Here at Remodelista, we’re drawn to objects designed by architects. Whether it’s flatware, dinnerware, or large-scale sofas, bringing an exacting design to the things we interact with on a daily basis makes for a more pleasant experience. Proportions are perfected, ergonomics are considered, and materials are of the best quality. Here, we profile the best kitchen (and a few bath) faucets thoughtfully designed by architects. Above: Designed by Italian architect Antonio Citterio for Hansgrohe, the Axor Citterio 2-Hole Kitchen Faucet has a pull-down spray; $560.16 at Quality Bath. Above: A design classic, the Vola KV1 Mixer, made for the kitchen or…

Whether you’re new to home automation or already have several smart home accessories, investing in devices that can help you around the house can save you time and energy. If you’re unsure what gadgets fit into the home automation category, read our guide below for our recommendations on the best smart home gifts available. 1. Netatmo Weather Station Is there a weather fanatic on your list this year? The Netatmo Weather Station Outdoor Module gives precise readings of the outdoor temperature, relative humidity, air quality, and barometric pressure on your doorstep.$179.99 | Available on Amazon 2. SmartThings Wifi Smart Plug…

Like clockwork, each fall as the first batch of leaves fall, towns and neighborhoods roar awake with the sound of gas-powered leaf blowers. It’s the annual battle of weekend warriors versus the leaves—and you know what’s at stake: not only is the debris an eyesore and a nuisance, especially if your leaves blow onto your neighbor’s clean lawn, but if you stall, a mantle of snow might cover them and smother the grass. That means more work for you come spring. The Best Tools to Collect Leaves Gas leaf blowers, and their far quieter battery-powered cousins, can be handy to…

There was a time where a hand plane was an indispensable tool, used to smooth, shape, and straighten just about every piece of wood in a house. The typical carpenter lugged around a whole chestful of planes, each with its own special function. Today, power tools — routers, jointers, belt sanders, and power planers — do the same tasks much faster, relegating many old planes to the shelves of collectors. There aren't as many types as there once were, but the hand plane is far from extinct. When Would You Use a Hand Planer? Photo by Keller & Keller A…

Handmade ceramic menorahs feel just right for this year. Here are five versions, some charmingly wonky, all ready to celebrate Hanukkah starting on December 10—and also to be enjoyed whenever candlelight is called for. Above: Brooklyn ceramic artist Rachel Pots attaches nine hand-thrown vases together to form her signature menorahs. “The bottles that make up the Ceramic Menorah  [$160] remind us of the single oil bottle or cask from the story of Hanukkah,” she says. Her Judaica line is available from Food52—alas, the menorah is currently sold out—and from her studio, where the menorahs are made to order in four…