With its mix of multinational companies and independent craftsman sitting cheek by jowl, London’s 100% Design offers the opportunity to see both Europe’s Next Big Thing and the latest idiosyncratic products. Following are a few of our favorites from last year’s show. - Julie Taraska
 

Wooden wonders
For more than 20 years, Matthew Hilton has created furniture for Driade, Habitat, CASE, and Design Within Reach. His eponymous line of Arts and Crafts–inspired chairs, tables, and home accessories, including the dining chair and coffee table shown, are handmade from slabs of teak, mahogany, and paramara. Matthew Hilton, London. www.matthewhilton.com

[Reader Service: February 2008 #201]
 

Boiling point
The next generation in pot fillers, Quooker’s boiling water tap provides 212 degree liquid right out of the spout. A compact, undersink stainless-steel tank with vacuum insulation stores the water, keeping it hot but the unit itself cool. The tap is available with a childproof safety mechanism and in four models, including the Classic SS (shown). Quooker, Manchester, England. www.quooker.com

[Reader Service: February 2008 #207]
 

Circling the drain
Alape’s WT.RL800 washstand’s flat surfaces and concealed inflow and outflow mechanisms belie the unit’s purpose. Part of the Components System, the lightweight unit has a hollow steel body and a hard-wearing, scratch-resistant glaze surface. Dornbracht, Duluth, Ga. www.dornbracht.com

[Reader Service: February 2008 #208]
     

The art of sound
Designed by artist Gill Hewitt in collaboration with Ecophon, these recyclable bespoke textile acoustic panels are as easy on the eye as they are on the ear. Each comprises a glass-based unit with a sound-absorbing substrate nestled between multiple layers of felted cotton, polyester, or linen. Class 1 rated for flame spread, the panels can reduce flutter echo in offices, restaurants, and homes. Gill Hewitt, Bath, England. www.gillhewitt.com

[Reader Service: February 2008 #209]

For the birds
Produced by Freedom of Creation, a Dutch firm known for its cutting-edge work in rapid manufacturing techniques, the Trabecula bench is made of lightweight but very sturdy plastic. The interior of bird bones, with their low-density but structural strength, inspired the unit’s seat, fashioned from overlapping layers of an open honeycomb pattern. Progressive Design Group, Forest Hills, N.Y. www.freedomofcreation.com

[Reader Service: February 2008 #210]