What is Ideal?

Ideal is a carefully curated shop composed of unique, design-conscious gifts and accessories. The objects we choose are creative, authentic, and refined. They are inspired by the vision of talented artists and designers from around the world.

Our store was formed with our own ideal in mind: that shopping should always be a personal and thoughtful experience.

Enjoy our blog and please come visit our shop in beautiful, downtown Bellingham. If you can't make it in, we take orders over the phone - just call (360-752-5522) or e-mail info@anidealshop.com.


Wednesday, April 25, 2012

A New Blog!

Hello and happy spring!

We have launched our new web site and moved the blog as well. To see new blog posts from Ideal, please follow our blog at our new location:


You can also browse and shop online. Hooray!
 
Thanks for your support.

-Ideal


Friday, March 9, 2012

Pour Over Coffee

Yes, it's all the craze and for good reason. If you are a fan of pour over, the Hario Buono V60 Drip Kettle will help you brew your best cup.
Hario Buono V60 Drip Kettle, $65
Because of its directed spout, this stove top kettle allows great precision for pour over coffee makers. And it's so lovely you will be proud to have it sitting on display. Great for other kitchen uses, as well.
  • Materials: Stainless steel
  • Dimensions: 11.75" spout to handle x 6" high including lid. holds 40 oz.
  • Made in Japan
Pair the Hario V60 Ceramic Drip Cone pictured below with the kettle for a superior brew.

Hario V60 Ceramic Coffee Dripper, $27.50
This cone has a larger hole in the bottom than traditional plastic cones and is designed to have water poured slowly into it, a little at a time, in order to extract the solids from the grounds. It's all about the process - take your time and you will be rewarded. 
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Dimensions: 4.5" diameter x 4" high
  • Made in Japan
Happy weekend! Here's to a leisurely cup of coffee enjoyed while perusing the newspaper.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Last Minute Gifts

If you haven't quite managed to check everyone off your gift list, it's not too late. We are happy to help you find the perfect present for all. Here are a few more of our favorite things to consider as you finish up your shopping.

H. Tokyo handkerchiefs are perfect for the stylish gentleman on your list. These special hankies are hand-stitched with a smart little graphic in the corner. We love their motto: "Always carry two handkerchiefs: one to show and one to blow." This is one he will be proud to show.

H.Tokyo Hand-stitched Handkerchief - Airplane, $50

H.Tokyo Hand-stitched Handkerchief - Jaws, $50

H.Tokyo Hand-stitched Handkerchief - Motorcycle, $50

Tivoli Audio is known for making the best table radios on the market. The Model One speaker can really fill a room and Tivoli is known for superior clarity of reception. May also be used as a speaker for an iPod or phone.
Tivoli Audio Model One Radio, $150

It's not only cute, this wooden rechargeable mini speaker boasts surprising audio quality for its tiny size.  
Mini Wooden Speaker, $38

This analog wristwatch from Braun, designed by Dieter Rams and Deitrich Lubs, was originally produced in the 1970s. It's back and just as beautiful as ever.
Braun Wristwatch, $150

Fleet Objects' lovely handmade cribbage set is hand-made in Vancouver, Canada. At 6" x 4" x 2", it is easy to take along while traveling.
Fleet Objects Compact Cribbage, $47

Nuance's Wine Finer is a clever tool for the wine-lovers on your list. This streamlined piece aerates and filters wine by the glass with a no-drip spout. In case you don't finish the bottle, it also has a stopper.
Nuance Wine Finer, $29.95

When you do finish the bottle, turn it into a candle holder with the Toplight. A sturdy stainless steel rim keeps any wax from dripping onto your table.
Toplight by Lena Bergstrom, $35

Yumi Masuko's porcelain Hands Bowl is perfect for displaying any small treasures but is also food safe and looks lovely on the dining table.
Hands Bowl by Yumi Masuko, $58

And if you are heading out to holiday parties, remember Marimekko napkins make a great host/hostess gift. We have a nice selection of patterns.
Marimekko Paper Napkins (set of 20), $6.75

If you still have someone particularly tricky on your list, we'd love to help you find the perfect present. We are up to the challenge! In the meantime, a few things to keep in mind:
  • We are open until 8pm through this Friday. Christmas Eve we will be open until 4pm.
  • Parking is free downtown until December 26! Shop and dine without worrying about the meter and save those quarters for holiday treats.