Atomic Spa Suisse by Architect Simone Micheli

Architect Simone Micheli completed the wellness spa for the Excedra Milan Hotel in Milan Italy. I have to get there as soon as humanely possible. Check out more pictures and information at Micheli's site


images credit: Simone Micheli

Paris' Sports Center for Kids

Designed by Paris-based KOZ Architects, and coexisting with several older educational buildings and a residential development, the 1,600 square-meter facility is unexpected and bold in its riotous use of colors both inside and out. A more typical an approach for this type of neighborhood would have been a structure that vanishes into its surroundings. The funhouse by KOZ has turned into a favorite of kids, parents and teachers, as the facility was planned and its wild colors used in specific ways that fosters the intended functions -- play and sports – and not just to shock or delight. VIA CH

Louis Vuitton: Art, Fashion and Architecture

Luxury and art have never been more closely linked than they are in these early years of the twenty-first century. Virtually all the world’s major luxury houses have associated themselves with contemporary art through sponsorships, commissions, or foundations, and these points of exchange nourish the increasingly symbiotic relationship between fashion, art, and other design disciplines. Of all modern luxury brands, Louis Vuitton can claim to maintain the richest and most varied associations with the world of art. Included in this volume are Louis Vuitton’s important collaborations with an elite group of artists, architects, designers, and photographers. VIA Amazon

In celebration of the book, Louis Vuitton partnered with artist Camille Scherrer to create this animated film.

Chukar Chandeliers by Yeni Mao

Having this chandelier in your home will definitely make a statement.

Chukar Chandelier illustrates the story of desire surrounding the Indian myth of the chukar, a bird to South Asia and the national bird of Pakistan, which is said to be in love with the moon and to gaze at it continuously. For this stunning chandelier, 110 brilliant chukar skulls are arranged in hanging flock formation. At once elegant and macabre, these bronze skulls plated in 14-karat gold provide an allegory for the loss and disconnection experienced in human immigrations, a central theme to Mao's work that addresses the complications of cultural hybridization, correlating human social behavior and functions of natural systems.VIA Artware

The Carla Ridge Residence

Modernism Redefined. This home just received a 2 year ground up rebuild of the highest possible quality. Upon walking through the gated front yard and house, you are greeted by staggering city light views just beyond your infinity edge pool. Private, gated, large grassy yard, Poliform kitchen/closets, Crestron home automation, Vantage lighting, Biteca switches, Antonio Lupi Bathrooms, Ann Saks glass tile, Tre-Piu doors.

VIA WEA

Hotel of the Week: Mondrian South Beach

The Mondrian South Beach is the latest addition to the Morgans Hotel Group (MHG). According to MHG, the visionary style of designer Marcel Wanders is apparent from the moment you pull into the porte-cochere: guests walk through a grand entryway appointed with custom-designed furniture, lighting and accent pieces, evoking Wanders’ design homage of “Sleeping Beauty’s Castle”. Upon entering the soaring lobby, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of Biscayne Bay. Immediately the eye is drawn to the masterpiece of the room–an iconic, signature “floating staircase.” Black and gold patterned furnishings and oversized brass bell shaped lights add a touch of whimsy and welcome guests to sit and socialize or enjoy the view. Next time we are in the MIA, this will be our suite spot.

Central Los Angeles High School #9

Design architect Coop Himmeld(l)au spearheaded the team that built this extraordinary performance arts high school that is nestled in central Los Angeles, CA. Only in LaLa Land will high school be this fly.