Cabinet of curiosities: GOING GOOGIE

Inspired by the unbridled post-war optimism of Googie architecture. Because we could al use a little bit of fun and positivity in these volatile times.

I learned about this eye-catching architectural style after being intrigued by the otherworldly restaurant I encountered at LAX airport. It’s a futuristic and playful style that flourished from the 1940s to the early 1970s in the United States, especially in California. The term comes from Googie’s coffee shop in Los Angeles, designed by the great John Lautner. Its boomerang shapes, vibrant neon lighting, and bold organic forms were meant to catch the eye of motorists passing by. Even now, when I drive past one of these gems, I feel that sense of optimism and progress typical of the Space Age era. It always brightens my day.

Future heirlooms meant to be treasured for a lifetime (or two...)

From left to right, up to down:

1. Ceramic salt container 'Salty Fairy Ring', JihYun Kim Ceramic, price on request.

2. Alligator necklace in white gold and diamonds, Bibi van der Velden, € 64 000. If you're wondering what to get me for my birthday and you recently won the lottery. Or bought NVIDIA stocks in 1999.

3. Concrete coffee maker Espresso Solo by Linski Design, Lavazza. Not in production as far as I could find, but oh so cool.

4. Book 'Hoods - Richard Prince', Fulton Ryder. An artist’s book published to coincide with Richard Prince’s first exhibition dedicated to this body of work at Gagosian in New York.

5. Citrus squeezer Juicy Salif, Philippe Starck for Alessi, € 90. A classic.

6. Moon Sofa, Christine Kalia Collection, price on request.

7. Print Joshua Tree, California by Rob Hann, € 43

8. Drinks cabinet Urchin by Jake Phipps, price on request.

9. Ottoman Torus, Umberto Bellardi Ricci for Tacchini, € 1061