Lora Appleton and Bachman Clem founded New York City-based kinder MODERN in 2012 as a unique gallery that specializes in vintage children’s design specifically from the 20th century. Besides the curated collection of rare designs from the 1920s-1980s, the duo champions the best up-and-coming designers who create out of the box contemporary children’s designs, like Material Lust, Lucas Maassen, and Matthew Sullivan. With their diverse backgrounds, Appleton and Clem not only bring their own expertise to the business, they’re shaking things up in the children’s modern design world. Curious to see what this pair enjoys in life? Take a look at this week’s Friday Five.
1. First on the list – Bourbon! Lora’s go-to is Bulleit, and Bachman’s is Woodford.
2. Brimfield Antique Show and Flea Market – We love anything vintage, and the art of bargaining. Because we own a gallery, we are always on the hunt for interesting, well-designed things you don’t see every day, and this quirky environment is a fun place to scour. We love those Jamaican pies and weird lemonade!
3. Maharam – We love their patterns, exceptional quality, and the design of their showrooms. We tend to be drawn to things with a cool story & history, because it gives any product more character. Maharam’s illustrious spirit is evident in its graphic prints and theatrical textiles. We are mawhoreams!
4. Dutch Furniture – As a gallery specializing in both vintage & contemporary children’s furniture design, we celebrate pieces with historical significance, excellent craftsmanship and innovation in materiality and design from around the world. Dutch furniture has a special place in our hearts because of its contribution to design over centuries. This contemporary piece was designed by Steven Visser and Vera Meijwaard after being inspired by the versatility and durability of industrial PVC cloth, as well as traditional camping closets and gymnasium equipment. It’s unexpected and distinct.
Photo by Nicole Bengiveno/The New York Times
5. Being wildly inappropriate – There’s nothing better than having a partner to cry to, yell at, collaborate with and dance with… and stay out till 6:30 AM with and be completely inappropriate with!
