DUMBO becomes new york’s design district where creative firms collaborate and thrive

Nespresso has collaborated with Universal Design Studio to open a new boutique concept store on New York's Madison Avenue, aiming to re-establish coffee and espresso as an art form rather than just a quick caffeine fix. This is the second such boutique, following the inaugural opening in Cannes in May, and it is designed to engage all five senses in the coffee experience. The design ethos draws heavily from New York's distinctive urban landscape and artistic heritage, incorporating elements such as disc fixtures that echo the lighting found in the Met Breuer and an exposed brick wall reminiscent of a classic Manhattan walk-up apartment. The 2,500 sq ft boutique spans two floors and offers a comprehensive journey through the world of coffee. Visitors can sample limited-edition flavors, receive guidance on selecting a blend that suits their individual palate, and explore Nespresso’s signature VertuoLine machines and aluminum pods. A consistent design element throughout the store is the use of Alpi wood tables, uniquely adorned with used ground coffee, which subtly reinforces the product's origin and sustainability efforts. The lower level of the boutique houses the Lab Kitchen, a dedicated space where customers can experiment with different coffee recipes or participate in 45-minute educational classes, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of coffee preparation. In line with Nespresso's global sustainability initiatives, the Madison Avenue boutique, like all other Nespresso stores worldwide, facilitates the recycling of used coffee capsules. Adding an artistic dimension to the space, Nespresso commissioned New York artist Daniel Rozin to create an exclusive installation for the boutique. This artwork is composed of 832 tiles made from compressed aluminum, repurposed from used Nespresso pods. Rozin integrated four motion sensors into the piece, allowing it to ripple and respond dynamically to the movements of people within the store, thereby creating an interactive and fluid visual experience. Rozin expressed his intention to create an effect that conveyed fluidity, contributing to the boutique's sensory appeal. For those on a tighter schedule, the boutique features a Take Away Bar, offering a selection of lattes and pastries sourced from Aux Merveilleux de Fred. However, the comprehensive and immersive design of the store is intended to encourage visitors to linger and fully engage with the Nespresso experience. The address of this new Nespresso boutique is 935 Madison Avenue, New York. The partnership with Universal Design Studio underscores Nespresso's commitment to creating engaging retail environments that elevate the perception of coffee consumption. #NespressoBoutique #UniversalDesignStudio #NewYorkDesign #CoffeeExperience #RetailDesign #SensoryMarketing #SustainableDesign #MadisonAvenue #DanielRozinArt #CoffeeCulture

Maya Newlin, the driving force behind KAMO Studio, shares her entrepreneurial journey, detailing the motivations and experiences that led her to establish her own interior design business. From a young age, Newlin harbored aspirations of entrepreneurship, often sketching floor plans and envisioning room transformations. Her passion for design was nurtured through a childhood fascination with a Victorian dollhouse, which served as an early outlet for her creativity in curating and storytelling within spaces. Prior to founding KAMO Studio, Newlin pursued a career as a national competitive figure skater, a background that instilled in her ambition and a strong-willed approach. Her professional path included a significant role as an Imagineer for Walt Disney Imagineering. While initially perceived as a dream job, the large-scale, impersonal nature of designing for global audiences at Disney led her to realize a longing for more intimate, one-on-one creative problem-solving. This experience, though valuable for fostering creativity, reinforced her desire to work independently, leading her to pursue a Master's degree in Interior Architecture, complemented by business courses, to equip her for launching her own venture. KAMO Studio, co-founded with business partner Jasmine, specializes in residential and boutique hospitality projects. The studio's philosophy centers on creating personalized spaces that genuinely reflect their clients' personalities and life stories. They emphasize incorporating unique elements like vintage finds and generational heirlooms into contemporary designs, aiming to celebrate everyday moments and evoke specific emotions within a space. The focus is on achieving an effortless aesthetic that also boasts hidden functionality, a skill KAMO Studio has refined and prides itself on. Newlin highlights the matchmaking aspect of design, where understanding and translating a client's often unarticulated desires into a tangible design is paramount. The studio guides clients beyond transient trends, encouraging them to trust their instincts and create spaces that resonate deeply with their individual needs. Newlin also provides a detailed, week-long itinerary for experiencing Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into her personal preferences and local favorites. The itinerary covers a range of activities, from active pursuits like rollerblading from Venice to Malibu and hiking in the Vicente Bluffs Reserve, to cultural experiences such as visiting art exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth. Dining recommendations span various cuisines and atmospheres, including Gjusta for baked goods, Ospi Venice for handmade pasta, Blueys Santa Monica for brunch, Le Great Outdoor for farm-to-table fare, Manuela or Bavel in the Arts District, and Broad Street Oyster Company for seafood. The itinerary also includes shopping excursions at Abbot Kinney and ROW DTLA, a nightcap at the DTLA Proper hotel, exploring Culver City's Citizen Public Market, and a day in Malibu with a visit to Cielo Farms for wine tasting. Sundays are reserved for the Brentwood farmers market and Jon & Vinny's for Italian food, showcasing a balance of local exploration, culinary delights, and relaxation. Finally, Newlin dedicates a "shoutout" to her mother, Kathy, acknowledging her as a primary source of inspiration and support. Her mother's pioneering career as one of the first female scientists in STEM, despite facing challenges, serves as a powerful role model for Newlin as a female entrepreneur. This recognition underscores the personal influences that have shaped Newlin's drive and resilience in building her business. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusinessOwner #Entrepreneurship #KAMOStudio #WaltDisneyImagineering #LosAngelesTravel #DesignPhilosophy #FemaleEntrepreneur #BusinessJourney

Peter Dunham, an ELLE DECOR A-List interior designer renowned for his 'Englishman-meets-L.A. style,' is expanding his presence with a new 3,500-square-foot showroom in New York City. The showroom, located at the New York Design Center's 200 Lexington Avenue, is set to open on August 19. Dunham, who has been operating from Los Angeles since 2003, expressed his long-held desire to establish a New York presence, stating, 'For me, it’s always New York...and honestly, I wish I’d done it sooner.' The new space will showcase a diverse range of products from both Dunham’s Hollywood at Home and Peter Dunham Textiles brands. Visitors to the showroom will experience an environment designed to emulate Dunham's distinct interior projects, characterized by opulence, playfulness, vintage influences, and a strong affinity for bold colors and patterns. The showroom aims to offer a tangible experience, allowing clients to 'touch and feel and try and test the quality and comfort' of his offerings, emphasizing the designer's belief in the importance of physical interaction with products despite the shift in retail landscapes. The showroom's layout is meticulously curated to reflect Dunham's design philosophy, presenting a comprehensive display of his work. A central feature will be an array of his signature prints and woven fabrics, including the widely recognized 'Fig Leaf' print, which adorns the walls. This is complemented by outdoor furniture selections, such as a textured beige Hollywood at Home Rush Club armchair, upholstered in Nawab fabric. The space also includes a dark green cabinet filled with indoor-outdoor poufs, a varied collection of patterned cushions, and a wall dedicated to fabric swatches, inviting tactile exploration. His latest 'Shani' textile launch, drawing inspiration from Indian block prints, will also be featured. Beyond textiles and seating, the showroom will display lamps, a four-poster bed draped in a 100 percent alpaca bedcover crafted by Peruvian handweavers, and cowhide chairs. Notable pieces include the 'Carmania' woven fabric, previously used in Dunham’s Paris apartment. The showroom is designed to be a condensed yet comprehensive representation of Dunham’s extensive career and dedication to fabric artistry. Dunham describes the showroom as a layered environment, mirroring his approach to designing a room—a fusion of art, accessories, vintage items, his original designs, and collaborations with artisans. For those unable to visit in person, the article provides a glimpse into some of the featured items, offering a preview of the diverse collection available at the new New York location. #PeterDunham #NYCShowroom #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Textiles #HollywoodAtHome #NewYorkDesignCenter #DesignTrends #FabricDesign

The article features an interview with Leo Cesareo, an interior designer, discussing his journey, artistic influences, and personal recommendations for exploring Los Angeles. Cesareo recounts his decision to start his own business after years of working for other designers. He describes a pivotal moment at his last firm, where a negative interaction with a junior designer led him to quit on the spot and establish Leo Cesareo Design seven years ago. This experience highlighted his desire to focus on design rather than office politics and bureaucracy. He notes that this decision was a positive one, as he has not encountered similar issues with his own clients. Cesareo attributes his artistic inclination to his family background. His grandfather was an illustrator and 'Ad Man' in Buenos Aires during the 1950s and 60s, creating hand-drawn advertisements for magazines like Time and Life. His father was an architect and contractor, and Cesareo credits learning to draw by observing his father's work at a drafting table. He humorously mentions learning three-point perspective by kindergarten, much to his elementary teacher's surprise. His artistic education continued at the Visual Arts program at LACHSA and then at RISD, where he studied Film and Art History. During his film studies, he developed an interest in set design, focusing on 'world-building' and the psychology behind characters and their environments, which ultimately led him to transition into interior design. At Leo Cesareo Design, his firm aims to create unique, tailor-made interiors for contemporary individuals and households, drawing on his visual arts background to influence spatial composition and light. When asked about local spots in Los Angeles, Cesareo, a native, emphasizes approaching the city through its individual neighborhoods due to its spread-out nature. He suggests that framing LA in this way makes visitors more open to experiencing different areas, even if it involves traffic. He highly recommends The Cara Hotel, praising its transformation from a 1950s motel into a chic, European-feeling establishment with elegant rooms and a stylish courtyard. Its central location is also a plus for accessing both the East and West Sides of the city. For shopping, he points to Departamento in Downtown LA, highlighting the area's growth into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with interesting shops and cafes. His favorite Korean BBQ spot is Dan Sung Sa, valued for its unique interior design with cubby booths and graffitied walls, which contributes to its 'frenzied cool' atmosphere, making the long wait worthwhile. For an authentic LA experience, he recommends late-night taco trucks, particularly those on Sunset in Echo Park, and diners like Norms and the iconic Johnie’s Broiler (now a Bob’s Big Boy), noting the historical significance of Googie Architecture and fast food in LA's development. For nightlife, he suggests El Cid, Akbar, and underground or gay bars, describing a quintessential LA experience involving secret passwords and unexpected celebrity sightings in unusual locations. Cesareo concludes by giving credit to his alma maters, the LA County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). He emphasizes that these institutions provided him with the foundational experiences, work ethic, and community that have supported him since he was 15 years old. The article also provides contact information for Leo Cesareo Design, including his website, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook profiles. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #LosAngeles #ArtisticInfluence #CreativeJourney #BusinessStartUp #LocalCulture #DesignPhilosophy #RISDEducation

This article highlights seven innovative design studios from across the globe, showcasing their unique approaches to architecture and design. These emerging practitioners are recognized for transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries, from product design blending technology with furniture to architectural firms challenging physical space limitations through virtual installations. Norman Kelley, based in Chicago and New York, is featured for its sly and conceptual approach, often playing with visual expectations. Their "Wrong Chairs" exhibit, for instance, exaggerated elements of the iconic Windsor chair, making them appear "wrong" yet fully functional. Principals Carrie Norman and Thomas Kelley emphasize a rigorous playfulness in their work, valuing impact and gratification over overwhelming designs. Despite being geographically separated, they maintain constant collaboration, blurring the lines between academic and professional practice. Their work extends to residential rehabs and commercial projects, such as their first retail space for Aesop in Chicago, where they utilized reclaimed common brick, and a subsequent project in New York's Tribeca district, using ombré paint to reflect the neighborhood's character. Homeowner Sam Vinz, who commissioned Norman Kelley for a residential project, praises their ability to refresh existing concepts in an accessible manner. San Francisco-based Branch Creative, led by Nick Cronan and Josh Morenstein, specializes in making technology discreet or "invisible." Their product, Plume, replaces traditional Wi-Fi routers with hexagonal pods that blend into home decor, providing efficient wireless connectivity. Both Cronan and Morenstein bring extensive industrial design experience, having worked for notable companies like fuseproject and Ammunition. They ventured into developing futuristic devices, including the modular Google Ara phone and Athos exercise clothing that provides real-time muscle activity feedback, which they refined to be seamless and intuitive. Despite their focus on technology, they are passionate about furniture design, creating pieces for Council's Drift collection that combine classic forms with subtle illusions, emphasizing longevity and sophistication. SIBLING, a young Melbourne-based firm, is recognized for its experimental and participatory approach to design. The five directors—Amelia Borg, Nicholas Braun, Jane Caught, Qianyi Lim, and Timothy Moore—engage in a wide array of projects, including exhibitions, commercial fit-outs, and residential designs. They actively initiate their own research projects, such as the ON/OFF exhibition, which explored the digital and physical worlds by creating a space that blocked smartphone reception. These conceptual investigations inform their commercial work, exemplified by the DUST retail space that integrated a digital commercial platform into a physical setting. SIBLING's freedom from established practice allows them to design a business model that is unique to their founders' processes, clients, and community. Refik Anadol, a media artist based in Los Angeles, explores the intersection of architecture and digital art. Inspired by the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Anadol created large-scale video artworks that transform architectural facades into dynamic canvases. His collaboration with Gehry Technologies and the Los Angeles Philharmonic resulted in immersive experiences like "Visions of America: Amériques," where real-time custom software projected images responsive to music and conductor movements. Anadol's work also extends to public art commissions, such as "Virtual Depictions: San Francisco" for 350 Mission, which uses Twitter data to generate animations on a large LED display, exploring how public art interacts with public data. He envisions a "post-digital architectural future" where media architecture transcends traditional screens and VR. Tropical Space, from Ho Chi Minh City, focuses on eco-friendly and avant-garde architecture that utilizes simple building materials. Founders Nguyen Hai Long and Tran Thi Ngu Ngon specialize in designing porous homes that "breathe" in tropical climates, moving away from conventional closed-off modern Vietnamese housing. Their projects, such as the Terra Cotta Studio and the two-story Termitary House, showcase innovative facades made from traditional red baked bricks, providing both graphic appeal and natural ventilation. They also design custom furniture from recycled materials, emphasizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness while fostering social interaction within living spaces. APRDELESP, a Mexico City-based architecture office, distinguishes itself through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates commercial ventures with design practice. Founders Rodrigo Escandón and Guillermo González operate a variety of "subspaces" including a restaurant, a café that doubles as a furniture showroom, an art gallery, and a print shop. This model allows them to experiment with how space is used and to circumvent traditional design practices. They view these ventures not merely as revenue streams but as experimental projects to foster new thinking and better conditions for their design work. Their unconventional approach to client engagement and public relations emphasizes dynamic interaction over formal style, resulting in a design methodology that documents the full lifespan of a project through casual snapshots and detailed drawings of everyday objects. LCLA, led by Colombian architect Luis Callejas with bases in Oslo and Medellín, integrates landscape, cartography, and botany into architecture. Callejas, who gained prominence through public competitions and his work on the Aquatic Center in Medellín, challenges conventional architectural typologies by blending natural elements with built structures. His conceptual motif of the "island" highlights the potential for unique developments within contained environments. Callejas advocates for cultivating atmospheres rather than prescriptive sequences, using evocative collages as a key representational tool. His work, like "The River That Is Not" study for the Medellín River, proposes integrated strategies for hydrologic remediation and public engagement, demonstrating a political resonance in his designs. His current projects explore topographical sites in the Andes and Norwegian mountains, applying large-scale thinking to residential jobs. #ArchitecturalInnovation #DesignStudios #ProductDesign #SustainableArchitecture #MediaArt #UrbanPlanning #InteriorDesign #ExperimentalDesign #EmergingTalent

Adriana Jacir, founder of 2112 Design Studio, details her journey as an architectural interior designer, emphasizing the motivations behind starting her own business and the challenges she overcame. Her decision to launch her own venture was driven by a desire for flexibility as a parent of two young children without local family support, and a dissatisfaction with the traditional architectural firm environment in the U.S. Having emigrated from another country, she found the architectural landscape in the U.S. significantly different, necessitating a new perspective and learning curve. Her path to entrepreneurship was marked by significant personal and professional hurdles. As an immigrant, the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship was demanding and required considerable resilience. She pursued her Master’s Degree in Advanced Architectural Design at Columbia University in New York City, a long-held dream. However, her husband’s career and immigration status led them to relocate to Detroit, a city where she faced cultural differences and her first experiences with discrimination as a highly educated professional not born in the U.S. Despite these difficulties, she gained valuable experience in an architectural office. A subsequent visa requirement necessitated a move to an underserved area of the U.S. for three years, leading them to Yakima, Washington. Unlike Detroit, Yakima offered a more welcoming environment for foreigners. There, she briefly worked for an architectural firm but quickly recognized the need for greater flexibility, both as a mother and as a designer committed to creating functional, well-designed homes. This led her to co-found her first Design + Build firm in Yakima with a like-minded colleague. They obtained a General Contractor license, assembled a team, and successfully designed and remodeled homes, gaining hands-on experience in managing construction projects. After six years in Washington, her husband’s job offer prompted another move to Miami, where she again started afresh. In Florida, she established 2112 Design Studio, an interior design firm specializing in residential design. The studio focuses on creating thoughtful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living spaces by seamlessly blending architectural principles with interior design. Jacir emphasizes that her unique approach involves considering flow, function, and structure from an architectural perspective, while also integrating the detailed elements that make a house a home. Adriana Jacir attributes her success to resilience, adaptability, and the cultivation of strong relationships. She aims for her story to inspire others, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can unlock significant opportunities even when faced with uncertainty. She credits her husband, Dr. Alberto Jacir, for his unwavering support and belief in her vision, which enabled her to pursue entrepreneurship while managing family life. Her mentor, Cheryl Clendenon, also played a crucial role in shaping her business and design approach. Above all, her children serve as her primary motivation, pushing her to be a better mother and inspiring her to build a meaningful legacy through hard work and passion. #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #ImmigrantJourney #BusinessOwner #ResidentialDesign #Miami #DesignStudio #CareerDevelopment

Edmonton's industrial design scene, characterized by affordable studios, hands-on training, and an entrepreneurial mindset, possesses the talent for a flourishing industry, yet questions remain about sufficient local demand. The University of Alberta's Industrial Design program plays a crucial role in this landscape, emphasizing both conceptual thinking and practical manufacturing skills. This unique approach equips graduates with the ability not only to envision innovative designs but also to understand the tangible processes of production, a competency increasingly rare in other programs that tend to prioritize theory over practical application. Prominent examples like Onetwosix Design, founded by U of A alumni Nick Kazakoff and Brendan Gallagher, illustrate the potential for success within this environment. Their journey began in a residential garage, driven by a shared passion for product design and prototyping. Their early successes, including the popular Selkirk table, led to the formal establishment of Onetwosix Design, which has since grown into a significant enterprise with a dedicated studio, manufacturing space, and 24 full-time employees. Their Loop Phone Booth, initially designed for a local client's open-concept office, has garnered international clients, including major corporations like Disney, Google, and Pokémon, demonstrating the global reach of Edmonton-born innovation. Edmonton's robust manufacturing culture further supports the design community. Designers such as Geof Lilge, founder of Pure Design, On Our Table, and Division Twelve; Jordan Tomnuk of Tomnuk Design; Zoë Mowat, known for her eponymous brand of furniture and home goods; the modern furniture company Izm; and the collective Loyal Loot, have all leveraged the city's resources and culture to achieve notable recognition. These designers often embrace a "shop-first" approach, prioritizing rapid prototyping over extended conceptualization to quickly bring products to market and adapt designs based on practical feedback. However, despite these successes, the design community in Edmonton faces ongoing challenges, primarily concerning the local market's size. While the city offers advantages like affordable industrial space—a significant contrast to more expensive hubs like Toronto or Vancouver—the demand for contemporary furniture locally remains relatively small. This forces many designers, including Lilge and Shane Pawluk of Izm, to target eastern Canadian and international markets, which, while successful, introduces logistical and financial complexities. Pawluk notes that while Albertans spend on outward-facing luxury goods, the market for high-end interior design remains limited, leading many successful Edmonton designers to find their primary customer base outside the province. This dynamic contributes to a boom-and-bust cycle within the local design scene, where promising new ventures may struggle to sustain themselves due to insufficient local demand. The lack of a consistently robust local market also impacts mentorship opportunities and knowledge sharing for emerging designers. Kalie Johnston, director of product design at Poppy Barley, highlights the absence of senior fashion designers in Edmonton from whom she can learn and be mentored, a consequence of talent often seeking opportunities in larger urban centers. However, there's a perceived shift underway. The rising cost of living in traditional design hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal is making Edmonton's affordability increasingly attractive to design talent. This has led to an increase in job applications from outside the province, suggesting a potential for new growth and a more diverse talent pool. Organizations like MADE (Media Architecture Design Edmonton), founded by Shafraaz Kaba, have been instrumental in fostering a resilient design culture for over two decades. With Nick Kazakoff as chair, MADE continues to advocate for and elevate Edmonton's design conversation, aiming to build a sustainable, impactful, and identity-true design scene that positions Edmonton as a design-forward city. The enthusiasm of current U of A industrial design students, such as Hafsah Mohummed and Elisse Canaynay, for the program's practical focus and purposeful design principles, combined with a growing awareness of diversity and multicultural perspectives among students like Faith Adra, indicates a vibrant future for Edmonton's design landscape, provided the city can continue to attract and retain its talented designers. #IndustrialDesign #EdmontonDesign #ProductDesign #DesignCommunity #Manufacturing #Entrepreneurship #UrbanDevelopment #CreativeEconomy #FurnitureDesign

Caton Flats, a mixed-use, LEED Certified development located at the corner of Caton and Flatbush Avenues in Flatbush, Brooklyn, is the 2023 winner recognized by BRP Companies. This project introduces 255 new units of affordable housing, comprising studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, addressing a significant community need. In addition to residential units, the development includes 19,290 square feet of attended parking, 3,808 square feet of office space for the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), and 9,641 square feet of retail space across its cellar and ground levels. A key feature of the project is the redeveloped and expanded Flatbush Central Caribbean Marketplace, an integral part of the neighborhood's cultural fabric. The architectural design, a collaboration between Design Architect Freeform+Deform and Architect of Record Magnusson Architecture and Planning (MAP), emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and functionality. The building's ground floor features glassy storefronts that showcase businesses and activate the streetscape along two facades. The large massing of the building is thoughtfully broken into separate volumes, utilizing variations in material and color to create a more contextual and less imposing structure. Residential interiors are designed with open galley kitchens, high-quality fixtures and finishes, including interlocking wood floors and glossy kitchen cabinets, and a light, modern color palette. Fourteen private terraces are also incorporated, enhancing the living experience. The community impact of Caton Flats is multifaceted, starting with an amenity-rich living environment. The building boasts a grand, limestone-lined lobby featuring a "living greenwall" and a glazed stair, designed to encourage use. The presence of a LEED certification plaque highlights the building's commitment to sustainability. Apartments are designed with large windows to maximize natural light and offer views. A communal roof terrace on the 13th floor provides residents with panoramic views of Prospect Park and lower Manhattan. Additional resident amenities include a lounge on the 13th floor and a gym on the 2nd floor, which opens onto an adjacent rear yard terrace designed for outdoor activities like walking and yoga. The Flatbush Central Caribbean Marketplace, a cherished neighborhood institution, provides vendor spaces for selling goods that celebrate and support the area's rich Caribbean American culture. The interiors of this 13,814 square foot community space were designed by STUDIO 397 Architecture. It also incorporates the Mangrove shared commercial kitchen and design studio, which aims to support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color entrepreneurs by offering opportunities to develop skills and test creative ideas within the food, design, craft, and body care product industries. BRP Companies, a NY-based, certified MWBE real estate firm, is known for its commitment to quality, mixed-use, mixed-income, and energy-efficient developments. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including development, acquisition, construction, property management, and New Markets Tax Credits financing, with a substantial portfolio of completed, under construction, and pre-development projects. #AffordableHousing #MixedUseDevelopment #LEEDCertified #CommunityImpact #BrooklynRealEstate #UrbanPlanning #CaribbeanCulture #SustainableDesign #BRPCompanies

The article discusses the architectural installation "Spirit of the City" by London-based United Visual Artists (UVA) at A/D/O in New York, presented during New York Design Week. This installation is a collaboration with Mini, hosted in their innovative creative space, A/D/O. The primary goal of the installation is to offer a reflective experience within the dynamic urban environment, metaphorically and physically mirroring its surroundings and New York City at large. The installation consists of 9-foot-high modular columns that revolve, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The rotation patterns are not arbitrary; they are based on extensive research into human activity within the city. This research allowed UVA to develop a 24-hour algorithm that dictates the movement of the columns, transitioning from tranquil rhythms to more urgent, dynamic movements. As visitors navigate the space around these colossal totems, they can observe subtle shadows cast onto the ground, forming intricate, poetic patterns that respond to the kinetic energy of the columns. The surface of the columns themselves presents varying perspectives, shifting from serene sky blues to the grittier, industrial aesthetics of A/D/O's creative hub. This visual transformation further emphasizes the interplay between the installation and its urban backdrop. UVA, founded in 2003, is known for its art practice that integrates technology to create experiences that often extend beyond conventional physical boundaries. Their previous works have been showcased globally in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and YCAM in Japan. Matt Clark, founder of UVA, poses a fundamental question through "Spirit of the City": do human activities shape urban landscapes, or do urban landscapes, in turn, define human activities? This philosophical inquiry underpins the interactive and reflective nature of the installation. A/D/O itself, located in a converted warehouse in Brooklyn, opened the previous year, featuring a diverse array of design-focused retail, bars, and restaurants, aligning with Mini's broader design agenda. Mini's head of brand strategy and business innovation, Esther Bahne, states that Mini believes in design's capacity to foster a more humane world. A/D/O initially launched with Design Academy, a three-day festival for professional designers to explore cultural themes. "Spirit of the City" marks the space's first major showcase for NYCxDesign since its opening and was on display until 2 September. The installation, through its thoughtful design and interactive elements, invites contemplation on the symbiotic relationship between people and their urban surroundings. #NewYorkDesignWeek #ArchitecturalInstallation #UnitedVisualArtists #UrbanEnvironment #AdoSpace #MiniCollaboration #KineticArt #PublicArt

Stickbulb, a sustainable lighting company founded by Yale University architecture graduates Russell Greenberg and Chris Beardsley, recently opened its first showroom in Long Island City, New York. Previously operating from a cramped space with limited shelving, the company acquired a 10,000-square-foot former steel factory to accommodate its growing operations. The new location, featuring terracotta walls and wooden floors, not only provides ample space but also reflects the company's commitment to sustainability and modern design. Stickbulb's core mission revolves around sustainability, utilizing salvaged wood from demolished buildings and dismantled water towers for its LED light fixtures. This approach allows each product to carry a unique history, traceable back to its original source. The founders emphasized the importance of this narrative, noting that the wood, often high-grade and knot-free from water towers with a 40-year lifespan, is no longer actively harvested, making its reclamation both environmentally conscious and integral to the product's character. The company’s design process is highly collaborative, focusing on iterating on a foundational system of wooden sticks with embedded LEDs and various metal connector pieces. This modular approach allows for the creation of a diverse range of lighting solutions, including linear pendants, chandeliers, wall sconces, and even functional pieces like side tables, all while maintaining the common element of the reclaimed wooden sticks. A notable art piece in the showroom, "Ambassador," was inspired by Russell Greenberg's sketch of a water tower. This sculpture aims to convey the history and urban context of the reclaimed water tower redwood without explicit words, highlighting the material's past in a sculptural form. The decision to use water tower wood was driven by its iconic presence in New York and other Northeastern urban centers, its consistent supply due to replacement cycles, and its high quality, being free of defects. The new showroom consolidates all aspects of Stickbulb's business—design, production, sales, and marketing—under one roof, a long-held dream for the founders. This unified space allows visitors to not only view the finished products but also observe the manufacturing process and meet the team behind them. The design of the showroom itself was approached with flexibility in mind, incorporating elements like curtains to easily reconfigure the space. While currently enjoying their expanded premises, the founders expressed confidence in the space's ability to support future growth. #Stickbulb #LongIslandCity #SustainableDesign #LEDLighting #ReclaimedWood #ArchitecturalSalvage #ShowroomDesign #ProductDesign #NewYorkCity #InteriorLighting

This article features an interview with Vanessa Rome, an interior designer based in New York City, discussing her career, business philosophy, and personal recommendations. Rome attributes her success to a Type A personality, strong organizational skills, and an unwavering passion for interior design. She emphasizes that her work feels less like a job and more like a calling, which allows her to dedicate long hours and weekends to her projects without feeling burdened. Vanessa Rome Interiors operates as a boutique residential interior design studio in New York City. Rome deliberately limits the number of projects taken on each year to fewer than ten. This approach ensures that each client receives a high level of personalized attention and meticulous care, reflecting the standard of service she would expect as a client herself. A key lesson she has learned in her career is the critical importance of measuring and re-measuring everything to ensure accuracy and prevent errors in design execution. When asked about recommendations for a friend visiting New York City, Rome suggests a culinary and cultural tour. Her top dining picks include Indochine, a long-standing favorite from her NYU days, and upscale Asian restaurants like Nobu and Mr. Chow. For activities, she recommends walking through the neighborhoods of Tribeca and Soho to explore various clothing and furniture stores, indulging her passion for both fashion and home aesthetics. A stroll through Central Park is also highlighted for its people-watching opportunities and scenic beauty. Rome acknowledges the significant contributions of several individuals and groups to her professional journey. She expresses gratitude for the support of her husband and family, who provide her with the freedom and encouragement to pursue her demanding career. Her team also receives recognition, as she states that she could not achieve her goals without their collaboration and dedication. Additionally, she values her fellow interior designer colleagues, who serve as sources of inspiration, guidance, and emotional support during stressful periods. The article also provides contact information for Vanessa Rome Interiors, including her website (vanessaromeinteriors.com) and Instagram handle (@vanessaromeinteriors). The illustrations accompanying the article are credited to photographers Marco Ricca and Julia Lynn. The interview concludes by encouraging readers to nominate other deserving individuals for recognition through Shoutout Miami's platform, reinforcing the community-driven mission of the publication. #InteriorDesign #VanessaRome #Entrepreneurship #NewYorkCity #DesignStudio #WorkEthic #BoutiqueBusiness #PersonalInterview

The article presents an interview with Chris Dorsey, an architect and artist based in the Downtown LA Arts District, detailing his journey of starting his own architectural practice. Dorsey established Chris Dorsey Architects in January 2021, at the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before this, he did not consider himself an entrepreneur, but a period of self-reflection during the pandemic led him to reevaluate his career trajectory. He previously worked as an in-house architect for a national juice company, managing the design and construction of new stores across the U.S. While initially enjoying the role and his colleagues, he found himself increasingly drawn into corporate management aspects, moving away from the creative architectural work he cherished. The slowdown during COVID-19 provided the opportunity to prioritize and decide that launching his own firm was the best path forward. Chris Dorsey Architects focuses on a variety of projects, from small, custom restaurant and retail spaces to larger adaptive reuse projects, which involve converting existing industrial buildings into new uses. Dorsey emphasizes the collaborative aspect of his work, partnering with clients to achieve the best version of their projects. He cites a veterinary clinic renovation as a favorite recent project, where he incorporated color, sound, sight, and texture to create a nurturing and healing environment for animals, highlighting the profound impact of architectural design on its occupants. Although his primary experience is with commercial projects, Dorsey has also undertaken custom residential Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and renovation/addition projects, finding satisfaction in this different pace and experience compared to the often fast-paced and technically demanding restaurant and retail sector. A significant aspect of Dorsey's work that he finds most exciting is the ability to unlock the hidden potential of challenging sites or ideas. He acknowledges that every project comes with its unique constraints and complications. However, he believes that by understanding and leveraging the distinct characteristics of a site, unique design possibilities can emerge that might not have been apparent otherwise. This approach allows him to transform limitations into opportunities for innovative design solutions. When asked about local recommendations, Dorsey shares insights from his life and work in the Arts District. A perfect day for him would begin with a visit to the Hauser & Wirth galleries, followed by lunch at Manuela, where the cream biscuits remind him of his Georgia roots, and he enjoys seeing the chickens raised on-site. For evening entertainment, he recommends The Obscure, a speakeasy that features live artists and performers, particularly noting its special ambiance during Halloween. When he ventures outside downtown, Playa Provisions in Marina del Rey is a favored spot for coffee and beach walks, appreciated for being less crowded than Santa Monica and having many dogs playing in the sand. Dorsey also takes the opportunity to acknowledge his wife, Ashley Sims, a TV writer and author, as a significant influence and source of support. He credits her as the reason he is in Los Angeles and praises her creativity and strong work ethic, recognizing her consistent encouragement since the beginning of his endeavors. #ChrisDorsey #Architect #Artist #ArchitecturalPractice #Entrepreneurship #LosAngelesArtsDistrict #AdaptiveReuse #CommercialDesign #ResidentialDesign #CreativeProcess #LocalRecommendations

Bella Mancini of Bella Mancini Design undertook the task of furnishing a nearly 3,500-square-foot loft in Dumbo, Brooklyn, for a family of four. The objective was to create a space that offered serenity at the day's end while also accommodating frequent entertaining. The loft, situated in a former industrial building, already possessed significant character with its natural wood columns, exposed brick walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. High-end white oak floors and a new developer's kitchen were also existing features, meaning Mancini's focus was primarily on furniture, custom millwork, lighting, paint, wallpaper, and soft furnishings. The design process was heavily influenced by the clients' lifestyle. With two preteen daughters, a husband who works from home, and a wife with demanding hours, the need for both relaxation and functionality was paramount. The couple's enjoyment of entertaining also played a crucial role in the layout and furnishing choices. This led to the establishment of two distinct dining areas: a casual space near the large windows featuring an Eero Saarinen tulip table, wicker chairs, and a custom banquette that doubles as a desk, and a more formal dining setup elsewhere in the loft. The open kitchen and living area, centrally located, were designed for fluid movement and informal gatherings, encouraging guests to choose any available seat rather than adhering to a formal dining structure. Mancini aimed to infuse a relaxed, breezy Californian aesthetic into the New York setting. However, acknowledging the clients' British background and their Hamptons home's English country style, some glamorous and sparkly touches were incorporated to satisfy their preference for a slightly dressier city environment. The kitchen, visible upon entry, features a dropped ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe to conceal wiring, with Louis Poulsen glass globe pendants illuminating the island. The foyer is anchored by a vintage Scandinavian piece, setting an immediate tone for the home's curated style. Custom elements are prevalent throughout the loft, such as the banquette in the casual dining area, which is also painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe, a dark gray used in multiple spaces. The living area showcases a sophisticated and unconventional color palette, including a pink Chesterfield sofa complemented by vintage ochre and gray armchairs, with two coffee tables sourced from Jayson Home. The formal dining area is defined by pink grasscloth wall covering, featuring chrome Breuer chairs from Knoll upholstered in durable mohair, surrounding a wood table from the Danish Design Store. A custom-designed credenza by Mancini further enhances this space. The powder room received a facelift with Ellie Cashman floral wallpaper, an Apparatus light fixture, and a vanity painted in Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon. The daughters' rooms also feature personalized designs, such as tie-dyed wallpaper from Donghia and canopy beds, alongside custom-built desks and bookshelves designed by Mancini. The master bedroom includes nightstands from Lawson Fenning, a whimsical side table from Artemest, and a chaise lounge from Gubi, with Italian garment-dyed linens from Society Limonata at ABC Carpet & Home. These design choices collectively create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment tailored to the family's needs and aesthetic preferences. #BellaMancini #BellaManciniDesign #InteriorDesign #LoftDesign #OpenPlanLiving #DumboBrooklyn #CustomMillwork #ResidentialInteriors

The Shed, located in New York, United States, is a non-profit cultural organization dedicated to commissioning, developing, and presenting original works of art across various disciplines for diverse audiences. Completed in 2019, the building, known as the Bloomberg Building, was designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Rockwell Group. The facility spans an area of 18,500 square meters and is notable for its physical adaptability, engineered to accommodate a wide range of artistic endeavors. The Bloomberg Building features an eight-level base structure. This base includes two dedicated levels for gallery space, providing ample room for art exhibitions. Additionally, it houses the versatile Griffin Theater, designed to host performances and events. The upper levels of the base are home to The Tisch Skylights, which encompass a rehearsal space, a creative lab for local artists, and a skylit event space, offering flexible areas for artistic development and public engagement. A key architectural feature of The Shed is its telescoping outer shell. This shell can be deployed from over the base building and glides along rails onto an adjoining plaza, creating an expansive outdoor performance area known as The McCourt. This innovative design allows the building to physically transform, effectively expanding its footprint and capacity to host large-scale performances, installations, and events, responding dynamically to the needs of different artistic presentations. The project involved a comprehensive team of consultants and specialists to bring its complex design to fruition. Diller Scofidio + Renfro served as the lead architects, with Rockwell Group collaborating on the architectural design. Key consultants included Thornton Tomasetti for structural design, facade engineering, and kinetic engineering services, highlighting the intricate movable structure. Jaros Baum & Bolles handled MEP and fire protection, while Vidaris provided energy modeling consultation. Lighting design was managed by Tillotson Design Associates, and acoustic consultation by Akustiks. Construction management was overseen by Sciame Construction. Vertical transport consultants Van Deusen & Associates contributed to the building's internal logistics. Specialized consultants for the kinetic systems included Hardesty & Hanover, and Fisher Dachs Associates served as theater consultants, ensuring the functionality of the performance spaces. Cimolai was the structural steel fabricator, and Vector Foiltec fabricated the ETFE (Ethylene TetrafluoroFluoroethylene) material used in the outer shell. Additional expertise was provided by Code Consultants Inc. for building codes, Ducibella Venter & Santore for security, Entek Engineering for facade maintenance, James R. Gainfort for waterproofing, and Construction Specifications Inc. for specifications. Graphic design and wayfinding were handled by Other Means. The project's photography was primarily captured by Timothy Schenck, documenting the building's exterior and interior spaces. #CulturalArchitecture #ExhibitionCenter #NewYork #DillerScofidioRenfro #RockwellGroup #KineticArchitecture #PublicArtSpace #ArchitecturalInnovation #BuildingTransformation

John Marsala and Becka Citron, the creative and business partners behind Modern Anthology, have shifted their focus to interior design services after closing their physical retail stores in Dumbo and Cobble Hill. This move builds on their original business model, as interior design was their primary focus before venturing into retail. Their signature industrial chic aesthetic, previously evident in their stores, is now a hallmark of their interior design projects, such as the Dumbo loft featured in this article. The project involved furnishing a 2,400-square-foot loft for a young couple with a small child. The loft, located in a converted industrial building, retained original features like exposed brick and wooden columns. The designers were tasked with creating a functional and stylish living space, moving away from the clients' initial plans for fully custom-made furnishings. A key structural change was the addition of a dividing wall to create a dedicated den/TV area, separating it from the main living space. The primary focus, however, was on sourcing new furnishings, predominantly from retail outlets. The design choices were influenced by the homeowners' existing art collection, which included quirky pieces such as a framed print humorously stating ‘I was young and needed the money’ and a striking, large-scale portrait. These artworks signaled to Citron that the clients were open to bold design elements and did not wish for an overly conventional approach. The designers integrated these artistic cues into a cohesive design that blended industrial elements with comfort and personality. Key furniture selections included a Chesterfield-style sofa and egg-shaped mid-century chairs from Restoration Hardware, demonstrating a blend of classic and modern aesthetics. A vintage wing chair was given a distinctive update with plastic-coated fabric imprinted with street signs on the back and a tailored pin stripe on the front. An over-dyed vintage rug from Nomadic Trading Company added texture and color, while a Serge Mouille wall-mounted sconce provided sophisticated lighting. For the informal breakfast area, blue vintage chairs paired with a Saarinen-style pedestal table created a casual yet elegant spot. The dining area features a live-edge table complemented by wire chairs reminiscent of Eames designs from Modernica. A long hallway leading to the bedrooms was transformed into a gallery space, displaying framed photos and art unified by simple wood and metal frames. The primary bedroom maintained a warm ambiance with natural brick, furnished with a bed by Brooklyn-based Uhuru Design, a dresser by L.A.-based designer Thomas Bina, and a chandelier from Apparatus, further emphasizing the blend of industrial roots with contemporary design. This project exemplifies Modern Anthology's ability to create warm, functional, and industrially chic interiors using a mix of sourced retail pieces and thoughtful design interventions. #DumboLoft #InteriorDesign #ModernAnthology #IndustrialChic #HomeRenovation #BrooklynDesign #FurnitureSourcing #ResidentialDesign

The article presents a "Lunch" interview with renowned interior designer Jamie Drake and his publicist Michael McGraw. The interview takes place at Michael's restaurant and focuses on Drake's extensive career, his high-profile clientele, and his global design ventures. Jamie Drake, known for his impeccable taste, has built a formidable business in interior design, both domestically and internationally. He is celebrated for his bold use of color, luxurious materials, and modern yet elegant aesthetic. During the discussion, Drake shares insights into his work for prominent figures, including his long-standing collaboration with former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. He details how he designed Bloomberg's homes, including his Manhattan townhouse, a Westchester County estate, a Bermuda residence, and a Hamptons property. Drake emphasizes the importance of understanding a client's lifestyle and preferences to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. He mentions that Bloomberg, despite his public persona, desired homes that felt private and personal, reflecting his need for a sanctuary away from public life. Beyond his work for American elites, Drake discusses his expanding presence in the international market, particularly in China. He highlights the growing demand for high-end interior design among China's new generation of millionaires. Drake elaborates on the cultural nuances and design preferences he encounters in China, noting a blend of traditional Chinese elements with contemporary global aesthetics. He emphasizes the excitement and challenge of working in a rapidly evolving market with clients who are eager to embrace modern luxury while honoring their heritage. Drake also touches upon the business aspects of his design practice, including how he manages complex projects and maintains his reputation as a leading designer. He and McGraw discuss the role of public relations in shaping Drake's brand and securing new opportunities. The conversation provides a glimpse into the dynamic relationship between a designer and their publicist, underscoring the strategic efforts involved in building and sustaining a high-profile career in the design industry. The article showcases Drake's journey from being recognized at events like the Fashion Group International's Annual Night of Stars gala to becoming a globally sought-after designer. It offers a comprehensive look at his design philosophy, his client relationships, and his adaptations to different cultural contexts. The interview concludes by reinforcing Drake's significant impact on the world of interior design, cementing his status as a key tastemaker whose influence extends across continents and diverse clientele. #InteriorDesign #JamieDrake #LuxuryDesign #MichaelBloomberg #GlobalDesign #ChineseMarket #DesignBusiness #HighEndInteriors #NewYorkDesign