• The Balance Between Tradition and Innovation
    When designing new construction, one should consider the surrounding “buildingscape”.  When was this neighborhood built?  What is the history? What style are the existing structures, how will the new design fit in or stand out?  A good  design blends function and form.  A well thought out plan incorporates an updated look while complementing the existing
  • A Glimpse into the G7 Homes – Part 2
    Heads of state around the world live in iconic homes. See part 2 of the G7 list below. Part 1 here.  Japan – Naikaku Sōri Daijin Kantei The Naikaku Sōri Daijin Kantei, translated to English as the Prime Minister’s Office, is commonly referred to as Kantei. This building houses the office, but not the residence,
  • A Glimpse into the G7 Homes – Part 1
    Heads of state around the world live in iconic homes. See part 1 of the G7 list below. Part 2 here.  Canada – Gorffwysfa The official residence of the Prime Minister of Canada is located in Ottawa, Ontario. Affectionately called after its address, the home is known as 24 Sussex. The house was built by
  • Dresses Inspired by Landmarks
    Fashion and architecture are closely related. Innovative designs and materials often find themselves referenced in both creative fields. Below are four dresses that drew inspiration from architecture around the world. Marchesa Dress: Marchesa ready to wear Fall 2008 collection Designer or creative director: Georgina Chapman Inspiration: The Kawasaki Daishi Buddhist temple in Kawasaki, Japan.  Architect:
  • The Iconic Heart of NYC’s Entertainment and Architecture
    30 Rockefeller Plaza, otherwise known as the Comcast Building, is one of New York City’s most iconic pieces of architecture. The building is the 66 story skyscraper sitting at the center of the Plaza and is nicknamed 30 Rock. The building is designed in an art deco style by architect Raymond Hood. As the 65th
  • Monumental Projects and Their Astronomical Costs
    Building anything these days is expensive and the costs seem to be on an ever climbing trajectory caused by inflation and the rising cost of materials. People trying to complete simple home renovations or build brand new structures are feeling the burn of these ever rising costs and having to make adjustments to offset their
  • Monuments Chosen by the People
    In 2001 an effort to name the New Seven Wonders of the World was initiated. Plans to select seven of the roughly 200 agreed upon monuments were laid. The Swiss-born Canadian filmmaker, museum curator, and explorer Bernard Weber led the project. The six year project was organized by the New 7 Wonders Foundation (N7W) based
  • Architectural Marvels Across Time
    The 7 wonders of the world, oftentimes referred to as the seven wonders of the ancient world are each an architectural marvel of their own. Across continents, cultures and centuries these seven structures provide insight into how humans lived and developed throughout history. The Great Pyramid of Giza Built in c.2600 BC this pyramid stands
  • Are we in Japan or Europe?
    One of the most famous genres of Anime is the infamous Isekai, which basically means a character gets sent to another world either by being reborn or being summoned or teleported. Doing this allows for the story to borrow from many different locations in order to get the vibe that they want for their story!
  • Cheat Sheet: Movie Sets You Can Visit
    Wether you’re in New Zealand, England or the USA, movie enthusiast will be pleased to find iconic sets hidden in plain sight. Field of dreams road trippers traveling through Dyersville, Iowa will be pleased to find the original Field of Dreams baseball field. Open 12 months a year from sunrise to sunset (weather permitting) visitors
  • Colorful Corners of the World: Vibrant Historic Neighborhoods You Need to Visit
    Gamla Stan, Stockholm, SwedenLiterally translated to ‘old town’, Stockholm’s old city center is a colorful culture packed island perfect for any type of visitor. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries most of the buildings are no more than five or six stories tall. Get your instagram ready pictures in Stortorget Square and then continue
  • Why Cities Choose Their Iconic Colors
    Everyone can recognize Paris’s beige Champs Elysees, Greece’s blue and white houses, and New York City’s gray and glass skyscrapers. But did you know there are intentional reasons for these colors? Find out below City planning dates back to the ancient world when basic survival needs were the priority. Cities formed along waterways and served
  • 5 Gothic Buildings to Visit This Halloween in NYC
    1. The Dakota ApartmentsOn the corner of Central Park West and 72nd Street in Manhattan stands The Dakota Apartments. The building was originally designed by architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh for American lawyer and businessman Edward Cabot Clark. Its facade displays deep roofs with dormers, spandrels, and balustrades – all iconic features of gothic architecture. The
  • The Derogatory Roots of Gothic Architecture
    What do you think of when you hear the term “Gothic”? Are you envisioning haunted houses, a perpetually grumpy, depressed teenager, or perhaps the daring fashion designs of Alexander McQueen? The term “Gothic” has evolved dramatically over the centuries, even changing its meanings and associations.Gothic architecture first appeared in the 11th century in France, but
  • 3 Simple Secrets for a Fresh Take on Architecture Analysis
    Architecture noun  1. the art or science of building 2. architectural product or work Merriam Webster Dictionary Historians dedicate their lives to analyzing architecture, but with a bit of creativity and perspective, you can begin your own exploration. Here are five key factors that experts consider in their study of architecture. Culture Architecture is often
  • 5 Great NYC Architecture Tours
    Take a Building Tour with AIA New York – $10 per person, reserve tickets online a few days in advance. Some tours sell out quickly. Guided intimate tours of important buildings in New York City. Upcoming tours include: Triangle Fire Memorial, Union Square, Lever House, and New York Hall of Science. Check the website for