Built in the late 1700’s by Abraham and David Roentgen, this amazing secretary cabinet was owned by King Frederick William II of Prussa. Yes, it is beautiful but what I really like is the gadgetry it contains… You have to check out the hidden compartments and the amazing mechanism used to expose its secrets. The home of the cabinet is in the Kunstgewerbemuseum in Berlin but often is part of a traveling exhibit, most recently shown at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New york.

Our thermostat died and man it was cold! I decided to install the ‘Nest’. It is beautifully crafted and easy to install and use. It connects to your wi-fi and will send you email reports, let you control it via your phone and more! Below is a quick video of the install and my impressions.

The Nest Thermostat from michael huber architects on Vimeo.

Jean Prouve designed this (and other) flat-pack houses in the 1940’s. The Maison Demontable was intended to be used in French colonies in Africa. Only 3 were built – this one survived and even today still can be assembled as intended. I love the center structural element. Take a look!

Source: core77

I thought I would share a little video of what seems to be a morning ritual happening twice a week this winter. How does this relate to design and architecture? – Umm… reconnecting with nature, fresh air, confirming the Midwest work ethic? Not sure but it has to be done! I hope everyone is staying warm and enjoying the season wherever you are!

Plowing from michael huber architects on Vimeo.

Beautiful and inspirational story about a man finding his way in the world using woodworking as a guide. Eric Hollenbeck created the Blue Ox School to help children at risk, and himself. Worth a watch.

James Munn pulled together a variety of movie clips showcasing modern residential architecture as sets. Some homes you may recognize, others maybe not… Very fun to see how design can add to the story (and in some cases steal the show!).

DESIGN IN FILM THE MODERN HOUSE – UPDATED from James Munn on Vimeo.