The Design Muse

Eames Lounger Debut in 1956 on NBC

2009-05-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Check out this classic, and historical, video of the debut of the iconic Eames lounger in 1956 manufactured by Herman Miller. Its interesting to see the the interviewer trying to "understand" the design process of the Eameses. Its kind of amazing that you can still purchase one of these loungers from the Herman Miller company. That is a testament to the longevity of good design. We want one...badly.

Pre-Fabulous!

2009-05-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

Check out this great pre-fab modern home in Minneapolis. It's great to hear about modern projects that are accessible as well. Love the lines. Check it out on the Dwell web site:

http://www.dwell.com/articles/how-to-play-flatpak.html

England: Here We Come!

2009-05-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

So its official...We are taking a hop accross the pond for a trip to the UK! I am so excited! We are doing London, Oxford, the Cotswolds, and Wales! Not only that, we've been invited to a black tie affair at Oxford!! What am I going to wear?!!

So I need your help. While we are in jolly old England... where do we eat, what to we see, and most importantly...where do we shop!! Please comment. It will be most appreciated. There will be photos and stories to come, and maybe your suggestions will end up as a new posting.

Tick, Tock, Tilt

2009-04-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Here is an elegant solution to the slightly annoying problem with daylight savings time: changing all of your clocks. Now all you have to do is give this clock a tilt to set the hour. Here's the link. Extra credit: What's the angle (with respect to the horizontal) that is required to achieve this?

Pritzker Prize 2009: Peter Zumthor

2009-04-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

I generally avoid covering the already hyper-publicized Pritzker Prize for architecture (sometime touted as the "Nobel Prize" of Architecture) here on my blog, but this year is different. This year Peter Zumthor has been recognized, and that is something to be discussed. His body of work embodies the kind of work I wish I could say I have left behind after a life time of excellence. I have admired his work from the first time I studied one of his projects in architecture school. Simplicity of form, respect for his materials, loving attention to details.... for me THIS is what Architecture is all about.

NY Times Article

BMW Concept Car: GINA

2009-04-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

Here is a video about an amazing concept car by BMW that uses a flexible skin as its outer surface instead of metal. The result is really interesting.

The Walrus is Paul.

2009-04-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

So we are thinking about a trip to London this summer, and have consequently been thinking of all things British. Here is a really cool video of some of the "traffic" on Abbey Road. I can't wait to do the "Abbey Road" myself!

Hollowbody Perfection

2009-04-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

Paul Languedoc is the soundman for the band Phish, and he also makes some ridiculously amazing guitars. Trey Anastasio has been playing Languedoc's guitars for most of his career, and now you can too. For a mere $10k, you can take home one these sweet puppies. Check out his website at: www.languedocguitars.com.

Restaurant Week Boston: Aquitaine

2009-04-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday night we happened to be out with two of our chicest friends in the South End (you know who you are). After we got out of what was an un-remarakle "art" show, we were STARVING! Well, we were in one of the busiest restaurant neighborhoods in the city during what we soon found out was "restaurant week". This is not good news when trying to find a table without reservations. So after a little wandering, and a few very full hot spots...we go into Aquitaine. Aquitaine is a romantic French bistro on Tremont know for is great food and sophisticated atmosphere. At first we were told there were no tables to be had...but after a little eye batting, and a fortuitous cancellation WE WERE IN! The drinks were unique and delicious. The roasted beet salad was amazing. Then the main entrees came! I had a fantastic tagliatelle with chanterelle mushrooms, which was some of the best pasta I've ever had (I know lofty statement). And because it was restaurant week...we of course had dessert. Chocolate torte and profiteroles with chocolate sauce are not to be missed. I can't believe we have lived in this city for almost six years and haven't been to Aquitaine before. This won't be the last time, for sure! Yummm.

Film Review: "Helvetica"

2009-03-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

I had been made aware of the wonder of the Helvetica font from a graphic designer friend years ago. His feelings about this simple and versatile font ranged from that of reverence to an all out fetish. I was told of the symmetry, versatility, and beauty of the font. As time when on I found a pattern with all my graphic design friends.... whenever asked about fonts they talked about Helvetica like it was some sort of cult. They talked about the font like it was more of something you believe in, instead of just a typeface. As a fellow designer I understand the power of print, but didn't hold Helvetica in the same elevated status.... I just didn't get it. What do I know.

Then came, "Helvetica", the documentary film by Gary Hustwit. The film sheds some light on the development of one of the most successful and prolific fonts of the last 50 years. The film artfully points out how this simple typeface can be the voice of everything from street signs to The Gap and virtually everything descriptive and stylish in between. Once you are tuned into this fact you feel like you just can't escape from the ever-reaching grasp of Helvetica. This is a great film for anyone interested in the power of design to shape our graphic world. And, no, to rent the DVD do you not have to sign up for some graphic design cult or drink any font-cult koolaid.

*Check out some film stills showing off how the font is everywhere at the right.

http://www.helveticafilm.com/

Mercury Fountain

2009-03-26T17:09:00.000-07:00

I was recently browsing YouTube to see if I could find any videos of artist, Alexander Calder, in action in his studio. What I found was something different entirely. Here is a video of a founatain Calder made for use with Mercury instead of water. It is housed at the Fundacio Joan Miro museum in Barcelona. Yet another reason to visit Spain!

PS - Mercury is liquid at room temperature because of the pronounced relativistic effects on the outer shell electrons. Relativity at work... awesome.

Backyard Astrophotography... in the City!

2009-03-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

This is my first post! Thanks for letting me post, G! It seems like the only thing you can see in the night sky over Boston is the moon, but it was amazing this winter. There were numerous nights when the moon, Jupiter and Venus were in close conjunction right at dusk. On some of those nights, I broke out my telescope and digital camera, started snapping pictures and caught some pretty cool shots of different phases. Here are some high-resolution shots for your viewing pleasure!

Craft Boston- 2009

2009-03-25T06:15:00.000-07:00

"A Show of Contemporary Art, Craft & Design"

March 27-29, 2009

Seaport World Trade Center

200 Seaport Blvd., Boston

Presented by the Society of Arts and Crafts

http://www.craftboston.org/

Sounds like a fun way to "stimulate the economy"!

*Image from the craftboston website

Rubber Soul

2009-03-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

Check out this great bag made from recycled tires. It reminds me of a oiled leather motorcycle saddle bag... now with added environmental consciousness!

LINK

Au Pied de Cochon: Montreal

2009-03-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

When my husband, Brad, and I went to Montreal last summer one of the top items on our agenda was a pilgrimage to the renowned restaurant, Au Pied de Cochon. The chef/owner, Martin Picard, has nearly single-handedly elevated traditional Quebecois food to an art form. When we arrived in the city we stopped by the restaurant to try to make reservations for some point that week. We soon found out that it was only shear luck that we were able to get a table there at all without reservations far in advance. So take my advice...book ahead! The 3-hour-meal proved to be transcendent. The decor was warm, spare and modern...my kind of place. The open kitchen reveals an army of chic chefs that would seem to be as at home at a indie rock show. I was very impressed, and can't wait for our next trip. Au Pied has recently published a new soft cover version of their "Album" (currently on its way to our desk...will review very soon), which is more like a monograph than a cookbook. Check out what Anthony Bourbain has to say about APD in this clip from "No Reservations" on the Travel Channel. Enjoy...try not to drool on your keyboards.

Anatomy of the Typeface

2009-03-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

I came across this glossary of common typeface terminology. Now you too can be on the inside of all those graphic design jokes about kerning.

http://www.fontshop.com/support/glossary.php

Sol LeWitt @ Mass MOCA

2009-03-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

Check out the massive Sol LeWitt "Wall Drawing Retrospective" at Mass MOCA in North Adams, MA. The exhibition is on now though 2033! So there isn't exactly a rush, but don't you want to be the first on your block to see this! I do! Plus you get to go out to MOCA, and that is a pleasure in its own right. If you haven't been out there yet.. GO...what are you waiting for!!

http://www.massmoca.org/

Mid-Century Martini

2009-03-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

After much searching...I have found the perfect martini glass. This glass has a subtle flare that hugs your libation. This glass would be as at home in your home as on the set of Mad Men. I highly recommend it for your next cocktail party, now all the cool kids will want to come!

LINK

Valenkis!

2009-03-20T06:53:00.000-07:00

Winter in Boston is always hard on the footwear. I have been hard-pressed to find a pair of boots that are cool and at the same time keep me from being too cold. I think I've finally found the solution, and they are from Russia...the land that really knows winter. The Valenki is the traditional felt boot worn by Russian peasants and soldiers alike. They keep my feet toasty warm, and are very cute too. In a time where all you see on the fashionable feet around town are the ugliest of Uggs...isn't it time for a change. I love my Valenkis!!

http://www.akaculture.com/buyaka.html

Here the website to buy the boots. The AKA Culture site has a lot of cool images, including the one on this blog. Visit it for lots of boot options and cool ways to accessories your boots.

Particle Zoo: Subatomic Particle plush toys

2008-09-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

Particle zoo is a really cool manufacturer of plush toys that all represent the various subatomic particles in the atom. They are the perfect gift for the science geek in your life... or you can just keep them all for yourself and be "the master of the universe!" They are very cute. Check them out:

Particle Zoo

Cello...with soul.

2008-07-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

I just heard a great piece on NPR about this cellist, Ben Sollee. Now I'm obsessed. He has a really unique sound mixing his Appalachian roots with soul and classical training. He is currently touring with Bela Fleck. Unfortunately, they played in Lowell last week and I missed it. My heart broke a little
when I realized that. Check him out on his website:

http://www.bensollee.com/

Montreal: Jardin Botanique de Montréal

2008-07-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

The Jardin Bontanique, or the Montreal Botanical Gardens (for the non-French speakers), is a not-to-be-missed experience when visiting Montreal. With its collection of 22,000 plant species and cultivars, 10 exhibition greenhouses, some thirty thematic gardens, and teams of researchers and activities staff, the Montréal Botanical Garden ranks as one of the world's largest and most spectacular botanical gardens... and I believe it! The statistics don't fully shed light on how spectacular this collection really is. We spent the entire day walking in the many outdoor thematic gardens, some of which include the Chinese gardens, Japanese gardens, the Alpine gardens, the water gardens and many many more. The indoor green houses also had spectacular collects of flowering plants and succulents including an amazing number of orchids. We only spent one day there, mostly because that was what our ticket included, but we could had spent days there. It was beautiful! I have included a photo we took of the water lilly garden.

Here is their website:

Montreal Botanical Gardens

Best Bread Ever!

2008-07-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

Since getting back from our honeymoon to Montreal (more on that in future posts!) I have been experimenting with finding the recipe for the perfect loaf of bread. Ladies and gentleman, I think I've found it! I thank my friends and family for their patient taste testings, although I didn't really have to force feed any of them...if you know what I mean. So here is the recipe! Try it out...be patient, and you will be greatly rewarded!

Cooks' Illustrated "Almost-No-Knead" Bread

I made a few changes to the recipe, that made it a bit easier for me. Here are the steps I took after using their ingredients.

1. I mixed the ingredients all at once in my Kitchen Aid mixer.

2. Let mix sit covered with plastic wrap for 18 hours on the counter.

3. Transfer the mix to a lightly floured surface and folded the mix once or twice on my board, and let it rest under plastic wrap for 15 mins.

4. Floured a tea towel on the counter top. Gently formed dough into a ball and placed it on the towel seam side down. Let it proof (rise with out messing with it at all) for two hours.

5. Preheat oven with large 5.5 quart cast iron large casserole pot in oven for 30 mins.

6. Slide hand under tea towel with dough on it and gently dump it into hot pot.

7. Replace cover and bake for 30 mins.

8. Remove lid and cook (15 mins approx.) until browned.

Enjoy!!

The Boston Globe, Part 5: The Wedding!

2008-06-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

Here is the final article!! I love it!

Part 5: The Wedding

We Got Married!!

2008-06-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

The wedding went off so wonderfully this past weekend! I can't wait to tell you more about it, and for you to be able to all see the pics in the Boston Globe! Word on the street is that it is slated to run on Thursday of this week. I will post more pics after that! If you were there, I would love to hear your comments as well!

The Boston Globe, Part 4; The Reception

2008-06-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the fourth part in the Boston Globe series covering our wedding! This one is about our plans for the reception. Enjoy!

Boston Globe, Part 4

The Boston Globe, Part 3: The Invitations

2008-05-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the newest Boston Globe article in the series about our wedding. This one is about the invitations! Enjoy!

Part 3: May 1, 2008

Pulp Imagery

2008-05-01T03:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to Dan Harkins' graphic design website: Pulp Imagery We are so happy with our invitations for the wedding! Dan, thanks for taking a break from designing for all the rock stars to do our invites....you rock!

Tag at your risk.

2008-04-29T06:22:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a few projects for the wedding and have been testing out some different spray paints. I found the best spray paint I've ever used at one of the art stores in Cambridge. It is Montana Spray Paints. This artist grade paint could make the graffiti on the side walks in Central Square look like pure art! They have the most saturated colors and a great matte finish. It makes me want to go tag a wall somewhere. So if you see a small curly headed girl with great shoes in a hoodie around town defacing public property, stop me! Just kidding, I'll try to control myself. So, try out these paints next time you are doing some aerosol painting. I think you will fall in love too... just don't go tagging walls or anything. Leave that to the "Krylon touch"...this stuff is too good for that.

Oh My! Mai Tai!

2008-04-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

All the great weather this week has gotten me in a very summery mood! So of course my thoughts turn to ideas of barbeques and fruty beverages. Here is the dessert and drink pairing we had this evening. Both are a take on old classics. The drink is a mango mai tai and the dessert is a mango-pineapple upside down cake. I garnished the tasty cocktail with a skewer of mango mellon balls and pineapple chunks for a refeshing fruit treat. The cake was made in a cupcake pan for an adorable individual serving. Both items went over with a splash! Try them yourself! Delicious!

Mango Mai Tai:
1/4 c. Tropicana Mango-Passionfruit-Peach juice
1/4 c. Pineapple juice
1 oz Light Rum
1 oz Peach Schnapps

Shake together with ice in a cocktail shaker. Pour over ice to serve.

Pineapple-Mango Upside Down Cake:
1 box yellow cake mix
1 can pinapple rings
1 mango "mellon balled"
1 c. dark brown sugar
1 stick butter

Melt butter and brown sugar in sauce pan until combined. Pour brown sugar mixture into bottom of baking pan. Arrange pineapple rings on bottom of baking pan. Prepare box cake mix with pineapple juice from can instead of water. Pour cake mix into baking pan over pineapple rings. Bake as instructed on box. Allow to cool completely before turning out cake on serving plate. I found great results using a flexible silicone pan for this, because the cake just pops out easily. If you don't have one of these great marvels of modern technology, use parchment on the bottom of your pan and butter liberally. Bon Appetite!

Paper...and more!

2008-04-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

I found a great source for beautiful paper for our invitations, and thought I would share! I love their metallic card stock and matching metallic envelopes! It's great for those of us who want lots of options for color and weight. I'm sort of picky with those things ;-) Check them out for all your paper needs:

www.paperandmore.com

Invite Marilyn to Dinner

2008-04-08T06:14:00.000-07:00

CB2, as you all know, is one of my favorite online purveyors of all things for the home. It's the cooler (and in my opinion more stylish) sister of Crate and Barrel. I have to share these super cool Marilyn Monroe glass plates that I've found, only $3.95 at CB2! This iconic Andy Warhol image would look great on my table! Now next time you come over our place for dinner, you might get to have dessert with Marilyn too!

www.cb2.com

Headpiece Headstart

2008-04-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

I've gotten some questions about my progress on my headpiece for the wedding. I was waiting on some additional materials I had ordered, and they finally arrived! I wanted to get some white peacock sword feathers, as seen in the picture in one of my previous postings. These were remarkably hard to find. Who knew albino peacocks are not all that common. I finally found them from a woman in Oregon that raises peacocks and sells gorgeous feathers! I received my package of feathers this week!! WOW! I highly recommend her for your peacock feather needs: http://www.peacocksforever.com/pwhif.htm

I'm also including a picture I've been looking to for inspiration for my headpiece! Enjoy!

The Black Keys: Attack & Release

2008-04-01T18:57:00.001-07:00

The Black Keys are the guitar and drums duo that made me believe that rock-and-roll was not dead. On the contrary, they have brought it back with a such a hard driving soul that I am now a true believer. Their prior albums possess a raw rock honesty that had me at "thickfreakness". Their newest album, "Attack & Release," is the first album which has been produced with "Danger Mouse". You might remember "Danger Mouse" from his 2004 project with Jay-Z that remixed the revered Beatles' "White Album" with Jay-Z's "Black Album" to create the "Gray Album"... a risky move, but brilliant nonetheless. So back to the Keys... The new album definitely possesses a polish that had yet to been achieved on their earlier albums. The result is a much more hard rock meets psychedelia feel reminiscent of Black Sabbath. I also like their added instrumentation. The banjo is not-to-be-missed on "Psychotic Girl," and the flute line on "Same Old Thing" would make Ian Anderson proud. The new tracks and polished sound on "Attack & Release" makes me even more excited to see The Black Keys again when they come to Boston in May! Mark your calenders, kids, they will knock your socks off!

Konzuk Jewelry: Eclipse

2008-03-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

Konzuk Jewelry has just released their new "Eclipse" series of designs, inspired by the recent lunar eclipse. They are known for their stainless steel and concrete work, but I think this is an exquisite addition to the collection! Check out the rest of their catalogue: Love it!!

www.konzuk.com

CRAFTBOSTON 2008

2008-03-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

CRAFTBOSTON 2008 is going on this weekend at the Seaport World Trade Center in South Boston! The show is featuring the exhibition and sale of contemporary art and craft of more than 175 local artists. Sounds like a great show!

Here is the website for more info:

http://www.craftboston.org/index.asp

Roasted Artichokes! Yummmm

2008-03-24T04:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Brad and I cooked up the most delicious artichokes I've ever had! We roasted them. Here is what you do: Wash the artichokes. Snip off the very ends of the leaves with a pair of kitchen scissors. Use a knife to chop off the top two or three inches from the artichoke where the leaves are tight together and inedible. Use a peeler to peal the fibrous skin off the stem (the inside of the stem is just like the heart... so don't throw it away). Cut the whole thing vertically in quarters. Remove the "choke", or the fibrous white center. Toss in olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper. Roast on a cookie sheet face down at 400 degs. until center is tender. Delicious! If you like artichokes...you will love them like this!!

Here is a link to the wikipedia article on artichokes:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artichoke

Angélique Kidjo at the Somerville Theater

2008-03-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

Angélique Kidjo is playing this Saturday, March 22nd, at the Somerville Theater in Davis Sq. Somerville, MA. She is an amazing Beninese singer/songwriter. If you get a chance to go see her, I bet you will be happy you did! Check out her website to preview some of her music:

http://www.kidjo.com/

Fabulous Feathers!

2008-03-21T05:45:00.000-07:00

So in my quest of feathers for my bridal headpiece I have looked all over town for good sources. The unexpected winner was actually a fly-tying supply shop, Orvis. The feather selection was remarkably diverse and of very high quality, unlike many more "craft" oriented sellers. Even if your only experience with fly fishing was renting "A River Runs Though It", you should really check out Orvis for the most beautiful feathers in Boston!

Feathers at Orvis

The Boston Globe, Part 2: The Dress

2008-03-20T05:52:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the next article in the Boston Globe series about our wedding. This one is about the dress! The online version doesn't contain the pictures so I've included the pics in this post. Enjoy!

20 March, 2008 Boston Globe Article

Crocs: The shoe I never thought I'd wear

2008-03-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

I was taking a walk in Faneuil Hall in Boston a few weeks back and came across the Crocs shoe store. I was persuaded to go in by one of the friends I was with, although Crocs never really interested me before. Typically I go for fashion above comfort, which has consistently gotten me in trouble with long walks around town (or trying to catch a bus in 4" heals...no fun). When we walk in the intense smell of VOC off-gassing was apparent. I don't think I've ever been in a shoe store that indoor air quality was ever a concern, but I guess when your main product is made entirely of a strange space-aged plastic this might become a problem. "New car smell" aside, the store is more reminiscent of a candy store than a shoe store with all its array of colorful offerings. As I was browsing the vast selection of colorful, yet orthopedic inspired footwear, I spotted a little pair of Mary Janes across the room. They had an interesting raked texture that transformed the typical rubber-esqe look into what appeared to be suede. They were sleek and comfortable. When I put them on I was in love. These could be the perfect commuter shoes. I highly recommend them.

https://shop.crocs.com/pc-454-4-sueded-alice.aspx?reqid=454&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products

Samorost

2008-03-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Samorost (by Amanita Design) is a flash based adventure game with the most amazing graphics. They really take you into a magical world. You are a little gnome trying to rescue your beloved doggy from the grabby aliens! I think I was as enamored by the beautiful graphics as I was by the fun game. Have fun! http://amanita-design.net/samorost-2/

Origami Art!

2008-03-11T13:19:00.001-07:00

Check out this website from the origami artist, Robert Lang. I'm impressed!

http://www.langorigami.com/

Montreal!

2008-03-07T05:50:00.000-08:00

So I think we are changing our honeymoon plans. We decided that we wanted to save a Hawaii trip for one of the cold weather months, and go up to Montreal and Quebec City for the honeymoon instead. Also, that date falls over the Montreal Jazz Fest!! How perfect! We are very excited. Any suggestions about where to stay, where to eat, what to see?

"Songs to Fall in Love With"

2008-03-06T08:06:00.001-08:00

For our reception we are planning on putting together a playlist for our iPods to be enjoyed over dinner. We have been trying to pull together some of our favorite songs about love to include on the list. NPR recently had a segment on "All Songs Considered" titled "Songs to Fall in Love With" for Valentine's day. The segment featured songs other listeners considered their favorites. Any suggestions for what songs we should include? What are your favorites? What do you think?

Here is the NPR segment: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18950469

The Hipper Side of NPR

2008-03-05T05:59:00.000-08:00

I have become a big fan of NPR's music review show, "All Songs Considered". This show reviews new albums with an incredible breath of scope and genre. The program also broadcasts live shows, and archives them for all to listen and re-listen on their website. I have caught performances from some of my favorite artists on their concert archives like Jose Gonzalez, The Black Keys, Toots and the Maytals, Lily Allen and many many more. Here you can listen to everything from Doc Watson's folk, the Afro-beats of Femi Kuti, or Dave Brubeck's jazz! Check it out:
http://www.npr.org/templates/rundowns/rundown.php?prgId=37&agg=1

Bertoia Research Project

2008-03-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a great website focused on the works of Harry Bertoia. One of his pieces is hanging in the MIT Chapel were we are getting married! He is most well known for his modern chairs, but this project also looks at his other lesser known sculptures. Check it out: http://www.hbrp.net/

Review: "No Country for Old Men"

2008-03-03T05:54:00.001-08:00

Brad and I got a chance to take in a movie this weekend and chose the academy award winning film, "No Country for Old Men". I have been a long time fan of the Coen brothers, and waited with anticipation to see their new "masterwork", as some critics have declared. I have always enjoyed the mix of thought provoking drama and dark comedy that the Coen's produce. In "No Country", the Coens paint a bleak picture of life in west Texas. The landscape seems to be devoid of color, punctuated only by the occasional pool of blood. The film starts off with a drawling monologue and a long shot panning though the dark desert, strikingly similar to the beginning of one of the Coens' other films, "The Big Lebowski". The cast, almost universally, delivers stellar performances. Javier Bardem brings a casual psychopathy to the serial killer, Anton Chigurh. This is a cattle-gun-toting villain who I will not soon forget, and I am sure to see in my nightmares in the future. Although there were some great performances in this Cormac McCarthy adaptation, I have to admit I was still a bit let down. I think the tone went too dark, even for the Coens. I was also let down by the dialogue, which was at times more dry than a piece of plain toast. I also thought character development, at least in regard to Bardem's character, was lacking. With a villain as devious as Chigurh I would like to know, at least a little bit, about why he is so pathological. Was he hurt in the past? Did he have it out for the drug cartel? Was he once exposed to radiation and sometimes turns into a monster with incredibly bad hair and a penchant for pneumatic weapons? I want to know more, but not enough to keep watching. I give it a B.

It's About Time!

2008-02-29T20:44:00.000-08:00

Nooka watches are amazingly cool. The inventor, who created these watches, came up with a new way to graphically represent time. Not to mention these watches are super slick! I couldn't resist getting one for Brad for Christmas. I think he likes "decoding" the time. Check them out.

http://www.nooka.com/

Oscar Fashion!

2008-02-28T08:54:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I love fashion! So I thought I would share some thoughts on the latest red carpet wows from the Academy Awards. Here are my top 5:

5. Helen Mirren in George Chakra

This stunning cranberry gown complements her curves without begging the question of age. Every time she hits the red carpet she does it with grace and style...can you believe shes 62! wow!

4. Amy Adams in Proenza Schouler

Love the dress, love the color! Great choice for her complexion and hair color. Proenza Schouler recently designed a line for Target, which apparently is the IN thing for designers to do these days. All of which I thought was thoroughly "crap-tastic"! I had high hopes, yet they were dashed. So the wonder of Proenza Schouler will only be on the backs of those not shopping at a local big-box discounter. bummer.

3. Renee Zellweger in Carolina Herrera

Renee slinks along the red carpet in the slit-up-to-there, sliver wower. Carolina seems to have followed her muse, Renee, yet again to the event. My only negative on her styling would be that she looks very very hungry. Someone should feed her. I have to admit, I love the glitz with the silver!

2. Katherine Heigl in Escada

Katherine is a fetching member of "team red" this year with her chic Escada gown. Lovely lines, and fabulous color highlight her many enviable assets. Unfortunately, the hair and make up have gone terribly terribly wrong. Her typically dewy skin is buried under what seems like industrial spackle. Surprisingly she was able to "say cheese" without any noticeable cracking.

1. Heidi Klum in Galliano

Heidi has not only proved to the world that she knows fashion, but lucky for us has also lent her wisdom to those in need on "Project Runway".... and for this, Heidi, we are all in your debt. But on to the subject at hand, the dress. What I love most about the ensemble is that it is both elegant and old-school Hollywood glam at the same time. I'm in awe!

Images: thanks to msn.com

Spencer Finch: "What Time Is It On The Sun?"

2008-02-26T05:51:00.000-08:00

The last time we went to MassMOCA in North Adams, MA we were taken aback by an installation exhibition by Spencer Finch. The artist, Spencer Finch, works with color, light and sensation as he explores memory and perception. Many of his works are the simple recordings of everyday phenomena he has experienced, such as the various colors that occur in his nightly dreams. He rigorously catalogues these experiences of color and perception, and re-presents them in a way that makes the viewer reexamine their own notions of memory. I was particularly impressed by his attention to the subtly of perception. One of his works tries to capture the subtle wind shifts over Walden Pond throughout the day. Although this may seem mundane, the experience he creates transports the viewer to the pond where Thoreau sought the same simplicity of existence himself. I was truly inspired leaving his exhibition! Check out the review from the New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/19/arts/design/19moca.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Restaurant Review: Baraka Cafe

2008-02-25T13:52:00.000-08:00

I decided to include a new occasional posting for inspirational restaurant/food reviews. For the first of this series I wanted to talk about Baraka Cafe in Cambridge, MA. Baraka Cafe is a little neighborhood restaurant specializing in Tunisian cuisine. The owner/chef, Alia, has created an environment that immediately transports the diner to North Africa. Some of the specialties of the house include savory cheeses with figs, a softer-than-air chic pea souffle, fall-off-the-bone lamb, and couscous like you've never tasted before. I don't think they could serve a bad dish if they tried. Everything on the menu that we have tried (and we have tried most) is phenomenal, and an experience. One of the most notable items on the menu is the lemonade, which is flavored with rose water, honey, and mint (although the true recipe is a well guarded secrete). Every time I leave Baraka Cafe I feel like I've just taken a little vacation away from Cambridge. I highly recommend it!
http://www.barakacafe.com/

Make Me Up

2008-02-25T06:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend I was talking with my close friend, Chrissy, about make up for the wedding. I have been deeply devoted to mineral powder foundation for years. I love the finish, coverage, and how light it feels on my skin. I have tried various brands, which I can review in another post later if there is interest. Chrissy mentioned that she had heard that mineral power foundations don't photograph well, and therefore should not be used for the wedding! I tried to find evidence of this on the internet, without any luck. Have any of you heard about this?? Say it aint so!

Also, I am still looking for a good make up artist for the wedding. Any suggestions?

Flour's Famous Banana Bread!

2008-02-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe for banana bread on the Food Network website. It is from one of the best bakeries in Boston, Flour! Brad and I have made this recipe several times, and it is always amazing! Great for a cold winter day! Enjoy! Here it is: Banana Bread Recipe

Rat-a-pult!

2008-02-22T14:23:00.000-08:00

I love this image from the grafitti artist, Banksy! Check out more of his work:

http://www.banksy.co.uk/

Silent Dance Experiment....Shhhhh!

2008-02-22T07:55:00.000-08:00

I just heard about Banditos Misteriosos recently. They are conducting a "Silent Dance Experiment" tomorrow in Faneuil Hall at 1pm. I am intrigued. If any of you go, please post comment here! What a crazy/cool idea. Read more about it: http://www.misteriosos.org/

Theo Jansen: Strandbeest

2008-02-22T05:50:00.000-08:00

Theo Jansen is a biologist turned artist who creates amazingly evocative "animal" sculptures. We got to see his work "in the flesh" a few months ago at MassMOCA. I'm in awe! Here is his website: http://www.strandbeest.com/

Don't miss the videos of his work walking on the beach!

Phun with Physics

2008-02-21T19:37:00.001-08:00

Phun is meant to be a playground where people can be creative. It can also be used as an educational tool to learn about physics concepts such as restitution and friction.

You can download Phun and play around with it yourself!

http://www.acc.umu.se/~emilk/

Watch it in action on youtube:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=0H5g9VS0ENM

Venus Magazine: Emerging Creativity

2008-02-21T07:21:00.000-08:00

I came across Venus Magazine one day when I was paroosing the magazine section at Newbury Comics in Cambridge. When I saw it, the cover had an amazing pic of Dita Von Teese and promises of great DIY projects within. I couldn't resist the allure of a magazine focused on "women in music, art, film, fashion, diy culture"! Really really cool! Check it out:

http://www.venuszine.com/

Hawaiian Hula-day!

2008-02-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

So, have any of you been to Hawaii? We haven't, but hope to go for our honeymoon. Do you have any suggestions about what islands to visit? Where to stay to save some cash? Where to eat? We need advice. Any and all comments welcome about our 50th state!

Geek Love

2008-02-20T06:43:00.000-08:00

This is from Brad's favorite web comic. I particularly liked this one.

www.xkcd.com

Meeting with Caterer

2008-02-20T06:05:00.000-08:00

We are having a tasting with our caterer next week! I am so excited! I need some advice. What questions are "must ask" questions? Readers, help me out and post some of the questions you think we should not forget to ask!

Regina Spektor

2008-02-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

I recently found the Regina Specktor website, and thought I would share! She is an amazing singer/songwriter/pianist from NY. I particularly like her web site, because you can stream her albums through the radio player option. Check her out!

http://www.reginaspektor.com/

DWR Champagne Cork Chairs

2008-02-14T14:41:00.000-08:00

Brad and I designed and made a champagne cork chair for the Design Within Reach contest a few weeks back. We were one of the 50 finalists in the design contest! These little chairs are so cute and so tiny! Each were made from the cork, wire and foil from one bottle of champagne. Here are the other finalists: http://dwr.typepad.com/designnotes/2008/02/top-50-champagn.html

Bouquet/Sculpture

2008-02-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

I was chatting today about our wedding with a coworker. The subject of what I will be carrying down the isle came up. I'm still undecided. I really like cala lilies, but haven't settled on a florist. Any suggestions about inspired florists who think out of the box? Readers, I need your help! I'd love to hear suggestions.

Swim in Style

2008-02-13T17:15:00.000-08:00

Ester Williams was the swimming siren of Hollywood's golden era. Now she has a swim line inspired by the era that made her famous. I'm in love with these suits. I bought one last season, and now want one in every color! They have great retro styling that is both sexy and conservative at the same time, and who dosen't love a suit that is covered in little cherries. Now that Brad and I are planning a honeymoon in Hawaii I have the perfect excuse to add to my collection.

http://www.retrodress.com/otherstuffsix.html

CB2: Other Crate and Barrel

2008-02-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

I've always liked Crate and Barrel, but somehow wished it was just a little bit funkier. Well, welcome to CB2. CB2 is like the cooler little sister to Crate and Barrel. You can find great barware and colorful Andy Warhol inspired dishes. Love it! Check it out:

http://www.cb2.com/

Fab Retro Hair!

2008-02-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

This website has step by step vintage instructions to achieve perfect pin curls! Now you can have that classic Hollywood glam hair! I was impressed with the vintage photos that go along with the instructions. Check them out to get great pin curls, fingerwaves and rolls! Va-va-voom!

http://www.nocturne.com/swing/hair/pincurls/pincurls.html

Going to the Chapel, and We're Gonna Get Married

2008-02-08T11:31:00.001-08:00

Today's Muse: the Kresge Chapel

We thought a lot about the location for the wedding. It was hard to pick a location that meant something to both of us. We had the opportunity to do the wedding at the Kresge Chapel at MIT designed by the architect Eero Saarinen, because Brad went to MIT for his PhD. I am an architect, and Brad is a scientist who loves design...so this was the perfect place for us! The image to the left is an interior shot. I love the cascade of light down the Bertoia sculpture! Here is the wikipedia article about it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MIT_Chapel

We're Getting Married!!

2008-01-27T19:14:00.000-08:00

Brad and I are getting married this June! We are planning some fun design oriented details for the wedding. Stay tuned for more details and updates. I can't wait to tell you all about it!

Your Design Muse,
Gabrielle