worthy of the legacy he was born into.

Interviewer: "It's clear that your work ethic is something you take pride in. Let's talk about X Academy. Under your leadership, it's become a beacon of hope for many in New Jakarta, especially with the rising tensions in the city. How do you balance the pressures of being a public figure with the responsibilities of running such a pivotal institution?"

Santi’s expression shifts subtly—a flicker of something deeper, darker. He knows that the public sees him as a beacon of hope, a leader who can unite the fractured city. But the truth is, the very tensions they hope he will resolve are often of his own making. He is both the architect of chaos and the one who brings order, a duality that he keeps hidden beneath layers of charm and calculated sincerity.

Santi: "Balancing those pressures is definitely a challenge, but it's one I embrace. X Academy was founded with the goal of advancing scientific research for the betterment of all Martian citizens, and that mission is something I take to heart. At the same time, I understand the power of public perception. People are looking for someone to believe in, especially now, and I’m grateful that they see me as that figure. However, it’s not just about what I can do as a leader, but what we can achieve together as a community. Creating opportunities for all, committing to public good—these are not just slogans, but guiding principles in everything I do."

He remembers the latest crisis he orchestrated in the Akumu Slums—a small piece of information, leaked at just the right time, setting off a chain of events that sent shockwaves through the city. It was a dangerous game, one that could easily spiral out of control, but Santi thrives on the thrill of it. The chaos serves a purpose; it keeps people looking to him for solutions, reinforcing his role as the indispensable leader.

Interviewer: "You've been dubbed 'The Peacemaker' by some, yet New Jakarta is far from peaceful, if we must be honest. How do you reconcile this title with the realities of the city?"

Santi knows this question is coming, and he’s prepared. The irony of the title isn’t lost on him—it’s part of the persona he’s carefully cultivated. He is the Peacemaker, but peace, as he defines it, is a tool, a means to an end. True peace would leave him with nothing to control, nothing to fix, and that’s a reality he’s not ready to face.

Santi: "The title 'Peacemaker' is both a compliment and a burden. Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and opportunity. It’s no secret that New Jakarta faces many challenges, from economic disparities to social unrest. But these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. My job is to navigate these complexities and find solutions that benefit the city as a whole. Sometimes, that means making difficult decisions that aren't immediately popular, but I always have the long-term prosperity of New Jakarta in mind."

As he speaks, his mind wanders to the many nights he spent alone in his office, staring out over the city. From this vantage point, he could see everything—the glittering towers of the elite, the sprawling slums below. It was all part of a grand design, one he was orchestrating from behind the scenes. Every conflict, every resolution, was a step towards a future only he could envision.

Interviewer: "There's a lot of talk about the criminal underworld in New Jakarta, particularly in the Akumu Slums. How does X Academy fit into this picture, and what steps are you taking to ensure that your initiatives aren't just a band-aid on a larger issue?"

Santi’s smile doesn’t falter, but inside, he feels a spark of satisfaction. The criminal underworld is a complex web, one that he’s intimately familiar with. He’s not just aware of it—he’s a part of it, a shadowy figure pulling strings from the comfort of his high-rise office. But that’s a truth he’ll take to his grave.

Santi: "The situation in the Akumu Slums is one of the most pressing issues we face, and it’s something I’m deeply concerned about. X Academy's role is to provide education and resources that empower people to create better lives for themselves, but we can’t do it alone. That’s why I’ve been working closely with the Overseers and other city leaders to address the root causes of these problems. It’s not just about education; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As for the criminal circuit—let's just say, we're keeping a close eye on things and doing everything we can to ensure that X Academy’s work is part of the solution, not part of the problem."

He remembers the recent heist at one of X Academy’s facilities, a heist that the public believed was a tragedy. What they didn’t know was that Santi had orchestrated the entire event, leaking the location of the facility to a rival faction in the slums. It was all part of a larger plan, one that would ultimately strengthen his grip on the city. The stolen research was never meant to be used—it was a decoy, a test of loyalty and competence for those who would carry out his orders.

Interviewer: "Lastly, with everything you've accomplished so far, what does the future hold for you and X Academy? How do you plan to continue your family's legacy while also making your own mark?"

Santi pauses, considering his response carefully. The future is something he thinks about often, but not in the way most people do. For him, the future is a canvas, one that he can shape and mold to his liking. His family’s legacy is the foundation, but the empire he’s building will be his own.

Santi: "The future is bright, but it’s also uncertain—and that’s what makes it exciting. My family’s legacy is something I’m incredibly proud of, but I’m also focused on carving out my own path. For X Academy, that means continuing to push the boundaries of scientific research and making sure that our work has a real, tangible impact on the lives of the people of New Jakarta. Personally, I’m committed to staying grounded, to listening to the needs of the community, and to never losing sight of the values that brought me here. My goal is to make sure that when people think of X Academy, they don’t just think of a name—they think of a force for good that is changing the world for the better."

As he finishes, Santi glances out the window, his mind already racing with the next steps in his plan. The interviewer thanks him for his time, and Santi responds graciously, but his thoughts are elsewhere. The interview is just another move in the game, another step in a carefully plotted journey that only he knows the destination of.

Interviewer: "Thank you, Santi. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and we’re all looking forward to seeing what you accomplish next."

Santi: "The pleasure’s all mine. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story."

As the interviewer leaves, Santi sits back in his chair, allowing himself a rare moment of introspection. He’s come so far, but there’s still so much to do. The city of New Jakarta is a complex machine, and he’s the one turning the gears. The future he envisions is one of power, control, and legacy—his legacy, not just his family’s. And he won’t stop until every piece of the puzzle falls into place.

End of interview.

[fashionbooksmilano]

Living with Textiles

Elaine Louie

Mitchell Beazley, London 2001, 144 pages, over 140 colour photos, 24x29cm, ISBN 9781840003871

euro 30,00

email if you want to buy booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

Chinese silks, Egyptian linens, Afghan rugs: every culture recognizes the sensuality and functionality of textiles. Yet, too often their striking contribution to the modern interior is overlooked. Over 140 eye-opening color photos reveal what a wonderful difference they make, draping the walls, covering a bed, upholstering the furniture, warming the floors, softening the lines. Display a small hooked rug as a piece of art, or turn an obi (a kimono sash) into the perfect table runner--you're limited only by your imagination. Every page features a new application for textiles in the home, from hangings to room dividers, as well as information on particular fashions and period effects, including Indian, Japanese, African, French, and English Formal. It's inspiration and information for bringing unique style to your environment.

17/07/23

orders to:     booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

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[orokanaonna]

Types of Lamps for Your Living Area

Lamps can make a big difference in the design of your living area. They should not exclusively be viewed as something that will help you find in obscurity. They don't simply enlighten a space, however they can likewise change the everyone's vibe and even help mix your furniture and your decorative pieces. They come in find out more here different shapes, designs and sizes - from tabletop to independent styles. Knowing the different types of these lighting apparatuses can help you pick effectively which would look and work well in your living area.

Tabletop styles are among the most famous decisions for a living room. They're likewise picked oftentimes for bedrooms, however for living areas, the design ordinarily has a lot bigger body than those for bedrooms. In any case, obviously, you want to pick one that is proportionate to the estimations of the area where you'll put it. The materials utilized for its body shift. It very well may be made out of glass, earthenware, wood, plastic, or metal. Sometimes, you'll try and see a table lamp with a classical Chinese container as its body. The shade that covers the bulb generally comes in texture or paper.

Floor lamps, as the name says, are lighting installations that can remain solitary on the floor. This type of lamp advances the level of a space and makes the area look elegant. It likewise arrives in various materials and tones. The base is generally made of metal. Furthermore, similar to the table lamp, it by and large has a texture or paper shade. However, there are modern designs that are made of all-metal, which are exceptionally proper for the metropolitan moderate insides of homes.

A tiffany lamp is recognized by its shade, which is made of stained glass. As the years progressed, varieties of this lamp type have been presented. Instead of utilizing glass or glass-like materials, hued shells and different materials native to specific nations are utilized. A Tiffany base is made of metal. Substitute materials have to be just about as weighty as metal, since it must have the option to convey the heaviness of the stained-glass shade.

Work area lamps are additionally called concentrate on lamps, now and again, in light of the fact that they are mostly used to enlighten work areas while somebody is getting his work done. However, the recent designs of this type of lamp are extremely distant from the traditional ones. Large numbers of them are remarkable and stylish enough that you can utilize them both as a lighting framework and as a decorative piece on your side table or control center in your living area.

[duodraconis]

Chinese Office Furniture Kit

Chinese styled traditional office kit of 51 pieces in red wood

Finally finished this kit. Spent far too much time on it but I’m happy of the result. It will be available on multiple stores over the next days., where you can get it as royalty free asset pack. It is fully compatible with modern game engines, renderings and modding. All textures ands materials are created as pbr.

3D Sketchfab preview��https://skfb.ly/oGM7I

[catmansquad]

Excerpt: "Fitting In"

Gabriel spends time raiding with familiar faces, while Miguel struggles with the weight of a new, heavy secret... (Modern AU)

He stood at the door to his brother’s apartment, a bag of two takeaway boxes in one hand as his other nudged his tinted glasses back up his face, then knocked on the door.

‘Gabri!’

He could hear his brother on the other side of the door; the click of keys on a keyboard, an almost frantic tapping, and his brother’s muffled voice. Miguel rolled his eyes and knocked once again.

‘Gabri!!’ He had told his brother he’d be stopping by, and that he’d be bringing dinner.

Exhaling in soft annoyance, Miguel counted to three, then slammed his fist on the door hard enough that he felt the whole frame rattle.

‘GABRIEL!’

He heard his brother yelp, cursing and muttering apologies, then footsteps squeaking across the room towards the door. Miguel relaxed as he heard the door chain being removed, the click of a lock, and the door was pulled open to reveal his brother’s sheepish expression, hair messier than usual, and a white headset resting around his neck that Miguel could hear noise and chatter from.

‘… Aha…. Hi, Brother… Sorry, I uh… There was a raid happening and I got distracted, and kinda forgot…?’

Miguel’s gaze narrowed softly behind his glasses and he lived in hope that Gabriel could feel the weight of his stare. Once again was his brother wearing an explosion of mismatching colour, worst of all were the bright pink slippers on his feet, designed like rabbits with googly eyes that squeaked with each step he took.

‘Gabri, why do you always dress like you have a hurricane in your wardrobe?’

His brother gave him a judgemental stare, resting hands on his hips.

‘Why are you still mumbling, brother? Why do you not seem to have any colour in your wardrobe?’

Gabriel grabbed at his headset, lifting one side to his ear and listened to it.

‘Uh-oh… C-come in, Miggy. Thanks for bringing dinner- what do we have?’ He stepped back, allowing his big brother into his apartment.

‘Chinese.’ Miguel muttered simply, glancing around the apartment.

Much like Miguel, his brother’s apartment reflected his personality and interests. It was a bright and colourful thing, walls covered in posters of Discordance’s various expansions, plush pastel furniture and a great sofa that faced a very large wall-mounted television. In sharp contrast to Miguel’s far more calm and monochromatic choice of décor. His brother scrambled back to the sofa, dragging a keyboard and mouse back into his lap and pulling his headset back up.

‘Yo! I’m back, sorry… My brother’s here- So, do we need any stuff mended? We’re good for food and pots, yeah?’

Gabriel flicked his headset back to mute as Miguel sat in one of the soft armchairs, placing the takeaway bag on the coffee table and taking out the two white boxes of oily prawn noodles.

‘Thank you, Miggy… They say hello, by the way.’

‘How are you doing on your… thing, Gabri? Your food’s going to get cold.’

At Miguel’s question, Gabriel rested with a finger on the mute button of his headset, eyes darting between his brother and the television screen; where a group of five adventurers in styles ranging from medieval to futuristic were standing in a ravaged street of a post-apocalyptic city beneath blood red skies and an eclipsed sun.

‘I… I’ll just reheat it… Sorry, they’re getting impatient… Yeah, sorry, I’m here. I’m good to go-! Hobie, did you change jobs again? Again? Yeah, I know you “don’t believe in consistency”, but in the past month, you’ve been; Rebel, Gunner, Apostate, Rebel, Chronomancer, Martialist….’

Miguel held a prawn between chopsticks, listening to his brother’s continuing rant before popping it into his mouth. His brother was, once again, going to be left with cold food.

‘…. Extant, Rebel, Technician, Bulwark, Scholar…’

Miguel found his brother’s continuing rant far more interesting than what was happening on the screen. Instead, he focused on his food, rolling the prawn around his mouth, teasing it with his fangs as he focused on learning how to dry bite. It was all well and good not being affected by his own venom, but would still like to not taste its powerful bitter tang on nearly everything he ate.

‘… Judge, Knight Errant, and now back to Rebel again. Please, can we just get started…?’

‘C’mon, we’ve just got the lass boss to get through- Pav… Pav- please let Hobie go first. I know you’re the tank, but he can see the… Traps- and you’re dead again. Big shiny treasure out in the open, what were you expecting?’

Miguel placed the chopsticks into his empty takeaway box, still stained with the traces of oil, and placed it on the coffee table beside the one that his brother had yet to touch. Well fed, and having apparently mastered the art of keeping his venom glands under control, the older O’Hara sibling kicked off his shoes and curled up, sinking deeper into the soothing comfort of his brother’s furniture, feeling very much like a lazy cat.

‘I think your food’s gone cold, brother….’ He had half a mind to pull off his sunglasses, night was starting to fall and Gabriel was far too engrossed in his raiding party to notice how his big brother’s eyes had turned blood red. He was sure his brother hadn’t even heard what he had said.

‘…. Well, it’s a Nightmare raid, Pav. It’s not meant to be easy. This is Nightmare, not “Where’s my medal and plate of orange slices for participation”?- Yeah, great, Pav. You can get your orange slices once we’re done here.’ There was a very subtle edge to his brother’s words, and Miguel knew him well enough to know that irritation was building somewhere deep beneath the surface.

‘I hope you like reheating cold takeaway, brother. God knows I love it as much as I love complete strangers grabbing my ass when I’m performing…’ Miguel murmured, eyes half lidded as he glanced at the screen; to where the raiding party were approaching a colossal figure that resembled Cthulhu, made from wood and dark red crystal.

‘…. I know that, but you’re just putting more strain on me and Peni, our heals aren’t bottomless…’

Miguel closed his eyes briefly, fingers resting on the frame of his sunglasses, ready to pull them off. He hesitated, then opened his eyes again and looked to his little brother, speaking in a tiny, broken voice as he allowed his guard to fall, vulnerability moving to the surface.

‘I… I have superpowers, Gabri…’

His heart skipped a beat as his brother glanced at him, their eyes met for a brief moment, then his gaze returned to the screen.

‘Hey, Peni? Yeah, Mig says your gun looks like a Supersoaker.’

The older O’Hara sibling quietly exhaled a soft sigh, putting his guards back up as he quietly decided that he would count his blessings with his oblivious brother.

‘YES! Get fucked, Bloodmoon Harbinger!’

Gabriel punched their air as the wooden Cthulhu crumbled, the night skies above resuming their usual night blue hues. The assembled party began to emote and celebrate; Hobie’s avatar popping and spraying a bottle of champagne, as Pavtir’s danced with glowsticks, and Peni’s was either dead on the floor or playing at being so. Miguel watched his brother celebrate, and he could even hear the muffled celebrations of his fellow raiders through the headset. He also heard Gabriel’s stomach growl like a hungry beast and watched his little brother’s expression change from joy to a soft frown.

‘… ‘kay, I need to get some food now, like… Desperately. Good job, see you next week, yeah? Yeah? Take care, see you! Bye, bye, adios!’ With a few keystrokes, Gabriel had disconnected from the game and pulled his headset off, hair getting even more messed up. He placed everything aside and grabbed the untouched takeaway box like it was his lifeline.

‘Ah…’

‘Oh, stone cold, Gabri?’ Miguel asked him with a raised eyebrow.

‘Yeah. Well, that’s nothing the microwave won’t solve! ‘

Miguel pushed up his sunglasses as he buried his face into the palm of his hand and sighed softly. His brother’s joy truly was irrepressible.

‘Have you got a costume for Halloween, Miggy?’

‘Cost-? You assume I still want to go trick-or-treating at my age?’

‘Well, we don’t need to go trick-or-treating, brother! Stop talking like you’re in your forties. Seriously, you’re thirty-four.’ He heard the clang of the door and beep of the microwave running, Gabriel leaned back in from the kitchen.

‘It’s just about dressing up and having fun. Being scary for a night. So, what do you think?’

‘I’m thinking September is too early to start thinking about Halloween.’ Miguel responded, rolling his eyes, already growing tired of the topic of discussion. The last time he had worn any kind of Halloween costume, it had been the year when he’d first started the gig as Spider-Man, his brother had decided in his infinite wisdom, to pick out a costume for him, and had returned with a scarier version of the costume he knew on the stage. It had been the one and only time he’d ever worn it.

‘Alright, alright, be like that… But how’s it going with you and your guy? You got a date yet?’

‘No. I don’t expect to any time soon, Gabri. He-‘

The beep of the microwave made his brother duck back into the kitchen and he emerged back inside, carrying a small plate with the steaming noodles on.

‘Ay… Ay, ay, ay! Caliente! Caliente!’ His brother’s footsteps squeaked across the room, and Miguel stared at the pink slippers, very well aware that a matching set, in bright orange, were left unloved and unworn in his own wardrobe; another one of his brother’s brilliant gifts.

‘He’s… going through a difficult time. Later, we will.’

‘Aww, that sucks…’ Gabriel managed through a mouthful of steaming noodles, trying to pull a pitying expression while chewing. He just ended up looking like he was about to sneeze.

[drownmeinbeauty]

DREAM WEAVING

There's a small, smart exhibit about textile designer Dorothy Liebes at the Cooper-Hewitt museum called A Dark, A Bright, A Light: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes. Liebes, who started as an artisinal weaver in San Francisco in the 1920's, established a design studio in New York that served an astounding array of architectural, fashion and industrial clients. She designed handbags with Coach, dresses with Bonnie Cashin, car seats with Pontiac, and fabrics with DuPont, developing colorful textured weaves that feel, today, like a fevered, pre-hippie brand of mid-century modernism.

The display is engaging, incorporating dressed mannequins, upholstered furniture, design sketches, photographs, print advertisements, textile samples, and best of all, yardages from some of Liebes' most innovative weaves. These, displayed hanging, are truly joyful. They incorporate surprising asymmetrical motifs, figures in bold relief, and unconventional materials like cellophane, aluminum, vinyl, wood, and even, in one panel, a measuring tape.

But my experience of the show and impression of Liebes were marred by the captions. Pieces on display here include: Mexican Plaid (1938), Shangri La (1947), Chinese Ribbons (1947), Drapery Panel for the Persian Room at the Plaza Hotel (1950), "Noh" Jacket and "Panung" Style Skirt (1957). The show champions her, correctly, as a design pioneer and accomplished businesswoman at a time when women weren't welcomed in design professions. It was also, clearly, a time when Americans practiced a zany, carefree exoticism. I wouldn't describe this as appropriation, because the works here don't seem to resemble traditional textiles from any of the foreign cultures named.

Nonetheless these names leaves a stinging aftertaste. There were Mexican, Chinese and Persian populations in the United States at this time Liebe worked. This exhibit takes her work very, very seriously. Will works by Mexican, Chinese or Persian artists be considered the same way?

Photographer unnamed, Dorothy Liebes Studio, New York City, ca. 1957; Dorothy Liebes Papers, Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution

[captain-daryn]

ya know, I took an entire 2 semester class about “historical and modern architecture” and while some of theses are *similar* to styles I saw in that class, I don’t recall seeing a single African building mentioned once.

These are gorgeous and I wish they had been included in that course. We studied Japanese, Chinese, and even middle-eastern architecture. There was one class on “Egyptian architecture” but it was during the historical class and we only learned about motifs and some furniture that could be found in the pyramids and ancient Egypt. That was the furthest south we ventured. Other than that, it was 75% European architecture and 20% American architecture.

i feel like we don’t talk about things like this enough

[ekintop]

Enhancing Hotel Image: The Importance of Choosing High-Quality Hotel Furniture China

In the highly competitive hotel industry, a hotel's image and customer experience directly impact its market performance and customer loyalty. High-quality hotel furniture not only enhances the overall atmosphere of the hotel but also provides guests with a more comfortable stay. Therefore, selecting the right hotel furniture China is a crucial step in improving hotel image. This article will explore the impact of high-quality hotel furniture on hotel image and how to choose the most suitable furniture.

1. High-Quality Furniture Enhances Visual Appeal

The decoration style of a hotel and the quality of its furniture are vital for guests' first impressions. High-quality furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing but also showcases the hotel's brand image and positioning. Whether it’s a modern minimalist style or a classic luxurious design, choosing quality furniture can create an appealing visual effect, allowing the hotel to stand out among competitors.

2. Improving Guest Comfort and Experience

The comfort of hotel furniture directly affects guests' experiences. High-quality mattresses, sofas, and dining tables can provide guests with a better environment for rest and socializing. Comfortable furniture not only helps guests relax but also increases their overall satisfaction with the hotel, thereby enhancing the likelihood of repeat visits.

3. Strengthening the Hotel's Brand Image

High-quality hotel furniture can help convey professionalism and attention to detail. Carefully selected furniture reflects the hotel’s commitment to quality and customer experience, thereby enhancing its brand image. By showcasing elegant and well-crafted furniture, hotels can attract high-end clientele and improve their market competitiveness.

4. Choosing the Right Materials and Styles

When selecting Chinese hotel furniture, the choice of materials and styles is crucial. Different materials such as solid wood, metal, and fabric each have their unique characteristics. Solid wood furniture often gives a warm, natural feel, suitable for hotels pursuing a traditional style; whereas metal or glass furniture is more fitting for modern, minimalist designs.

It’s also important to choose a style that aligns with the hotel’s positioning. For high-end hotels, opting for classic, customized furniture can reflect a sense of luxury; for boutique hotels or hostels, trendy and personalized furniture can better attract younger guests.

5. Considering Durability and Maintenance

High-quality hotel furniture usually offers better durability, capable of withstanding frequent use and wear. In the hotel industry, the maintenance and upkeep of furniture are equally important. Choosing durable, easy-to-clean materials can not only extend the life of the furniture but also reduce long-term maintenance costs, ensuring the hotel always maintains a good image.

6. Choosing a Trustworthy Supplier

To ensure the selection of high-quality hotel furniture, collaborating with professional suppliers is essential. China has numerous experienced furniture manufacturers that offer a diverse range of products and customization services. When selecting a supplier, consider their past project experience, customer reviews, and after-sales service capabilities.

7. Conclusion

Choosing high-quality Chinese hotel furniture is not only a key factor in enhancing hotel image but also an important means of improving customer satisfaction and loyalty. By investing in quality furniture, hotels can provide guests with a more comfortable experience while shaping a positive brand image. As a hotel owner, making informed furniture choices will yield long-term benefits and success for your hotel. Choose Ekintop Furniture, and we will provide you with tailored hotel furniture solutions to help you stand out in the market.

[yingying0322]

How to Choose the Best China Furniture Sourcing Agent

For businesses looking to source quality furniture from China, selecting the right furniture sourcing agent is crucial. A skilled agent can save time and money, streamline the procurement process, and ensure quality standards are met. This blog post will guide you through the process of choosing the best China furniture sourcing agent while exploring recent furniture trends that are shaping the industry.

Understanding Furniture Sourcing Agents

A furniture sourcing agent acts as an intermediary between buyers and manufacturers in China. They leverage their extensive industry knowledge and local connections to facilitate the procurement process, ensuring that buyers receive the best products at competitive prices. Here are some key functions of a sourcing agent:

Supplier Identification: They help find reputable manufacturers that meet specific requirements.

Quality Control: Sourcing agents often oversee quality assurance to ensure products meet industry standards.

Logistics Management: They can manage shipping and customs clearance, simplifying the logistics of international trade.

Negotiation: Experienced agents can negotiate better prices and terms on behalf of their clients.

 

Recent Trends in Furniture Design

As you consider which products to source, it's essential to stay updated on the latest trends in the furniture industry. Here are some of the most popular trends in recent years:

1. Sustainable Furniture

With the growing awareness of environmental issues, sustainable furniture has become increasingly popular. Consumers are now seeking products made from eco-friendly materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metals. When sourcing sustainable furniture, look for manufacturers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices.

2. Multi-functional Furniture

As urban living spaces become smaller, the demand for multi-functional furniture is on the rise. Items like convertible sofas, foldable tables, and modular storage units are highly sought after. Sourcing agents can help identify manufacturers specializing in innovative designs that maximize functionality without compromising style.

3. Modern Minimalism

The minimalist design aesthetic, characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and a focus on functionality, continues to dominate the market. This trend appeals to consumers looking for simplicity and elegance in their living spaces. When sourcing modern furniture, consider partnering with manufacturers known for their minimalist designs.

Advantages of Using a China Furniture Sourcing Agent

1. Time and Cost Efficiency

Sourcing agents can significantly reduce the time and effort involved in finding reliable suppliers. They have established relationships with manufacturers and can quickly identify the best options for your needs. Additionally, their negotiation skills can lead to cost savings, ensuring you get the best price for your furniture.

2. Expertise in Local Markets

Navigating the complexities of the Chinese market can be challenging for international buyers. A knowledgeable sourcing agent understands local customs, regulations, and market dynamics. This expertise helps mitigate risks and ensures compliance with industry standards.

3. Quality Assurance

Quality control is critical in furniture procurement. Sourcing agents can conduct factory inspections and product evaluations, ensuring that the products meet your specifications before shipping. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of receiving subpar products.

How to Choose the Right Furniture Sourcing Agent

Selecting the right furniture sourcing agent involves careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

1. Experience and Reputation

Look for agents with a proven track record in the furniture industry. Research their history, client testimonials, and case studies. An experienced agent will have established relationships with reputable manufacturers and a deep understanding of market trends.

2. Service Range

Ensure that the sourcing agent offers comprehensive services, including quality control, logistics management, and post-purchase support. A full-service agent can streamline the entire procurement process, making it easier for you to focus on your core business.

3. Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential for a successful partnership. Choose a sourcing agent who is fluent in both English and Chinese to facilitate clear communication. This will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that your requirements are accurately conveyed.

4. Transparency and Trust

A trustworthy sourcing agent will be transparent about their processes, fees, and potential challenges. Look for agents who provide regular updates on the status of your orders and are willing to address any concerns you may have.

Collaborating with Your Sourcing Agent

Once you’ve chosen a sourcing agent, effective collaboration is key to a successful partnership. Here are some tips for working together:

1. Clearly Define Your Requirements

Provide your sourcing agent with detailed specifications regarding the types of furniture you want to source. Include information about materials, styles, sizes, and budget constraints. The more information you provide, the better your agent can assist you.

2. Maintain Open Communication

Regular communication is essential for staying on track. Schedule regular check-ins with your sourcing agent to discuss progress, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to your sourcing strategy.

3. Be Informed about Market Trends

Stay informed about current market trends and consumer preferences. This knowledge will help you make better decisions and provide valuable insights to your sourcing agent.

Sourcing Popular Furniture

To maximize the effectiveness of your procurement strategy, consider sourcing popular furniture items that align with current trends. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Sustainable Furniture Options

Look for manufacturers offering sustainable furniture lines, such as reclaimed wood dining tables or bamboo seating options. Highlighting these products can attract environmentally conscious consumers.

2. Space-saving Solutions

Source multi-functional furniture like sofa beds or expandable dining tables. These products are ideal for urban consumers seeking practical solutions for limited living space.

3. Minimalist Designs

Partner with manufacturers who specialize in minimalist designs, such as sleek coffee tables and simple shelving units. These items appeal to consumers looking for modern aesthetics in their homes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right China furniture sourcing agent is a critical step in ensuring a successful procurement process. By understanding the role of sourcing agents and staying updated on current furniture trends, you can make informed decisions that enhance your business. Whether you’re looking for sustainable furniture, multi-functional designs, or minimalist styles, a reliable sourcing agent can help you navigate the complexities of the Chinese market and achieve your procurement goals. Take the time to select an agent who aligns with your needs, and you’ll be well on your way to sourcing high-quality furniture that meets your business objectives.

At Market Union, we understand the importance of choosing the right China furniture sourcing agent for your business. With our extensive experience and expertise in the industry, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the complexities of the Chinese market and achieve their procurement goals. Our team stays updated on current furniture trends, including sustainable options, multi-functional designs, and minimalist styles, to ensure that we can provide our clients with the best options available.

By selecting Market Union as your sourcing agent, you can trust that you are working with a reliable partner who will help you source high-quality furniture that meets your business objectives. Choose Market Union for a seamless and successful procurement process.