Love For Color

2012-01-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

Matt + Nidhal • Wedding Highlight from VisualMasterpiece on Vimeo.

Touches of pink

2012-01-15T15:04:00.000-08:00

New Year

2012-01-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Resolutions are expected at the beginning of a new year and I wanted to put mine in a place that I could look back to to see my progress through the year!

1. STAY ACTIVE! I want to finally lose these extra pounds (about 30 lbs) but most of all be healthy in the way I eat and active in my everyday life.

2. Continue a healthy and wonderful relationship with my boyfriend.

3. Find a job and hold a paycheck through the year.

4. Get a practicum for the summer, crossing my fingers for a wedding planning company.

5. Travel... when I can! Cruise for spring break & Charleston in summertime, please & thank you!

6. Build my wardrobe... even more! "I like my money where I can see it, in my closet"

7. Do good in school, bring up GPA and strive for A/B honor roll.

8. Volunteer and begin doing 5k races.

Orange Pants

2011-12-28T16:39:00.001-08:00

Orange Pants by mjgrumie featuring a fitted denim shirt

TopShop fitted denim shirt, $60
HUGO slim blazer, $470
Chloé zipper pants, $865
Miu Miu fold over tote, $1,495
Michael Kors sports jewelry, $195
Tory burch jewelry, $95
Tory burch earrings, $58
Oliver Peoples keyhole sunglasses, $350

Christmas Day

2011-12-24T17:32:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day by mjgrumie featuring a sequin cardigan

Stella McCartney sequin cardigan, $1,495
Donna Karan high waisted skinny pants, $1,995
Tory Burch ballet shoes, $195
Marc by Marc Jacobs genuine leather handbag, $428
Michael Kors logo watch, $195
Mulberry black bangle, $195
Majorica post earrings, $40
Oliver Peoples logo sunglasses, $350
Amazon.com: 12" Black & Silver Shatterproof Christmas Ball Ornament..., $20

Casual with Sparkle

2011-12-21T18:19:00.001-08:00

Casual with Sparkle by mjgrumie featuring platform stiletto heels

Theyskens theory sleeveless top, £42
Tube skirt
Dolce Vita platform stiletto heels, $130
Kate Spade bridal necklace, $295
Pave ring

Country Concerts

2011-12-21T18:00:00.001-08:00

Country Concerts by mjgrumie featuring tortoise watches

J Crew blouse, $198
Abercrombie & Fitch vintage shorts, $58
Ralph Lauren cognac boots, $500
Marc by marc jacobs handbag, $428
Michael Kors tortoise watch, $195
Mulberry black bangle, $195
Gucci square frame sunglasses, £180

Cold & Comfy

2011-12-21T17:12:00.001-08:00

Cold & Comfy by mjgrumie featuring glitter sunglasses

Jane Norman knit top, £16
Valentino black pants, €660
UGG Australia sand boots, £175
Marc Jacobs leather shoulder handbag, $695
Mulberry coin jewelry, $230
Alex and Chloe heart shaped stud earrings, $90
Selima Optique glitter sunglasses, $360
Christopher Fischer knit scarve, $275
One Kings Lane - Holiday Ornaments & Decor - Set of 6 Antiqued Gold...

Preppy

2011-12-21T16:38:00.001-08:00

Preppy by mjgrumie featuring empire waistline dresses

Empire waistline dress, £30
H m jacket, £25
Marc Jacobs shoulder strap bag, $1,295
Michael kors jewelry, $195
Majorica tahitian pearl jewelry, $40
Oliver Peoples keyhole sunglasses, $350
American Apparel hair clip accessory, $14

Boho

2011-12-21T16:25:00.001-08:00

Boho by mjgrumie featuring high heels

Sheer top, $86
Pleated maxi skirt, £132
Giuseppe Zanotti high heels, $595
H M leather belt, £9.99
CHANEL Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eyeshadow, €38
Tokyo Milk Eiffel Tower Soap, $11

Christmas Day

2011-12-21T15:12:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day by mjgrumie featuring faded jeans

The Row cashmere shirt, $1,575
TopShop tailored jacket, $130
AG Adriano Goldschmied faded jeans, £118
Tory Burch flat shoes, $195
Coral jewelry
Gold Stars Mega Pack 70g - £3.99 : Balloons and Party Supplies, From..., £3.99

Texture

2011-12-19T11:41:00.001-08:00

Texture by mjgrumie featuring high heels

Rare Opulence cocktail dress, $330
Elie Saab sequin blazer, $2,417
Jimmy Choo high heels, $1,150
Chloé magnetic clutch, $945
Amrita Singh bib necklace, $250
Kenneth Jay Lane stone ring, £80

Pretty in Pink

2011-12-18T21:02:00.001-08:00

Pretty in Pink by mjgrumie featuring sequin tank tops

See by Chloe sequin tank top, $135
McQ by Alexander McQueen cotton blazer, $570
MaxMara winter white pants, £185
Dolce Vita platform pumps, $130
Black earrings, $940
Kate Spade pearl bib necklace, $295
BARNES & NOBLE | City Lights Cover for NOOK Color by Barnes & Noble, $79

Classy Preppy

2011-12-18T20:43:00.001-08:00

Classy Preppy by mjgrumie featuring cotton skirts

Woolrich spread collar shirt, $59
Preen cotton skirt, £260
Marc by Marc Jacobs flat shoes, $230
J Crew j crew handbag, $118
Gold engraved jewelry, $3,800
Majorica pearl jewelry, $65
Gold Stars Mega Pack 70g - £3.99 : Balloons and Party Supplies, From..., £3.99

A lil' spice

2011-12-18T20:26:00.001-08:00

A lil' spice by mjgrumie featuring stiletto heels

Agent Ninetynine long tank top, $30
Black jacket, £210
Donna Karan high waisted pants, $1,995
Gianmarco Lorenzi stiletto heels, £1,319
Clutch handbag, $200

4

2011-12-18T14:33:00.001-08:00

4 by mjgrumie featuring a sequin tank

Vince sequin tank, $119
McQ by Alexander McQueen two button blazer, £414
J Brand skinny jeans, $338
Christian louboutin flat, £625
Givenchy gold clutch, $1,220
Melissa Joy Manning bezel ring, $515

Dressy New Years

2011-12-18T13:42:00.001-08:00

Dressy New Years by mjgrumie featuring a draped dress

Notte by Marchesa draped dress, $1,051
ALDO rhinestone heels, $135
Animal print clutch, £63
PERLOTA gold jewelry, €2.165

Black & Gold

2011-12-18T13:30:00.001-08:00

Black & Gold by mjgrumie featuring yellow gold earrings

J Crew sequin top, $120
Donna Karan high waisted leather pants, $1,995
Glitter wedge, $200
Mulberry lock jewelry, $195
Marc by marc jacobs jewelry, $149
Yellow gold earrings, $940
Selima Optique glitter sunglasses, $360

Fancy Colors

2011-12-18T13:29:00.001-08:00

Fancy Colors by mjgrumie featuring studded handbags

New Obsession

2011-12-12T18:35:00.000-08:00

I'm obsessed with Pinterest!!

Closet are my favorite room in the house

2011-11-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

*lovelist

*elements of style

Baby its cold[er] outside

2011-11-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

*images: see jane. & atlantic-pacific

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T08:35:00.001-07:00

More loves of Fall

2011-10-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

*elements of style

*cupcakes & cashmere

*atlantic-pacific

Lauren Conrad

2011-10-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Lauren Conrad is such an inspirational person. As a woman, she presents herself as a classy, real, loving friend. I'd love to meet her one day.

images: LC Daily Pics, Daily dose of LC

Fall Sweaters

2011-10-17T19:08:00.001-07:00

images: la la lovely, brooklyn blonde, atlantic-pacific

2011-10-17T19:01:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to have a room to myself, to call my office! The window seat, the numerous storage cubbies, and the warm color palette with pops of white are all my style.

all images: decorology

Subtle Classics

2011-10-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

photos: frassy & atlantic-pacific (2)

2011-10-12T09:14:00.001-07:00

Fall on my mind

2011-10-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

I want everything in this collage I found on Elements of Style, they provide the link to each item! This fall season I want to wear more layers, sweaters with button up underneath and even try some leather pants of leggings with leather detail!!!

This fall outfit looks so cute and easy for a day this October! seejane.

2011-09-27T19:03:00.000-07:00

O.M.G. SHOES!!

Even though it's the end of the summer, I love this imagine of one lucky lady that has a closet full of Lilly Pulitzer!

Falling into Fall

2011-09-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

*truly smitten, just dandy

Whats not to love?!

2011-09-06T17:51:00.001-07:00

Obsessed.

2011-09-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

I found a new blogger that I love!!!! Her blog is Atlantic-Pacific

2011-08-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a faithful follower of HRHCollection, she first started with just a blog to share fashion and some design but then she started doing videos of OOTD and make up routines. She's very inspirational and has great things to look at. This is an image from her new apartment. Loving everything about it.

The shelves infront of the small pattern is a simple, cute idea and my favorite color combo lately is any shade of blue paired with pink.

A vintage touch with this luggage chest looks great as a subtle, rustic table to display your alcohol.

Colors!

2011-08-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

*befrassy and brooklynblonde

Bench Nook.

2011-07-31T16:35:00.000-07:00

Breakfast nook above or a nook for taking off your shoes. Love both.

Color and looking into Fall

2011-07-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

I love the nautical stripes paired with casual jeans and brights pieces. A relaxed, yet put together look.

Bright pants are all the rage this summer and even into the fall. These orange pants I came across look great into the fall, paired with the neutral top and brown jacket.

Another pair of bright bottoms, with more of the wide leg, looks great with the jean on top of this outfit.

*justdandy & element of style

2011-07-08T19:48:00.000-07:00

Closets get me every time!!!

Frassy!

2011-07-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

all images from: frassy

Organized Clutter

2011-06-23T17:00:00.001-07:00

*befrassy

Daydreaming

2011-06-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

My mom and I have decided that I will experience the Kleinfeld "Yes" to the dress once it's time for me to start looking! I don't want to start looking before like some girls do because they get their hopes up about something that may not happen and the dress may not be for them. I want to try on for the feel and get the "WOW" moment!

LaRoque in Columbia, SC is a dress designer that specializes in beautiful dresses for occasions like the Carolina Cup, formals, even bridesmaid dresses!

Love this image in the city!

I want to feel like a princess, slipping into my glass slipper, as I'm getting ready to meet my prince at the alter!

Oh... you know.... Tiffany & Co. would definitely be a sweet little touch

I wanna go somewhere beautiful...

2011-06-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

2011-06-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Another project

2011-06-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

Some damages I'll need to repair before the fun part starts!!

The beautiful front of the one thats in one piece.

A side detail of the coloring and legs

The second one is in two pieces but no chew marks, so less repairs!

Can't wait to refinish and restore these two beautiful, antique, french nightstands, complete with marble tops and porcelain inside one!

just a few...

2011-05-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

Sex & the City. <3

images: keep calm and... , fabulous k

Oh Tomorrow, Tomorrow...

2011-05-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my first day at my internship with HFI Brands and besides the anxious feelings I have for my first project, I want to look the part! I'm going to curl my hair with a 1 inch barrel to create the soft waves like Lauren Conrad in the photo above. As for clothing, its not going to be that nice tomorrow so I'm thinking a casual outfit like loose fitting tee, probably light pink and black leggings or dark wash jeans. Along with that I'm going to wear my black patent flats and pearl earrings. Wish me luck!!!

Cute...

2011-05-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

*images: misscocochanel

2011-05-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

I love BOWS!!! And the messy updo in the top photo with the headband is fabulous! In the bottom photo, the girl has a dewy, classic make up look and beautiful straight, volumed hair!!

*images: Once upon a time..., Park Avenue Princess

Trying something new....

2011-05-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been all about looking fresh and light. My make up in this photo consists of:

Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup in #4 -- in my "T-Zone" Area

Clinique Blended Face Powder in Transparency 3 -- all over my face

Clinique True Bronze Pressed Powder in Sunblushed -- on cheek bones

Lorac Blush in Peach -- on apples & slightly above cheek bones

Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara -- upper & lower lashes

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day! My mom always draws those cute connecting elephants on napkins and I found this sketch on Disney's twitter from the movie "Dumbo"!

Simple Palettes

2011-05-03T12:44:00.000-07:00

Love the comfort able look of this outfit, a little more casual but still super stylish with the lace detailed shorts and floral scarf for added color.

Instead of black as the base palette, this white dress creates a sweet, girly style and paired with the flowing cardigan with sequins continues the feminine look.

The ruffled skirt, plain black top paired with the bright coral cardigan is more of a sexy ensemble. I'd love to throw this on to go on a date!

*images: Misscocochanel

fashion thoughts

2011-04-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Came across this picture on MissCocoChanel and really adore this look! I own a leopard scarf from Forever 21, myself and paired with a cream cardigan and neutral purse, especially Micheal Kors!!! -Don't forget the Starbucks :)

A touch of Pink.

2011-04-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

Blue & Green.

2011-04-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

The light blue in the background, green of the plant, and pink of the candy are the three colors we have decided on for our new palette in the living room at my apartment! I love the calm, sophisticated yet fun combination and can't wait to make new pillows & purchase new wall decor!

The beautiful sofa at the end of the bed is a soft touch to the bedroom that I'd love to incorporate with my new bedroom plan by adding a small chair and full ottoman.

This living. Is so cute.

My addiction to closets is still just as strong! I enjoy the crisp white shelves of this closet along with the delicate touch of color in the background and lighting.

Easter

2011-04-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for my Easter plans tomorrow! Mass with my boyfriend, brunch at an amazing restaurant called Bin 33 in Greensboro, NC, and then driving home to have dinner with my parents, brother, his girlfriend, and my boyfriend!! This little guy in the picture just adds to my excitement of the Easter bunny!!

2011-04-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

The end of the semester is SO very close! I am currently hand drawing a few perspectives of my studio project and hoping I'm finished in time to go downtown tomorrow night! After tomorrow night, I'll be done for a full week meaning lots of tanning by the pool, sleeping, exercising and anything I want!!

Friday

2011-04-15T08:01:00.001-07:00

2011-04-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

Both of these spaces have the same pretty green, geometric pattern in them. The top one with the pattern inside the cabinet and the second image, with the pattern on the wall. I love patterns like this because they add a feeling of prep and order to a room in a way!

Fabulous.

2011-04-11T17:45:00.000-07:00

Queen of Classy

2011-04-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

In light of the Carolina Cup being this past weekend, I chose two pictures of Audrey Hepburn in her "derby-esque" hats. She is one of my icons and she defines the word class.

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.

-- Audrey Hepburn

Miss Organized 2011

2011-04-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

I came across this office space on cococozy and it really makes me want to create a room with bookshelves and an interesting mix of chairs, around a crisp white table. Hopefully I'll be able to create a space like this soon.

For a more upbeat, colorful environment, I snagged this picture with my phone of a space in the Lilly Pulitzer showroom. The pin up wall of fabric is common but the fabric is wonderful and the metal buttons trimming the fabric is a nice dynamic. Also the panels are not attached to the wall so they are movable. Other then that, the pink and turquoise pulled from the plaid print is what really catches my eye and adds a comfortable leave to your office space.

2011-04-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

With some down time at the market, I was browsing blogs and found this image on Vintage Wren. I really like the idea of single antique frames, alone, on the wall with the possibilty of a word or image inside. Definitely thinking of carrying this into my bedroom!

Red Head Lover.

2011-03-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

If you really know me, then you know that I AM GOING TO HAVE A RED HAIRED CHILD! I love girls that have red hair because it sets them apart from the majority of the rest of the world. The blogger of Sea of Shoes happens to model all of her fashion mentions and I am in love her images, fashion, and posts.

stylish.

fur.

sparkle.

bohemian.

fun.

classic.

High Point Furniture Market

2011-03-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

I really shouldn't be awake right now because in 13 hours I will be at the opening day of the High Point Furniture Market working with HFI Brands. They feature Hotel Maison, Barclay Butera Lifestyle, peoploungers, and MY PERSONAL FAVORITE Lilly Pulitzer Home (image above). This is an incredible opportunity for me to work along side with such inspirational people and meet an enormous amount of possible connections. I can't wait to be involved with the hustle and bustle of the beautiful furniture market. Wish me luck!

Bedroom dreaming

2011-03-31T21:43:00.001-07:00

F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S

Mr. Big: We're getting married. Should we get you a diamond?
Carrie Bradshaw: No. No. Just get me a really big closet.

Every woman loves a closet where she can show off all of her beautiful clothes, bags, and shoes! I personally love to hang up everything or folded on a shelve because nothing of mine deserves to be hidden in a drawer. Displaying the stuff that shows your personality the best are the clothes you wear everyday and are most women's' prized possessions that they spend majority of their paycheck on (at least I know I do!).

Color. color. Color.

I plan on painting my next bedroom and having a pink accent wall. I have it ALL planned out! One large wall in "Carnation pink" with my three detailed mirrors enhancing the wall. My bedding consisting of a lush, white down comforter and colorful, preferably Lilly Pulitzer, sheets and a few decorative, throw pillows to add some flare when the bed is made up. The headboard my mom and I made from an old five panel door, turned vertical and painted black will be above my bed. My beautiful vanity with three panel mirror will remain on display, as well as my make-shift TV stand that used to be my twin bed mantle. I told you, I had it ALL planned out!

*Just post-poned till the end of summer!!!

Love.

2011-03-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

"Love is patient, Love is kind. Love never fails."

One of my favorite quotes that I intend to add to my tattoo collection one day! Love has always been a huge part of my life and my first tattoo is an anchor with a rope with a heart below the anchor symbolizing how love of family, friends, and that significant other has been the driving force behind my sanity and drive in life! Currently, I'm in an amazing relationship that comes no where close to anything I've had in my past. He's smart, caring, sweet, "tender", grounded, and incredible loving. I can't believe I met this amazing guy that was raised in the city of St. Louis, while I was raised in good 'ole Hillsborough, NC and our lives managed to bring us together in Greensboro, NC.

I thank God everyday for bringing him into my life. I don't see how we could end

Fashion on my Mind!

2011-03-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

These two fabulous outfits are both ideal for how I want to present myself at the High Point Furniture Market next week (when it's a bit warmer)! I love the classic palette of the top image with the nude pumps and B&W clothing. The pops of color in the second photo are equally beautifully combined for a somewhat "preppy" attitude, which I love!

*both images from Cupcakes & Cashmere

Inspiration

2011-03-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

The installation on the ceiling of this space, sparked inspiration for my proposal of an installment in the ceiling of a lobby that we are exploring in my Studio class. In addition to the unique ceiling, the curvilinear repetition in the space really catches my attention. I love the cut out for the couch and bookshelf in the middle of the space.

2011-01-19T07:26:00.000-08:00

great idea for a tech-savvy apartment

2011-01-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

sometimes i wish i had a twin.....

2011-01-18T15:10:00.000-08:00

My life is becoming consumed by the color purple. I can say though that I am an Aquarius (even if the zodiac calendar changes) and purple is my birthstone but I have a purple phone cover, purple Patagonia, and purple Coach clutch. These beautiful gowns from the Golden Globes would go perfect with my attire!

I confess to you my obsession with Jersey Shore and I'm proud to say that the now adorable Jenni Farley aka JWOWW has become such an icon for chic and fabulous fashion. Thank gosh she crossed over to the good side.... at least in fashion!!!

A new year

2011-01-18T15:00:00.001-08:00

Here are a few things that have brightened my day....

Oh Lilly, how you tease me! I'm dreaming of the day that I get to decorate my amazing apartment or house with Lilly Pulitzer's home collection. The delightful mixture of colors, use of color in unexpected spaces (i.e. Inside the TV cabinet and within any drawers), and lush fabrics that tie in patterns.

Light vs. Dark

Either way I'd love to have enough storage to display all of my beloved clothing and shows while still having room to combine this comfort of fabulous seating!

Point: Explorations

2010-12-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

In our final unit of the semester, everything came together and worked together. "Looking forward or backward?" was one of the first questions Patrick presented for this unit. Even as with a "new" design era breaking through every decade or so, the basis of all new designs can be traced back to prior eras. Similarities are found between all styles.However, with the newest Modern era breaking through, the designers are trying to throw away any prior design styles that may be tied with the past. They may search for inspiration but their designs and techniques are completely a new turn on the entire design field.

Throughout this semester the most influential era for me was the Renaissance era. No building was one style (like Gothic, Rococo, etc.), wonderful harmony through repetition, and the invention of new tradition to meet the classical past. Beautiful structures like the Villa Capra follow the rules and boundaries of the Renaissance and this villa alone, was the most influential building. Constructed of simply combining squares and circles, allowing each side to view the outdoors and the dome atop connects the overall idea of "man is the measure of all things."

Counterpoint : Machine

2010-12-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

Final Studio Project

2010-12-08T10:38:00.001-08:00

Reading Comp #7

2010-12-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

As part of the Red Sea group, we were given the specific section of "town & country" to focus our assignment on. The display had a wide range of mediums and criteria. Pictures of the city "burst with energy, humor and reveal the artists; devotion to classical ideals of balance, order and harmony." My eyes were drawn to the smaller sketch by Kenneth Hayes Miller called "Conversation" that he created in 1932. The image was an etching that had no color. Another copy of the image was placed right below the other, identical yet drawn with ink and pencil. After drawing a short, small sketch of the scene, I stepped back and realized the large canvas painting of the image hanging right beside the two smaller thumbnails. This painting was made of a combination of watercolor and gum arabic emulsion on sheet rock (I couldn't image carrying that!).

I love the old fashion that women wore during this time, from the furs and pearls to the colorful hats and gloves. The style was all together classy. The largest painting became my favorite, after already loving the thumbnails, because of the contrast the colors created. The green umbrella. Pink hat. Blue hat. Warm, tan fur.

When I think of how I would diagram this painting using the principles and elements of design, I remember how I first viewed the painting as an etching, with no color. The main outlines that I sketched were the umbrella, hats and fabulous foxtail draped around ones neck.

Reading Comp #6

2010-11-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

[1] A common theme of the early twentieth century found in Roth, Harwood, and Massey set the tone for an understanding of styles in architecture and design influenced by fine art. Selecting either Arts + Crafts or Art Nouveau, TRACE the influences of the selected style in more than two nations. In your answer, you should include evidence from the readings and at least two annotated images as support for your analysis of influences.

"Art Nouveau is a complex, eclectic international movement that comprises various styles in Europe and North America." (Harwood pg. 482)

Rejecting historical styles and adopting new ideas was the basis to every designer embracing the Art Nouveau style. The era was greatly influenced by fine art and the Industrial Revolution developing in Europe and the United States, but short lived from about 1890 to 1910.

In Paris, Hector Guimard introduecd Art Nouveau in the Paris Metro entrances with the combination of glass, iron, and stone creating a display of "quality vernacular romanticism with organic, fluid designs" (Harwood pg.498).

Paris Metro

While in places like Barcelona, Antonio Gaudi is creating structures that depict human bodies by moulding pillars and beams into organic curves that capture bone like forms, supporting the body of work.

Casa Batllo

[2] Originating at the Bauhaus and in the work of LeCorbusier, the so-called Modern movement deeply influenced design and architecture of the twentieth century. The great debate raised by this new approach to design involved the presence of the machine in the design process and final products. SPECULATE about the implications of “machines for living” and the famous dictum “less is more” on design today. Use at least one ARTIFACT, SPACE, or BUILDING in your answer, providing a salient image (cited) and annotation to help bolster your argument. [10 POINTS POSSIBLE]

When I think of modern, I think of simple forms, crisp edges, and the bare minimum needed to have the form function as desired. I definitely think that "less is more" in the modernism era and designers of furniture, residential, and businesses began to implement flat lines and basic geometric shapes. Historical forms and structures had no impact on structures of the twentieth century, unlike all the previous design eras. Modernism can be displayed in numerous forms but I think of the unique buildings that are built during this time.

Summary of Alternatives & Reflections

2010-11-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

In reading and comparing Kacie, Anna and Daniel's responses to the Alternative section they all appeal to the unit breaking the rules of design. Although Kacie focused on how Baroque and Renaissance mashed together in being similar yet bending the rules further than the style before, Anna continued on the importance of cathedrals and the basis of having basic shapes to design structures. Daniel describes how the meshing of every design era together was the main goal of many architects and designers, basically a "collage".

Natalie, Julie, and Caitlyn's responses to the point summary on our reflections unit, all brought up connections that I felt were significant and enjoyable to read. Natalie pulls examples of artifacts changing due to women's fashion or the experience people entail while going to an opera house, both of these seem more aesthetic to me. While Julie expresses the reflection unit to be larger in change of material with iron and glass that speak different design languages and how the effect of constructions change eras from victorian clutter to more simplistic design. Caitlyn focuses on the change in design periods yet how they all tie into structures that also use the new materials introduced in structures like the Crystal Palace.

Point: Reflections

2010-11-08T13:39:00.000-08:00

Reflections unit has shown the numerous ways that design pulls techniques and styles from past foundations and other countries, while shifting the rules to impact the designs to what they believe to be the "new, better look". With the availability of large exhibits full of traders from different parts of the world, textiles continued to enter the Americas, allowing individuals and designers to enlighten their houses and guests with the foreign objects. A revolution can be defined as a dramatic and wide-reaching change in the way something works or in the way people view it.

The discovery of materials, like iron and glass, on the development of structures was a revolution in itself. It allowed designers and architects to literally bend the rules of a basic foundation, able to add thiner columns, iron arches, and the combination of the glass against the iron creates an experience of nature while still having the stable coverings from the natural elements. Train stations, factories, greenhouses, libraries, arcades, and exhibitions all began to display the use of new materials for their own purposes. Greenhouses benefited from the glass, allowing people in one climate to grow plants in their own climate. While Biblioteque Ste. Genevieve was built with iron arches and skeleton because it was the cheapest way to build the largest library. Overall the Crystal Palace made the largest impact on the world not only for the use of materials but the use of the exhibition center, bringing together extremely different artifacts and materials from all over the world to display for the nation to see and judge and later on take as their own to create a "brand new" mold of the original piece they viewed.

Even with the new discoveries, designers and architects seem to follow the same idea that past eras such as Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic are basics for all structures to be build and messing them together has an effect that compliments any building or artifact. A cycle of the design eras in always continuous and always changing if many like to think that some have concluded but the truth is that individuals are always looking for ways to enhance, increase, and entertain the idea of a better design than the last!

Reading Comp #5

2010-11-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

1.[Select an artifact and the type of revolution it symbolizes.]

-Chairs to Sofas. The transformation of seating in the form of chairs to sofas is in part contributed to the change in fashion. Women's dresses began to evolve into larger, fuller skirts. Therefore, the women needed more seating/cushion space. Motif designs also changed from Directoire to Empire, favoring a body silhouette of a round belly and full hips. Harwood said, "Overall design quality begins to deteriorate as furniture becomes larger, bulkier, and more curvilinear.

2.[Locate & Analyze an image of an artifact, a space, a building, and a place, where the east/middle east has an influence on the western word of design and architecture.]

-Space: Japanese Tea Room in the Congress Hotel of Chicago.

The room is filled with dark wood, hanging brass, embroidered carpet and pink blossom flowers all ad to the Japanese look in this room.

http://www.historicchicagohotels.com/Congress.htm

-Artifact: Ceramics: Blue & white porcelain

Blue and white porcelain is very common in Japanese ceramics and began to be reproduced in Europe for use. The most commonly used style used in Europe was the Kakiemon style, like the image above.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japonism

-Building: Falling Water in Pennsylvania

Luckily, I was able to go on the IAR field trip last year to visit this site and was able to see strong connection between man and nature, as well as the emphasis on the exterior. The sharp lines, extension into nature, placement above the waterfall all continue the Japanese style in Frank Lloyd Wright's design.

-Place: Heale Gardens in Wiltshire, England

The image above is the Japanese tea house in the middle of the Heale Gardens. Underneath the tea house is a flowing stream bringing nature closer to the interior, the Nikko Bridge overtop the stream is steps away. "The Japanese garden was build by laborers brought over from Japan."

http://www.healegarden.co.uk/

Counterpoint : Perspective

2010-11-01T11:16:00.001-07:00

Counterpoint : MAP

2010-10-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

Our first COUNTERPOINT was to use all four of the FORMS (2D, 3D, word, & paragraph).

....practice makes perfect!!! Not my favorite!

Perspective Fun

2010-10-27T10:20:00.000-07:00

A place for waiting

A place where people relieve themselves!

A place for eating, sleeping and relaxing

Point : Alternatives

2010-10-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

This unit was all about reaching new heights, breaking rules, and moving towards a new era. Cathedrals reflected towards the heavens and continued the ideas of having a place for people to gather, worship and collectively give thanks to their believes. While the Renaissance changed everything with introducing new figures and finding alternatives to what the Gothic era believed with the the right way of assembling sacred forms while using more than one style. Villas stuck with the basics of geometry and bringing in the importance of nature.

Cathedrals defined the Gothic era, using features like the pointed arch, flying buttress, and distinct vertical elements. They differed among cities but all related back to one another in some form. The main idea was to climb higher toward heaven and the One. Cross appearances were use as the ground plan of most cathedrals, lining the walls with stain glass telling biblical stories. Most cathedrals started with the basis of a "golden square" that lead to the importance of the center bringing together the two halls, defining the boundaries of the central point, and repetitions of the geometric form created a flow within the cathedral. The Florence Cathedral in Italy made the decision to break the rules of Gothic architecture when built.

Lacking the common Gothic buttresses used on other cathedrals, Florence Cathedral's builder, Filippo Brunelleschi, found them unnecessary to the foundation. The addition of the dome started a theme of the Renaissance that was used within villas. Most villas relied on the simple geometries of squares and circles, while still using an architectural feature, like the dome, to guide upwards. Villas tied in the aspect of nature with the addition of porches looking outward and long galleries placed on the side of the structure that allows the most light in and looking toward gardens, like the one at Hardwick Hall in England. The idea of allowing there to be one main facade that was decorated more than others due to the placement towards the seaport or market. The Renaissance also showed values of society with the separation of public and private in residence buildings.

Even though the Renaissance era began, the presence of Gothic roofs were mixed in with structures and Baroque features made an appearance in ways such as curvilinear staircases. Therefore the Renaissance can also be defined with the idea of one building can contain more than one style. Textiles began to enter as evidence inside the building to which style or combination of styles where used to decorate the structure.

Reading Comp #4

2010-10-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

[1] Just as we learned with Gothic cathedrals, in the context of each PLACE, the other scales of analysis (ARTIFACT, SPACE, and BUILDING) each demonstrate difference. For each scale on the readings rubric above, EXPLAIN at least one common design language that links them all. Use the principles and elements of design as defined for this class in your response. Explicitly tie the Roth reading to your analysis, using at least one cited quote. [10 points possible]

Considering how far apart all of the artifacts, buildings, and spaces are they all still were able to keep a similar design to them. A common language all of the pieces held is the use of classical details, having balance, as well as, the similarity of standing for a specific purpose. For example, the Chiswick house is extremely symmetrical and the location of rooms is obvious in its placement, while the ornament in Holkham Hall can be described as a balancing act that connects private and public rooms allowing the purpose become apart of the equation. Roth mentions that “the new architecture was to be... formed of planes and spaces organized to clear, numerical proportional systems, its edges and intervals delineated by the crisp elements of the ancient architectural orders (pg. 391)

[2] Linked to Europe, the ARTIFACTS, SPACES, BULDINGS, and PLACE of the American colonies echo closely their design forebears. Selecting evidence from all four scales for both the American Georgian periods, TRACE the common design ancestry across the Atlantic Ocean in the Neo-Palladian and Late Georgian periods of England and the Louis XVI/French Provincial period in France. ARTICULATE the implications of copying from Europe for the American colonies. Use the principles and elements of design as defined for this class in your response. Explicitly tie the Roth reading to your analysis, using at least one cited quote. [10 points possible]

[3] From the Hersey/Freedman reading, DESIGN and POST a labeled floor plan of a possible Palladian villa inspired by Girolamo Frescobaldi’s Balletto Terzo found online at this site: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/renm/hd_renm.htm select the link on the left side of the page with Frescobaldi’s name under multimedias [5 points possible]

[4] Using the resources at the weblink below, SPECULATE about whether you believe that the architecture and design in the Baroque period stands as a form of social performance in the theatre of the world. Support your response with examples from class and the assigned readings. [5 points possible] http://fathom.lib.uchicago.edu/2/10701023/

Point- Foundations

2010-10-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

Foundation can be defined as “the basis on which a thing is founded or is supported.” I believe that the pyramids, tombs, and temples covered in this unit are connected by a common foundation of materials, building methods, and underlying meanings for each design.

Pyramids in Egypt and Mexico housed some of the first societies that used the repetition of stacking as a building method to increase size, as well as a method of displaying the hierarchy of the structure. Teotihuacan, “City of the Gods”, in Mexico contains two main temples called the Pyramid of the Moon and Pyramid of the Sun.The sun and moon were symbols for life and death and with the placement of the two different pyramids the culture further understood the importance of their own journeys toward death. The Pyramid of the Sun is the third largest in the world and the location of the pyramid allows many important astrological events, in terms of agriculture and belief systems of the society, to be seen. Therefore the height, orientation and details of the man-made building were significant to the role of the society it is built in and the higher powers they believe in. Another thought to the height of pyramids is that with more power displayed in size, the higher need to protect the civilization and with the advantage of height the people can see enemies coming from farther away.

Tombs were common structures in Egypt that housed the remains of important leaders of a community. The larger and more impressive the burial site, symbolized the more influential that leader was on its culture. Stone was the most common material used due to its availability and durability but the higher the stones were stacked and the addition of limestone, gems, and other precious items increased the importance of the deceased buried within. For example, the Great Pyramid of Giza is monumental in size and houses the remains for the fourth dynasty Egyptian Pharaoh Khufu. He reigned for twenty-three years and was followed in reign by his sons.

The prototypes for temples began in Egypt along the lines of Gods of the living and dead, built into the sides of mountains and build up from the sand. Temples quickly developed a common foundation of materials, structure, and purpose. Stone continued to be the material used, columns became a familiar element, and a place of scared gatherings. Greece and Rome grew to be the place that I think of when I hear talk of temples. They both began expanding the ideas of columns as a progressional element and enhancing the experience their societies had within the temples of Gods and Goddesses.

All of these structures are connected by the original goals of wanting to literally reach the divine powers they worshiped, give importance to each structure built, and out due any other cultures foundation.

Reading Comp #3

2010-10-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Cologne & Salisbury

Light is present in all Gothic cathedrals. The use of pointed arches extending to the heavens allows as much light as possible in on walls while the light itself can also dim through stained glass “emphasizing the mystery of faith”. Windows within cathedrals are all about an experience with the heavens, weightlessness, biblical stories. The higher the building could reach the larger the windows could be, illuminating interior features. Cologne Cathedral houses a golden reliquary that is thought to contain the Three Magi of Christmas. The placement of the shrine is above the high alter, making this area the main focus of the Gothic cathedral. The windows surrounding the high alter and The Shrine of the Magi help emphasize the fire-gilded figures and semi-precious stones on the shrine, as well as help tell the biblical stories of the Middle Ages with images and scenes in the stained glass. At any time of the day the windows allow light to flow in and highlight the most ambitious piece in the cathedral. While the Cologne Cathedral contains an actual artifact of high importance, Salisbury Cathedral’s is most known for its notable central spire. Besides the significant spire, “An old saying records that there are as many pillars as there are hours in the year, and as many windows as there are days.” Salisbury Cathedral is similar to Cologne due to the use of continual biblical references on pointed arched windows and stained glass, letting in light aluminizing the interior beauty.

Cologne & Amiens

Cologne and Amiens share the same basic features of Gothic cathedrals like exterior statures, interior crossing square and cathedral choirs, as well as the same trial and error development. Cologne Cathedral was built on top of the site of a fourth century Roman temple, followed by a simple square church, the “Old Cathedral”, which burned down, allowing the development of the present Gothic church to begin. Amiens was built ca. 340 but later a fire destroyed most of the city, construction on a Romanesque cathedral began but it was destroyed by fire as well initiating the planning for a cathedral that would house the head of St. John the Baptist. With both Cologne and Amiens upright, a constant battle of keeping the structures intact left designers and engineers of both regions experimenting with flying buttresses. The strong efforts of the community to keep these cathedrals intact during times of world wars, contradict the chaos outside their place of worship.

Cologne & Duomo

Cologne Cathedral follows a cruciform plan with the traditional crossing allowing massive amounts of light in at the intersection, while Duomo Cathedral branches off by focusing the control of light at the free-standing dome in the center. The cruciform plan, flying buttresses for support, pointed arches, and square crossing define Gothic cathedrals like Cologne. Duomo Cathedral has an octagonal crossing, wooden structuring to support construction and a central dome that implies the ending of Gothic and beginning of the Renaissance.

Summary of Egypt, Greece & Rome

2010-09-22T07:14:00.000-07:00

Egypt: burial sizes varied due to status' of the deceased, focus on Nile River, referring to life and death, also helps play a role in the architecture of the land. Worship and sacrifices accompanied the design and use of many temples. Hieroglyphics found in wooden and stone columns.

Greece: columns provide more than stability, the diameter relates to every part of the structure. Axial progression plays a role in the grouping of buildings. Religious sites and temples are very common.

Rome: places for gathering were defined by columns, gardens developed more when markets came into play. Column structure was similar still to Greece & Egyptian columns but more toward structure and experience.

Reading Comp #2

2010-09-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

1. I understand how and why the first sites of worship and sacrifice were simply marked by trees. Before knowing much about architecture, natural matters were the most simple and accessible to the builders, as well as, having a large connection to the gods and goddess that the Greeks worshiped. Worship was an important aspect of their culture and gave reasoning to any and everything that happened in the Greek world. Even so, when columns came about starting as wood then moving to stone and marble, the columns themselves were shaped in such a way that had purpose referring back to gods and goddesses, from the base, molding, decoration and even the shadows that the columns would cast. Hersey gives evidence in such statements as, “Another aspect of the column bas is the rich endowment of horizontal shadows....shadow was perceived by the ancients not as the mere absence of light but... mote-like souls of the dead... see them as thick with souls.”

2. The internet is full of gossip, historical readings, and theories that individuals come up with on their own and through some research. Gossip is the writers opinion on a celebrity, couples, etc. Historical readings are based off a persons findings at a site or through reading others research. And theories are just that, they are a view that someone wants to express and explain to the extent that they prefer. All these categories of internet sources are what one person wrote up and believed in their own state of mind. The internet is just a world wide tool, accessible to anyone and everyone. To believe everything you read would be naive, depending on the sources provided and evidence behind the individuals opinion help to make the information on the internet more believable. You can’t believe everything you read!

3. Queen Hatshepsut was one of the few female rulers in Ancient Egypt and died during the construction of a tomb but the funerary temple included the element of stacking yet was layered with many openings and a walkway up to the entrance. Even though Hatshepsut was a pharaoh, she was a Queen, not a King and may be the reasoning behind the significant difference in this burial to the large pyramids as in the Valley of the Kings and Giza.

4.The Temple of Horus is an ancient Egyptian temple for the chief god Horus-Apollo. Inscriptions on the walls tell important information on language myth, and religion during the Greco-Roman period. Also within the writings, details of the construction and preservation of temples. The temple was a center of several sacred events. An axial progression, rows of columns and sculpture connect this Egyptian temple to Grecian temples like the Temple of Poseidon. The Temple of Poseidon was rectangular with a colonnade on all four sides, only a percentage of those columns stand today. At the center of the temple would have been the hall of worship, a windowless rectangular room. The temple would have also had many decorative details that created a beautiful experience.The Temple of Poseidon is architecturally delightful but overall, the Temple of Horus holds a significant amount of historical importance through the inscriptions that sets it apart from being simply a site for worship.

5. Harwood’s examples of tables, stools, chairs and chests in Egyptian furniture are mainly constructed from local woods, some imported, painted to imitate better woods. Wood alone is a major factor in the difference of weight to the furniture and architecture within tombs. Tombs themselves are traditional made of stone and hard objects so to enter furniture made of wood would make the setting unbalanced. Wood was also an easily movable material, due to the lightweight, making traveling easier for pharaohs.

6. The Greek religion respects order. Males possess independence and ownership, while women are their fathers’ or husbands’ property. Their main duties were to have children and take care of the household. In the images on the urns, women are depicted just as history describes their responsibilities in their time. Women tended to their male figures, served them above anything else and with the images of the male figures sitting on the "thrones", being fed or admired by the women, further show the status males had over women in the ancient time of Greece.

Point: theories

2010-09-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

“Design... deserves attention not only as a professional practice but as a subject of social, cultural, and philosophic investigation.” is what Richard Buchanan and Victor Morgan believed backed the creation of a structure and I believe this quote has numerous points that supported the first unit. Actual structures built and ideas lifted from the purpose of objects, all form from the environment, the people, the culture, and the function in which it will be located. Without the history and tradition of the area, a structure will hold no significance. Numerous builders, architects and theorists have created manifestations that explain why and how a structure should be created but reoccurring within all of them is “commodity, firmness, and delight” in some form or another.

Structures like Stonehenge and Avebury are ancient locations that contain stones placed in lines or circles that have relevance to one another. The civilizations are gone now but people still have the ability to understand why the stones may have been placed where they are and can understand that, for example, Stonehenge was possibly a place for ceremonies or worship with levels of importance between the different stone circles or a place of studying the stars (a place of the Gods). In the earliest years, BC, theories were centered around understanding the idea of the different layers of circles with the stones and how the people were able to place the monstrous boulders in a pattern, as well as, have some mounted atop others. All the many ideas behind the purpose for the site and the actual creation of Stonehenge are supported by the cultural influence and the environment, which is still a place of beauty due to the mystery of not understanding the exact purpose.

Besides the mystery, beauty, and possible reasoning for Stonehenge, the monument itself was constructed well. Several construction phases have been recorded and evidence has shown assembly expands as far back as 6500 years ago. Even with many stones missing, the main appearance and final idea of the structure is still visible today. Not knowing the original builder or creator, present day people are still able to experience Stonehenge as a complete monument. The stone placement and stability of the natural materials used have increased the lasting preservation of the site.

Reading Comp #1

2010-09-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

1.A building that comes to my mind when i think about “commodity, firmness, and delight” is the Taj Mahal in India. For one, “the Taj” means “crown of buildings”, supporting the aspect of delight. The first noticeable detail of the Taj Mahal is the large, white marble dome in the center, about 115 ft. in height, covered in a lotus design and gilded finial. The monumental size of the entire structure, including majestic landscaping, makes the seen a world-wide marvel. Structurally, the Taj Mahal is symmetric in plan and constructed of strong materials like marble, stones, tiles, stucco, and many more. The Taj Mahal was built in memory of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s third wife. In present day, the structure is used for prayer, viewing, and a tomb.

2.The last image on the right side contains numerous spirals, symbolizing rain, prosperity, and/or fertility. With influences from the eastern world, the west picked up on patterns in their own fabrics and use the same materials that originated in the Middle East.

3.Our classroom in the Ferguson building is far from meeting the needs of the general U.S. population! The placement of the seats is a tight fit that usually leads to individuals taking the empty seat one away from an occupied seat. But when individuals are attending a full or assigned seat classroom, we are forced to enter an “uncomfortable zone” and then presented with the extreme disappoint that the space we’ll have to place your notebook for writing is within the already limited area of our laps. Yet in cultures like that of the Middle East, Arabs pack places of worship, kneeling side by side for hours, without knowing any other way of personal space.

4.“In Freud’s words, he was unable to forget ‘ that all this beauty was fated to extinction, that it would vanish when winter came, like all human beauty and all the beauty that men have created or may create’.” Even thought this quite puts down the thought of happiness in nature and man-made objects, it helps me to realize the happiness I find in old homes, antiques and historical objects. Even though items may lose color, deteriorate, or break, the beauty of how an object progresses make me happy and more appreciative of the piece.

Edward Kidder Graham House in Chapel Hill, NC on the edge of UNC Campus. May need lots of renovation but once done the house will be worth 2 million dollars and contain beautiful architectural feature that were significant of the time it was built in.

2010-07-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

After finding this photo above on Ada & Darcy's blog, I've realized that in my new apartment instead of painting a whole accent wall, I'm going to paint one wall strips. My theme colors are a light "Manhattan Mist" grey, white and a ballerina pink. Therefore the stripes will be grey and white with pops of light pink on the wall and around the room! Pictures to come...

Along with my apartment bedroom ideas, I love the little addition of turquoise with the pink black and whites in this photo above & below.

A tu-tu desk!!!!!!! I'm seriously considering doing this either to my nightstand or vanity.

Whitney Eve

2010-07-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am a "The Hills" & "The City" follower. My favorites are Lauren Conrad, Lo Bosworth, Audrina Patridge, and Whitney Port. Whitney Port is part of "The City" and has her own clothing line. Below are three outfits from her Spring 2010 Collection that I liked best.

*images from whitneyport website

Blog Finds

2010-07-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

The wallpaper mixed with the sheen and color of the pillows and cushions is quite appealing!!

Painted furniture is a popular trend I'm finding on blogs right now. I'm going to be taking on my own project of painting my night stand pink for my new apartment bedroom that will be mainly white, with a light grey accent wall, and then accent pieces of light pink.

Mix & Match patterns, fabrics and colors in this large living room area is something I'd love to do in my new apartment living room with my two sorority sisters.

*images from bellemaision, pink wallpaper, hamilton design,

Cupcake Birthday

2010-07-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow the 21st is another interns BIG 2-1 birthday, Sara!!!! So today I brought in cute cupcakes from Harris Teeter. An inside bit is that August 20th, the Preservation Society is holding a Cupcake Festival, judging "luscious" cupcakes (sponsored by Carolina Woman). Therefore, its been an ongoing thing at the house that we are all in sugar mode.

I couldn't bring myself to eat the whole fishy guy, he reminded me of Nemo! And another one of the cupcakes used to have four turtles, now reduced to two and one with only one eye... poor guy!

Internship

2010-07-14T09:55:00.001-07:00

I was lucky enough to find an internship at the Preservation Society of Chapel Hill this summer. Just browsing through current internships in my program, UNC-Greensboro Interior Architecture, emailed Ernest Dollar and he said he had a project starting if I was interested and I got right in to researching the Cameron-McCauley Historic District of Chapel Hill. Woo hoo

*image provided from the Preservation website

Claridge Hotel in London

2010-07-13T18:50:00.000-07:00

This is one of the 20 amazing rooms at Claridge's hotel in London designed by Diane von Furstenberg. The repetitive chic fabric makes the room even more irresistible!!

Just paper...

2010-07-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Toots & Magoo is a cute boutique located on Franklin St. in Chapel Hill, NC. This dress is made of tan tissue paper base and white textured top. A blue scarf is in place of a belt for a pop of color. It is so beautiful!

Helping Daddy

2010-07-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

My dad restores antique furniture, so I've always been able to be involved with the projects and this picture below is a marble slab from the top of an 1875 sideboard to store silverware, with birds eye maple interior and european walnut exterior that he had to put back together and fill in. I got involved by painting in the blank spots to mimic the marble pattern.