2021-03-04 15:48
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Alwaysmod Marimekko & Modern Design Blog
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The mission at AlwaysMod Blog is to bring you design that is always modern. We believe in timeless, accessible and Marimekko design.
2021-03-04 15:48
2020-01-31 11:32
In late 2009, Marimekko introduced its new line of tableware. The product line was titled, “In Good Company” and featured an array of plates, bowls, mugs, cups and a tea pot. Th… Read More
2020-01-31 07:48
The Sarpaneva pot is often seen as the perfect example of the Finns’ ability to combine beauty with function. Its unadorned cast iron form is lovely in its simplicity. Its wooden han… Read More
2020-01-31 07:48
Artek was founded in 1935 by four young idealists: Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. The business idea of the company was “to sell furniture and to promote… Read More
2020-01-31 07:47
Weaving wonderful things for almost a century, Lapuan Kankurit originally began as a wool and felt boot factory in 1917. Now, run by fourth-generation weaver Esko Hjelt and his wife Jaana… Read More
2020-01-31 07:47
History
How Finland set themselves apart from the rest. Learn the history of Finnish design. Read More…
Design Forum Finland
Design Forum Finland actively promotes the competiti… Read More
2020-01-31 07:47
Home Home
Take a look at these extraordinary tiny houses for some inspiring house ideas! 1.) The Cedar Mountain Tiny House– built by New Frontier Tiny Homes…
Read More
Happy New… Read More
2020-01-31 07:46
For a long time, Iittala has been part of an ongoing revolution. This is based on the belief that all human beings can make conscious choices in everyday life. Choosing objects that will la… Read More
2020-01-31 07:45
Established in 1992, the Kaj Franck Design Prize is awarded to designers working in the spirit of the late Kaj Franck. The purpose of the prize is to celebrate a designer’s innovative… Read More
2018-06-01 21:21
Many of these Turkish towels celebrate the 50 year anniversary of Annika Rimala’s Tasaraita (Even Stripe) pattern. The pattern was first featured on unisex shirts, and half a century l… Read More
2018-06-01 21:04
The Kivi (Rock) collection by Anu Pentik brings a natural, neo-primitive playfulness to the setting. Dark in color like stone, the handcrafted ceramics are adorned with swirled detailing li… Read More
2018-06-01 20:56
Design
Finnish artist Maija Isola’s pop art inspired print from the 1960’s still resonates worldwide today. The Päärynä print features juicy pears, in a simplisti… Read More
2018-06-01 20:44
History
Aino Aalto originally designed these pots for the terrace of the home she shared with Alvar Aalto on Helsinki’s Riihitie Road. It was featured in the Artek presentation at the… Read More
2018-05-11 20:53
Finnish design can be spotted all over media like movies and TV shows. While it may seem like background props to some, those who know and love these products can recognize them right a… Read More
2018-05-11 20:48
Former professional windsurfer, Janne Rauhansuu, searching for a new direction after a 15-year-long career, strikes business gold with a seemingly simple idea. Janne was staying in Swi… Read More
2018-05-11 20:31
These unique animals found in Finland can be both hard and easy to find in Finnish forests. Learn more about where and how to spot them when visiting.
1. Lynx
These large and beautif… Read More
2018-05-11 20:29
Many people credit the Finns for providing the world with eclectically gorgeous architecture that still remains popular to this day. However, architecture in Finland has dramatically change… Read More
2018-04-18 19:57
Plates: the backdrop to every meal. We use plates everyday, so it only makes sense that the essential is both beautiful and practical. The cupboards of most Finns’ homes are stocked w… Read More
2018-03-11 22:46
Design Museum Finland
DESIGNMUSEUM is a specialist museum in Finland that selects and maintains a design collection. The museum is responsible for research and documentation in its field, a… Read More
2018-02-11 19:36
Marimekko’s own production has always been a central aspect of creating and developing design. Through its own production, the company maintains a good feel for the technical skills ne… Read More
2018-01-20 16:52
The Finnish version of America’s Disney World, Moominworld is a magical place for kids to interact with their favorite fictional characters. Located on the island of Kailo near Naantal… Read More
2017-12-11 18:30
Founded in 1649, Fiskars started in this small village about 1-1/2 hours west of Helsinki. In the 1980s Fiskars began to move operations out of Fiskars Village to streamline production and m… Read More
2017-11-15 20:07
Located on a slope leading down towards Lake Jyväsjärvi, the Alvar Aalto Museum serves as a showcase of Alvar Aalto works, an information center, organizes Aalto exhibitions… Read More
2017-03-06 16:25
Take a look at these extraordinary tiny houses for some inspiring house ideas!
1.) The Cedar Mountain Tiny House– built by New Frontier Tiny Homes in Nashville, Tennessee this home is… Read More
2017-03-03 16:16
Anyone that knows me knows that I love coffee mugs. I must admit, I am a coffee mug hoarder. That’s because they represent so many things, the places I’ve been, the great times i… Read More
2017-02-28 21:29
Who else is looking forward to the first day of spring on March 20th? The Marimekko Desktop Calendar for March 2017 features plenty of pretty plants, in case you are short of actual greenery… Read More
2017-02-21 17:12
Take a look at these modern coffee table stylings and get creative with styling your coffee tables.
Double coffee tables. With the right tables, two coffee tables can look twice as nice… Read More
2017-02-15 20:39
We hope everyone had a lovely Valentine’s Day yesterday. Valentine’s Day may be deemed a “Hallmark holiday” these days, but nothing can beat an old-fashioned, handwri… Read More
2017-02-15 15:24
For many, keeping your kitchen clutter free and under control isn’t easy when you have limited storage space. Here a few tips to maximize your existing space and get you on your way to… Read More
2017-02-07 19:01
Minneasota is not only home to the great lakes, but also the home to some of the best Modern Retail Store Designs. Check out some of these modern retailers and get inspired.
Forage… Read More
2017-02-02 15:11
It’s that time of year again when the furry rodent makes its famed weather forecast. Based on its legend, if it’s sunny our little groundhog friend, Phil will see his shadow and… Read More
2017-02-01 23:26
The name February is taken from a Latin word, februare, meaning “to make pure.” What better way to purify a space than with a lovely plant (which also makes a great alternative t… Read More
2017-01-31 16:16
A change in paint color and a few accessories can completely transform a room! Tanya’s Lake house looked a little bland when she first moved in. The lake house was painted white when s… Read More
2017-01-27 17:33
Skip the flowers, chocolates and teddy bears this year in favor of something more modern and functional. Valentine’s Day is February 14th, and we’ve rounded up 14 of our favorite… Read More
2017-01-23 15:37
Even though the Holiday season is over, let’s just celebrate one more time!
It’s the 100th anniversary of Finland’s independence, so let’s celebrate with Marimekko. M… Read More
2017-01-19 17:01
Perhaps you are someone who’s blessed or maybe cursed with built-in shelves and looking to style those dull empty shelves. Or maybe you’re someone looking add shelves in you… Read More
2017-01-11 15:03
Start off every morning with a positive attitude by revamping your bathroom. Giving your bathroom décor a few dynamic tones makes the perfect facelift. Bringing tenacious color s… Read More
2017-01-09 16:00
Eating healthier and getting organized are two of the most common New Year’s resolutions people make.
Unfortunately, that means that these great goals for 2017 are some of the mos… Read More
2017-01-05 17:00
Happy National Bird Day!
Each year, January 5th celebrates the annual holiday of new beginnings for captive birds. January 5th was chosen to correspond with the end of the annual Christmas b… Read More
2017-01-02 19:00
Happy New Year! This Marimekko Desktop Calendar is perfect for January 2017. With pictures from the past and a bouquet of fresh flowers, it provides inspiration both old and new for a w… Read More
2016-12-09 20:34
Did you hear? Pantone has announced its 2017 Pantone Color of the Year. Meet Greenery: a refreshing and revitalizing shade of green symbolic of new beginnings. True to its name, Greener… Read More
2016-12-02 22:40
Can you believe it’s the final month of 2016? December is a month of quiet reflection and community celebration. May you all enjoy your holidays and this Marimekko desktop backgro… Read More
2016-12-01 19:40
Happy December!
Decorating for the holidays is a tradition for many to make home feel even cozier during the holiday season. A home peppered with warm holiday accents sparks feelings of nost… Read More
2016-11-07 16:00
Do you quilt? I have never gone beyond tying a quilt, but I have recieved heirloom quilts handmade with love and amazing talent. If you’re a quilter, I bet you’ll love the modern… Read More
2016-11-01 18:39
November brings to mind memories made around the table, which this Marimekko image captures perfectly.
Reader Rosalea was kind enough to point out that having the calendar on the right may n… Read More
2016-10-24 16:00
We had the opportunity to pick the brain of Andy Van Meter, President of Design Ideas.
Aiming to bring wonder, delight and order to the office and home, Design Ideas is constantly pushing th… Read More
2016-10-24 13:00
Using classic pieces in a new way creates modern Thanksgiving tablescapes. Intentional tablescapes make a gathering feel thoughtful and special, and the right blend of simplicity and glamour… Read More
2016-10-19 16:00
We had the chance to chat with Tina Frey and get some insight on her and her successful company, Tina Frey Designs. Inspired by nature and travels, Frey designs and hand sculpts each ar… Read More
2016-10-12 17:15
You don’t have to spend a lot to give something thoughtful and beautiful. Shopping sales is a wonderful way to gift modern design to friends, co-workers, teachers and more this holiday… Read More
2016-10-08 13:00
Tom Dixon Pendant Lights are stunning, but they also seamlessly fit into many modern eclectic spaces. At AlwaysMod, my teammates and I have become pretty good at spotting modern home goods w… Read More
2016-10-03 18:06
The October 2016 Marimekko Desktop Calendar captures autumn’s mood using warm wood tones with rustic bundles and bouquets. The scene still is clean-lined and modern, tha… Read More
2016-09-22 18:57
Anyone that knows me can tell you that I love all things floral. The timeless print isn’t just for spring and summer months; in fact, fall florals are some of the most stunning. Instea… Read More
2016-09-02 20:46
September is a month of transition. Saying goodbye to young ones as they go back to school, saying goodbye to summer as we prepare for autumn. For me, September is when I start looking… Read More
2016-09-02 18:57
The Labor Day Marimekko Sale is 20% off ALL Marimekko (minimum order) through September 6th! Indulge in some long weekend shopping to find modern home goods for Fall and beyond. There are hu… Read More
2016-08-30 19:14
A modern dining room feels like the heart of daily living. So many home goods are integral to routines like sipping morning coffee, gathering for family dinner or chatting with a friend. At… Read More
2016-08-19 16:04
Above left: Jean Prouvé’s Standard Chair, manufactured exclusively by Vitra: now protected until 2054
Above right: Arne Jacobsen’s Egg Chair, manufactured e… Read More
2016-07-20 15:27
We were impressed by this use of Marimekko Hauki Napkins on this IKEA RAST Dresser. Head over to IKEA Hackers for the full DIY story and more pictures.
And if you want an easier way to catc… Read More
2016-06-27 17:20
I had to take not one, but two double takes on album covers that popped up on my Spotify playlist this past week. The first was Late Night Tales, a mix album compiled by British musicia… Read More
2016-05-31 17:40
Hopefully by now you’ve had a few moments that, for you, marked the start of summer. The first dip in the lake, the first time firing up the grill or the first bike ride of the year ar… Read More
2016-05-25 18:48
Anyone going to be in New York this summer? Until September 25, 2016, the Bard Graduate Center Gallery (BGCG) is showing the Artek and the Aaltos: Creating a Modern World exhibit. It’s… Read More
2016-05-19 16:54
Summer’s late sunsets bring out the kick-back vibe in us, and beers and barbeques are finally in high season. Whether you’re entertaining a big event or having an impromptu deck… Read More
2016-05-13 18:09
In collaboration with the most talented designers from around the world, MENU aims to make life a little less complicated and a lot more beautiful. The result is a style that Danish design b… Read More
2016-05-05 17:44
Did you enjoy the Marimekko for Target collection? If you’re looking for more bold and summery inspiration, I’ve rounded up some Marimekko items that keep those vibes going all y… Read More
2016-04-30 16:00
April showers bring May flowers, and these violet beauties are propped pretty in a Marimekko vase on the new Marimekko “Quilt” runner. The May 2016 Desktop Calendar is moder… Read More
2016-04-22 19:11
Happy Earth Day! Each year, April 22nd celebrates the anniversary of the modern environmental movement in 1970. It is now celebrated by more than a billion people each year, and se… Read More
2016-04-11 19:53
Marimekko fabric is an obvious choice for high-impact, modern wall art. I often come across images or real-life installments of Marimekko fabric wall art in the form of stretched canvas, fra… Read More
2016-04-06 17:16
Does thread count really count for anything? We’ve often heard that a higher thread count indicates a higher quality sheet, but that is not necessarily true. There are a number of… Read More
2016-04-01 18:10
I found this image to a peaceful and pleasant desktop calendar for the first full month of spring. A piece of Marimekko Lokki fabric is used as a curtain, which looks lovely illuminated… Read More
2016-03-30 18:39
An exhibit tribute to Charles and Ray Eames is running for four more days at Gallery Nucleus in Alhambra, California. If you’re in the area, you may want to check it out. At AlwaysMod… Read More
2016-03-25 22:05
I’ve long been a fan of cork in modern furniture, flooring and accessories. Not only is cork a renewable and eco-friendly resource, it is warm, durable and unexpected. After we got in… Read More
2016-03-25 22:05
I’ve long been a fan of cork in modern furniture, flooring and accessories. Not only is cork a renewable and eco-friendly resource, it is warm, durable and unexpected. After we got in… Read More
2016-03-18 16:48
Napkin folds and placements are such a fun and easy way to add a finishing touch to a thoughtful tablescape. We have a delightful collection of modern napkins, both cloth and paper. Inspired… Read More
2016-03-11 17:59
We’re always on the lookout for iconic designs in real-life use, especially when they pop up so close to our home base here in the Twin Cities. A Midwest Home article called &ldqu&hell…Read More
2016-03-10 14:00
Modern spring color palettes seem to bridge winter and summer with a burst of color and energy. Some of our new items have images that put together such lovely combinations. This spring seem… Read More
2016-03-04 14:00
The anticipation of spring bouquets and blooming branches just went up a knotch, with the arrival of Marimekko vases. The four modern vases complement each other, but work individually as we… Read More
2016-02-29 19:35
Happy Leap Day! We are ready to leap into March and start spring on the 20th. Don’t forget St. Patrick’s Day on the 17th and Easter Sunday on the 27th! Alongside the yellow… Read More
2016-02-26 21:20
iittala Sarjaton Dinnerware
Vitreous Porcelain is a modern and durable type of porcelain. Because of the particularly high-heat processing in the kiln, vitreous porcelain is less brittle tha… Read More
2016-02-25 21:48
With spring just ahead, we are getting in so much new modern design finds. New items are being added every day, and its rare that they go on sale right away. That’s why are s… Read More
2016-02-16 18:43
We recently lent out our Fritz Hansen Essay Table and Tom Dixon Pendant Light to Midwest Home Magazine, and are so excited to see it styled on the cover of the February 2016 issue. The coppe… Read More
2016-02-15 18:29
I love a virtual home tour, especially when a home is layered with timeless modern touches. At AlwaysMod, my teammates and I have become pretty good at spotting thousands of items we carry i… Read More
2016-02-11 22:05
Today kicked off the Marimekko Presidents’ Day Sale. Today through Tuesday, February 15th, enjoy 20% off Marimekko sitewide. Save on Marimekko dinnerware and glassware, kitchen linens… Read More
2016-02-04 14:50
Valentine’s Day gifts are so tricky. You don’t want to get anything too expected or cliché, but also nothing random and removed from any romantic symbolism. Modern gi… Read More
2016-02-02 13:00
Despite the Groundhog’s declaration, the transition to spring is full of false starts and chilly mornings. A room-by-room refresh indoors can make waiting for Spring much cozier. Moder… Read More
2016-02-01 20:15
Sending some love this February! The shortest month is a day longer than usual on account of the leap year. In honor of Valentines Day, our February 2016 Desktop Calendar features Verne… Read More
2016-01-26 13:00
At AlwaysMod, we pride ourselves on curating timeless, modern pieces. Trends are fun to experiment with, but do best in a foundation of timeless design. I’ve come up with 5 questions t… Read More
2016-01-22 21:37
If you’ve flipped through home decor magazines, browsed style blogs, or tuned into any interior design shows, chances are you have heard the term “modern design” more… Read More
2016-01-20 13:00
Himmeli decorations have been around for ages, originally made in Finland and other Nordic countries from rye straw as good luck for the rye harvest. The geometric shape and minimalist sculp… Read More
2016-01-15 20:29
We’ve been hearing a lot more about Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, who have worked as joint partners out of a Paris-based design studio since 1999. The design duo has been commissi… Read More
2016-01-14 16:42
We took a look at the 15 most popular items at AlwaysMod in 2015. From drinkware to accessories to bedding, the whole house got the modern touch from AlwaysMod. Upgrade your beer glasses, m… Read More
2016-01-04 22:48
For many, the new year signifies starting anew. Some freshly cut stems and all the tools needed to make a beautiful bouquet seemed an appropriate way to illustrate the possibilities a new ye… Read More
2015-12-17 20:30
I couldn’t do a tea gift guide without doing a coffee gift guide. I’m definitely a tea fan, but I have to admit coffee is my number one. Some times I take it black and oth… Read More
2015-12-14 13:00
Gifts waiting under the tree or presented to loved ones are part of the beauty of this season. I’ve collected inspirational ideas for modern gift wrap that will wow the recipients, and… Read More
2015-12-09 19:06
Wine becomes a part of the holidays in more ways than one. It’s a go-to gift for friends, a thoughtful gesture as a house guest, and a staple at holiday meals settings. Not to mention… Read More
2015-12-08 20:49
Last week, I compiled a list of gifts for the cook in your life. Today, I’ve put together a gift guide for tea drinkers. I’ve always been into coffee, but within the last fe… Read More
2006-06-07 11:16
It’s easy to appreciate blue skies, beaming sunshine and a slight breeze; after all, it’s what most of us would consider pleasant weather. Perhaps that’s why the recen… Read More
2006-06-07 11:16
While sorting through the latest treasures to arrive here at AlwaysMod, I was delighted to see some new names: Reeta Ek and Paavo Halonen. Though I love the three Maijas (Maija Isola, Maija… Read More
2006-06-07 11:16
Marimekko fans, brace yourselves! Just when you think the vibrant patterns have adorned just about everything under the sun, they haven’t. In celebration of Japanese cherry blos… Read More
2006-06-07 11:16
Happy first day of spring, all! Today marks the Spring equinox, meaning longer days are on the way that can be spent socializing out on the patio. Here in the Midwest, it may be a Read More
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