These products and concepts have inspired me to take a second look. There is a movement and redefinition of aesthetics in surface, texture, shape and application.

Spectacular Craft
Transformation of the ordinary: advances in material technology and a hint of kitsch irony. The reinvention of the traditional, inspired by the “everyday” is a growing trend. I’m seeing experimental use of materials and techniques that are creating a fresh and contemporary look. Boundaries and expectations of surface and textures are reinvented.

Artist Jamie Cullen combines digital artwork with photographic elements, a mix of romance and rock with a twist of electro, and tuned into the worlds of music, fashion and cinema.
http://www.jamiecullen.net/

Vere, a fresh take on chocolate was born from a passion to create the most sophisticated, pure chocolate imaginable in a stunning gift package of premium artisan decor.
http://www.veregoods.com/

Unique and original, detailed laser-cutting: catwalk invite for designer Sue Stemp.
http://www.suestemp.com/

From exceptional packaging designer (Carlo Giovani whose work has been featured in the New York Times, MTV and more) his specialty is 3-D paper characters. Packaging-as-toy concept is highlighted here in this tea box.
http://carlogiovani.com/

What really stands out as memorable these days?
Every once in a while you find inspiration. Sometimes it’s a picture. Other times, inspiration hits by seeing how someone else “re-sees” the ordinary and forgotten objects we pass by everyday without a second glance. Ping Mag has a great article called “The Designing Process”, check it out:

http://pingmag.jp/2007/04/19/form-or-creation-about-the-designing-process/