There's something refreshing about designers who refuse to take themselves too seriously, and the result is often spectacularly clever and inspiring.

Straight Line Designs is a company by Canadian designer and maker Judson Beaumont, one of the most playful designers working today. For over 25 years, Beaumont has delighted his clients with his designs from the clever--like the Little Black Dresser to the outrageous--like the Melting Cabinet or Oops Cabinet.

These creations are not only a pleasure to look at, they're functional pieces, too. His furnishings play on commonly used words, sounds and expressions, making you stop and think twice about what it is you're looking at. For example, his Joined at the Hip Dresser takes this expression to a whole new level by adding human-like characteristics to a piece of furniture. I've had the pleasure of seeing his pieces in person as well and they're top-notch quality. Plus, Beaumont is just as enthusiastic and fun to be around as his work suggests.

By staying away from popular trends, Judson Beaumont is able to continue to keep things fresh and exciting, using his previous work as a standard instead of the furniture industry. Straight Line Designs is Character Approved because its lighthearted approach is a breath of fresh air in a sometimes too-serious industry.

[Image: Straight Line Designs]