Fauna pillows by Areaware – design pieces for cuddling from the USA

These pillows or dolls - designed by Ross Menuez for the New York design brand Areaware - are inspired by original illustrations from 19th century British encyclopedias.

The graphics are based on the first mass-produced images from the 19th century. The designer Ross Menuez turned these into a turbulent zoo for the living room or children's room.

Areaware is based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and produces everyday products that are both functional and unusual. Areaware's goal is to create intelligent products that evoke an emotional response in customers. Areaware likes to be credited with a good sense of humor and for products to have a poetic feel. Areaware wants to become a forum for young and established American design talent and a loud voice for young American design. They believe that the beauty of their products is a central element of their success and want to implement this idea in even the simplest products.