DESIGN FOR MEN

[Leaning-Molds] by designer, Maruja Fuentes – Just plain cool. These furniture systems activate the wall in public spaces creating opportunities for people to lean and congregate in an innovative way. Not to mention that the design is striking and flexible. The system is composed of two identical molds made of recycled plastic. The pieces can be fixed together in an infinite number of patterns.

This system would be great to revive public spaces .   I could also see it used in a more intimate setting, like lining the exterior wall  of a home backyard/deck thus  adding significant places for guests to rest.

[Kvadrat Clouds] by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec.  I have been fascinated by these fabric tile systems since I used them in my thesis project last year.  What the heck are they?  A colorful, innovative tile concept enabling you to create dynamic 3 dimensional environments or small installations at home.  These tiles are bicolor and can be linked together with an elastic ribbon for placement on the floor, walls, or suspended from the ceiling.  Still not sure what they are, check out this video.

These would be great for kids to create interesting little igloos and forts at home.   And you can become an artist yourself creating compositions to be hung over a fireplace or wall.  Now you can buy Kvadrat Clouds in the US at Ligne Roset.  This innovation comes with a hefty price tag, starting at $445 for an 8-pack and $1120 for a 24-pack.

IMAGE CREDITS: 1st Photograph of Leaning-Molds from DesignPhiladelphia.org, 2nd photograph of Leaning Molds from Maruja Fuentes, Photographs of Kvadrat Clouds from Kvadrat

Robert Geller is my favorite menswear designer right now.  Born in Hamsburg, Germany and trained at the Rhode Island School of Design.  Geller interned with Marc Jacobs and teamed up with Alexandre Plokhov to revamp Cloak.  Geller’s men’s line launched in 2007 has taken the fashion industry by storm.  I love that his personal style like his clothing line is effortlessly chic.  Check out this great interview with the designer on frillr.

His Spring 2010 collection not only makes me excited for the warm weather but pulls together some forward thinking looks.  Some of which, admittedly I don’t think I could pull off but I dig the creativity.  While some of the outfits are quite bold, there is a romantic, paired down quality that makes his style approachable.  Check out my favorite looks from the collection below.

Geller also recently designed a line of clothing for Levi’s,  re imagining some of the brand’s classic looks.  I really want the denim hooded denim parka below.   The collection is available for a limited time at Bloomingdales and select Levi’s stores.

IMAGE CREDITS: Robert Geller Photo from frillr,  Geller 2010 Collection Fashion Show images from GQ, Geller for Levi’s images from Selectivism

Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, among other actors are being spotted all over Massachusetts filming a new comedy/romantic thriller titled Knight and Day.  Yesterday, I saw the filming of a scene with Diaz on Union Park St in Boston’s South End.  Chic boutique Looc was transformed into a bridal shop for the day.  The above image is of the scene where Cameron runs out of the bridal shot.  Where is she? You can sort of see the yellow dress as she is going back into Looc.  Well, let’s just say, I will not be becoming a paparazzi anytime soon.  But, I must say that I found myself star struck for the first time on set, waiting for a glimpse of the actress.  Was it all worth it?  Not sure, but Cameron is stunningly gorgeous in person.

What was cool was getting to hear “rolling” and “cut” on set.   However, the glamour of the movie was replaced with the reality of an orchestrated recreation of everyday life.  A child crying was a reason for “cut” to be yelled.   I was absolutely amazed by how fragmented the process was and by the sheer number of people and equipment needed to make one short scene happen.  I realized that over the course of that day, less than 5 minutes of the movie was captured.  Academics often debate the architecture of film…the director’s desire to be an architect/designer and vice versa.  I left thinking, I love that I can create an experience for my clients but they are the ones that make it real.

IMAGE CREDITS: Photograph by Kibwe Daisy

This year Esquire magazine’s ultimate bachelor pad is at the luxurious SoHo Mews in New York. The penthouse level apartment combines two units and the spaces are equipped with fantastic technological innovations and an emphasis on sustainable living. Check out some of my favorite spaces in the project.  The living room above is by designer Costas Kondylis.

Designer Kristen McGinnis incorporates sustainable cabinetry and surfaces into this traveler’s kitchen sponsored by Lufthansa .  Upper cabinets provide an innovative solution for incorporating more artwork.

Record, mix and broadcast songs directly from your guitar in this hip home music studio by Denise Kuriger for Diesel Only The Brave.  Making me wish I knew how to play guitar and could afford a home studio.  In the sleek lounge (above) by designer Luke Raymond of Office of Air for Heineken, guests can create their own soundtracks and see music through reflective visualizers.

The Hugo Boss master bedroom by Kerry Delrose is romantic and inspired by the Hugo Boss collection.  The walk-in closet is ideal for the stylish man, equipped with a useful bench for putting on shoes.

Not to mention the terrace which runs along the windowed facade of the penthouse.   Marc Thorpe of  Third Eye Studios designed several lounge environments for Davidoff along the terrace and the design is highlighted by the sunscreens shown above.

For more information on the Esquire bachelor pad, designers, and sponsors, check out the Esquire SOHO website.

PHOTO CREDITS: All images from www.esquiresoho.com

Not one to recommend knock offs over the original but sometimes saving some dough makes it worth it.  I love the Nelson Swag Leg Desk (1958) designed by George Nelson.  It is the perfect size for a small apartment or condo.  Making a statement without taking up a lot of room.Not to mention that there are a suite of products that incorporate the iconic swag leg from dining tables to the chair shown above.  The cost of the desk, $1849…not bad for a modern classic.

CB2 Swoop Desk                                                               Ligne Roset Ursuline Desk

So, how about the CB2 swoop desk as a cheaper alternative, a steal at $300.  Now I must say that I would make some tweaks.  While I dig the walnut top, I am not a fan of the white drawers and legs.  The look appears cheap, so I would stain the drawers and paint the legs a deep brown.  The result will be much more high-end looking.  Why such a change?  Check out the  Ursuline desk from Ligne Roset, $2360.  The walnut top and cross-shaped satin brown steel base option looks much more refined and less like a knock off.

IMAGE CREDITS: Swag  Desk from DWR, Swoop Desk from CB2, Ursuline desk from Ligne Roset

David Adjaye is only 43 and this rising starchitect has not slowed down since he opened his London based practice 8 years ago.  Born in Tanzania, Adjaye’s father was a Ghanaian diplomat and he and  his family lived in Jeddah, Cairo, and Beirut during his childhood.  Adjaye’s design style draws from experiences, especially in residential projects placing significance on privacy and the home as a retreat.  While his public works are more accessible and open.  Adjaye has not let his success go to his head, still managing large commissions along with socially conscious low-budget work.

In April,  Adjaye won the $500 million commission to design National Museum of African American History & Culture in D.C., a collaborative effort between Adjaye, the Freelon Group, and Davis Brody Bond.  The museum, located near the Washington Monument will most likely be the last addition to the National Mall.  The competition for the museum was steep to say the least.  Among the finalists were Moshe Safdie & Associates, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and Foster + Company.   Check out the finalists work here.  At the presentation to the selection committee, Adjaye set himself apart from the pack by addressing the past as well as hope for the future for Black Americans.   “I spoke about celebration. How do we make a building that says ‘Look at where we are!’ not just ‘Look at where we came from’ or ‘Look at what we went through’?” according to Fast Company’s featured story which profiled the designer in their October 09 issue.  Elements of the struggle of Black Americans are expressed in the architecture and materiality of the spaces.  In addition to the museum, Adjaye also submitted a proposal to rebuild two inner-city branches of the  D.C. Public Library.  Adjaye believes that high design should not be just for the large budget projects but everyone.  He went on to say, “The world is changing in a certain way…I’m seeing a design industry — not just architecture — that has more diversity, more new voices and different references coming into the canon.”  Let’s be honest, recognized designers and architects are predominantly white and this can be quite discouraging to young people of color.  I hope that Adjaye’s work can not only change the way people view architecture but inspire the architects and designers of the future.

IMAGE CREDITS:  Picture of David Adjaye from Robert Goldwater Library Online, Images of National Museum of African American History & Culture from Fast Company

One of my readers requested a segment for answering style or design questions.  Of course, I am happy to help.  So, send them along.  Here is the first.

Q: I have noticed that ties are getting narrower and we seem to be going back to a retro 60’s look.  Should I follow the trend and start buying skinny ties?

A: You are correct that ties are slimming down.  The skinny tie paired with a well tailored suit is a classic and must-have look  for a dapper guy.  What I love about the skinny tie is the versatility, working well with a suit or casually with a button-down shirt and jeans.

I must say that the tie should fit the man though.  I wouldn’t recommend a skinny tie if you are husky or very muscular or overweight.  Think proportions.  My advice, just give a skinny tie a try, buy one at a discount store like Marshalls and TJMaxx.  And make sure the suit you pair it with is a tailored two-button number with flat front pants.  Keep it classic for now, try a charcoal suit, white shirt and a solid or striped tie.  Don’t be afraid to add that handkerchief.  I think you’ll dig how the tailored suit and trim tie make you look slimmer and more refined.   Let Neil Patrick Harris be your guide, check out the full spread in GQ.

Thanks, Paul T.  for the first question and for the idea for the segment.

PHOTO CREDITS: Image from April 2009 Issue/Slideshow of  GQ

I just can’t seem to stop myself from popping in to antiques stores lately. Sometimes shopping for clients or myself or just getting inspired.  Last weekend, I made a lightning fast trip to New York but still managed to drop in to Olde Good Things in Chelsea. They were pricey but had some great things.  The above chair is a Marcel Breuer Wassily Chair in beige leather.

[Walnut Table] I drooled over this table and matching bench in black walnut with steel legs.  Similar to the dining tables from Hudson Furniture.

[Danish Modern] Set of 6 Cool Danish Modern chairs.   The back on these chairs is really interesting.

[Eames Era Fiberglass Chairs] The blue fiberglass shell side chairs would add a nice pop of color in an informal dining area with a Saarinen table.  And the arm chair on casters would be great at a home office…I would replace the cushion though.

[Reclaimed Urban] Urban farm table with industrial machine legs.  This table would make a great desk and I love the pairing of industrial legs with a reclaimed wood top.  I was digging the chairs as well.

[Polished Chrome Pendant] This pendant would work nicely over the Saarinen table and fiberglass chairs described earlier.

[More Industrial] Architectural Grill – I am thinking cool wall decor.  And vintage file cabinets for the office.  Why not new?  The patina and maybe I can make people think that I have been in business for ages.

[Leather Pillows] You will be seeing more of these in contemporary and modern settings.  I especially like the idea of pairing large woven leather pillows on an Italian style sectional.

Boston Magazine hosted the Living in Style event this September at the luxurious penthouse of the FP3 in South Boston.  I was intrigued by the concept: local stores style outfits inspired by rooms in the Boston Magazine Concept Home.  The event was fabulous, great drinks and an amazing crowd.  I was inspired by the interior design and architecture of Boston design firm, Hacin and Associates.  I found myself shifting between design and fashion critiques throughout the evening.  My favorite outfit is above.  The three-piece Nom de Guerre wool suit was styled elegantly with plaid scarf sans tie by Boston boutique Stel’s.  Stel’s also dressed the model below in a black sweater dress with feathered skirt.  The model in the white dress with red sash was styled by Holiday Boutique in clothing from their line.

The images of the kitchen and dining area above give you more of an idea of the space.   I loved the dark wood kitchen cabinetry and the use of a slab of stone by Gerrity Stone as a backslash.

In the master bedroom, a glam bachelorette pad with all the frills, sparkling chandelier, floral area rug, and glossy pink ceiling.  South End boutique, Looc picked up on the bold yet feminine decor by dressing their girl in silk scarf, rocker vest and skinny jeans.

Uniform dressed the model in the boy’s bedroom.  The design was playful featuring a sleek aluminum trundle bed and lounge chair by Ligne Roset and the colorful custom puzzle rug by Dover.   The room was outfitted for a sophisticated kid with cool graphics applied to the windows by Proverb, caged outdoor sconces and 1970s car catalog cut outs from David Hacin’s childhood home.  The fun toys and accessories were a nice touch.  One thing is for sure, that is one lucky kid…heck, I’d live in that room.

I was digging the installations of wallpaper of New York based graphic designer and artist  Aimee Wilder in the boy’s bathroom and the powder room.

One of the most  spectacular elements of the FP3 penthouse is the tiered terrace featuring stunning views of downtown Boston.  Stil was inspired by the urban backdrop in the styling of their girl.  I left the event thinking that these local retailers hit the mark pulled together some inspired ensembles based on the Concept Home’s dynamic spaces.  Check out Boston Magazine’s party pics for more pictures from the event.

I mentioned it this summer, jewelry for men! David Yurman has a beautiful collection of very masculine pieces. Their dog tags, shown above, are definite favorites this season. They come in exotic stones, diamonds, metal, and wood and range in price from the Black Onyx Exotic Stone ($550) to the Black Diamond Chevron ($4510). The latter incorporates 6.74 carat black diamonds in a pave setting. Pave simply means that the diamonds are set closely together so that no metal shows. I love that these necklaces are rugged and understated. Joe Shmoe on the street may not realize that you dropped so much dough for one. The most important thing is that YOU KNOW.