These images of the Fresh Hotel in Greece are what first brought my attention to Zeppos - Georgiadis & Associates. However, perusing their site, there are quite a few intriguing projects. As a mid-sized firm headed up by an architect and landscape architect, ZeGe has a wide variety of projects including hotels, retail, and residential projects. In my opinion, one of the most successful aspects of their work is the way their projects are incorporated into their respective surroundings... clearly influenced by ZeGe's background and experience in landscape architecture.
Today is the first day that has really felt like summer... in celebration, here is a great example of summer specific design! The Kastrup Sea Bath in Copenhagen by White Architects is a fun and elegant solution to a common problem. I love it and I'm ready to dive in!
Via Arkinetia
Via Arkinetia
I recently saw this image of a proposed inhabited bridge at Jebel Al Jais Mountain Resort in UAE by OMA. Its part of a proposal by OMA, which also includes an inhabited dam and a vertical village in the mountainside. The image really caught my eye because I think its a bit of a departure from a lot of OMA's work. While the village and dam are reminiscent of earlier work, the lacy facade of this bridge provides a delicacy not usually evident in Rem's designs. I typically think of his work as chunky extrusions of a flow and use diagram, but this image even offers some illusions of delicate decoration. I'd be interested in seeing even more of this project, if only to compare the design intent with other OMA projects.
Via Dezeen
Via Dezeen
Inspiring.
When I see a young firm creating the types of work I'd like to be a part of, its a bit hard not to be jealous. What is stopping me from going out there and producing my own designs?
Instead of letting myself get depressed about the state of my career (which, really isn't in a bad place anyway), I'm choosing to be inspired. There are so many small, young, multi-disciplinary design firms who are taking a risk and enjoying the rewards. Clearly, its takes more than guts, you also need talent, hard work, and a bit of luck to succeed... but you won't get anything without trying.
One such firm is Workshop 308 out of Springfield, Missouri. This firm is producing a wide variety of design works including built structures, interior designs, branding, and furniture. Their approach to design as a discipline, rather than to architecture as a specialty allows them to learn from each other and use that knowledge to create even more successful designs. For example, I think the Staxx display installation is obviously influenced by their work in graphics and branding.
I hope this firm has continued success, and that they realize what an inspiration they are to other young designers..
When I see a young firm creating the types of work I'd like to be a part of, its a bit hard not to be jealous. What is stopping me from going out there and producing my own designs?
Instead of letting myself get depressed about the state of my career (which, really isn't in a bad place anyway), I'm choosing to be inspired. There are so many small, young, multi-disciplinary design firms who are taking a risk and enjoying the rewards. Clearly, its takes more than guts, you also need talent, hard work, and a bit of luck to succeed... but you won't get anything without trying.
One such firm is Workshop 308 out of Springfield, Missouri. This firm is producing a wide variety of design works including built structures, interior designs, branding, and furniture. Their approach to design as a discipline, rather than to architecture as a specialty allows them to learn from each other and use that knowledge to create even more successful designs. For example, I think the Staxx display installation is obviously influenced by their work in graphics and branding.
I hope this firm has continued success, and that they realize what an inspiration they are to other young designers..
Recently Sarah tagged me, and while I'm not going to be tagging anyone myself (mostly because I don't personally know 10 people with blogs willing to do this), I thought I'd at least do part of the game, listing 10 relatively unknown things about me.
1) I tend to write long run-on sentences. See above (although that's probably not unknown).
2) I am terrified of wrinkles.
3) I have wanted to be an architect as long as I can remember (at least as early as 10), but I really couldn't say why... back then, I didn't really even know what an architect was. Sometimes I wonder if I knew then what I knew now I'd still be here.
4) I love celebrity gossip.
5) I still have not received the test results from my last ARE exam, and its killing me.
6) I hate the cold, even though I'm from Massachusetts.
7) I used to think Frank Gehry was fabulous (oh... the shame) and made a special point to visit the Guggenheim in Bilbao when I was in Spain in 1998.
8) I would really like to get into furniture design in addition to architecture.
9) I am very organized and yet pretty messy. Most people don't think these two things can occur concurrently, but they can... Part of my organizational methods involves always being able to see everything. I may have a hundred piles, but I know exactly what is in each one of them.
10) I am trying to teach myself Spanish. I once spoke it fairly well, but since I haven't been keeping up my skills are lacking. I'd really like to be able to read some of the great Spanish blogs.
1) I tend to write long run-on sentences. See above (although that's probably not unknown).
2) I am terrified of wrinkles.
3) I have wanted to be an architect as long as I can remember (at least as early as 10), but I really couldn't say why... back then, I didn't really even know what an architect was. Sometimes I wonder if I knew then what I knew now I'd still be here.
4) I love celebrity gossip.
5) I still have not received the test results from my last ARE exam, and its killing me.
6) I hate the cold, even though I'm from Massachusetts.
7) I used to think Frank Gehry was fabulous (oh... the shame) and made a special point to visit the Guggenheim in Bilbao when I was in Spain in 1998.
8) I would really like to get into furniture design in addition to architecture.
9) I am very organized and yet pretty messy. Most people don't think these two things can occur concurrently, but they can... Part of my organizational methods involves always being able to see everything. I may have a hundred piles, but I know exactly what is in each one of them.
10) I am trying to teach myself Spanish. I once spoke it fairly well, but since I haven't been keeping up my skills are lacking. I'd really like to be able to read some of the great Spanish blogs.
These wall flat patterns available at Inhabit Living are an absolutely gorgeous and green solution for any modern home. Although the name is a bit of a misnomer since these tiles are anything but flat! The patterns come in tiles that can be infinitely repeated in every direction or combined to create a unique pattern. Made from bamboo pulp (a renewable resource due to its fast rate of growth) the tiles can be painted or left white. I'd be interested to see how they hold up in wet areas... because I think they'd make a great backsplash!
Christian Dauer's experience as a furniture designer and maker is evident in his careful design work. Both his objects and building designs have an evident reverence of craft. Whether its a renovation of an original Eichler design or a custom screen, the attention to every crafted detail results in a great end project. Located in San Francisco, ChrDAUER Architects is certainly contributing to the Pacific Northwest aesthetic with his use of woods and finely tuned detailing.
As a sublime example of pre-fab architecture, David Adjaye's Northchurch House has lately been receiving a lot of press. Like many others, I've enjoyed seeing various images of the project, but I guess I wasn't actually reading the press very closely because I've just now realized that it only took 5 days to construct this beauty! Five days to build a timber framed house!! Its hard to get my head around that... even knowing that its pre-fab. I'd love a chance to check out the working drawings...
Via
Via
I think its pretty much a foregone conclusion that the news media (at least in the US) has been completely bought out by large corporations. I mean, its nearly impossible to watch the news on tv or read about it on the internet without being exposed to a wide array of product placement. Whether cnn is telling you what products to buy in order to save gas, or promoting another show, its nearly impossible to escape the commercial bombardment. The decision to promote one product over another is obviously only a factor of dollars, rather than value.
For a long time, bloggers have seemed to be outside of this cycle of selling... but I wonder if that's just something we tell ourselves. I was recently reading Dezeen (one of my favorite design and architecture blogs/online magazine) and saw yet another post on Zaha Hadid. In fact, the images above are all from separate posts on Zaha in the last month or so. I know that she is a prolific designer, but the posts are so frequent that you start to wonder if Dezeen has a special relationship with her public relations department.
Now, I'm not saying that there is anything wrong with it, if my assumption is true. I mean, I've certainly been influenced in my postings by the contents of my inbox... I'm sure that very few of us would be able to say that we're not. Although, I've never been paid for a post... would there be anything wrong if I had been? Are public relations departments the real newsmakers? And on that note... if you don't have a public relations department, does that make your actions any less significant or newsworthy?
I haven't really made up my mind on this subject, but I'd love to hear your opinions... Who do you think creates the news?
For a long time, bloggers have seemed to be outside of this cycle of selling... but I wonder if that's just something we tell ourselves. I was recently reading Dezeen (one of my favorite design and architecture blogs/online magazine) and saw yet another post on Zaha Hadid. In fact, the images above are all from separate posts on Zaha in the last month or so. I know that she is a prolific designer, but the posts are so frequent that you start to wonder if Dezeen has a special relationship with her public relations department.
Now, I'm not saying that there is anything wrong with it, if my assumption is true. I mean, I've certainly been influenced in my postings by the contents of my inbox... I'm sure that very few of us would be able to say that we're not. Although, I've never been paid for a post... would there be anything wrong if I had been? Are public relations departments the real newsmakers? And on that note... if you don't have a public relations department, does that make your actions any less significant or newsworthy?
I haven't really made up my mind on this subject, but I'd love to hear your opinions... Who do you think creates the news?
I'm not particularly girlie, but I love these feminine lacy light fixtures by Tay Lighting. I ball on the floor is especially great...
These Shed Hooks are a little too cutesy for me, but I really like how they combine space for your keys with a hook for coats and bags. Very useful.
Via Decor8
Via Decor8
This light box is a proposal by Julie Snow Architects for the renovation of an existing Minneapolis factory into usable gallery and work spaces for emerging artists. The boxes or shafts of light are intended to house the utilitarian functions, such as duct work and egress, allowing light to enter the space with constraining the plan's possibilities. Currently the GC is pricing 3 different options (all by JSA) and hopefully the board will select one soon.
A few images of some of the houses C & I have encountered while house hunting. I feel like Goldilocks because there is something wrong with every house... One house is too expensive, another is too dilapidated, another is in a bad neighborhood. We've been using a lot of gas checking out all of these homes!
C recently introduced me to Chris Jordan, a local artist who uses large scale photography as his medium for critique on American consumerism. I particularly like this image of a Tacoma chassis yard... It not only exemplifies current excess, but its an interesting contrasting image to those we typically see describing the Pacific Northwest. While this area is indeed lush and green with beautiful vistas of mountains and ocean, there also lies an undercurrent of industrial manufacturing and waste.
I saw this image on Pad Style, where they were showcasing this sofa brand, but I actually like the bookcase better. I love storage solutions that encompass an entire wall, creating a unique textured surface.
This simple solution by Viable London reminds me of paint running down a white wall. Its a simple but cute solution. I can imagine these hooks in a home with small children where everyone is assigned a different color (and height) hook.
Via Product Design Project
Via Product Design Project
MANA - Wuxi CBD
The write up on the Qing Pu Thumb Island project on MANA's own website states that "the theory of Chinese landscape, space, materials and energy are in continuous flux in between the man-made and natural landscape." The cohabitation of man-made and natural landscape in this project brings a sense of human scale and power to an important (and quite large) structure. Clearly, the integration of the landscape and structure is was makes the project so successful.
I would argue that this same continuous flux between man-made and natural landscape is prevalent in many of MANA's designs. While we often think of natural landscape as greenery, I think that the existing urban fabric can also be considered a natural landscape.
The Vanke is a commercial element located in a residential development... Specifically placed in the urban landscape, this project intends to affect the surrounding environment just as much as the environment affects its design and use. Another example of MANA's mastery of the flux between man-made and natural landscape is the Wuxi CBD. Wuxi CBD challenges the concept of city blocks (which are less relevant in China due to common land ownership) encouraging the flux of programs, experience, and movement. Even in these urban environments, the natural or urban landscape has been carefully integrated with MANA's architectural designs.
I would argue that this same continuous flux between man-made and natural landscape is prevalent in many of MANA's designs. While we often think of natural landscape as greenery, I think that the existing urban fabric can also be considered a natural landscape.
The Vanke is a commercial element located in a residential development... Specifically placed in the urban landscape, this project intends to affect the surrounding environment just as much as the environment affects its design and use. Another example of MANA's mastery of the flux between man-made and natural landscape is the Wuxi CBD. Wuxi CBD challenges the concept of city blocks (which are less relevant in China due to common land ownership) encouraging the flux of programs, experience, and movement. Even in these urban environments, the natural or urban landscape has been carefully integrated with MANA's architectural designs.
Last night C & I attended a lecture by Glenn Murcutt at the University of Washington. Although after we arrived and settled into our seats, I realized that it wasn't actually going to be a lecture, but rather an interview of this famous architect. I started to get a little nervous that an image free show would be difficult to get through... I mean after all, as architects and designers we tend to use images to express and understand ideas. Its hard to imagine a lecture by an architect without any sort of graphics.
However, I shouldn't have worried. Glenn Murcutt is in actuality one of the most charismatic speakers I have had the opportunity to experience. While long winded at times, he has an obvious passion for his work and undeniable charm. His answers varied from clear, poetic, and humorous, and it was as easy for us to get lost in his thoughts as it was for him.
Listening to Glenn Murcutt speak gave me the opportunity to reflect on my own goals for life and practice. It was interesting to hear him speak so passionately of his work, and yet also speak passionately of his personal life. It often seems that the more successful architects become, the less devoted they are to enjoying life outside of architecture. This is not true of Mr. Murcutt. He has developed a practice (until very recently a sole practitioner with no employees) that allows him to pick the jobs he wants, provide the ultimate care and design, and still enjoy life outside the practice. Unlike many well known architects, Mr. Murcutt has no interest in practicing abroad. In fact, he teased about other 'starchitects' who are continously building in new areas saying, "dogs need to pee on every tree... architects need to pee on every country." By focusing on design in Australia, Glenn Murcutt can have complete control of his jobs and the ensuing result. Although as he mentions, he will never be the richest architect by restricting his practice, his life and design are extremely fulfilling because he refuses to settle.
If you ever have the chance to attend a lecture by Glenn Murcutt (or even better, participate in one of his studios) then don't hesitate... He is certainly one of the most interesting and engaging architects I have ever heard speak.
However, I shouldn't have worried. Glenn Murcutt is in actuality one of the most charismatic speakers I have had the opportunity to experience. While long winded at times, he has an obvious passion for his work and undeniable charm. His answers varied from clear, poetic, and humorous, and it was as easy for us to get lost in his thoughts as it was for him.
Listening to Glenn Murcutt speak gave me the opportunity to reflect on my own goals for life and practice. It was interesting to hear him speak so passionately of his work, and yet also speak passionately of his personal life. It often seems that the more successful architects become, the less devoted they are to enjoying life outside of architecture. This is not true of Mr. Murcutt. He has developed a practice (until very recently a sole practitioner with no employees) that allows him to pick the jobs he wants, provide the ultimate care and design, and still enjoy life outside the practice. Unlike many well known architects, Mr. Murcutt has no interest in practicing abroad. In fact, he teased about other 'starchitects' who are continously building in new areas saying, "dogs need to pee on every tree... architects need to pee on every country." By focusing on design in Australia, Glenn Murcutt can have complete control of his jobs and the ensuing result. Although as he mentions, he will never be the richest architect by restricting his practice, his life and design are extremely fulfilling because he refuses to settle.
If you ever have the chance to attend a lecture by Glenn Murcutt (or even better, participate in one of his studios) then don't hesitate... He is certainly one of the most interesting and engaging architects I have ever heard speak.
A selection of a few of my favorite entries into the 3rd Annual Smallest Coolest Apartment contest at Apartment Therapy .
This Hollywood, CA studio is a fabulous mid-century modern inspired design. At only 390 sq. ft., the room feels almost spacious. I love the hand painted walls, which really add interest to the minimalistic decor.
This Hollywood, CA studio is a fabulous mid-century modern inspired design. At only 390 sq. ft., the room feels almost spacious. I love the hand painted walls, which really add interest to the minimalistic decor.
The interior design of this San Diego 596 sq. ft. two bedroom craftsman is consistent with the period, yet adds a sense of modernity. Although I must admit that the bathroom is my favorite room in the house, with the storage wall a very clever and beautiful solution.
I really love the original brick of this 520 sq. ft. one bedroom in Boston, MA. Although, this is obviously not a feature we can all duplicate... The brick is enhanced by the stark white and warm colors throughout the home.
This 440 sq. ft. studio in Gramercy Park is one of my favorite designs of the bunch. The light box plinth multi-tasks as a light fixture, bookcase, and bed platform. And we all know how much I love multi-function design. The minimalist decor only adds to the allure.
At 649 sq. ft., this San Francisco one bedroom is one of the most spacious entries into the competition. Its also one of the most professionally finished. The storage wall of the bedroom and living space is lovely, considered as both architecture and art. I also quite enjoy the skewed flooring that directs you to the view out the window...
Out of all the entries shown here, this Hell's Kitchen 560 sq. ft. one bedroom is the least like anything I would choose to live in... however, you have to admit that it has a great feeling at home. Personally, I'd really enjoy this space as a coffee shop or small book shop, but you can certainly understand escaping the modern city for this throwback to a simpler time.
All of these entries are great examples of how small can absolutely be better. Less truly is more.
All of these entries are great examples of how small can absolutely be better. Less truly is more.
I was searching for another photo on my hard drive, and came across this photo I took last summer in Chicago. Affectionately known as the bean, the Cloud Gate at Millennium Park is one of the most used and most loved outdoor experiences in the city. While personally I think that the design is rather kitsch, the way it reflects the cityscape is indeed quite lovely.
Its amazing how much is available at IKEA. What was once an interiors store is now everything interiors and home improvement. Not only can you buy cabinetry and flooring, but you can also buy appliances and plumbing fixtures... Don't want an expensive Sub-Zero? Why not check out what is available at IKEA.
The big question is... Without a track record for appliances, what kind of quality are you getting? While I like IKEA as much as the next person, do you really want a fridge of the same quality as that bookcase you put together? Is it possible that IKEA is reaching too far? I mean, while its great that you could potentially design an entire kitchen to include flooring, cabinetry, and appliances with one visit, are you getting the quality you need for items like appliances, that need to be highly functional as well as safe?
Just a question. I'd definitely be interested in hearing from anyone who has purchased appliances from IKEA.
The big question is... Without a track record for appliances, what kind of quality are you getting? While I like IKEA as much as the next person, do you really want a fridge of the same quality as that bookcase you put together? Is it possible that IKEA is reaching too far? I mean, while its great that you could potentially design an entire kitchen to include flooring, cabinetry, and appliances with one visit, are you getting the quality you need for items like appliances, that need to be highly functional as well as safe?
Just a question. I'd definitely be interested in hearing from anyone who has purchased appliances from IKEA.
Sports Hall Bale - Bale, CroatiaSports and Community Center - Zamet, Rijeka, CroatiaDance Center - Zagreb, Croatia
While all three of these buildings by Croatian firm 3LHD are sports related facilities, they were each designed with unique parameters, that directly affected the visual and spatial outcome. I thought it would interesting to compare the defining elements of the three projects...
The Sports Hall Bale was designed for a small town in Istria with a very limited schedule (only 11 months for construction). In order to facilitate this strict time limit, the architects coordinated the design with the use of pre-fabricated elements including all the bearing and facade's structural elements. Then the facade was surfaced using indigenous stone giving it an appearance reminiscent of local residential construction. In fact, this stone facing reminds me in many ways of the Stone House by Herzog & deMeuron.
The dilemma for the architects when working the Sports and Community Center, was to find a suitable way of integrating a large public structure into the existing urban fabric of Western Zamet. Their proposed solution, which won the 2004 competition, consisted of weaving ribbon forms into the existing cityscape. This large facility manages to keep its human scale, while still providing facilities capable of hosting international sports competitions and public business.
Due to the prominence of multi-plex theaters in Zagreb, older cinemas have gone into disrepair. In this case, the architects were asked to recreate a dance theater in a historic, but abandoned theater. This project involved minimal new construction, yet need to integrate the modern program into a historic building. In addition to the new and renovated structure, 3LHD opted to preserve and restore the last remaining open air roof terrace in Zagreb.
Established in 1994, this firm is clearly doing some spectacular work (and of wide variety - not just sports facilities!), but one of the most exciting things for me is that one of the 4 partners, and a large percentage of designers are women... I can't wait to continue to follow 3LHD's work, and especially to see the Dance Theater when construction is completed.
The Sports Hall Bale was designed for a small town in Istria with a very limited schedule (only 11 months for construction). In order to facilitate this strict time limit, the architects coordinated the design with the use of pre-fabricated elements including all the bearing and facade's structural elements. Then the facade was surfaced using indigenous stone giving it an appearance reminiscent of local residential construction. In fact, this stone facing reminds me in many ways of the Stone House by Herzog & deMeuron.
The dilemma for the architects when working the Sports and Community Center, was to find a suitable way of integrating a large public structure into the existing urban fabric of Western Zamet. Their proposed solution, which won the 2004 competition, consisted of weaving ribbon forms into the existing cityscape. This large facility manages to keep its human scale, while still providing facilities capable of hosting international sports competitions and public business.
Due to the prominence of multi-plex theaters in Zagreb, older cinemas have gone into disrepair. In this case, the architects were asked to recreate a dance theater in a historic, but abandoned theater. This project involved minimal new construction, yet need to integrate the modern program into a historic building. In addition to the new and renovated structure, 3LHD opted to preserve and restore the last remaining open air roof terrace in Zagreb.
Established in 1994, this firm is clearly doing some spectacular work (and of wide variety - not just sports facilities!), but one of the most exciting things for me is that one of the 4 partners, and a large percentage of designers are women... I can't wait to continue to follow 3LHD's work, and especially to see the Dance Theater when construction is completed.
Sometimes the simplest designs are also the most clever. This coat rack by Richard Shed is smart and useful rolled into one. Plus, its great to see a simple solution to the problem of where to hang your coat. With this hook, you'll never have to question it again.
I'm obsessed with coat racks. This design is based on the simple construction of a paper-clip and can be purchased in sections and assembled to suit your needs. I love the design (by Tom Dixon), but I'd be a little nervous about how far it projects into the room... I can just see myself getting caught in it and causing it to come crashing down! For more information see DWR.
Via Better Living Through Design
Via Better Living Through Design