2018 Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

As a child, my grandparents always filled my stocking with some of the most special gifts. It was usually stuffed with new doll house furniture or new art supplies. As I got older, I looked forward to a new item for my home or a family heirloom that was finally being passed on. Now, with a child of my own, I tend to make his stockings just as special as what’s under the tree, since it’s all about carrying on the tradition for us.

Our stocking stuffer gift guide has a little something for everyone on your list, from sweet toys for a child, to a gift that will light up a room, to a book for adventurers and treats for foodies. Happy holidays! —Erin

Image above, from left to right: Bunny Puppet, Spark Adventure, A Year Off, One Line A Day, Toy Wagon Truck, Rubber Boat

from Design*Sponge https://www.designsponge.com/2018/11/2018-holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers.html

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180657874334

Casa Sebastian Is a Relaxing Pad Surrounded by Nature in the Yucatán Peninsula

Located in Chuburna, Mexico, in the northern part of the Yucatán Peninsula, Casa Sebastian is a retreat for a couple looking for rest and relaxation amongst nature. The front of the house, designed by Workshop, features a wide pathway full of vegetation and a wall of lattice that welcomes visitors to the property. Behind the entry, the home opens up with double balconies that overlook the lush backyard.

The lattice detail that appears at the front also makes an appearance in the back and around the sides of the house. It’s used as railing on the second floor balcony and around the perimeter of the roof. Behind that rooftop lattice is a rooftop terrace which houses a steel and bamboo structure for hammock relaxation and sun protection.

The ground floor acts as the social area of the home with a kitchen and living room that extends out to the covered terrace through a large sliding glass door.

Materials like the tiles used in the kitchen, bathrooms, and staircase, the stone in the courtyard, and the blue pool resin are all decorative materials native to the region.

The ground floor also houses a guest bedroom, while the 2nd floor features the master bedroom and bathroom.

Photos by Tamara Uribe.

from Design MilkDesign Milk https://design-milk.com/casa-sebastian-is-a-relaxing-pad-surrounded-by-nature-in-the-yucatan-peninsula/

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180657811464

6 Easy Ways to Update Your Christmas Decorating

Update your Christmas decorating with on-trend gold accessories. Image: Williams Sonoma Home

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We live for Christmas decorating. The planning and preparation for this special day is part of the magic of the season. With so many events and details to handle, it’s easy to reach for the same decorations every year. There are definitely ornaments and decor that are special to you and will always be a part of your Christmas decorating. By planning a little in advance, though, you can give yourself time to replenish your decorations and add new colors and designs to your home this holiday season. You’ll want to start with a decorating plan so that everything will come together for the big day. To help you with your plan, we’ve created a Christmas decorating checklist.

Ready to Update Your Christmas Decorating? Start Here:

Silver and gold ornaments are the perfect Christmas decorating accent. Image: Pottery Barn

Christmas is about family gatherings and tradition. There’s no doubt that your Christmas decorations are cherished every year, so it’s important to honor that while updating your home’s holiday look. While you’re going over your plans to decorate this year, it’s also a great time to freshen up your Christmas decor.

If you’d like to give your Christmas decorating a fresh look you’ll want to focus on these six things:

• Freshen Up Color: The easiest way to update your Christmas decorating is through a new color palette.
• Create a Plan: Use social media like Pinterest to get inspiration for this year’s Christmas decorating.
• Make Hard Decisions: Deciding what to keep and what to donate is crucial in making space for your new look.
• Stick With Your Plan: Once you decide on a new Christmas decorating plan, sticking to that plan will save you time and frustration.
• Make It a Whole-House Project: Carry your new Christmas decor scheme from room to room.
• Organize as You Go: Stay organized as you’re unwrapping treasured Christmas decor and unboxing new items.

1. Freshen Up Your Color Palette This Christmas

Your Christmas color palette doesn’t have to be complicated. Neutrals make beautiful accents with traditional holiday colors. Image: Crate & Barrel

We love traditional Christmas colors like green and red — you can use them as your base when you update your palette. Silver and gold metallics are an easy way to add more color to your decor, but you’ll want to consider copper and brushed gold if you’re creating a contemporary color palette.

Choosing colors for your Christmas decorating is easy because you don’t have to limit yourself to just a few. You’ll want to choose three main colors for your decorating plan, then add three accent colors to your palette (and metallics to tie everything together).

2. Create a New Christmas Decorating Plan

Christmas decorating inspiration with coastal style. Image: Pottery Barn

If you’re ready to freshen up your Christmas decor, it’s time to make a plan. Making a decorating plan isn’t as formal as it sounds. What you’ll be doing is looking through your favorite social media (Pinterest is ideal for this) for inspiration and ideas. Once you have a vision in mind, note the colors that seem to pop up in every image you love. When you decide on a theme for your decorating this year, you’ll know exactly what’s right for your updated Christmas decorating plan when you go shopping.

3. Make Room for New Decorations

Keep what you love while making space for new Christmas decor that reflects who you are now. Image: Crate & Barrel

Your treasured ornaments and decorations are a big part of your Christmas traditions and will be the center of your updated decorating plan. Like any decluttering project, going through all of your decorations can help you decide which pieces are truly keepsakes and which are not. We’ve all accumulated boxes of ornaments and decorations over the years that are put up out of habit. These are the items that can be replaced by updated decor as part of your new decorating plan.

4. Stick With Your Christmas Decorating Plan

Charming Christmas throw pillows are easy accent decor for your living room. Image: Crate & Barrel

Now that you have a beautiful new Christmas color scheme and decorating plan, your goal is to stay focused as you shop for new decorations. When you know exactly what your new vision looks like, you’re less likely to impulse shop. While it’s best to stay within your plan, allow yourself a few must-have ornaments that you know will become keepsakes for years to come. The secret is in creating a beautiful foundation to highlight your most cherished decorations.

5. Flow Your Christmas Decorating Throughout Your Home

Decorate your guest bath with fun Christmas decor. Image: Wayfair

Spread the Christmas decorating love throughout your home. Seasonal throw pillows, blankets and wall art can be used in any room. For your guest baths, Christmas towels and even a shower curtain can make guests feel at home during the holidays.

6. Save Time Next Year by Organizing Your Christmas Decor Now

Pretty and practical ornament storage boxes make organizing easy. Image: The Container Store

We know that the last thing on our minds as we decorate for Christmas is next year, but taking a little more time to organize while decorating can save time and hassle later on. If you’re going to be storing some decorations in their original boxes, labeling the boxes as you decorate makes packing them away later so much easier. There are usually big sales after Christmas on ornament and decor storage boxes and tubs. Take advantage of those before you take everything down this year.

The post 6 Easy Ways to Update Your Christmas Decorating appeared first on Freshome.com.

from Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Magazine https://freshome.com/6-easy-ways-to-update-your-christmas-decorating/

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2018 Gift Guide: Kids

Finding modern gifts for kids takes a little bit of looking if you’re trying to find something that doesn’t come in primary colors, saccharine phrases, or overly gendered patterns. However, once you start finding design-conscious brands or shops that curate a plethora of modern toys and apparel, it can be hard to ever go back to a mall to shop for kids! Below, we rounded up 10 gift ideas for the modern baby/kid that we think parents would love as well.

Hanno the Gorilla Figurine by Areaware \\ $100
I’m a fan of wooden toys because they allow for imaginative free play. Areaware makes some of the best wooden toys including building block sets and figurines that will stimulate your child’s imagination.

Elora Little Quilt by Louise Gray \\ $225
We’ve been a fan of Louise Gray’s quilted designs and I’m so glad she also makes smaller items for kids and infants. This smaller version of her signature throw quilt can be used as wall decor or to cozy up with your little one.

Stripes Playsuit by Meme Kidswear \\ $40
Meme Kidswear gives kids and design-conscious parents a break from all the primary colors with their line of monochromatic apparel. How cute is this modern stripes playsuit?

Wooden ABC Animal Letter Set \\ $60
If you’re in the US, Design Life Kids has one of the best well-curated shop for toys, furniture, decor and apparel for the modern kid and are always adding new-to-me brands that are designing the coolest things for children, like these wooden letters by Dutch brand Petit Monkey that makes learning the alphabet fun.

Tahoe Dress by Winter Water Factory \\ $59
Made in the US, Winter Water Factory’s line of baby, kids, and women apparel have a certain Marimekko-esque aesthetic to them with their fun, graphic prints. I especially love this Tahoe dress for its simple design and cheerful yellow print.

Pacifier Clip by Loulou Lollipop \\ $15
Never worry about losing your baby’s pacifier with these silicone pacifier clips made with food grade silicone beads. They easily attach to clothes, blankets or strollers and are free from toxic chemicals.

Socks by Tchutcha \\ $13
These organic cotton socks by newly launched Tchutcha add such a sweet pop of color and pattern to baby’s little limbs that you won’t mind the small hassle of putting them on every 10 minutes. ;)

Eames Elephant by Charles and Ray Eames, produced by Vitra \\ $105
An iconic favorite for design aficionados, the Eames Elephant adds an element of whimsy in any kid’s room and will for sure be a family heirloom to pass down for generations.

My First Shapes with Frank Llloyd Wright Board Book from Mudpuppy \\ $17
Help your little one learn their basic shapes with this colorful book that focuses on the circle, square, or triangle. Who knows – maybe they’ll one day be the next Frank Lloyd Wright!

Baby Clothes from COS \\ From $7
COS’ first ever baby collection is here to the delight of minimalist parents! The line of simple, organic apparel in neutral colors and prints makes you want to buy every single piece.

from Design MilkDesign Milk https://design-milk.com/2018-gift-guide-kids/

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180656426154

Bridget Jones’ Pan-Fried Salmon + Giveaway

I’ve been an Ottolenghi fan from day one and have enjoyed both the shops and Yotam’s ascent to being a household name. A favorite (and funny) Ottolenghi memory for me was when I was in London by myself and sneaked off to a movie theater that sold wine and other alcoholic beverages to see Bridget Jones’ Baby. (I knew it would be awful, but sometimes, that’s what you want!) With my Instagram feed as my witness, the best part of the movie was when Patrick Dempsey brought Ottolenghi food to Bridget Jones’ apartment. Well, now we can make that fictitious Pan-Fried Salmon with Pine Nut Salsa in our own kitchens because in the newest book from the Ottolenghi family, Ottolenghi Simple, they’ve created a recipe for it. It is extremely simple, can be made in a flash, and plates up beautifully.

One last note — I love the acknowledgements Yotam wrote in this book because he included first a hefty recognition of the work done by his colleagues Tara Wigley and Esme Howarth who were integral to making the book and whose names appear on the title page. Congratulations to all three of you! —Kristina

About Yotam: Yotam Ottolenghi is the author of the New York Times best-selling cookbooks Plenty, Ottolenghi, Jerusalem, Plenty More, NOPI, and Sweet. He lives in London, where he co-owns an eponymous group of restaurants, the fine dining restaurant NOPI, and the vegetable-focused restaurant ROVI. Find Ottolenghi on Instagram at @ottolenghi.

For a chance to win a copy of Ottolenghi Simple, respond in the comments section below by December 13, 5PM EST to the following question: What’s your favorite food scene in a movie or television series and why?  We will announce the winner in the comments section, so be sure to check back!

Image above: Ottolenghi Simple. Photography by Jonathan Lovekin

Image above: Yotam Ottolenghi

Image above: Yotam and Tara Wigley

Image above: Bridget Jones’ Pan-fried Salmon with Pine Nut Salsa

from Design*Sponge https://www.designsponge.com/2018/11/bridget-jones-pan-fried-salmon-giveaway.html

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180656384489

Rivian R1T Pickup Electrifies the Los Angeles Auto Show

With trucks and SUVs now accounting for 67% of domestic auto sales in the United States, it’s an understatement to say Americans love their larger vehicles. But while the SUV and crossover segment is already transitioning toward an EV future, especially in the luxury category, the pickup truck market tends to be averse to any major change. The average truck buyer values durability, towing capacity, and a subjective element of badassery associated with truck ownership; traditionally, off the line speed and fuel efficiency are distant concerns, modern design even less valued. That might soon change if the Rivian R1T concept is any indicator where the future of pickup trucks might be heading.

Unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show this past Monday night accompanied with a spark of celebrity fanfare, Rivian’s R1T electric pickup truck is following the disruptive footsteps of Tesla with promises of delivering insane  – or ludicrous, if you please – performance (0-60 in 3 seconds) corresponding with an equally impressive 400 mile range and the quiet efficiency of an electric vehicle. For comparison’s sake, the ferocious and beefier Ford F-150 Raptor does 0-60 in 5.3 seconds.

The R1T’s sleek body sits atop of a skateboard platform housing the truck’s battery pack, drive units, suspension, braking and thermal system, with a low center of gravity stature that should provide a more stable, car-like ride for daily duties, but with enough clearance for off-road adventuring (doubtful truck traditionalists should note the bottom is clad protected). That said, the R1T was engineered with its truck spirit intact, capable of producing 3,500 Nm of grounded torque per wheel, with a total tow rating of 11,000 pounds, ready to pull a modern travel trailer for some serious glamping adventures.

The R1T’s fast charges at rates of up to 160kW, resulting in approximately 200 miles of range in about 30 minutes.

Beyond technologies the R1T’s skateboard platform architecture permits all sorts of unique features not found in any other truck. A Gear Tunnel offers a passage below the and through cab, offering storage for longer items like snowboards, camping gear, or sports equipment.

Note how the Gear Tunnel doors become steps for aiding in loading the truck’s bed.

Without a traditional large gas engine, the R1T is equipped with a frunk – front trunk.

An array of sensors including a camera, lidar, radar, ultrasonic and a high precision GPS coupled with high definition maps all combine to offer “Level 3” (hands-off wheel and eyes off road) autonomous highway driving. You’ll still have to keep your hands on the wheel while off-roading.

Although the exterior of the vehicle is what first attracts you, the interior is where you spend the most of your time, so we really focused on creating a transformational space…we looked outside the automotive industry and took inspiration from contemporary furniture, as well as hiking and outdoor gear, to drive the design.

– Jeff Hammoud, VP of Vehicle Design

Inside, driver and passengers have an array of displays to keep them informed or occupied: 15.6-inch touch screen in the center with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster in front of the driver, and a 6.8-inch touch screen in the rear.

As a midsize truck owner who loves the utility and spirit of their traditional gas powered 4×4 vehicle, we’re still pleased to see a startup like Rivian shake up the segment with numerous features and technologies accelerating toward the future, rather than holding onto the past. Only time will tell whether Rivian will meet its goal of selling R1Ts in the tens of thousands annually, beginning in late 2020 with a starting price of $61,500 after Federal Tax credit.

If the Tesla comparisons weren’t evident already, Rivian is now accepting preorders for the R1T for a refundable deposit of $1,000 just like the Model 3.

from Design MilkDesign Milk https://design-milk.com/rivian-r1t-electrifies-los-angeles-auto-show/

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180654929474

2018 Gift Guide: Travel

Whether you’re going away for the weekend, heading on a flight out of the country, or taking a staycation in nature, there are always little ways to make traveling somewhat easier, more enjoyable, or that much more efficient. I truly believe packing is half the battle and half the joy of traveling – it marks the exciting start of your next trip, which can be anxiety-inducing if you don’t have everything you need! While these next 10 gift ideas aren’t mandatory must-haves, they’re perfect for anyone in your life who might have an adventure coming up, whether they have a perpetual case of wanderlust or just like to travel once a year.

Take My Picture Tee by Keep Exploring \\ $25
For the person in your life who would rather stay in a tent than in a hotel, or would rather star gaze than do spa days, this t-shirt probably explains their travel mantra perfectly.

Clarity Travel Pouches & Bags by Truffle \\ From $40
There’s a reason why Truffle’s products sell out. Their eco- and TSA-friendly bags help make your in-transit moments easier since you can see your belongings. There are enough things to worry about when traveling – making sure you packed everything you need shouldn’t be one of them!

Personalized Leather Travel Wallet with Charger by Stow \\ $280
Identification and staying charged: these are my two utmost important priorities when on the go. This travel wallet is big enough to store your passport and travel documents, as well as your phone, e-reader or the included Stow charger.

Bordeaux Leather Duffle by Age Carriers \\ $440
For weekend getaways, this leather duffle hand-crafted in California is a stylish option that will gain a beautiful patina over time.

Ovi Trolley by Mima \\ $150
If your kids insist on pushing their own luggage, let them push away with this minimalist, egg-shaped luggage that features a leatherette cover for easy maintenance.

Travel Steamer by Rowenta \\ $45
Yes, packing clothes that are wrinkle resistant is indeed smart packing but why limit yourself to such a wardrobe when traveling? While it may not look super sleek, this Rowenta travel steamer is reliable, heats up fast, and only weighs 1.6 lbs. – well worth the space in your carry-on if it means expanding your wardrobe option, in my opinion!

Backpack by Away \\ $195
By now you’ve probably heard me wax poetic about my Away luggages. They’ve since expanded their line to include travel-friendly bags including this backpack that has two features I love: a hidden pocket on the back for your passport (aka your most important essential) and a strap to easily slide over the handle of your luggage (unlike other bags that inevitably always need readjusting as you’re pushing your suitcase through the airport).

Headphones by Kreafunk \\ From $45
Whether you prefer earphones or headphones, some sort of listening accessory to tune out the dull hum of the plane or an excuse to halt the conversation with your chatty seat mate is a must. I’m a fan of Danish lifestyle brand Kreafunk for their minimalist and streamlined designs.

Reversible Ostrich Travel Pillow by Ali Ganjavian and Key Kawamura \\ $40
Travel pillows are meant to look a little bulky, I suppose, because they’re supposed to be supportive yet plush so that you can get some extra z’s on the plane. This travel pillow is a slimmer alternative that can be used as an eye mask/head pillow or a neck support if you’re in the dreaded middle seat. The silicone micro-beads block light, offer structure, and reduce sound, making your flight a little bit more enjoyable no matter which seat you’re in.

City Guides by Cereal Magazine \\ $16
If you’re traveling to London, Paris or New York, Cereal published three city guides this year that will take you on a road less traveled. These beautifully shot guidebooks focus on a thoughtful, well-curated way to experience each city.

from Design MilkDesign Milk https://design-milk.com/2018-gift-guide-travel/

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Before & After: An Empty Shell Is Elegantly Dressed in Indian Influences

Oftentimes a design plan flows from the selection of one singular decor feature that sets the tone and inspires the aesthetic of the entire home surrounding it. For Delhi, India-based interior designer Shivani Dogra, this was true when she was entrusted with the full-home design of a modern 2,800-square-foot home in Noida, India for a young couple and their three-year-old son. By Shivani’s description, the newer build was “an empty shell,” and once the couple settled first on a vintage, printed panel of a view of Varanasi, India printed by Ananbô, Paris, the rest of the home’s design fell into place.

“This would take center spot in the living room,” Shivani notes about the panel. “The rest of the decoration followed organically from there. We combed through nearly every good carpet seller in town and in neighboring towns to pick the right hand woven rugs — tribal kilims were chosen for the TV room, silk and wool mixed vintage rugs for the living room and the bedrooms. The colors for the upholstery, curtains and other soft furnishings were inspired by these intricately hand woven, deeply hued pieces.”

For the couple, a news anchor/managing editor of a media company and a consultant, a restorative home that was both peaceful and elegant was a much needed respite from the nearby bustle of the city. Shivani shares, “The compass on this project was ‘the feeling’ the clients wanted the space to [hold]. That guided us while making choices and though challenging, we made some interesting discoveries and all was well in the end. Choosing the art was an equally detailed, although time constrained process. We were aware that we had only a small window to make a choice that was informed and within budget. Some of it was made by me with dried flowers that’d been preserved by my client years ago and had sentimental value. Other pieces were sourced from individual artists and Indigenous art from Indian tribes. Pieces from Africa and the US also found their way into the space. Furniture was made in-house as per the clients’ requirements or bought from dealers of older furniture. Campaign furniture, used by the British on travel and military campaigns in India, [was] specially sourced as my clients were from military families and requested that there be some part of that heritage retained in the design.”

In the end, Shivani was able to take a completely blank canvas and infuse it with rich color, texture, and culture — all based off of her translations of how her clients wanted to feel at home. All of this makes for no easy feat, and Shivani is grateful for the lessons she gleaned from this special project. “The process of decorating a home is a lesson in the importance of give and take,” she reflects. “It is important on these projects to listen — really listen to the client and channel their needs effectively without compromising on what you feel will work best for the space. I’ve learned through this project in particular, to absorb more of the client’s tastes and combine them with my own, as it results in design that can be quite interesting.” —Kelli

Photography by Shivani Dogra / @_shivanidogra

Image above: A piece of art picked for the living room dictated the design for the rest of the house, and from that choice came a style that blends traditional Indian influence with vintage sensibilities, clean lines, and global touches. “The clients wanted a space that was peaceful, elegant and semi-formal,” Shivani begins. “One that had deep, yet muted colors and a mix of modern and vintage elements. They also wanted the decoration to be influenced largely by India, with some influences from other parts of the globe they’d traveled to.”

from Design*Sponge https://www.designsponge.com/2018/11/before-after-an-empty-shell-is-elegantly-dressed-in-indian-influences.html

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180653545824

Friday Five with Takashi Yanai

Takashi Yanai, FAIA is the “Y” in EYRC Architects, representing one of four partners heading up the award-winning, Los Angeles-based architecture firm. He’s been the Residential Studio Director since 2004 spearheading their single-family residence projects with his keen eye and masterful way of bringing about the relationship between man and nature through architecture. He has an ability to effortlessly infuse elements of Japanese design into that indoor/outdoor, California modern aesthetic. resulting in dream-worthy homes you’ll wish you owned. Before practicing architecture, Yanai worked in Tokyo as an editor at GA Houses where he embraced the perk of interacting with some of the best residential architects in the world. Currently, along with lecturing around the world, he’s a visiting lecturer at the USC School of Architecture, is on the A+D Museum’s Board of Directors, and keeps active in the AIA Committee of Design. When he’s not designing houses, he travels, loves photography, and keeps up a visually stunning and extremely popular Instagram account – @t_yanai. Now it’s time to see what he’s chosen to share in this week’s Friday Five.

1. The tea ceremony
There is something to be a said for a slow deliberate ceremony that is all about human interaction. My grandmother practiced and taught the tea ceremony and so what I know began with her and her tea house in Chigasaki, not far from my hometown of Tokyo. What I love about the tea ceremony is that it brings together so many things that are of particular importance to me. There is a garden aspect, an architecture aspect, an art aspect. It is about food and drink. But most importantly it is about how the focused, deliberate concentration on these things together provides a vehicle for what it means to be human, amidst nature and among other humans.

2. Photobooks
Photography was actually an alternate career for me. Before practicing architecture I studied literature and was an editor for prominent design magazine. In the end, I’m a visual person and photography is visual poetry. Especially today, photography has become a medium that speaks so broadly to people. When I seek out other creative people, it is often photographers that I enjoy meeting the most. Photobooks bring my personal creative passions together in an under appreciated medium. A photograph can be such a powerful summary statement of so many things that can’t necessarily be put into words. And photos compiled and presented in a photobook, just like how a great recording album is a sum greater than the songs, expresses something greater than can be expressed in a single photograph. Some favorites include Robert Frank’s The Americans, Takashi Homma’s Tokyo Suburbia, and Daido Moriyama’s Farewell Photography.

3. Common Projects sneakers
When it comes to my wardrobe I’ve been accused of not liking color. This isn’t true at all. For instance, I love black. And dark black. White, is a very very light black. I like to keep things basic and simple. Or as I prefer to say, essential. For instance my favorite shoe is a basic black low-top sneaker by Common Projects. I’ve been wearing out pairs of their classic Achilles Low in black for the last ten years. It is part of my architect’s uniform. Beat up and casual on a weekend with my kids or clean and scuff free at a museum board meeting. Kudos to the designers for having created an essential sneaker that would make any minimalist proud.

4. Landscape design
The further I get in my architectural design career the more I appreciate how important landscape design is in the totality of the designed environment. My work is so much about the relationship between inside and outside, about blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior space. I also love collaborating with talented landscape architects and designers. I don’t see how a house in particular can be successful without beautiful and considerate landscaping. Ironically, on weekends I find myself preoccupied with my garden rather than the house.

Enoura Observatory

5. Hiroshi Sugimoto
Along with Donald Judd and Isamu Noguchi, I’m a superfan of the obsessive compulsive art of Hiroshi Sugimoto that is all about the metaphysical contemplation of time and space. Beginning with the contemplative stillness of his Seascapes to the distilled blurry essence of masterpieces in his Architecture series, his photographs are sublime. Sugimoto has expanded his genius way beyond photography and has taken on sculpture, interiors and most recently architecture. A year ago, I would have suggested Naoshima Island in Japan to be the perfect place to take in his art, but today I recommend people make a pilgrimage to his newly opened Enoura Observatory in Odawara. There, Sugimoto has managed to bring together all facets of his blue-chip creative genius. Best of all he does it all with a dash of irony and snarky humor.

from Design MilkDesign Milk https://design-milk.com/friday-five-with-takashi-yanai/

from Home Improvment http://notelocreesnitu.tumblr.com/post/180652335264