Back to the future

As a kid growing up in the 70's the year 2000 loomed large.

Many of the TV shows, graphics and product designs from that period still look futuristic.

And now it's here I have to admit the future looks a lot like the past.

No hovercars or jetpacks that's for sure.

But what we do have in abundance are devices that people back then couldn't possibly have imagined.

Tortured artist Alex Varanese recently re-imagined many of these devices for the 70's.

Pretty cool don't you think?

And even though his 'ads' look kinda retro the products themselves still look futuristic.

Click here to see more of his work.

Did you really like that?

The Like button has become so ubiquitous on the web that liking has become something we do without thinking.

But do we like because we like?

Or do we like because we want to share?

Either way we like way more stuff than we probably need to.

Writer Robin Sloan has challenged our love of the Like with a lovely iPhone app essay.

Yes app essay.

It's hard to explain. And even if I tried it wouldn't do it justice.

But suffice to say for me Sloan's idea is truly innovative.

And utterly charming to boot!

Click here to find out more. Trust me it is so worth it.

Nice desk boys and girls

How cute is this reception desk?

So nice it almost seems a shame to sit a receptionist behind it.

It belongs to Dublin agency Boys and Girls.

Apparently they were a bit miffed when a Marketing mag story described their reception area as "small and routine".

Well now it's anything but.

The balloons are made of a non-degradable rubber composite and filled with a mix of helium and hydrogen.

So they should float above the desk forever.

What I really like though is the Jenga stack supporting the desk on the other side.

Great photo or great opportunity?

Yes. I know what you're thinking.

"I saw those dog pics on Facebook the other day."

And so too did I.

They're by a dog loving photographer called Seth Casteel.

Since Seth posted the pics they've gone viral.

And is it any wonder. They're brilliant.

But they were never ever intended for ads.

Obviously someone at Y&R in Sao Paulo saw them as an opportunity.

But seriously if they turn up at an award show I will not be happy.

Durex does 12"

Yes. I know it plays with stereotypes.

But it's a lovely product demonstration.

So it's a thumbs up from me.