Weekly Start Off: No 30

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Happy Monday, November 18, 2013, readers! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. I'm going through a bit of a hat craze at the moment. There's something super comforting about throwing one on in the morning and not having to worry about what your hair looks like. I love the classic elegance of the hat pictured above. However, I find myself just throwing on a snapback, or a beanie. Are you a fan of wearing hats? Which type of hats are you a fan of most? 

1. So, if you're into the more classic-elegant looking hat, then I suggest this one. It comes in different colors and runs for $38, made of wool (great winter piece). If your more into casual hats, beanie type look, then I suggest this one. It too comes in different colors and will run you $35!      

2. I'm a huge fan of Daft Punk, so I was thrilled when I came across this feature in WSJ magazine. The feature features Daft Punk and Giselle Bundchen. I suggest you check out the article and photography! 

3. Thanksgiving is only a handful of days away! I'm so excited to see family and to eat some really good food. I've starting looking for some unique and yummy recipes and have come across this Baked Brie with Pecans recipe. Can't wait to try it. 

--Brendan

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The Conan House

Photography: Nam Goung Son

The Conan house is designed by architects Moon Hoon in Bangdong, South Korea. Moon Hoon architects envisioned "a sculptural object, unhindered by its neighbors, standing rather conspicuously". The result is a stunning home that looks like nothing seen before. (ABOVE) The front door of the house is located at the structures corner. The bright red color screams attention. If it were not for the color, one would get confused as to wear the front door is.

Photography: Nam Goung Son (1)
(1) A view of the house from the street. I love the different shapes the home creates'. The windows are uniquely placed, and are positioned to take full advantage of the light and enhance the architecture.

Photography: Nam Goung Son (2)
(2) The structure is placed on a base for added support. It appears that there is a sandbox on the home's front lawn. So much fun!  

Photography: Nam Goung Son (3)
(3) The city of Bangdong is famous for sight seeing and leisure. The awkward plot of land in front of the water calls for a uniquely placed structure. My only issue with the home is the lack of windows on the front facade. With such beautiful views, I'd love to have large windows. 

Photography: Nam Goung Son (4)
(4) What do you think of the home? Would you live here? 

 

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Weekly Start Off: No 29

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Happy Tuesday, November 5, 2013, readers! Can you believe that we are already in November?! I was browsing through countless Tumblr pages over the weekend and came across this street style photograph. I call it: I just want to wear whatever the hell I feel like wearing, deal with it! Though I like talking about the latest trends and what's hot at the moment on the blog, I love the idea of not always following the trends, and wearing whatever you want to. Or using the latest trends in a different and exciting way to put together your look. So when you step outside today ask yourself: Am I being me?  

1. Check out some of these photographs of girls rocking the "me"! I love this casual yet chic look from blogger Coline. It's the perfect example of being you, without being outrageous. This blog is all about New York City street style. Scrolling through the many photographs you're sure to find some very memorable very "being me" looks!      

2. Here are a few pieces to give your look a bit of flare! Perhaps a Party Cheetah Maxi Dress will do? Or a Gatsby Dress? Or maybe you just want an Electric Blue Peep Toe Bootie to complete your look? 

3. Here is a fantastic Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe! It's an amazing and delicious take on an all around yummy chocolate chip cookie. Let me know what you think!

--Brendan

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Weekly Start Off: No 28

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Happy Monday, October 28, 2013, readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. This weekend I found myself browsing the web for extreme homes. From homes built literally into the mountains to homes with the most unusual geometry. What I learned from this fun half hour of extreme home searching is: any house can be built. This phenomenal house is built right into the mountains. What I like about this house is that it's not made of stone, but wood. This juxtaposition creates a big statement.  

1. If you love extreme homes that check out this Pinterest page, it's full of extreme homes that'll make you say ooh and ah! This structure is one of my favorites. Super extreme!     

2. When I think of extreme homes, I also think of unique fashion statement pieces! Love these Eddie Borgo earrings, super cute. Or maybe you need a pair of Gucci curved leather booties? 

3. Since we're on a bit of an extreme roll, how about some Tomato Soup Cupcakes? I have to admit, I'm a bit surprised and intrigued by this recipe. I'm going to give it a try! Let me know how it goes if you decide to try it as well!

--Brendan

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Moving In: Historic Italian Mansion

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

How gorgeous is this Italian mansion located in Lucca, Italy? The home has eight bedrooms and nine full bathrooms. It was built in the XVI century, and has proven to stand the test of time with many of its original details still in tact.(ABOVE) Trees line the driveway and an iron gate marks the entrance. I love the rugged look of this driveway. You don't expect there to be anything beautiful on the other side. There's an aura of mystery.    

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(1) The home is very fitting for it's location and the period it was built in. I love the home's symmetry as well as it's green shutters. In the center of the facade is a large medallion, really adds to the character of the architecture. An added bonus is the large property.  

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(2) Terra Cotta pots line the home. I love the energy that these flowers bring. The yellow stucco works well with the shutters and stone window and door frames. This home looks like it belongs in a storybook, it's too perfect.

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(3) The property is stunning. I love the greenery. The greenery softens the home and puts the home in a dreamy setting. Without the greenery the property would not have the same impact.

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(4) The pool is an added bonus. I'm guessing that the structure off the pool can be used as a pool house or a guest house. What I like about the pool area is the grass section and low shrubbery. By keeping shrubbery low, the pool receives direct sunlight.

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(5) Adjacent the pool is a tennis court. Yes it could use a bit updating, but nonetheless it's got great bones. I like having a red tennis court, I almost like it more than a green court. What do you think of the home and its property? Would you move in?  

 

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Weekly Start Off: No 27

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Happy Monday, October 14, 2013, readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. I'm sort of craving a green house in my backyard at the moment! Is that a little strange? I spent a good chunk of my weekend looking for flowers to plant in front of my home for the fall. As I was searching though photographs of some beautiful landscape designs I came across a few backyard green houses. I'm not thinking of anything too big, something off to the side, with a cute patio adjacent it. What do you think? 

1. I found this run down green house on Pinterest. This would be the perfect green house to explore on Halloween, it's creepy but with lots of potential for improving. I love the idea of placing window treatments in a green house. Very whimsical and fresh. I could see this green home in the Hamptons.    

2. I love a menswear inspired look, especially for the fall. A menswear inspired look is a power statement, and an opportunity to style you're look with a bunch of super cool manly-yet girly pieces! I love this Acne white shirt, plus it's 25% off! 

3. My family and I celebrated my little sister's birthday this weekend! We went to a phenomenal steakhouse and I enjoyed a little Filet Mignon. I do enjoy experimenting in the kitchen from time to time and would love to make Filet Mignon. I found this recipe. What do you think? I'd love to hear some of your ideas!

--Brendan

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Weekly Start Off: No 26

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Happy Monday, October 7, 2013, readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. This weekend, I finally said goodbye to my pool for the season. Having to see the water drain, literally brought tears to my eyes! I'm a huge fan of the water, and not being able to swim outdoors during the winter months is one of the downsides of living in the Northeast. This photograph of a girl diving into the sea with a few yachts surrounding her, brings a smile to my face! Now I know where I'm heading to for winter break, Monaco! 

1. Speaking of Monaco, I'm curious if any of you have ever been? How was it, and what were some of the different places you explored? Please share in the comments. I hear that the Hotel de Paris Monaco is one of the nicest places to stay for an authentic French experience. However, I'd love to know if there are any boutique hotels in Monaco to stay at?  

2. I love this "Day to Night" post on Shopbop's website. The post features dresses that can be work to the office, and then dressed up for an evening out. This Clover Canyon dress is one of my favorites. What a statement piece to wear to either the office or a nice restaurant.  

3. I love a good tart, especially a good tart for breakfast. This Hazelnut Plum tarts recipe looks fantastic! I'm looking forward to some downtime later this week and can't wait to try some new recipes. I think I found my match!.  

--Brendan

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The Folding Building

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This commercial/ office building located in Tokyo, Japan is designed by Amano Design Office. The building was recently completed and has garnered a lot of attention. The building is a perfect example of modern architecture and how far society has come to think outside the box, and to simplify and minimize design. (ABOVE) The facade of the building seems to bend inwards and outwards, creating slight folds. What I find especially interesting is the flower shapes on the facade.

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(1) The side of the building is quite the opposite to the front. There are no intrusive bends or folds, rather a flat facade with rectangular, and square shaped windows.

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(2) A view behind the mesh-like exterior. When sunlight passes through the mesh it creates a brilliant display inside the building. 

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(3) Walking to the front doors of the building you are greeted by this beautiful light source. I love the different angles it creates. What I find interesting here is the the floors are actually bending and folding as well. This building has a phenomenal unity. 

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(4) The building at night. At night, the light from inside the building casts a sort of hazy glow on the mesh facade. What I find interesting about the building is that the folds and the bends become more and more apparent towards the top. What do you think of the building? Would you like this to be your office? 

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Moving In: Villa Labarba

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

How amazing is this California mansion? Well, I think it's just fab! This over 12,000 sq ft house that sits on over an acre of ocean front property is an incredible place to live. The home was built in 1997, and has many classic California design embellishments, yet still feels fresh and clean. (ABOVE) The center motorcourt is a classic feature. Love the clean, front facade as well as the boxwoods that surround the house. Every classically designed home needs a fountain. I love that the fountain is surrounded by some pink flowers.     

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(1) The views are the highlight of the property. Waking up and walking around such beautifully landscaped grounds would be truly amazing. I like how the water from the upper level fountain spills over into a collection of smaller fountains running toward the ocean. 

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(2) The back of the home is as beautiful as the front of the home. I love the hedges, and center fountain. The back of the home screams traditional, with a touch of modernity. The terrace just off the main house is the perfect place to entertain. Beautiful architecture and views of the ocean surround you!

http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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(3) A long slide carries water from the upper level fountain to the lower level fountain. This idea is a more environmentally friendly alternative, which is always a good thing! I could see myself laying on one of those blue outdoor sofas and looking out at the ocean and sandy beaches. 

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(4) The property features a garden space. I recently started learning some tricks when it comes to planting and gardening. I love having a garden in the back of my home and would die for this large one that overlooks the water. What do you think of the home? Would you move in? 

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Hotel Design: The Haymarket Hotel

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I haven't published a "Hotel Design" post for quite some time now, so I figured that London Fashion Week would be the perfect time! The beautiful Haymarket Hotel located in the heart of London's Theater district has the perfect mix of English and international style. In addition, the hotel is close to restaurants and bars as well as national landmarks such as Trafalgar square and the National Gallery. (ABOVE) I love the mix of elegance and simplicity of the hotel's design. The building feels like a classic English hotel.

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(1) The lobby welcomes you in, in this fantastic bright yellow. I love the simplicity of the furnishings. The room does not feel cluttered or overly designed, yet it still feels warm and cozy. 

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(2) The main restaurant is designed to be funky and cool. Bright colors, patterns and shapes fill the space. 

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(3) I like how the guests suites are done in different patterns. The space works well together, but is not matchy-matchy. I love the purple. It's soft and adds a touch of femininity. The armchair looks like a great spot to relax and read a book.

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(4) The indoor pool is one of the many highlights at the hotel. The pool is the ideal place to swim laps or to enjoy some drinks with friends at the adjacent bar. I love the colored light installations. What do you think of the hotel? Have you stayed here before?

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Architecture Around The World: NYC

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With so many people in New York for fashion week I think it's the perfect time to do an "Architecture Around The World" post about the big apple. New York city is the epicenter of art, fashion, design, and much more, but you already knew that! It's a city with over 8,000,000 people, making it the largest in the USA. NYC's architecture is extremely diverse. From classically designed buildings like Saint Patrick's cathedral to modern buildings like the Frank Gehry building in Chelsea. What draws me to this city is that on each street and on every avenue I can experience something different and incredible. Even though the city was settled in the late 1600s, the oldest architecture in the city dates back to the 1830s. This is a result of the Great Fire of 1835, that destroyed most of the buildings on the South East tip. The Great Fire caused architects and designers to rethink using wood framed structure an instead design with stone, and other more durable materials. (ABOVE) This photograph shows the incredible size of both the city and Central Park. The park occupies the center of the city. Isn't this photograph just beautiful?

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(1) The Frank Gehry building in Chelsea is one of the most beautiful modern buildings in the city. The design sort of resembles a cloud. The unique waves, and shapes are extremely Gehry. Vanity Fair named it one of the most attractive office buildings. 

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(2) The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a classic building. It's located on 5th Ave, adjacent Central Park. The building was designed in 1874 in the Beaux Arts architectural style. The museum houses classic European artists as well as Islamic and Classic Antiquity, Egyptian and more. Just to let you know: admission is pay as you wish, so stop by!

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(3) This is the pavilion at the Met. Here you can enjoy lunch, as well as snacks. The facade of the classic building directly in front is part of the original museum from what I understand. The building houses the American wing. I love the classic design of the facade contrasted with the modern design of the all glass pavilion.  

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(4) The Woolworth building is in the Gothic Revival architectural style. It was completed in 1913 and designed by architect Cass Gilbert. I simply love the design of the building. The details here are incredible. How beautiful is the top of this building? 

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(5) The Apple building is one of the most impressive modern structures in the city. It's located on 5th Ave, close to Central Park. The actual store is located underground, the glass structure is sculptural if anything. It was designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. FYI: The store is open 24/7, 365 days.  

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(6) Saint Patrick's Cathedral is also located on 5th Ave (I guess most of my favorite buildings are located on 5th). The cathedral was designed by architect James Renwick Jr. and completed in 1878. I love the details of the structure, Gothic architecture is one of my favorites! 

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(7) The Hearst building located on 8th is NYC's architecture in a nutshell. The base of the building was completed in 1928, however, the main structure was completed in 2006 by architect Norman Foster. This marriage of classic and modern architecture is exactly what the city is about. 

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