I thought I would post my design research assignment paper that I got the first day of the semester. As you can see, it's come a long way... and so have I!
P.S. This is my 50th post! YAY!
Showing posts with label 101: basic environmental design 1. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 101: basic environmental design 1. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
ahhhhh, finally done. :)
It's a wonderful feeling, being done with my first semester of IARC!! I can't wait for the next! ......Actually I can....... at least until January :)
I thought I would post my design research assignment paper that I got the first day of the semester. As you can see, it's come a long way... and so have I!
P.S. This is my 50th post! YAY!
I thought I would post my design research assignment paper that I got the first day of the semester. As you can see, it's come a long way... and so have I!
P.S. This is my 50th post! YAY!
Saturday, December 8, 2007
ten graphic/media compositions
1. This composition works most because of the illustrations. It's nice to have a break from all the photography in magazines, and it adds a little humor or lightheartedness. I like how the illustrations stretches across the top half of the page, and the text is across the bottom half. It is nice to see a page divided horizontally this way, because a lot are not. I also like how they incorporated the blue background from the top in with the text by using it as bullets behind the numbers. This 2 page spread was featured in the April 2007 issue of Dwell.
2. This layout is pleasing to the eye because of the 8 box grid. I love layouts like these where one picture is eliminated for text, I mimicked this style in my process booklet for my time capsule scale model. I like the blue text that is repeated on both pages as well. These pages were featured in the December/January 2008 issue of Dwell.
3. This 2 page composition also has a grid, but a more dynamic one. The white space between the text and the corner the two photos make helps give your eye a break and time transition from one to the other. I also like that the larger picture's focus is more towards the bottom half of the page (because the colors are darker), to balance out the smaller photo placed at the top- it makes a diagonal. This layout was featured in the June 2007 issue of Dwell.
4. I like the composition a lot because it reminds me of something we'd do in class, such as assignments where we are to make a composition of things as we draw them. I love the randomness of the illustration, because it relates to the article above it, which is about deconstructivism in digital design. The article uses Apple's ipod shuffle slogan, "Life is random," and the whole illustration is exemplifying that. I also love how the focus (the drawing) is placed at the bottom of the page, making it more dynamic. You eye is drawn there first. This page was featured in the May 2007 issue of Dwell.
5. This page was featured in the May 2007 issue of Interior Design. I really like how this page creates a vertical zigzag with your eye. It keeps it interesting, as do the bright colors of the pictures as well as the cyan colored background behind the one picture and caption. I also like how they chose to leave the pictures that needed background context to be sold alone, and cut out the background around the products that don't need it. It keeps the reader's focus on the product so they don't get distracted with the background.
6. With this layout, I really love how they connected the two pages with color schemes, as well as graphic qualities. The took the orange from the college and used a smaller photo with orange on the opposite page, as well as the blue text from the collage to go with the large blue toned photo. The photographs on the right back seem collage-y and edgy, to relate to the college of cut paper on the left page. I also enjoy how they paired the scans with the photography, making their graphics more real and tangible feeling. I wouldn't necessarily call this a 2 page spread, but both the pages are completely connected. This was featured in the February 2007 issue of Metropolis.
7. This page creates an upsidown 'L' shape on the right hand side of the spread. My eye was drawn there first, and then to the pictures diagonal from the corner the 'L' makes. I love how they used a collage feel, which gives the article a fun, lighthearted quality. The not quite straight dotted line and the way the photos are a little tilted with rough borders gives a page an edgy look- matching the article's contents: different and dynamic shops. This layout was featured in the October 2007 issue of Metropolis.
8. The huge bold photograph that stretches 1 and 3/4 pages is really effective here. The photograph sets the strage for the article here (as it is the article introduction). The article is about a designer who designs with people in mind- things we can actually use, rather than trying to dazzle everyone with "perfectness." I really think the layout works here because it is so big and bold and real, which is what the article is all about. This was featured in the December 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
9. This 1 page layout utilized a very simple 4 block grid. I really like how they chose different sizes for the pictures to keep it interesting. I also like the color scheme- the blues and the yellows work well together, and the text perfectly completes the grids. This page was featured in the September 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
10. I chose this page because it is a little awkward, but it still works. Because the photographs are little off color, they seem aged looking, which is what they are going for. The photographs look candid and a little awkward, so the text and picture placement fits. I like the one larger picture on the top half and how everything else underneath is lined up with the edges, which carries your eye from the top to the bottom. This page was also featured in the September 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
2. This layout is pleasing to the eye because of the 8 box grid. I love layouts like these where one picture is eliminated for text, I mimicked this style in my process booklet for my time capsule scale model. I like the blue text that is repeated on both pages as well. These pages were featured in the December/January 2008 issue of Dwell.
3. This 2 page composition also has a grid, but a more dynamic one. The white space between the text and the corner the two photos make helps give your eye a break and time transition from one to the other. I also like that the larger picture's focus is more towards the bottom half of the page (because the colors are darker), to balance out the smaller photo placed at the top- it makes a diagonal. This layout was featured in the June 2007 issue of Dwell.
4. I like the composition a lot because it reminds me of something we'd do in class, such as assignments where we are to make a composition of things as we draw them. I love the randomness of the illustration, because it relates to the article above it, which is about deconstructivism in digital design. The article uses Apple's ipod shuffle slogan, "Life is random," and the whole illustration is exemplifying that. I also love how the focus (the drawing) is placed at the bottom of the page, making it more dynamic. You eye is drawn there first. This page was featured in the May 2007 issue of Dwell.
5. This page was featured in the May 2007 issue of Interior Design. I really like how this page creates a vertical zigzag with your eye. It keeps it interesting, as do the bright colors of the pictures as well as the cyan colored background behind the one picture and caption. I also like how they chose to leave the pictures that needed background context to be sold alone, and cut out the background around the products that don't need it. It keeps the reader's focus on the product so they don't get distracted with the background.
6. With this layout, I really love how they connected the two pages with color schemes, as well as graphic qualities. The took the orange from the college and used a smaller photo with orange on the opposite page, as well as the blue text from the collage to go with the large blue toned photo. The photographs on the right back seem collage-y and edgy, to relate to the college of cut paper on the left page. I also enjoy how they paired the scans with the photography, making their graphics more real and tangible feeling. I wouldn't necessarily call this a 2 page spread, but both the pages are completely connected. This was featured in the February 2007 issue of Metropolis.
7. This page creates an upsidown 'L' shape on the right hand side of the spread. My eye was drawn there first, and then to the pictures diagonal from the corner the 'L' makes. I love how they used a collage feel, which gives the article a fun, lighthearted quality. The not quite straight dotted line and the way the photos are a little tilted with rough borders gives a page an edgy look- matching the article's contents: different and dynamic shops. This layout was featured in the October 2007 issue of Metropolis.
8. The huge bold photograph that stretches 1 and 3/4 pages is really effective here. The photograph sets the strage for the article here (as it is the article introduction). The article is about a designer who designs with people in mind- things we can actually use, rather than trying to dazzle everyone with "perfectness." I really think the layout works here because it is so big and bold and real, which is what the article is all about. This was featured in the December 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
9. This 1 page layout utilized a very simple 4 block grid. I really like how they chose different sizes for the pictures to keep it interesting. I also like the color scheme- the blues and the yellows work well together, and the text perfectly completes the grids. This page was featured in the September 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
10. I chose this page because it is a little awkward, but it still works. Because the photographs are little off color, they seem aged looking, which is what they are going for. The photographs look candid and a little awkward, so the text and picture placement fits. I like the one larger picture on the top half and how everything else underneath is lined up with the edges, which carries your eye from the top to the bottom. This page was also featured in the September 2007 issue of Wallpaper.
Friday, December 7, 2007
what is sustainable design?
Through my research in ten or so different magazines and journals, I have formulated my own definition of what sustainable design is.
From the November 2007 Dwell; an article about product designer Richard Hutten:
"'The plywood seat and metal frame [chair] has been done so many times before... So I thought, how can I add anything to that?' ...he decided to reduce raw materials and create a lighter, more sustainable chair."
From this tiny snippet of an article, Sustainable design is: looking at what's been done before (precedent studies), picking out what works, reducing the excess, and making something just as good or ever better that is longer lasting, and more durable.
From the December 2007 Architectural Record; an article about the sustainability of zinc:
"Durability is not only a matter of simple longevity, but also of the costs necessary in maintaining a material throughout its life, and those involved in disposing of it at the end (or, ideally, at the beginning of its use in yet another product)."
After reading this article, I learned that zinc is "virtually 100% recyclable and ecologically friendly at every step in it's life cycle." It can be used time and time again, and in this particular article they are using it for roofing and siding on buildings. The idea of sustainability in this article is that we must research existing materials and learn which ones are recyclable and able to be used again. This way, we can eleminate the not-so-good materials and replace them with more recyclable ones, so this way a larger percent of our world is recyclable. I also learned from this article that sustainability is not only making materials that last, but making sure it will be able to be used again.
From the November 2007 issue of Dwell; letter from the editor in chief, Sam Grawe:
"This issue is filled with stories about real people who are doing, people who can inspire and teach us how to be better to our planet. They know about things like gray-water filtration and the advantages of factory-built housing. Together we'll see how this sustainability fad unravels, and we'll keep on plugging away, quietly doing what we've always done without all the pomp and circumstance."
This whole letter was about how Grawe is "over" sustainability. Well, not necessarily "over" it, but more so- tired of hearing about everyone talking about it and not acting on it. Grawe says that we should have done something about making our building greener a long time ago, which is extremely true. I like that he features real people in his magazine, actually acting on making our world greener. From this article, sustainability is something that we constantly need to have in our minds. We need to be aware of the state of our planet, and make sure that the things we use can be used again. We need to listen to all those celebrities who are going green, and actually do something about it. Sustainability is something that we must practice every day.
From the November 2007 issue of Interior Design; an article about Envision's headquarters for the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America):
As the byline for this article is, "'Green' is the greatest hit in the new office design..." I figured the article would tell me that the RIAA was looking to reform their headquarters into something more environmentally friendly. After reading, I discovered instead that one of the main reasons behind their "going green" was because it "reflects the current thinking about sustainable office design..." This angers me, because this should definitely not be the only reason, and I really couldn't find another one in the article. I suppose what the RIAA is doing can be a good thing, because maybe all the "hipsters" (as the article calls them) will follow the RIAA in going green (although all the "hipsters" hate the RIAA for not letting them download music...?)
Sustainability needs to start becoming less of a fad and more of a daily practice. (On a side note, Envision also designed the headquarters for Greenpeace.)
In almost every one of the magazines I've been researching in, I've found more than one advertisement for sustainable and recyclable building materials. This shows that sustainability is becoming more and more accessible to the general public- anyone that reads a design related magazine. Hopefully in the future, going green with life- not just design- will be extremely common and easy for everyone.
My working definition:
When I first learned about sustainable design, I had no idea that it was such a popular and talked about issue. Now, after researching in 50 or so different magazines throughout the course of my design research (I saved this part for last), I realize how prominent and important it is in the world of design. You would think that sustainability is an easy thing to define, but in actuality there are many different and separate parts that make up what it is to design sustainably.
Firstly, to be sustainable in your design, you have to know what isn't sustainable. You have to do a little research and find out what's worked and what hasn't, as well as learning about materials that are durable, lasting, and recyclable. You also have to make sure that the material will definitely be able to be using sometime in the future, hopefully a really long time into the future.
I've never really been that big of an environmentalist, but after doing this research, I am beginning to feel more and more strongly about it. Towards the end of my research, I saw an ad for a new high-tech electronic shower-controller thingy, and was outraged when I read that the maximum water power was 21 gallons per minute!!! That is a ridiculous amount of water! I've learned that it really is up to us to take care of our environment, and what better way to start than the spaces that we build to live in?
Sustainability is something that we constantly need to think about and explore. We need to talk about to others, and get others thinking, but eliminate the fact that it is a fad. We can't forget about it, because one day, our planet might not be here. We need to make the things that we build on this earth last, and become things that help the earth, not destroy it. After all, the earth helps us survive everyday, so why shouldn't we help the earth survive?
From the November 2007 Dwell; an article about product designer Richard Hutten:
"'The plywood seat and metal frame [chair] has been done so many times before... So I thought, how can I add anything to that?' ...he decided to reduce raw materials and create a lighter, more sustainable chair."
From this tiny snippet of an article, Sustainable design is: looking at what's been done before (precedent studies), picking out what works, reducing the excess, and making something just as good or ever better that is longer lasting, and more durable.
From the December 2007 Architectural Record; an article about the sustainability of zinc:
"Durability is not only a matter of simple longevity, but also of the costs necessary in maintaining a material throughout its life, and those involved in disposing of it at the end (or, ideally, at the beginning of its use in yet another product)."
After reading this article, I learned that zinc is "virtually 100% recyclable and ecologically friendly at every step in it's life cycle." It can be used time and time again, and in this particular article they are using it for roofing and siding on buildings. The idea of sustainability in this article is that we must research existing materials and learn which ones are recyclable and able to be used again. This way, we can eleminate the not-so-good materials and replace them with more recyclable ones, so this way a larger percent of our world is recyclable. I also learned from this article that sustainability is not only making materials that last, but making sure it will be able to be used again.
From the November 2007 issue of Dwell; letter from the editor in chief, Sam Grawe:
"This issue is filled with stories about real people who are doing, people who can inspire and teach us how to be better to our planet. They know about things like gray-water filtration and the advantages of factory-built housing. Together we'll see how this sustainability fad unravels, and we'll keep on plugging away, quietly doing what we've always done without all the pomp and circumstance."
This whole letter was about how Grawe is "over" sustainability. Well, not necessarily "over" it, but more so- tired of hearing about everyone talking about it and not acting on it. Grawe says that we should have done something about making our building greener a long time ago, which is extremely true. I like that he features real people in his magazine, actually acting on making our world greener. From this article, sustainability is something that we constantly need to have in our minds. We need to be aware of the state of our planet, and make sure that the things we use can be used again. We need to listen to all those celebrities who are going green, and actually do something about it. Sustainability is something that we must practice every day.
From the November 2007 issue of Interior Design; an article about Envision's headquarters for the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America):
As the byline for this article is, "'Green' is the greatest hit in the new office design..." I figured the article would tell me that the RIAA was looking to reform their headquarters into something more environmentally friendly. After reading, I discovered instead that one of the main reasons behind their "going green" was because it "reflects the current thinking about sustainable office design..." This angers me, because this should definitely not be the only reason, and I really couldn't find another one in the article. I suppose what the RIAA is doing can be a good thing, because maybe all the "hipsters" (as the article calls them) will follow the RIAA in going green (although all the "hipsters" hate the RIAA for not letting them download music...?)
Sustainability needs to start becoming less of a fad and more of a daily practice. (On a side note, Envision also designed the headquarters for Greenpeace.)
In almost every one of the magazines I've been researching in, I've found more than one advertisement for sustainable and recyclable building materials. This shows that sustainability is becoming more and more accessible to the general public- anyone that reads a design related magazine. Hopefully in the future, going green with life- not just design- will be extremely common and easy for everyone.
My working definition:
When I first learned about sustainable design, I had no idea that it was such a popular and talked about issue. Now, after researching in 50 or so different magazines throughout the course of my design research (I saved this part for last), I realize how prominent and important it is in the world of design. You would think that sustainability is an easy thing to define, but in actuality there are many different and separate parts that make up what it is to design sustainably.
Firstly, to be sustainable in your design, you have to know what isn't sustainable. You have to do a little research and find out what's worked and what hasn't, as well as learning about materials that are durable, lasting, and recyclable. You also have to make sure that the material will definitely be able to be using sometime in the future, hopefully a really long time into the future.
I've never really been that big of an environmentalist, but after doing this research, I am beginning to feel more and more strongly about it. Towards the end of my research, I saw an ad for a new high-tech electronic shower-controller thingy, and was outraged when I read that the maximum water power was 21 gallons per minute!!! That is a ridiculous amount of water! I've learned that it really is up to us to take care of our environment, and what better way to start than the spaces that we build to live in?
Sustainability is something that we constantly need to think about and explore. We need to talk about to others, and get others thinking, but eliminate the fact that it is a fad. We can't forget about it, because one day, our planet might not be here. We need to make the things that we build on this earth last, and become things that help the earth, not destroy it. After all, the earth helps us survive everyday, so why shouldn't we help the earth survive?
Thursday, December 6, 2007
two new technologies in design
In the October 2007 issue of Architect, there is an article called "Model Behavior." This article is about scientists that are conducting research with virtual scenarios to see how crowds will react in public spaces if there is a disaster. They test how large crowds can exit sports complexes, arenas, and other buildings where large crowds gather the quickest way possible. Although crowds have been modeled before, the new way that has been developed is that each person is individual. Each individual person reacts to others they may come in contact with as well. Scientists work with a scale of 1/60th of a second, which is the average reaction time for human movement. One day they hope to model entire cities to test these close to real probable situations. City planners and architects can benefit from this research because it will give them an idea about how well their buildings are fit for emergencies. Research like this will be extremely beneficial to future designers.
Another new technology that is becoming increasingly popular are electronic window shades. In many magazines I've looked through, such as Architectural Digest and Dwell, I've found the same exact ad for a remote control "blind closer." This new technology allows for quick and easy shade closing; it could be helpful to lots of different types of people such as elderly who may have a hard time closing and un-closing blinds. The ad also advertises a remote control that has light controls, fan controls, and shade controls all in one. They even have one to go in your car, so you can turn the lights on before you even get inside. In the future, I think everyone will have automatic blinds, because they are a lot simpler, don't get tangled or ripped because they're inside the glass, and are all around more practical. These new technologies are becoming more and more accesible for everyday people.
Another new technology that is becoming increasingly popular are electronic window shades. In many magazines I've looked through, such as Architectural Digest and Dwell, I've found the same exact ad for a remote control "blind closer." This new technology allows for quick and easy shade closing; it could be helpful to lots of different types of people such as elderly who may have a hard time closing and un-closing blinds. The ad also advertises a remote control that has light controls, fan controls, and shade controls all in one. They even have one to go in your car, so you can turn the lights on before you even get inside. In the future, I think everyone will have automatic blinds, because they are a lot simpler, don't get tangled or ripped because they're inside the glass, and are all around more practical. These new technologies are becoming more and more accesible for everyday people.
ten product designers
1. Charles and Ray Eames are most famous for their furniture design. The Molded Plywood Chair is considered one of the best in modern design. When we had the "exhibit" of these chairs in IARC, we learned that they were originally designed to be available for everyone, so that the average and every day person could experience good design in their own homes. Although this never happened, the Molded Plywood Chair is still in a so-so price range (a thousand-ish) :) And is one of the most comfortable chairs I've ever sat in before! I hope to own one someday. I've also noticed throughout this research process that Eames chairs pop up almost everywhere. They are classic and timeless elements in modern design.
2. Richard Hutten was featured in the profile section of the November 2007 issue of Dwell. I stumbled upon the article about him by accident, one quote really stuck out to me: "The museum isn't a natural environment for my work. I'm not about perfect images, but real objects for real people." I love this philosophy. All of Hutten's designs are made with the use in mind. He wanted people to really use them.. because design is to increase the quality of life- why not use it? Some of his products include a plastic children's cup called the Dombo, which comes in a variety of bright colors with big fun handles. It is "the most expensive plastic cup in the world," at a whopping 14 or so US dollars. He also has a very cool chair called the "Sexy Relaxy" chair, a perfectly fitting name.
3. Paul Frank has always been one of my favorite designers, and I didn't even think to put him on this list until I saw his ad in the March 2007 issue of Dwell. He has a retro style and accredits this to his elementary school's bright colors (like rusty orange, bright blue, and mustard yellow). I love that Paul Frank targets adults as well as children, and how he has such a variety of products. He designs bicycles, bedding, furniture, clothing, and other accessories, as well as maintaining an online cartoon about his main character- Julius the Monkey. I love that Paul Frank's designs have such a fun nature and a sense of humor, because often humor is not a factor in design, but he likes to make people happy with his products.
4. Julian Mayor is (primarily) a furniture designer and had his 'General Dynamic' sculpted chair featured in the October 2007 issue of Wallpaper. His design process is fully exhibited on his website, which is really interesting to see. I love how it looks like he was just doodling random lines when the idea for a bench or a chair came to him and he decided to go with it. That shows you what you can think of when you really aren't trying to think of anything. A piece of his that I really enjoy is his "Impression Chair." The basic cube form is ever present, even with the chair molded in.
5. Marcel Wanders was also featured in the October 2007 issue of Wallpaper. Wanders' has designed a wide variety of products including furniture, bedding, lighting, bathroom fixtures, and even birdhouses. His style is edgy, modern, and extremely eclectic. A quote about Wanders from the August 2006 issue of Wallpaper (UK) reads, "His wacky creative Shtick may grate, but Wanders’ designs show a wit, lightness of touch and formal elegance exactly where it’s required."
6. Karim Rashid ( 1 2 ) has an extremely funky and explosive style. Products like this vase and twisted chairs and tables make for really fun and interesting products. He designs everything from kitchen utensils to watches, so anywhere you need a burst of color or a simple yet quirky form in a room, his products are a perfect resource. Rashid was featured in the May 2007 issue of Interior Design.
7. Nanna Ditzel is a Danish furniture, jewelry, textile, and product designer. One of her tables was featured in the December 2007 issue of Wallpaper. Ditzel's designs are simple and elegant, but they still hold a funky modern quality at the same time. None of her pieces seem gaudy, and that is what works about them; they use the most minimal materials with functionality still in mind.
8. Inga Sempé was featured in the June 2007 issue of Dwell. She designs furniture, chairs, lighting, and other pieces such as shelving units. All of her designs are extremely simplistic, but are functional at the same level. She takes basic forms like cubes and cylinders and morphs them, as well as letting others morph them. One of her lamps is made out of paper in an accordion fashion, so that it can be pulled and smushed to the desired form. Sempé also uses very simplistic and basic colors in order to further accentuate the form of her objects.
9. Josh Urso was featured in the October 2006 issue of Interior Design. While I am not a big fan of his chair designs, which look like he took some chair he didn't even design and threw a blanket over it, his light fixtures are really interesting. They look like elaborate paper flowers. His website is a fun design as well. I like how he seems to use scraps to create his a lot of his products.
10. Christophe Delcourt definitely choose function before form. I love that he uses such simple forms however, but you can clearly tell the function of each of his pieces. He also adds some dynamic elements to make his products more aesthetically pleasing, which can be a nice thing. I also really enjoy his website, because it is in black and white, and makes everything displayed appear timeless and classic, a good choice for marketing products.
2. Richard Hutten was featured in the profile section of the November 2007 issue of Dwell. I stumbled upon the article about him by accident, one quote really stuck out to me: "The museum isn't a natural environment for my work. I'm not about perfect images, but real objects for real people." I love this philosophy. All of Hutten's designs are made with the use in mind. He wanted people to really use them.. because design is to increase the quality of life- why not use it? Some of his products include a plastic children's cup called the Dombo, which comes in a variety of bright colors with big fun handles. It is "the most expensive plastic cup in the world," at a whopping 14 or so US dollars. He also has a very cool chair called the "Sexy Relaxy" chair, a perfectly fitting name.
3. Paul Frank has always been one of my favorite designers, and I didn't even think to put him on this list until I saw his ad in the March 2007 issue of Dwell. He has a retro style and accredits this to his elementary school's bright colors (like rusty orange, bright blue, and mustard yellow). I love that Paul Frank targets adults as well as children, and how he has such a variety of products. He designs bicycles, bedding, furniture, clothing, and other accessories, as well as maintaining an online cartoon about his main character- Julius the Monkey. I love that Paul Frank's designs have such a fun nature and a sense of humor, because often humor is not a factor in design, but he likes to make people happy with his products.
4. Julian Mayor is (primarily) a furniture designer and had his 'General Dynamic' sculpted chair featured in the October 2007 issue of Wallpaper. His design process is fully exhibited on his website, which is really interesting to see. I love how it looks like he was just doodling random lines when the idea for a bench or a chair came to him and he decided to go with it. That shows you what you can think of when you really aren't trying to think of anything. A piece of his that I really enjoy is his "Impression Chair." The basic cube form is ever present, even with the chair molded in.
5. Marcel Wanders was also featured in the October 2007 issue of Wallpaper. Wanders' has designed a wide variety of products including furniture, bedding, lighting, bathroom fixtures, and even birdhouses. His style is edgy, modern, and extremely eclectic. A quote about Wanders from the August 2006 issue of Wallpaper (UK) reads, "His wacky creative Shtick may grate, but Wanders’ designs show a wit, lightness of touch and formal elegance exactly where it’s required."
6. Karim Rashid ( 1 2 ) has an extremely funky and explosive style. Products like this vase and twisted chairs and tables make for really fun and interesting products. He designs everything from kitchen utensils to watches, so anywhere you need a burst of color or a simple yet quirky form in a room, his products are a perfect resource. Rashid was featured in the May 2007 issue of Interior Design.
7. Nanna Ditzel is a Danish furniture, jewelry, textile, and product designer. One of her tables was featured in the December 2007 issue of Wallpaper. Ditzel's designs are simple and elegant, but they still hold a funky modern quality at the same time. None of her pieces seem gaudy, and that is what works about them; they use the most minimal materials with functionality still in mind.
8. Inga Sempé was featured in the June 2007 issue of Dwell. She designs furniture, chairs, lighting, and other pieces such as shelving units. All of her designs are extremely simplistic, but are functional at the same level. She takes basic forms like cubes and cylinders and morphs them, as well as letting others morph them. One of her lamps is made out of paper in an accordion fashion, so that it can be pulled and smushed to the desired form. Sempé also uses very simplistic and basic colors in order to further accentuate the form of her objects.
9. Josh Urso was featured in the October 2006 issue of Interior Design. While I am not a big fan of his chair designs, which look like he took some chair he didn't even design and threw a blanket over it, his light fixtures are really interesting. They look like elaborate paper flowers. His website is a fun design as well. I like how he seems to use scraps to create his a lot of his products.
10. Christophe Delcourt definitely choose function before form. I love that he uses such simple forms however, but you can clearly tell the function of each of his pieces. He also adds some dynamic elements to make his products more aesthetically pleasing, which can be a nice thing. I also really enjoy his website, because it is in black and white, and makes everything displayed appear timeless and classic, a good choice for marketing products.
foreign design journals
Domus is an Italian Design journal. The first thing I noticed about the September 2007 issue was that the photography and graphic designs are beautiful. Everything is so sleek and modern looking, it creates an extremely sophisticated look. Domus has all of the text in both English and Italian, so it understanding the articles is not an issue. I love how a lot of their photographs have a kinetic feel because of the blurred figures. It reminds you that the space we design is for us to live in, and therefore, they are alive. One section in the magazine is almost a miniature zine, and is a bunch of full length pages cut 4/5 down to create two funky flip book type sections. A lot of American magazines do not utilize these types of interactive features. Domus features articles about interiors, product design, and architecture. I love how the Italian design featured is sleek, clean, and modern, yet not completely emotionless, as I feel some "modern/contemporary" American design is. This magazine is extremely colorful, and printed on heavy, high quality paper. In the US, it's worth $33.95!
Abitare is another Italian journal, one that has a lot less English that Domus. It also has a lot more ads. In this magazine, I again noticed the sleek and innovative Italian design, and the very interesting kinetic photography. There are ads on almost every other pages, which are very distracting to the aesthetic elements of the articles. The coolest thing I found in the October 2007 issue was the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion in London. Abitare includes articles about buildings, art, interiors, and new modern products.
Archithese is a German design journal, and I was happy to find a foreign journal with no english translations what so ever. It is so interesting to see the things that we talk and think about everyday in another language because it you realize it's global, and that people across the world are thinking and talking about the same things you are. While looking through the May 2007 issue of Archithese, I recognized two things: The first was a little snippet about the Guggenheim museum in New York, and the second was an arial view of "the Bean" and Millennium Park in Chicago. Archithese definitely has a more "report-like" feel as compared to the edgy Domus and the ad-filled Abitare.
Abitare is another Italian journal, one that has a lot less English that Domus. It also has a lot more ads. In this magazine, I again noticed the sleek and innovative Italian design, and the very interesting kinetic photography. There are ads on almost every other pages, which are very distracting to the aesthetic elements of the articles. The coolest thing I found in the October 2007 issue was the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion in London. Abitare includes articles about buildings, art, interiors, and new modern products.
Archithese is a German design journal, and I was happy to find a foreign journal with no english translations what so ever. It is so interesting to see the things that we talk and think about everyday in another language because it you realize it's global, and that people across the world are thinking and talking about the same things you are. While looking through the May 2007 issue of Archithese, I recognized two things: The first was a little snippet about the Guggenheim museum in New York, and the second was an arial view of "the Bean" and Millennium Park in Chicago. Archithese definitely has a more "report-like" feel as compared to the edgy Domus and the ad-filled Abitare.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
ten interior enviornments
1. Featured in the July 2007 issue of Architectural Digest, this kitchen/living room junction was designed by Steven F. Haas and LST. The couple who owned the house wanted it to "reflect their love of Tuscany," so the designers went with a stucco wall similar to traditional Tuscan Renaissance villas. I love the openness of the entire room (which is caused by the huge arch window), something that is essential when combining two major areas like the kitchen and living room. I also enjoy how natural all the colors, woods, and decorations are. This house actually looks like it could be in Italy, even though it's in Connecticut.
2. This kitchen was designed by Nathaniel Fúster, and was featured in the October 2007 issue of Dwell. The first thing I noticed about the room as a whole was how the pattern of the vertical/horizonal rectangles created by the door was continued onto the floor tiles. I really love how that aspect is also carried on with the basic rectangular black table. I love the simplicity of the white wall contrasting with the black countertops and furniture. I also like that the couple who owns the house included a space for their child's art work on the wall, because it adds a great personal touch, and warms the entire room.
3. This bedroom is a little girl's DREAM room!!! When I saw this in the December 2007 issue of Architectural Digest, I could not believe how amazing it was. The perfectly pink wooden house is actually a bunk bed, with little yellow stairs going up to the top one. The stairs even double as storage space for toys. Across the room, there is a comfy looking window sill, with lots of cushy pillows that any child would love. The room is wonderfully light, happy, and inviting. It was designed for a seven year old girl in Hawaii by the Ike Kligerman Barkley architectural firm.
4. This bedroom was featured in the October 2007 issue of Dwell, and it was designed by City Desk Studio Architects. The house is actually owned by Christian Dean, a third of the three person firm. He designed the house for himself, his wife, 3 sons, and 2 cats. This picture features the master bedroom, which is simple and peaceful. The best part of this room are the square windows, which is an art piece in it self. Because that one wall is so eye catching, the rest of the room is downplayed (like the plain white bed linens), yet still important. I also love how the hardwood on the floor is continued on to the one wall; this makes the white of the bed stand out even more.
5. This kitchen was featured in the Winter 2007 issue of The Nest magazine. I really love how the dark wood of the table contrasts with the stainless steel, whites, and other bright colors in the room. I also love all the bright colors, like the apples on the table, the flowers, and the rug, as well as the colors in the bookshelf, which adds a personal touch to the room. I like how this room looks as if each item has a story behind it, and it is a clean mosh of things that work well together that you normally wouldn't think would. It also has a very homey feel.
6. Featured in the November 2007 issue of Architectural Digest, this living room (which happens to be in her own home) was designed by Jennifer Post, in Manhattan, NY. When I first saw the image, I thought it was way too clean for my taste. Almost everything is white, and the only other major color is yellow, which is not much better than white when it comes to giving off that "do not touch me" vibe. However, I do love this room. There are two large windows on either side of a floor-to-ceiling mirror, an image that you really have to study in order to figure it out, it's so interesting. I also love how the simplicity of the room makes the beautifully complex chandelier stand out.
7. This "retro"ish living room was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. There is a lot going on in this room, but the rug ties everything together. The shag rug is playful, simple, and clean, and it ties in all of the personal mash of decorative items and funky furniture. I also love the naturalness of the giant window, and the bright yellow of the art hanging over the couch.
8. Featured in the January/February 2007 issue of I.D., this exciting Russian boutique would drawn in anyone off the street. "Mirrors have always fascinated, from the Russian constructivists to the Faberge eggs. Mirrors show preciousness, dynamism, modernity and nostalgia. They are central to the concept of the new Emperor Moth store." I love how the mirrors reflect all the crazy colors that this store has one display. The walls seem to never end. Having a good design in a store is essential for keeping customers interested.
9. This is an awesome entrance hall that was featured in the September 2005 issue of Architectural Digest. The room is in the New York home of Geoffrey Bradfield, who also designed it. I love how the old-timey type mural gives off a purplish color, it gives the whole room a vintage feel. I also like how the transparent glass panel accentuates the clean white of everything else in the room. As an entrance way, it sets the mood for the rest of the house, which I can assume is just as tranquil.
10. This is designer Juan Montoya's "pied-à-terre" (small apartment) in Paris. It was featured in the September 2007 issue of Architectural Digest. This is one of my favorite rooms on the list. The overall look is sophisticated and a little bit vintage, and very clean. I like that there a bunch of different collected looking pieces that all work together in unexpected ways. The french doors leading out to the terrace are gorgeous as well. I love how the fireplace brings in a warmth to the room, yet it still feels airy because of the floor length window treatments and the light color scheme.
2. This kitchen was designed by Nathaniel Fúster, and was featured in the October 2007 issue of Dwell. The first thing I noticed about the room as a whole was how the pattern of the vertical/horizonal rectangles created by the door was continued onto the floor tiles. I really love how that aspect is also carried on with the basic rectangular black table. I love the simplicity of the white wall contrasting with the black countertops and furniture. I also like that the couple who owns the house included a space for their child's art work on the wall, because it adds a great personal touch, and warms the entire room.
3. This bedroom is a little girl's DREAM room!!! When I saw this in the December 2007 issue of Architectural Digest, I could not believe how amazing it was. The perfectly pink wooden house is actually a bunk bed, with little yellow stairs going up to the top one. The stairs even double as storage space for toys. Across the room, there is a comfy looking window sill, with lots of cushy pillows that any child would love. The room is wonderfully light, happy, and inviting. It was designed for a seven year old girl in Hawaii by the Ike Kligerman Barkley architectural firm.
4. This bedroom was featured in the October 2007 issue of Dwell, and it was designed by City Desk Studio Architects. The house is actually owned by Christian Dean, a third of the three person firm. He designed the house for himself, his wife, 3 sons, and 2 cats. This picture features the master bedroom, which is simple and peaceful. The best part of this room are the square windows, which is an art piece in it self. Because that one wall is so eye catching, the rest of the room is downplayed (like the plain white bed linens), yet still important. I also love how the hardwood on the floor is continued on to the one wall; this makes the white of the bed stand out even more.
5. This kitchen was featured in the Winter 2007 issue of The Nest magazine. I really love how the dark wood of the table contrasts with the stainless steel, whites, and other bright colors in the room. I also love all the bright colors, like the apples on the table, the flowers, and the rug, as well as the colors in the bookshelf, which adds a personal touch to the room. I like how this room looks as if each item has a story behind it, and it is a clean mosh of things that work well together that you normally wouldn't think would. It also has a very homey feel.
6. Featured in the November 2007 issue of Architectural Digest, this living room (which happens to be in her own home) was designed by Jennifer Post, in Manhattan, NY. When I first saw the image, I thought it was way too clean for my taste. Almost everything is white, and the only other major color is yellow, which is not much better than white when it comes to giving off that "do not touch me" vibe. However, I do love this room. There are two large windows on either side of a floor-to-ceiling mirror, an image that you really have to study in order to figure it out, it's so interesting. I also love how the simplicity of the room makes the beautifully complex chandelier stand out.
7. This "retro"ish living room was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. There is a lot going on in this room, but the rug ties everything together. The shag rug is playful, simple, and clean, and it ties in all of the personal mash of decorative items and funky furniture. I also love the naturalness of the giant window, and the bright yellow of the art hanging over the couch.
8. Featured in the January/February 2007 issue of I.D., this exciting Russian boutique would drawn in anyone off the street. "Mirrors have always fascinated, from the Russian constructivists to the Faberge eggs. Mirrors show preciousness, dynamism, modernity and nostalgia. They are central to the concept of the new Emperor Moth store." I love how the mirrors reflect all the crazy colors that this store has one display. The walls seem to never end. Having a good design in a store is essential for keeping customers interested.
9. This is an awesome entrance hall that was featured in the September 2005 issue of Architectural Digest. The room is in the New York home of Geoffrey Bradfield, who also designed it. I love how the old-timey type mural gives off a purplish color, it gives the whole room a vintage feel. I also like how the transparent glass panel accentuates the clean white of everything else in the room. As an entrance way, it sets the mood for the rest of the house, which I can assume is just as tranquil.
10. This is designer Juan Montoya's "pied-à-terre" (small apartment) in Paris. It was featured in the September 2007 issue of Architectural Digest. This is one of my favorite rooms on the list. The overall look is sophisticated and a little bit vintage, and very clean. I like that there a bunch of different collected looking pieces that all work together in unexpected ways. The french doors leading out to the terrace are gorgeous as well. I love how the fireplace brings in a warmth to the room, yet it still feels airy because of the floor length window treatments and the light color scheme.
Monday, December 3, 2007
time capsule full scale models
The hanging "white models" are made of cardboard and covered in white paper, hung with wire. I really wasn't too happy with how they turned out, but I think overall they were fine.
The frosted plexi glass box was spray painted for the frosted effect, and held together with packaging tape, after my caulk plan failed miserably. I know I could have done a lot better with the craft of my full scale models, but it felt like everything I tried didn't work. Aside from all the negativity, I felt like I did pretty well with my presentation, and the models weren't too bad.
To hang them up, I got a wooden rod, clamps, and galvanized wire, which I cut notches for in the wood.
I can't believe I'm almost done with my first semester of IARC! I will definitely be posting here over break though, since I'll finally have time to draw just because. :)
Sunday, December 2, 2007
orthographic view of time capsule
These took forever to do! But they look pretty cool. I'm am pretty nervous about presenting tomorrow, but I think I'll be okay!
Pictures of my full scale model coming soon!!!!!!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
time capsule drawings
These scanned horribly, I'll try again today.
Still couldn't get them to scan in looking too great.. but I think these turned out okay. I added in the black marker to make my time capsule stand out against the lights, ceiling beams, and cubicles in the background.
The thumbnail sketches were done before I finalized my design, so it changed a little when I did the large one. The big one is the best interpretation of what it will look like!
Still couldn't get them to scan in looking too great.. but I think these turned out okay. I added in the black marker to make my time capsule stand out against the lights, ceiling beams, and cubicles in the background.
The thumbnail sketches were done before I finalized my design, so it changed a little when I did the large one. The big one is the best interpretation of what it will look like!
Monday, November 26, 2007
scale model process booklet
The process booklet was fun to make, but I definitely enjoyed the model more!
I chose to use square vellum pages because my time capsule design has the same shape and appearance. The binding is wire, as is the thing that holds all the boxes together in my capsule.
This next week is going to be crazy! FULL SCALE MODEL!
process booklet sketches
Here are my thumbnail sketches I did while looking through magazines to get ideas for the time capsule process booklet.
We were to focus on the lightness and darkness factor the text and images create in order to get a really good idea of what the page looks like, rather than just a white box for a picture. I think these really helped me in organizing my booklet- it's important to have a good balance of value on the pages.
I will also use these for my final time capsule critique.
We were to focus on the lightness and darkness factor the text and images create in order to get a really good idea of what the page looks like, rather than just a white box for a picture. I think these really helped me in organizing my booklet- it's important to have a good balance of value on the pages.
I will also use these for my final time capsule critique.
Monday, November 19, 2007
time capsule scale model
This was such a fun project! These are just a few pictures from my process booklet, which I will post later! I really like how my model turned out and it will be interesting to do the full-scale one.
My time capsule is a long "snake" of 25x25" flat panel containers for each person to place objects that represent their first year in IARC. They'll hang over the first year studio area.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
ten buildings
1. This awesome and bubbly condominium is being developed in Miami, Florida. It was designed by Chad Oppenheim and featured in the February 2007 issue of Metropolis. The circles and curves in this eye popping building are really refreshing because curves are things many architects avoid when designing buidlings. The building also is meant to be eco-friendly- installations such as solar panels for hot water and bamboo floors will be a part of the building.
2. This beautiful glass building in Frankfurt, Germany was featured in the August 2007 issue of Architectural Record. It was designed by Christoph Ingenhoven for the Lufthansa Aviation Center. I really like how the whole thing is made of glass, and it appears so light and airy, as an airport should be. The glass is also well insulated to keep sound out, another essential quality of an airport. Since millions of different people pass through airports everyday, good design is key.
3. This interestingly formed building in Harlem, NY was also featured in the August 2007 issue of Architectural Record, and was designed by Swanke Hayden Connell Architects. This building is expected to be completed in 2009, and it will replace a parking lot that was once there. This building has a unique form that will really stand out among the other shorter and older buidlings already in existance in Harlem. I love the differently sized cubes stacked to create an abstract or cubist art feel.
4. The Reisley House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1950's. You can't talk about architecture without mentioning Frank Lloyd Wright. This house was featured in the November 2006 issue of Dwell. The best about this house (and lots of other of Wright's designs) is that it is built into the ground. It wouldn't be able to exist anywhere else because he designed it for that specific location. I also love the sharp corners that contrast the organic woods and plantlife around it, although it is made of wood, to tie it in with the surroundings at the same time. The house is small and quaint, simple, and beautiful.
5. Featured in the May 2007 issue of Metropolitan Home, this adorable house was designed by Marjorie Skouras. This is probably my favorite house of all ten, because I love when buildings are covered with vines. I also love the bright pink shutters and the ruffly umbrellas. The archway windows and the french doors that open to the patio give this home a classic and vintage feel. Skouras says, "When the umbrellas are all open, it looks like a scene from Alice in Wonderland."
6. The Juniper House was designed by Hans Murman and Ulla Alberts and it is located in Gotland, Sweden. The house was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. When I first looked at this house, I couldn't quite make out what was going on, but I then realized that it was a giant graphic of juniper trees on a glass wall. I love how the house becomes part of the environment in such a unique way. All of the colors on the outside- natural wood, woodsy green, and creamy white perfectly play up the colors of the natural environment around the house.
7. This interesting house in Montecito, California was designed by Barton Myers and was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. The boldest feature of the house is the roofs, which are pools of water, which also serve as reservoirs. "The water cascades lyrically down the procession of rooftops, from the studio to the residence to the guesthouse..." I love the tranquility the pools of water provide, as well as the pretty reflection aspect. The pools really connect the house into the environment.
8. These lovely yellow apartement homes are located in Bartningallee, Germany and were designed by Hans Schwippert. They were featured in the November 2007 issue of Wallpaper magazine. I love the bright color of the apartments, because a lot of architects are timid to use bold colors on the exteriors of their buildings. I also love how the balconies of the apartments are separated from the main part of the building, further accentuating the bright yellow.
9. Another Frank Lloyd Wright design, the Guggenheim Museum in New York City has such a unique structure. I love the white, because it makes the form stand out so much more. I have been to New York time after time, but I have never been here, and now I really want to. This view of it is very cool too, because you can see every layer with the fish eye lens. Wright's designs are so contemporary that it is only fitting to have the museum house modern and contemporary art.
10. This was probably the coolest building I've ever been too. (I took the picture!) The Apple Store in New York City on Fifth Avenue is a huge glass cube with a floating Apple logo above ground, and the store it self is underground. You can either take the frosted glass staircase, or the cylindrical glass elevator to get downstairs, and once you do, you can't believe your eyes. I love all things Apple, so this was such a fun experience. Having such a cool design really draws people in, even if they don't like Apple products. (but who wouldn't?!) The humongous glass cube steals your gaze the moment you are in sight of it, and after that, you see right through to the floating apple logo. The cube is one of purest forms in existence; it is simple and elegant, and that is the image Apple is trying to portray about their products to the public as well. The store is also open 24/7 so that no one will miss a chance to go in.
2. This beautiful glass building in Frankfurt, Germany was featured in the August 2007 issue of Architectural Record. It was designed by Christoph Ingenhoven for the Lufthansa Aviation Center. I really like how the whole thing is made of glass, and it appears so light and airy, as an airport should be. The glass is also well insulated to keep sound out, another essential quality of an airport. Since millions of different people pass through airports everyday, good design is key.
3. This interestingly formed building in Harlem, NY was also featured in the August 2007 issue of Architectural Record, and was designed by Swanke Hayden Connell Architects. This building is expected to be completed in 2009, and it will replace a parking lot that was once there. This building has a unique form that will really stand out among the other shorter and older buidlings already in existance in Harlem. I love the differently sized cubes stacked to create an abstract or cubist art feel.
4. The Reisley House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1950's. You can't talk about architecture without mentioning Frank Lloyd Wright. This house was featured in the November 2006 issue of Dwell. The best about this house (and lots of other of Wright's designs) is that it is built into the ground. It wouldn't be able to exist anywhere else because he designed it for that specific location. I also love the sharp corners that contrast the organic woods and plantlife around it, although it is made of wood, to tie it in with the surroundings at the same time. The house is small and quaint, simple, and beautiful.
5. Featured in the May 2007 issue of Metropolitan Home, this adorable house was designed by Marjorie Skouras. This is probably my favorite house of all ten, because I love when buildings are covered with vines. I also love the bright pink shutters and the ruffly umbrellas. The archway windows and the french doors that open to the patio give this home a classic and vintage feel. Skouras says, "When the umbrellas are all open, it looks like a scene from Alice in Wonderland."
6. The Juniper House was designed by Hans Murman and Ulla Alberts and it is located in Gotland, Sweden. The house was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. When I first looked at this house, I couldn't quite make out what was going on, but I then realized that it was a giant graphic of juniper trees on a glass wall. I love how the house becomes part of the environment in such a unique way. All of the colors on the outside- natural wood, woodsy green, and creamy white perfectly play up the colors of the natural environment around the house.
7. This interesting house in Montecito, California was designed by Barton Myers and was featured in the September 2007 issue of Dwell. The boldest feature of the house is the roofs, which are pools of water, which also serve as reservoirs. "The water cascades lyrically down the procession of rooftops, from the studio to the residence to the guesthouse..." I love the tranquility the pools of water provide, as well as the pretty reflection aspect. The pools really connect the house into the environment.
8. These lovely yellow apartement homes are located in Bartningallee, Germany and were designed by Hans Schwippert. They were featured in the November 2007 issue of Wallpaper magazine. I love the bright color of the apartments, because a lot of architects are timid to use bold colors on the exteriors of their buildings. I also love how the balconies of the apartments are separated from the main part of the building, further accentuating the bright yellow.
9. Another Frank Lloyd Wright design, the Guggenheim Museum in New York City has such a unique structure. I love the white, because it makes the form stand out so much more. I have been to New York time after time, but I have never been here, and now I really want to. This view of it is very cool too, because you can see every layer with the fish eye lens. Wright's designs are so contemporary that it is only fitting to have the museum house modern and contemporary art.
10. This was probably the coolest building I've ever been too. (I took the picture!) The Apple Store in New York City on Fifth Avenue is a huge glass cube with a floating Apple logo above ground, and the store it self is underground. You can either take the frosted glass staircase, or the cylindrical glass elevator to get downstairs, and once you do, you can't believe your eyes. I love all things Apple, so this was such a fun experience. Having such a cool design really draws people in, even if they don't like Apple products. (but who wouldn't?!) The humongous glass cube steals your gaze the moment you are in sight of it, and after that, you see right through to the floating apple logo. The cube is one of purest forms in existence; it is simple and elegant, and that is the image Apple is trying to portray about their products to the public as well. The store is also open 24/7 so that no one will miss a chance to go in.
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