A simple idea turned into a non-profit organization dedicated to make a difference in urban environments. We are using ‘white roofing’ more and more as people become educated to the energy and financial impact not only for the building itself but to its surroundings as well. Learn more at The White Roof Project.

I love looking at pictures on the computer or iPad but there is something special about an actual print. Here is an easy project to display some of your photos in a fun way.

Here is a cool video animating a vision of future linked skyscrapers and is described as follows:
“The project started in London with a few companies and artists invited to create a vision for the future mega developed city. The overall “Megatropolis” project didn’t make it to its final stage but the concept grew into this architectural utopia and animation. “City in the sky” is a concept about a tranquil oasis above the mega developed and polluted city where one can escape from the everyday buzz, smog and dirt. The concept is inspired by the Lotus flower which is known for its ability to emerge above the murky waters pure and clean.”

Source: Skycity

Here is something fun for a Friday. Back in my day it was mousetraps, string and ping-pong balls to automate our goofiness. If I was in college today, I could totally see myself doing this -after I finished my studies of course… Enjoy!

Source: Geekology

100,000 staples arranged into a City in 40 hours. Artist Peter Root took the challenge. An interesting urban study using a standard office supply.
Click HERE for additional photos.

Today we speak with Chris Matson from Environmental Landscape Management, Inc. A few questions discussed include:

-What is your approach and philosophy to landscape design?
-Walk me through the process of working on a landscape project.
-Are you seeing trends to a more ‘natural’ landscape vs traditional or formal?
-How do you integrate the design/plant selections with the site and architecture?

Feel free to contact Chris at 715-386-7100
or email him at chris@elmonline.com

Please subscribe to these podcasts also via iTunes. Search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.

I was fortunate to be the local Project Manager for Michael Graves and help create a Pavilion here in the Twin Cities. Ironically, I only met him while in a bathroom in Washington DC… long story. I ran across this video of him describing the process he went through in remodeling his own home. Definitely worth a watch.

This piece was created for Dwell by Gary Nadeau.

When I was a young boy, I had rigged up an old turntable with an arm hanging from the ceiling that would randomly move and scratch my back. (Did I just admit that?) Artist Robert Howsare created this ‘lazy man’s Spirograph’ using a similar idea. It is mesmerizing to watch and spins out a nice piece to hang on your wall.

The layering of technology in our homes is inevitable and already occurring at an accelerated rate. We built our home only 8 years ago and some technologies I had anticipated have been passed up by others. Who knows were we will be in another 8 years? This video from Openarch takes a stab at that vision. Some fun (and silly) ideas ensue. Enjoy!

Openarch || FILM from Openarch on Vimeo.

We wanted to post a quick update on this project and show a few of the ‘test’ concepts. This initial effort was to incorporate the entire Client wishlist and see how this small home could be transformed. The tough part, which we all knew, was getting feedback and reality checks from contractors, banks and realtors. The problem with this project is not the house, it’s the site. A third of the property would need to be excavated and hauled out of a city setting just for a new garage. That is a big chunk of any budget.

The other challenge is that this project was looked at as a development opportunity and could the neighborhood actually support this financial investment? Now comes the tough part for the Client – evaluating all of the feedback, adjusting priorities and deciding which way to go… Stay tuned!

I’ll admit it. The one thing I could never do very well is draw people. Buildings, landscapes, no problem -but people… not so much. I don’t know if the human form is too complex or intimidating for me to capture so I am always amazed when someone can make it look easy. Take a look at this video of Dave de Leeuw making me envious.

Today we speak with Tom Graf, founder of Concrete Arts. Tom is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about concrete. His company is on the innovative edge with chemistry, finishes and the basic limits of concrete. A few questions discussed include:
-What is the history of concrete?
-What ways is concrete being used today?
-What types of finishes and sealers are available?
-Explain the sustainability of concrete.

Please subscribe to these podcasts also via iTunes. Search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.