Bklyn Designs 2007

It was beautiful here in New York City last Saturday, perfect for strolling around Dumbo with Debbie and checking out Bkyln Designs 2007, the now-annual showcase of "the hottest" Brooklyn-based designers and manufacturers of contemporary furniture (and some home accessories). But while the weather was lovely—it was particularly nice to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge after we were done—Debbie and I were seriously underwhelmed by the exhibition. She said: Lots of almost-good ideas. Me said: Some good ideas, not very well executed.

The show, which kicked off NY Design Week, has spread to three locations, all within a few blocks of each other on Dumbo's cobblestoned streets: St. Ann's Warehouse (the buzziest, most bustling venue), the Smack Mellon Gallery near the river, and the Bklyn Designs Annex. But even with 65 exhibitors, the $12 admission felt steep, given the paucity of fresh, exciting designs. All that said, there were several interesting booths, some of which are pictured below.

Though I'm not sure I'd want them in my home (maybe my nephew's home?), I thought these creations by Longo Land were fun, original, compelling...


This wavy chaise by Aswoon was surpisingly comfy...


Debbie was less convinced...


Paul Loebach designs had energy, wit, and passion, as in this Gunshot Mirror. His description: "Mirrored glass shot with a .22 rifle and inset into solid chestnut. A split second of destructive power frozen in time on your wall. Made by America."


This cabinet/dresser was innovative (the swirling images of the eyes are three-dimensional), but kind of freaky for a child's room, no?


One of the reasons we found the show disappointing was that we had seen many of these objects before, mostly on design blogs. Like these cool spice shelving units from DESU Design (I like their coat hooks, too)...


...and these Nymph lamps from Site Specific Design....


I liked the organic shapes of these children's rockers from Lisa Albin Design's iglooplay line...


By the way, next Tuesday, May 22, the massive International Contemporary Furniture Fair at the Javits Center—featuring more than 600 exhibitors!—will be open to the general public. Prepare to be exhausted.