Rotating Couches, Home Decor Apps and Cool Gadgets

Credit: Rotating bi-sectionals | Only Human

These rotating bi-sectionals can swing to the left or right, or be used as stand-alone seats

Rotating bi-sectionals, an iPhone app for interior decorating and other cutting edge gizmos

Can’t figure out which way you want to swing? With Blake, Spencer (shown) and Jane on the market, you no longer have to! These unique bi-sectionals come from the new Loft collection by Gus*– a Toronto-based company that sews an air of elegance into its industrial, modern designs.

The collection of bi-sectional seating, available in a number of muted fabrics, can be configured to the left, right or as stand-alone seating. Whichever incarnation you choose, it will occupy your attention as you spend hours rotating your chaise piece to suit your style du jour. With the no-sag spring construction and solid wooden base, this is one relationship that will last for years and not let you down! From $3,200, Only Human

Behr Color Smart iPhone app

Wave goodbye to colour samples and say hello to an easy, virtual way of redecorating with the new Behr Color Smart iPhone App. Preview designs in different rooms, take inspiration from the colour library and share your ideas on Facebook and Twitter for that all-important second opinion. Explore and create with an app that ensures your design errors exist in a virtual world – and not on your wall!

Sexy Audio Devices: iPhone Retro Headset, Mini Speaki and the Revolution Turntable

Add visual appeal to your auditory experience with these kitschy, edgy and downright sexy sound systems.


1. Fancy the fun of talking on a vintage ding-a-ling? The Yubz Retro Handset comes in six bright shades, plugs into most cell phones and may reduce radiation exposure by up to 95 per cent ($49.95, Roots).

2. Listen well without compromising style. Craftsmen in Indonesia take 16 hours to create each AM/FM Magno Radio from new-growth pine and mahogany and plant new trees onsite to replace wood used in production ($270, Designhouse).

3. Enjoy a sensuous night in with this so-smooth stereo. Model L by Geneva features full-range speakers, iPod dock, slot-loading CD player and digital FM radio within a glossy lacquered wood cabinet, which comes in walnut, red, black or white ($999, Designhouse).

4. The adorable and portable Mini Speaki is small enough to dangle from a key ring, yet strong enough to project your iPod playlist to the whole patio. In blue, grey, pink, black or green, the wee man comes with a six-hour-strong rechargeable battery ($24.95, NOOD).

5. Take vinyls on the road with a battery-powered record player barely bigger than a hair straightener! The Revolution Turntable by Crosley spins both seven- and 12-inch records at two speeds and has a wireless transmitter for FM radio ($150, Urban Outfitters).

6. Artful and light enough to hang neatly on the wall, the BeoSound 8 from Bang & Olufsen delivers a wider sonic range than most docking stations and is one of the few compatible with the iPad sans adapter ($999, Commercial Electronics).

Originally published in BC Home magazine. For monthly updates, subscribe to the free BC Home e-newsletter, or purchase a subscription to the bi-monthly magazine.