Thanks for viewing my site. I've been interested in miniatures for nearly 12 years now, and have noticed the 'lack of' selection of Modern houses and accessories . This inspired me to create my own Modernist line in 1:12 scale. The M112 Pod house was my first 1:12 scale house, and now I've created the site's namesake, the M112 Pods. These Pods are stackable, just like the real thing! I currently have two types of Pods. The Series 1 has a short wall and two sliding glass doors in the front, and the Series 2 has 4 sliding glass doors in the front . Each unit measures 8" wide, 8 1/2" tall, by 20" long. I have created a few 40" as well, and these are a special order item. Each 20" unit costs $325 each plus shipping, and $385plus shipping for the Units with the authentic rust finish. The 40" units are $585 each, plus $30 shipping. I offer furnished Pods too, as well as custom Pod homes. Prices for custom 1:12 scale homes start at $900+. These items can be purchased directly through my new online store at www.prdminiatures.com
I also create many custom Modern pieces of furniture in 1:12 scale, as well as 1:1 scale. Many of the designs are my own, but you will see some designs from Minotti, Poliform, Hudson furniture, etc. just to name a few. You'll also see some of my 1/18 scale Diecast collectible displays.
I'm currently operating my business from the Las Vegas, Nevada area. We hope to open up a larger shop in the coming months, so when you come to visit fabulous Las Vegas, you can stop in and see us!
Please visit my website at www.parisrenfroedesign.com, to see some of my full scale designs. You can also contact me personally at paris@parisrenfroedesign.com.
Door detail on the bottom Pod.
This view shows the cord management trough on the left side of the structure. Each Pod has it's own power source and the trough not only keeps the cords neat, but it also keeps them out of sight. They are made with distressed aluminum mesh and extruded aluminum channel.
I got inspiration for the mounting brackets from the giant cranes found at the shipyards. They are mounted to a concrete finished plywood backsplash, that hangs via a french cleat.
Each Pod has it's own switch so the can be controlled independently.
This is the interior view of the bottom Pod. The floor is bamboo wood in a plank pattern. The walls are painted in a green Cactus Garden.
This is the middle Pod. The floor is a plank pattern Maple, and the walls are painted in a golden hue called Living Tahiti.
The Top Pod has a ladder leading to a ceiling port. The floor is a laminate slate, with walls painted in an off white hue called Artist Canvas.
This view shows the bottom mounting bracket. The top of the bracket nestles into the bottom tracks of the Pod.
A view from the top of the Port.
This view shows where the power cord enters into the Pods.
This view shows the rust patina on the aluminum mesh. The valance conceals the power cords along the left side of each Pod.
The word Gallery is etched into the back of the left door on the bottom Pod.
The Pods are not attached to the back wall, which has a concrete finish. They are actually sandwiched between the two mounting brackets, which are attached to the back wall.
The top mounting plate has rubber pads on the bottom. They grip the top Pod, and keep it from sliding out.
This is a new version of the Blanca Entertainment unit. This one features sculpted cabinet fronts and a removable SONY flat screen LCD. The knitted poufs are new, and will be up at the PRD store in the coming weeks. Also shown is a prototype chair I'm working on, based on an existing design. The hammered metallic cubes are new as well.
This room view also features the Alex sectional and Flor tiles shown in blue Endless Bubbles.
Detail showing functioning bypassing doors.
The newest addition to the M.U.T.T line.
This photo was taken inside one of my new Series 3 Pods. It features an extra deep floorplan(15" deep, 19 1/4" wide interior measurements) with white walls, custom walnut floors, and brushed aluminum sliding door.
I call this table FLOT, because of the balancing act on just two wood corners. The corner supports are made from solid Cocobolo wood, with a plexiglas top. Dimensions are 4" x 4" x 1 3/8"High.
CB2 has some pretty cool designs. The Lubi daybed actually folds into a small sleeper...great for small spaces. I liked the simplicity of the design, and thought it a good design to replicate for the M112 Pods, as it doesn't take up alot of room. Cost is $75 as shown, and will be up on Ebay later next week.
Dining area featuring a MiniModernistas vintage clock.
No, REAC hasn't come out with a table yet. At least not that I'm aware of. I took the base from an Eames Management chair, and created the rest of the table myself. The top is a Rosewood veneer. The scale makes it about a 42" top.
Detail of the Rosewood top.
I designed this wall unit for an M112 Pod slated for the Herman Miller showroom in Los Angeles. I did a series of 3 furnished Pods, which will be featured in their Parlor. Also shown in the scene is the Eames chaise lounger and ottoman.
Close up shows sliding plexi doors with handles, and a rosewood top to match the dining table. The TV surround is painted birch plywood.
I had ordered another set of the REAC chairs, and was disappointed with the black base and red chair. So I took it apart and repainted it. Much better........
A custom kitchen built for a client for her Kaleidescope House. It features 'concrete' countertops, all white cabinets, a custom stainless steel Samsung fridge, stainless dishwasher, stainless sink and faucet, and a smoked cooktop featuring 5 burners(there is a lens underneath the plexi top showing the burner rings). The main feature is the chromatherapy lighting of the back wall, which is an acrylic panel. The panel is lit from the bottom.
a side view showing the acyrlic panel lit in green.
A detail view of the Samsung fridge.
This is a view of the island cooktop
This is a view of the stainless dishwasher
View of the stainless sink and island
Kitchen view with pink lighting
This unit was based on one of my full size designs. The client asked to change it a bit, so it's not exactly like the full sized one, and does not have any lighting.
When it comes from REAC, it's done in a cheap plastic orange color. I painted it white, and added gray linen seat pads to it. It didn't take long, and definitely brings the quality up. The side table is one of my cowhide ottomans. The art on the wall is a section from a larger art piece found in Interior Design magazine. I wrote the artist down somewhere, but can't find it.
created from the same frame as my other chaises, this one has a bit more padding. All my upholstery pieces are created with real foam, as if made for 'little people'. I try and create as much detail as I can within an affordable budget.
This sectional was also a custom order, complete with chaise, aluminum feet, and a matching ottoman. Price to duplicate $150 for the set.
I thought this came out pretty cool. I can't wait to build a 1:1 scale version of this. Very popular with the ECO crowd.......
This is a shorter 6" version of the other table. I used the wenge stools with it, and it works pretty good. I'm thinking of making some benches in solids to go with these tables.
M.U.T.T stands for 'made using tossed trimmings. An idea for a full scale line using all scrap trimmings from the shop(s) floor. I'm also going to use it as flooring in my M112 Pods, once they are finished.
various woods include walnut, padauk, teak, maple, white oak, cypress, tigerwood, sycamore
one of my custom pieces of graphic art, showcased with the Pastilli chair, and one of my exotic burl stool/tables
These were made from the leftovers from the two coffee tables I made. I wanted to try some stools, as I hadn't made any yet. These are the only two in this wood that I have, but I can make them with pretty much any wood.
Made from solid Australian Cypress. The bottom has a slight reveal, to give them a floating effect. The grain in this wood is very beautiful, and helps to lighten up the colors in any miniature room.
No, this isn't the same bed as the other one, although it's the same design. I got such a good response on this bed, I just had to make a couple more. I think that's it for this one, so look for some new designs soon........
The same PRD platform bed that I've done in walnut, only this was custom ordered gloss white with aluminum night stands.
Another popular item with my collectors. The dimensions on this one are 7" tall, by 4 1/2" wide. I should clarify that these are 'inches', so that people don't think it's 1:1 scale.....
new platform bed. upholstered platform, with upholstered mattress and accent bolster. Dimensions 5" x 7". Price $45
Top view of 20" Pod with bathroom add on.
This bathroom is designed to be a wet room, finished off with waxed plaster, and sealed birch plywood. The room is designed to be wheelchair accessible.
This pool was made from 1 Series 1 20" Pod. It's only the bottom 1", but I can make them any depth up to 8 1/2" deep. Pools can be purchased separately at the prd store for $100.
FR8 house interior of closet and stairwell
Deck measures 6" deep, by 20" long. It's made from solid Cumaru wood, finished with a teak oil. Decks will be available at my prd store, starting at $75, depending upon the size. This one shown is $120
This was a great find. IT's a 4.3 inch screen, and has a touch screen, as well as internal battery. It can charge via your laptop, and it comes with a DC adapter for the wall. I downloaded several songs, videos, and even a couple of movies on to it. The battery lasts for about 5 hours with music, and about 3-4 with video and movies. The 8 gig is $79, and the 16 gig is $89. Here is the link.. http://www.buy.com/prod/mach-speed-trio-tch843-8gb-4-3-touch-screen-media-player/q/listingid/46274531/loc/111/211110503.html
I'll try and take some better night photos. The picture on the TRIO is perfect, but my pictures don't do it justice. I made a steel mount for the belt clip it came with.
This bathroom features a custom vanity unit, hatbox style toilet, and concrete soak tub/shower combo. The window outside the tub slides to the right, for accessiblity, or just to enjoy the 'breeze'. The floor is a lacquered formica.
This view shows the patio just outside of the master bedroom suite. The exterior rung ladder leads to the roof of the master suite, which I may add a green roof and some solar panels.
This is a view from the upper patio area, looking into the bedroom, and out to the small room leading to the stairwell. The walk-in closet is on the right.
Exterior view of stairwell.
All of the components to my houses come out, to allow the collector free range of placement ideas, and the ability to switch out/up room views. This picture shows the powder room wall section removed.
Rear door is covered with an aluminum foil finish.
This view is from the rear sliding doorway.
This view is from the front. I altered this Pod to add some spotlighting for using at shows and photo shoots.
This shot shows the M112 graphix on the window. I used a perforated lime green to contrast with the gray exterior and white interior.
This dual vanity unit features Kohler style sinks, Coco Bolo wood counter, dual floating mirrors, dual chromed towel bars, brushed aluminum lower shelf, plaster back wall, and plexi side partitions.
This is a simple solution for clients who already have a dollhouse. Just give me the measurements, some inspirational room photos/images, color scheme etc., and I'll do the rest. When this one arrives to it's new home, all it's owner has to do is slide it into place.
Even though there is a generous pivot door entry, the front exterior wall can be removed for easier accessibility.
This photo shows the front wall as well as the ceiling removed from the main bathroom. The lighting kit in the ceiling has 10 LED lights, and is run by two AA batteries.
A fullscale inspirational bathroom showed some mats in a similar pattern on the floor, although the one's in that room were above the tile. The client asked for them to be recessed, as it would seem to be a 'tripping' hazard. I think it looks better this way too, and also allows easy clearance by the door.
View past the 4" wide pivot door to the soak tub.
Painted ash wood with plexiglas insert, aluminum hardware. Door is offset to allow more clearance in the bathroom behind the door, where there is a chaise lounge.
Top view of door shows clearance behind door, as well as detail of purpleheart wood recessed sections in floor.
Vanity detail shown with chrome plated towel bar under vanity, as well as a sanded plexi divider separating the vanity from the toilet on the left, and the shower on the right. Also shows LED can lights in ceiling, which are operated via two AA batteries in above the ceiling.
Designed for a client's existing dollhouse, with specific details and dimensions in mind.
The client requested a purple and white them, so I went with purpleheart wood, which was used on the vanity, the slatted floor inserts, as well as the floor mirror.
A chaise lounge was also created using a purple microsuede with white leather piping.
View of the wardrobe/vanity unit from the kitchen Pod
The dimensions on this shower unit are 3" wide, 4 1/2" long, by 7" tall. Done in a concrete color, but can be finished in most any color. Price for this section is $50.
Detailed shower unit shown outside of Pod. All pieces are attached to a 1/4" back, making a partition wall. Unit can be used in most any dollhouse. Price for this section $100
This vanity/wardrobe unit measures 1 3/4" deep, 7" tall, by 7 3/8" wide. It features a wardrobe unit with 3 fixed drawers, an upper shelf with wardrobe bar, a floating cubby with modern sink and mirror, and wall mounted toilet. Wall can be painted any color. Price for this unit is $100
This is the first kitchen unit for the Pods. I designed it to fit along the solid end of either series, or along the 8" short wall in the series 1. Look for more options to come. Unit includes an upper aluminum shelf, a stainless steel sink/faucet, smoked cooktop, small fridge on the left, and a Miele style oven on the right.
This goes with the Viking fridge. The door does not open.
A custom Viking fridge for a client. Honestly, it's too time consuming to make these type of appliances with opening doors. I wanted to try one, so I did an opening version. All future versions will be closed. I enjoy making the furniture and the houses, but appliances are a little too much........
This is the kitchen that was also featured in the September issue of Dwell, along with the bathtub/sink combo. They were designed by Cecilia Tham and Yoel Karaso for their home in Barcelona Spain. There weren't any pictures of the backside, so I just created a unit that would function for my client.
Based on a design featured in the September issue of Dwell Magazine
I went with 6 equal panels of plexiglas for the front doors. I like things to stay in perspective, so two large doors just wouldn't be practical.....
A decent amount of space for an eventual rooftop deck/garden.
The back of the 40", or at least this one, has two doors. This way if you want to put two separate 20" units on the back side end to end, you'll have access to each smaller unit via a separate door. Or if you only put one up along side in back, the other door can lead to a pool or a garden area.
This shot shows just how long and lean it looks from the inside. I know, there are people out there who can't see living in 'one' of these, but that's why you get two or three, and either stack them, put them side by side, or both.
Here's the first 40 incher. This one is done in white, with a birch interior, with accent red painted I beams. These beams were integral to the structure, as they would be in a full sized 40' long structure. I've also used the M112 logo on the plexi, which is not the first time I've done it, but the first time using an actual graphic. This one is in black.
This shot shows a side by side view of the two units. Both units have an access door, similar to a hotel suite. When not being used as a door, you can easily keep it closed, and add some artwork to the door, or add more components to the kitchen.
Interior view of lower level kitchen and entertainment area in the series 2 Pod.
If you were to make this a full scale residence, it would actually be very cozy, and practical. Obviously in a full scale, I may do a spiral staircase as opposed to the ladder system, and add some more storage, like under the bed, and on the back of the shower stall wall. This also works great as a side by side style unit, where the ladders would just lead up to the roof deck.
Built for a client, this one has the rust finish, and the first to sport the etched M112 logo on the plexi slider.
Considering that Red is my favorite color, I'm surprised it took over 15 Pods before I finally made a red one.
The new design is shown in a canary yellow color, staged with Eames lounge from Reac Japan, Mini-modernistas floor lamp, and art and tables from PRD
The client requested a white exterior, interior combo with natural birch floor. I will be doing butcher block floors in teak, walnut, and the M.U.T.T style soon.................
This Pod is off to Italy tomorrow.......
London has a couple of Container City communities, somewhat like this..........
I love this sofa! A great design and well constructed too. Shown in a rust color, perfect for an Urban interior.
A random stack to show color variations
Interior view of the new Pod design
Shown in this picture is a yellow Pod with one whole side open for maximum exposure or viewing. I really like how it came out, and l plan to do one that is completely open on both sides, and closed on the ends.
I really love how this turned out, and am excited to make the others in various colors, and arrange/stack them. I'll also be working on the kitchen/bath/bedroom inserts to go with them. Each unit will be signed and numbered, not necessarily for a limited quantity, but mostly to keep track of the number produced.
This is the first of many M112 Pods. The color is Paprika, and is the base coat for the rust treatment. The dimensions are 8" wide, 8 1/2" tall, 20" long. Containers also come in 40' lengths, so I may do one at 40" at some point, or upon request.
Shown with the wardrobe out, you can see that the bathroom floor can also be removed.
I designed this house to be a completely open floorplan. The end user can remove everything, including the wardrobe separating the bedroom from the bath, and the tub and toilet are attached to the concrete floor, which can also be removed. Once those are removed, the carpeted section can come out as well, in case you ever wish to change out the carpet.
This photo features one of my art pieces in the background. It was created using various shades of blue plaster on plywood. I wanted to have a modernist version of the sky in the background.
This was when I exhibited at The AZ Gallery in St. Paul, MN in December of '08.
My first prefab style house in 1:12 scale. Created entirely of leftover shop materials.
Here's the first of a few pics from the LA showroom. This is in the Parlor, which is staged to look like a residential home. Sorry the pic is a little fuzzy, the Pods are on the right side.
A great opportunity for some good exposure!
A closer look at what's on the shelf.
One of my favorite pods to date. I like the mid-century mix with the new modern. The clock on the wall is by Minimodernistas.
It's been over a month since my last 'recent news' post. Sorry for that, I have been quite busy with the online store, filling orders, and working on new products. The most popular request as of late is "will you be making your designs in 1:16th scale to fit the Emerson house from Brinca Dada?" The answer is yes. I'm going to get a few pieces out in the coming weeks, but mostly I'm waiting to hear from customers who have received their houses. I may order one too, as it is a fantastic house, and it will be easier for me to design pieces to fit it if I have one on hand.
I am also working on an 'economy' line, that will be similar to the modern style of CB2 and West Elm. Much of the pieces will be made from various colors of acrylic, birch, and some veneers. The prices for this line will range from $15-$50.
I've recently started collaborating with a small company, Feyereisen Studios, which specializes in architectural models. You will be seeing some original pieces from some of their studio members, such as the 'Vortex' side table by Aaron Taylor, as well as pieces from Robert Feyereisen, principal and owner.
We've got alot of ideas that we plan to execute over the next couple of months, but if there is anything specific you would like to see, please send me an email.
Check the store for the newest items here www.prdminiatures.com
It's finally up and running! You can check it out at www.prdminiatures.com We are still adding items, but you can sign up to receive a 15% coupon to be used on your first purchase on the site. Some items are available immediately, and others are made to order and can be ready within 2-3 weeks. I'm also in development with a new company, to help produce the PRD furniture line, as well as the M112 Pods, and several new houses.
You can sign up here http://www.parisrenfroedesign.com/prdminiatures.aspx
I've been very busy these last few months, and I am wrapping up the final details on the new FR8 HOUSE. I came up with the design after a client who had previously purchased an M112 Pod from me, expressed interest in a larger scaled container home. So after several emails discussing the details, we agreed on a specific design, which I feel works surprisingly well. The sneak photos show it at about 80% completion, and I intend to have it completed sometime next week.
I will be attending the Tom Bishop show in Chicago this weekend, not as an exhibitor, but as a spectator. Although some of my work will be on display at the Swan House Miniatures booth. I'm looking forward to seeing all of the different artisans and their work. I'm sure at some point, I will finally do a show, but for now, it's very time consuming, and I'm only a one man operation. I'll post a new entry after the weekend, and let you know how it went.
So here is my first journal entry for 2010. Sorry it's late, but it's already been a busy year. One change I'm making as of March 1st is that the prices on the M112 Pods are going up. The 20" Pods will be going up from $175 to $225, while the 40" Pods will be going up from $275 to $385. So if you had planned to get any of the M112 Pod series, now is the time to get them before the prices go up on March 1st. I'm also planning on building a 'double' Pod, as there has been several requests for wider Pods. These Pods will range in size from 16" deep, by 20" and 40" long. Pricing will be $395 for a 16 x 20, and $590 for a 16 x 40" unit. These units will have sliding glass doors on the fronts, like the series 2 Pods(the most popular due to best viewing potential), solid ends, and one to two windows on the backside. The metal ladder with porthole will be standard, but a standard staircase will be an upgraded item. I am working on prototypes of these now, so I should have some pictures up over the coming weeks of what to expect.
In other news, I'm still living in Minneapolis, and will be aggressively marketing my home this Spring, with the hopes of still relocating to the Las Vegas area sometime in late spring, early summer. I will post any news regarding this as soon as it happens, as this will obviously put a hold on any custom orders for several months during the move.
I'm working on two custom Pod homes for clients, as well as the long awaited Xpand house and Skylofts. Stay tuned, as they are coming..........
Paris
Here's the photos of the new 40" Pod. I'm pleased with the way it turned out, and am anxious to see what it looks like with the 20" Pods. I have sold out of what I have, and this one needs to get shipped out tomorrow.....so I'll have to get crackin' on another one.
I'll be posting some items on Ebay today, and then a few more pieces over the next week. I've been quite busy making Christmas orders, so I haven't had too much time to work on anything other than those. I have been working on a couple of full sized designs too, which I will post in the 'full sized designs' album when I'm finished.
check out the photos of the new Pod, and keep an eye on Ebay for some new pieces!
With recent press in various blogs and a couple of magazines, I have been getting plenty of emails lately. Thanks to all who took the time to check out my site. I must apologize that my official website is still receiving some updates, so it's still not completely functional. I hadn't anticipated them taking this long, nor for things to get so crazy. But in this economy, crazy is GOOD! I'm happy the M112 Pods are being so well received. I'm still working on a new house design, the Xpand house, but will also continue to enhance/continue the Pods as well. I will have some photos up soon of the 40" Pod I just completed for a client. I've come to realize so much potential not just with these miniature units, but with the full size units as well. I enjoy building them, and so far am the only one to do so, at least as far as I know. So as a designer, it's nice to be the 'first' at something.
Stay tuned!
So I finally got around to making a kitchen and a bathroom unit for the Pods. They are simple enough to keep the cost at about $100 for the kitchen, and $150 for the two piece bathroom unit. Colors and options are plentiful, but I will narrow the choices down to a couple of options, once I make a few more units. I'm also thinking of designing a coffee table style base, with landscape and a pool for a multi container Pod home. Once it's done, I'll take it to one of the upcoming shows, along with one of my other houses. These houses will showcase my furniture pieces that will be for sale.
I have so many ideas for PRD miniatures, but so little time to execute them all. I'm still working on moving out to Las Vegas, but the housing market has us in a holding pattern. For now, it looks as though we'll have to endure yet another Minnesota winter. I'll most likely be working on a new house design, as well as completing my first 'Sky Loft' design, which I designed to either hang on a wall, or sit flat on a cabinet with it's back to a wall.
I will get the photos of the first kitchen and bathroom units up sometime tomorrow.
Stay tuned...........
Things are picking up now that the holiday season is around the corner. I say it's already here, as we received 3" of snow yesterday.......this is just plain ridiculous if you ask me....I don't think I've ever seen snow this early in the season. The leaves are still green on most trees, and you can tell they don't know what to make of it...
Ok so let me get back to the PRD news. The sales on the Pods are doing really well, so I'm going to try and stockpile some for Christmas, as well as the SOCAL show at the end of January. I'm also working with Elaine from MIAIM, as we are collaborating on a project featuring her Clearview House, and my furniture. She has been working feverishly on a very cool bathroom set, that I will be featuring in one of my upcoming designs, the Xpand House. I'll post more on this house, as I get going on the structure. My hopes are to have it finished sometime in the next 6 weeks, so stay tuned. This house is going to be the long awaited follow up to my Pod House.
The opening for Herman Miller was well attended, although I was not able to attend. I'm still trying to track down some pictures from the event, and I'll post those as soon as they turn up. I plan on going out to LA sometime in December, for sure in January, so it's just a matter of time.
That's all the news for now, but I'm going to be starting a blog on my website www.parisrenfroedesign.com and I plan on adding several entries per week.
Enjoy the week! Paris
For those of you in LA, or visiting LA, stop by and visit the Herman Miller showroom at 3641 Holdrege Ave STE 100(Los Angeles, CA 90016.) The grand opening is October 8th, but they are already open(http://www.hermanmiller.com/discover/?p=1235.) It's a marvelous new design located in the trendy area of Culver City.
I was contacted a few weeks ago by Rick Edwards, a designer working with Herman Miller, who was looking for a modern dollhouse of sorts to add to the shelving unit in the Parlor. After a few searches, he happened upon the Mini Modern blog, to which the blog host kindly referred him to PRD. After a few emails and phone calls, a deal for 3 furnished Pods was worked out. I just shipped them out today, so they should be there soon. They came out great, and I'm excited to have my work exhibited in their Parlor at Herman Miller LA! You can see how they turned out in some of my recent posted photos.
In other news, the housing market is still pretty quiet here in Minneapolis. Our house still has not sold, so we may be here for abit longer. That's good news to those of you considering any custom orders before Christmas, as I have some extra time on my hands now. There will be an 'early bird' discount of 20% for those who get their orders in before December 1st. Just mention the discount when you contact me. I'm also working on some pieces with the intention to attend the SoCal show in January in LA. I'll keep you posted!
Hi all, sorry it's been awhile. I've actually been working on updating my true website, parisrenfroedesign.com. Still have some things to add, but it's getting there. Check it out when you get the chance.......you may learn something new about me!
I'm also working on coming up with a selection page, for various Pods and their accessories. I will be creating such accessories as swimming pools, decks, and of course kitchens and bathrooms to install in the Pod of your choice. I will also be creating some that are completely open on both sides, with just solid ends. These units will be used to double up widths to create a room of 16" x 20".
I have also been contacted by a couple of people regarding doing an Eichler style dollhouse too. If you have any interest in such a house, let me know now, so I can get some of your feedback as to what you would like to see in such a house. Due to the large footprint that a 1/12 scale would have on a full ranch style house, I will have to do some creative editing. I'm thinking of a large kitchen/dining room, with a long fireplace wall separating those two areas from a living area, and then of course a couple of bedrooms and a decent sized bathroom. They typically come with a carport and outdoor living area, but that's where I may have to do some of the editing.
There are a few miniature shows that I'm thinking of attending early next year. The first one is in Southern California at the end of January. I'll keep you posted on that one.....The second is later on in the year, and I don't have enough details on that yet.
That's all for now, keep checking back from time to time for new pictures and news updates! Paris
For those of you following the maturation of the PRD company, I am currently working on the M112 PODS, which you see at the top of the page. These pods are based on full scale repurposed shipping containers.
As the US imports more than it exports, the shipyards find themselves inundated with used and unwanted shipping containers, which end up getting stacked up, row after row. Over the last decade, architects and urban designers have been using these containers to create affordable housing, hotels, offices, artists retreats, cabins, etc. Due to the recent worldwide economic disaster, many of us have been reassessing our lives, our habits, and our lifestyles. We need to find a happy medium of balancing our material appetites, with a realistic outlook of what we really need to be happy. I see a resurgeance of the phrase 'less is more'.
Sure these PODS are only in 1:12 scale, but they give you an entertaining option to design a small space. These are great for kids, and adults alike. Especially the kids though, because their generation is going to be the first to be affected by our Environmental crisis. These units were also designed for the modernist, the minimalist, and for all those who did not grow up in a victorian/edwardian style home.
Thanks to all of you for the support! Paris
My wife and I will be relocating to the Las Vegas Nevada area in the coming months. I will have to put any custom builds on hold until we resettle, so I will only be taking/fulfilling orders through the month of July 2009, and then resume sometime in September of 2009.
I have just completed the first of the M112 Pods, and will be making a limited number before packing everything up for the move. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Thanks. Paris Renfroe
Thanks to all you faithful viewers, who check in on a regular basis to see what's new. I'm sorry it's been taking me so long to come up with the next 'house', as I have been fairly busy with smaller orders, and my full time 'gig'.
After gathering feedback, I am working on a simple, yet modern open floor plan house. I want to make something affordable, that even the entry level collector can purchase to start his/her collection. You will have the option to hang it on a wall, or set it on top of an easy to find/buy IKEA cabinet. Not sure what I'm going to call it yet, but I can tell you it will retail for around $450, not including shipping.
I'm also working on the Premise of the M112 Pods name. They will be stackable units, designed to look like shipping containers. Each one will be 8 1/2" high, 8" wide, by 20" long. These dimensions are exact 1:12 ratio of a standard shipping container. There will be two sliding doors along with a short wall on one side, a complete window wall on one end, and a 4" opening with sliding door on the other side. The opposite end of the solid window wall will be a solid wall. There will also be a porthole in the bottom, as well as the top, along with metal tubing rungs leading up to the next level. The units will come in orange, red, blue, green, gray, and white. I'm also thinking of doing one with 'rusted' panels. Each unit will be blank inside, but I will be designing accessories to be purchased 'a la carte'.
I'm still in the design stages on the Pods, but plan to do a production run of at least 100 to start. They will be built from 3/8" baltic birch. Strip magnets on the top and bottom will allow them to stack with a fair amount of rigidness. I think these will be a hit among the design community, as well as architects and art collectors. Think of them as an adult architecture toy. The M112 logo will be added to each unit, running perpendicular from bottom to top up one side.
Keep your eyes on this site over the next couple of days. I have been working on some really sweet furniture pieces, that I am totally excited about. The more I do, the better they get. In fact, I have been able to do many more new designs this way, rather than building full sized prototypes. I plan to make some full size pieces from a couple of these new designs, especially the beds.
I will be listing most of them on Ebay sometime over the next few days, so if you want to check them out, do a search on Ebay for 'PRD'.
Ok so it's been some time since I updated this site, it's been a busy few weeks........Anyhow, I finally uploaded some new pics of recent furniture pieces, Including some commission pieces. Some are on Ebay right now, so go take a look! Let me know if there's something specific you'd like to see, or color variations. I'm working on some more pieces, and hope to get those on here in the coming weeks.
Till then. P
For those of you interested, I will be posting the M112 Pod House on Ebay this weekend. I will list it for 7 days, starting at $1500 fully furnished. Shipping I'm not sure of yet, but will negotiate at some point. It all depends upon where the buyer lives. I will personally deliver the house within 200 Miles of the Twin Cities, otherwise ship it UPS ground.
The M112 Pod House is currently on display at AZ Gallery in St. Paul, Minnesota(see www.theazgallery.org for directions) . If you happen to be/live in the Twin Cities area, please stop by during the Gallery hours Fridays 5-8pm, Sat. and Sun. 10-2pm. If you'd like to stop by outside of Gallery hours, please call Paris at 651-233-0063 to set up an appointment. I would like to get some press on the house, before I go ahead and list it. I am currently considering silent offers though, so you can send me your info, along with offer, to paris@parisrenfroedesign.com
Thanks for looking. Paris
So I got a few pics last night, just before the camera battery died. It was late anyhow, and I didn't have the whole house set up. The pics I posted aren't great to say the least, but I promise to get some better ones tonight either before or after our opening. So I hope to have some good shots posted here tomorrow afternoon. I feel like it's as if I have been building a full size house!! The final details always take longer........Part of it is because I wanted to start with something simple, very minimalist, and allow the end user to do the interior detailing. It almost seems like a miniature flip! One cool feature is that the upstairs bathroom comes out, along with the carpet, which is upholstered to a separate panel. I want to take detailed shots of this too, so anyone interested in buying can see all of the options. The entertainment wall unit, and the kitchen aren't locked in either, so you can switch the kitchen and living room if you like.
Wow, December already? Time flies, that's for sure. The Holiday weekend was busier than I expected, so I didn't quite finish up the house. I will have some photos to post by Tonight(Monday)so you can see where I'm at. The main things left are the kitchen and the entertainment wall in the living room. No matter what, some lucky person will own this beautiful piece of Modernism before the end of the year, at least I hope. I definitely want it to go to a good home, as I have become somewhat attached to it(don't worry, there's no room for it here, so it has to go).
Check back later tonight for the new pics. Paris
I finished the stairs today. I have somewhat of a dilemma though. They look so good, that I hate to cover them up. I was planning to put a bathroom in the middle, which would essentially cover the stairs, as they are also in the middle, towards the back. I actually added on a small stairwell in the back, which extends away from the back of the house by 4" deep, and 11 " wide. It climbs the full two stories and has one big window. I will build the bathroom, and set it in there to see what it looks like. It won't be permanent though, in case whoever buys it likes the open floor plan. That goes for the kitchen too, which will be a POLIFORM style, on one end.
You'll love the stairs though, as they are made with a solid IPE beam, with aluminum stair treads. I'll have pictures up by Monday. They don't go straight up though. There is a single flight going up to a landing, then a 90 degree turn to the right and up one more flight to the bedroom. It's going to be an impressive house when it's done, if I do say so myself.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Paris
I have two full scale projects to get done over the next two weeks, all the while I'm working on my miniature pieces. I used to build architectural models for clients, and realized how much I missed building in miniature scale. There are so many cool designs to build, but not enough time. It may be easier for interested parties to email me with requests, and sizes, and let me know their budgets. This makes it easier on me, to where I can still have fun creating pieces for collectors, and still build my full scale designs.
I'm planning on having my M112 Pod house done before Thanksgiving weekend. That's one week from tomorrow. Once it is finished, I will post detailed photos of the house on this site, with sizes and dimensions. I haven't determined a price yet, as there is nothing to compare it to, and I have quite a few hours invested in it. I'd like to hear your comments though, and let me know what you think it's worth. I can tell you this, it won't be up in the 3-4K range. I'm thinking somewhere between $1500-2500, completely furnished. But, like I said, nothing is engraved in stone yet.
Time to get some sleep!
Hey, for those visiting, I really appreciate you all taking the time to visit my site. Please 'sign in' and leave a couple of comments.
Thanks. Paris
Ruth, sorry if the color is hard on your eyes. Shutterfly only offers a small selection of modern site images, and I thought this one best suited my work, with the wood trim and all. I'm not quite set up yet with order forms, so maybe if you have some suggestions, or ideas, please let me know. I appreciate everyone's input and advice.
CarolM,
As a matter of fact, I am taking orders. However, I want a little more input from the buyers, as to what they would like to see, size, materials, and of course budget. So let me know what your interests are, maybe I can create a masterpiece for you!
TW4,
I'd love to see it when it's done. It must be so tedious working in 1/48 scale, I can't even imagine working in any scale less than 1/12.
Featuring wenge shelves, white acrylic and brushed aluminum backdrop. Freestanding, and can be used as a room divider. I signed the back of this one, so if you wish to use them as room dividers, please specify, so the back is finished the same as the front.
Made with wenge shelves with a white and aluminum laminate back
This is a tribal cube with a metal foil finish. They come in various colors and patinas(shiny or dull)
Dimensions are 7"W x 1 1/2"D x 3"H
Shown with metal cube, and custom artwork by Lisa Renfroe with white frame. Size is 4 x 4 $165
Custom artwork by LIsa Renfroe blue and white wave 5 x 5 $165
Shown with two white metal stools $25 each
This view shows the dual vanity, made with Kiaat wood, in a room setting with soaker tub, hatbox toilet, and custom PRD artwork titled 'urban sunset' 5" x 5"
The dimensions of this vanity wall unit are 7 3/4"W x 7 3/8"H x 2 3/4"D. There are two floating mirrors, two towel bars, two Kohler style sinks, and an aluminum shelf down below for towel storage. In a full scale setting, your storage would be behind the mirrors.
One of the reasons I like working with modern spaces is that you can change up the designs. Even in 1/12 scale, it makes it easy to switch up your bathrooms, which is why I like to make individual items. This view shows a walk in shower, the hatbox toilet, and the dual vanity.
My kitchen units are modern, and very simple. The left cabinet is the refrigerator, the second cabinet over is where the sink and storage are, the third cabinet over could either be a dishwasher, or another storage cabinet, and the last one is the stove with cooktop. None of the lower cabinets open, but the upper cabinet does have two functioning brushed aluminum bypassing doors. This unit is $150, and is freestanding. The backsplash is finished in a gray plaster, resembling concrete. The counter top is a sanded plastic. Various renditions of this are available.
Made with white acrylic plastic and brushed aluminum. Shown in the closed position.
Open position.
Shown in a loft environment, along with PRD dining table in Bolivian Rosewood, and 'Urban Sunset' artwork.
The dimensions of this unit are 7 3/8"W x 6"H x 2"D. The lower doors do not open, but upon request I can create a unit with functioning bypassing doors. The wood is Kiaat, and the backsplash is a gray plaster finish. Also shown is 'Urban Sunset'($135), two Cocobolo cubes($25each), and a Brazilian Rosewood coffee table($65)
These are my Tribal design with a metal finish. The add a little extra 'bling' to a modernist room. They are shown with a sectional sofa($125)in a gray polyblend fabric, and a custom black and white cowhide prototype rug(not sure if I'm going to sell this rug yet, as they are very tedious to make)
Shown:
Sectional sofa 10"W x 6"D x 3"H $125
Metal cubes 1 1/2" square $25each
PRD artwork 'Urban wash'(lft) 4 x 4 $135
PRD artwork 'Urban scrawl'(rt) 4 x 4 $135
Zig Zag unit 9"W x 7"H x 1 1/2"D $95
White metal stool $25
This piece is from my new Urban series of artwork. There are multi layers of colors, eventually scored to reveal some of the underlying colors. It looks much better in person....I have to work on some better photos. This one has no frame, but add any color frame for an extra $30
Shown with stainless steel vessel sinks, towel bar, and solid purpleheart counter.
Designed specifically for a client who loves the industrial element of steel, mixed with an exotic, warm material such as Ebony Macassar. This unit has 8 basket drawers, a valet drawer, and a flat drawer for a watch winder.
Exterior skin is made from aluminum sheeting over a galvanized steel frame system.
The interior valet drawer(meant for jewelry, wallets, change, money clips, etc.) has a cowhide insert including a branding that actually had the clients first initial.
This table is a great example of good collaboration. The client already had a concept for a coffee table in mind, but was having trouble finding anything prebuilt. Even in his quest to talk with other designers/fabricators about his idea, several tried to persuade him to take a different approach. He and I eventually sat down one day, worked out a couple of sketches, and I set out to create his vision, with a special PRD twist.
This table has a solid poplar frame system, designed with 6 18 x 18" sections, each capable of holding a 1/2" glass top, granite, or anything else the client may choose. The client also requested to have a place to rest his feet while watching TV or just lounging. The three upholstered cushions are also removable if needed, and were chosen specifically to go with the 'Men's suit' theme.
A top view shows the interior display space under the glass, as well as the three upholstered cushions for foot rests, or for extra seating.
This view of the table shows the open sides to the cubbies, which not only allows for access to the display areas, but also shows some color of the exposed upholstery.
One of the early dilemmas of this table was what to use for legs. Legs are typically one of the more costly material items when building a table. The client had a specific budget, so we didn't have the extra room to go out and buy just any set of legs. The issue was that with the table being 42" x 60", we needed a leg that was less than 9" tall, and there weren't alot of cost effective options available. Ultimately, I went with a smaller leg, and decided to go with 4 pairs. They were builder basic legs that were purchased at a local hardware store. The brass tips were painted white, while the rest of the wood leg was wrapped in the same silver alligator vinyl as the bottom panels in the display cubbies. This created a simple, elegant, and most importantly, cost effective leg solution. Having 8 legs on the table also adds interest, as well as extra stability.
This design was for a client of mine. She needed a place to store her cell phone, keys, mail, etc. There just happened to be an outlet on the wall, one that was very unsightly, and higher than normal. So I used that to our advantage, and mounted the valet over the receptacle. Now she can charge up her cell phone without seeing any cords. The overall design also incorporated a mirror, as it's near the door and a good place to do your last minute check........
The interior has padauk shelves, with orange microsuede inserts.
This was an IKEA STAVE mirror. I skinned it with solid walnut and walnut veneer to achieve a much more minimal, elegant look. The mirror costs $69plus tax at IKEA, and for an extra $250, transformed this mirror for a client.
Recently completed for a client's Christmas/Bday present. Inspired by my Cyclone table in concrete and aluminum. These will eventually go out in the patio area(come spring), but look quite at home inside near the fireplace. Made from MDO, several layers of concrete patch, and Teak from the old table's extra leafs. The Teak center piece in the table top comes out, to allow you to put Wheat grass, candles, or other miscellaneous table accessories.
detail view of table, benches
The benches weigh about 45lbs apiece, and the table is about 100lbs. This makes having 'concrete' furniture a reality for condos, and multilevel homes without elevators.
This is a name tag holder I designed for a modern Unitarian Universalist church in Minnesota.
Somewhat of a challenge, but I managed to get all 10 doors to open and close, along with holding up to 300+ name tags in a 36" x 84" x 16" space.
My idea of 'Green' design. I built a chair from 100% recycled materials, including 4 windows from a house with their glass panes still intact, denim for the upholstery, left over plywood and batting.
Designed as a minimalist interpretation of a body of water with a dock extending out over it. This is for the practical Modernist, who needs a place to store things such as coasters, and remote controls.
So finally a cool table that actually has FUNCTION! Looking good is not a function, believe me. So the drawer pulls out to reveal a suede lined compartment for coasters, cards, remotes, or anything else you want to hide.....
The pictures don't quite capture the depth of the blue plaster top. It really looks as though you are flying over the Caribbean. This table is offered for sale at $550. Contact me if you're interested. The legs come off for shipping, and it's built well with Baltic Birch plywood.