DesignLink Digest

Alien light fixture

2012-01-27T10:10:00.001-08:00

Kitchenaid's new in-sink dishwasher for the urban kitchen

2011-09-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

INAX Shower Box

2011-09-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

Glass "paper" vases by Torufu Architects

2011-09-15T16:28:00.001-07:00

Torafu Architects’ Delicate “Air” Vases Are Made Entirely From Paper

by Diane Pham, 04/28/11

filed under: Art, Decorative Objects, Milan Furniture Fair

Torafu Architects unveiled a stunning line of shape-shifting paper tableware at this year’s Milan Furniture Fair that is almost as light and transparent as the air that inspired it. Constructed from exceptionally thin yet durable paper, the pieces can be molded into bowls or vases of almost any size without breaking. The paper is printed with two different colors on each side, so the final form has a dynamic appearance that changes as it is viewed from various angles. Check out a few videos of the vase in action after the jump!

Curved kitchen island

2011-09-07T11:41:00.001-07:00

Italian kitchen company Pedini produces a sinuous wonder named Dune, which is modeled after “flowing forms found in nature.” The cabinet system uses no handles, which keeps the profile clean and smooth—much like the sandy waves of beachfront dunes. To open the base unit cabinets, simply reach into a groove on the edge of the extra thick 23mm front panel. To open the tall uni... read more

Good news for Real Estate resales!

2011-09-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

Supply continues to fall and inventory is low. Active listings now at 27,050 compared to 43,000 last year at this time.
Pricing is stable or slightly weaker over $200,000 with $400,000 to $800,000 looking strongest.
New notices of foreclosures are at lowest levels since 2007. Rumors abound that there is a new tidal wave of foreclosures coming, in Phoenix there is no evidence to support this whatsoever. REOs constitute only 23% of supply.

Nelson light fixture

2011-09-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

FLOAT coffee table

2011-09-06T10:16:00.001-07:00

2011-09-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Fireplace or Bar B Que-Cool Designer item

2011-08-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

New hanging relaxation POD for humans.!

2011-08-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hanging pod from Dedon-

It turns out people are like cats and dogs and like to curl up to relax as well. check out this hanging cocoon!!! Latest thing!

Fridge and Car Combine to become the Fridgecouch by Adrian Johnson

2011-07-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

The Fridgecouch, created by Canadian designer Adrian Johnson, take unwanted refrigerators and turns them into customized ultra-retro seats. Johnson takes vintage refrigerators and salvaged car seats that he rescues from local junkyards to source his designs. Each Fridgecouch is a unique item, which makes them numbered, single-issue designs. You can commission a Fridgecouch to be made, starting at about $3,500.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/06/24/fridge-and-car-combine-to-become-the-fridgecouch-by-adrian-johnson/?utm_source=Product+Trends&utm_campaign=3f8f722549-green_trends&utm_medium=email

Up and Coming Kitchen Trends

2011-06-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

An accomplished combination of natural materials that are guaranteed to stand the test of time. The trendy color and material mix, comprising natural rough-cut oak veneer and the finest ceramic surfaces, positively invites you to reach out and touch.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/02/04/neos-and-cult-headline-these-rather-rational-kitchen-designs/

A Perfect Arrangement for Warmth and Entertainment

2011-06-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

Beyond the amiable incorporation of a 37" LCD TV, Scenario features all the perks of MCZ's other fire units. You can choose between the wood burning or gas, and the piece incorporates MCZ's patented comfort air ducting system. This thermal innovation effectively turns these showpiece fireboxes into bonafide heating systems, as it ducts hot air throughout the house (up to 8 meters from the fireplace location).

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/04/25/fireplace-and-tv-side-by-side-mczs-scenario/

MINE Furniture by Marinemine Makes a Bang

2011-06-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

Reuse has been taken to a whole new level by Estonian sculptor Mati Karmin, the creator of MINE-Furniture Design. Instead of scavenging through post-industrial waste or unwanted furniture and buildings, Karmin is tapping into an un-mined resource, a literal field of old sea mines found off the shores of Naissaar. His designs reuse exhausted mine casings for everything from fireplaces to baby cribs.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/03/30/mine-furniture-by-marinemine-makes-a-bang/

Electronic Lavatory Faucet by Iqua

2011-06-09T09:43:00.000-07:00

Fittings manufacturer Aqua relies on the comforts of hands-free faucets in designing their Iqua line of faucets. These infrared sensor-operated electronic faucets are equipped with "a special solenoid valve that is the heart of these high tech products." But Iqua goes beyond convenience. Their electronic lavatory faucet includes a display showing the water temperature and water consumption. By giving users a reminder of how much water they are using, the Iqua faucet may reduce water consumption.

Markus Johansson’s Cirrata Lamp

2011-06-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

The large lamp's name refers to a suborder of octopi characterized by an internal skeleton and a set of two fins - unusual qualities in an octopus and ones which actually make it more vulnerable to predators. Perhaps designer Markus Johansson chose the name for this reason, because Cirrata's increased vulnerability prompts it to favor deep, dark spaces.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/06/03/markus-johanssons-cirrata-lamp/?utm_source=Product+Trends&utm_campaign=f79b2e8c6b-lighting_trends&utm_medium=email

New York City's First Bike Powered Music Festival!

2011-06-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

Using stationary bicycles and volunteers looking to put their legs to some use, Pedal Power NYC is able to power up some awesome concerts that are completely off the grid with The Natural Ass Session, a fantastic idea that merges natural, renewable energy (just add some food and water) with awesome music. They are currently seeking volunteers to help power the city's first bike-powered concert series happening on June 26th.

http://inhabitat.com/nyc/new-york-citys-first-bike-powered-music-festival-coming-to-union-square/

Bathe in Comfort and Save Water with the Sozo Tub

2011-06-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

Diamond Spas has constructed this particular tub with an inclined back, giving it a profile very like an outdoor chaise. Not only does this intriguing approach deed the piece a unique aesthetic - it resembles the hull of a boat momentarily kicked up out of the water by gently lapping waves - it conserves water too at an average of 60 gallons per bath consumption per user.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/05/26/the-sozo-tub-by-diamond-spa/

Stunning Crystal Chandelier Installation by WHITEvoid

2011-05-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

The chandelier is comprised of distinct, prismatic elements that are constructed of lightweight plastic foil with internal strips of highly versatile LEDs. The lightweight foil allows easy manipulation of each individual element and the LEDs facilitate the Crystal Chandelier's multiple personalities. Each element can take any color in the spectrum and can also be moved independently along the vertical axis through a seven-meter range.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/05/26/stunning-crystal-chandelier-installation-by-whitevoid/

MIT Presents Powered SOFT Rockers to Charge Your Gadgets

2011-05-31T10:16:00.001-07:00

MIT professor Sheila Kennedy and a group of MIT architecture students developed the SOFT Rocker, which is a rocking chair/lounge chair for the great outdoors. The SOFT Rocker uses the human power of balance to create an interactive 1.5 axis, 35 watt solar tracking system. During daylight hours, the lounger captures solar power in a 12-ampere hour battery.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/05/14/mit-presents-powered-soft-rockers-to-charge-your-gadgets/

Organic Textures of the New Varia Ecoresin Surfaces by 3Form

2011-05-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Made from 40% pre-recycled consumer products, the translucent sheets are designed for custom jobs given their 48"x 96" and 8"x 8" size options. In addition to the standard lengths and widths, the Varia Ecoresin panels also come in up to eight different gauge choices from 1/16" to 1", depending on the thickness desired.

http://3rings.designerpages.com/2011/05/23/organic-textures-of-the-new-varia-ecoresin-surfaces-by-3form/

Top 5 Ways to "Greenify" Your Consumption

2011-05-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

1. Learn the Source of the Products You Buy

2. Get to Know Your Eco Labels and Certifications
3. Buy Less, Borrow More
4. Eat Local With Smart Apps

http://mylifescoop.com/featured-stories/2011/05/top-5-ways-to-greenify-your-consumption.html

How to Build a Water-Efficient Home

2011-05-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

Historically, water shortages were thought to only be a concern for dry regions of the country. But with rising population growth, accelerated climate change, and even boundary wars, the concerns have quickly spread to other areas. In fact, as many as 36 states are expected to have water shortages in the coming decades. Unlike energy, there are no water sources to supplement our supply. This means that reducing waste and using less are our best-and only-options.

Click the link to read on!

http://www.ecohomemagazine.com/water-conservation/the-water-efficient-home.aspx?cid=ECOH110525002

2011-05-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

Aqualet by New Line Italia is a wall mounted number that's easy on your floor space. Its many programmable hygiene modes will give you a daily dose of hygienic harmony. Aqualet's true innovation is its hidden, subtly intergrated bidet. A side mounted control panel allows you to oscillate it for easy cleaning needs as well as set it at different angles for personal preferences.

FROSTY BERRY Scottsdale Grand Opening

2011-05-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

JOe Curry, opened his new yogurt store, FROSTY BERRY, which we helped him with. The Yogurt is delicious and you should stop by. Located 100 yards from Notre Dame Prep High School in North Scottsdale.

Fabulous Velocity Real Estate-Judi Butterworth event

2011-05-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

http://blog.velocityretail.com/?p=950

Check out this link for a commercial real estate event we participated in with Judi Butterworth!
Great successful event for SOONER INVESTMENTS!

finally. Detroit got the message.

2011-01-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

Transportation
GM Shows Off Their EN-V Car of the Future at the Detroit Auto Show
by Jessica Dailey, 01/12/11
filed under: Detroit Auto Show,Green Transportation,Greener Gadgets,automotive

Sometimes, we think it’s awesome when things look like they’re from the Jetsons. Or Battlestar Gallactica. Which is why we’re completely swooning over GM’s EN-V crazy-looking electric concept cars. The EN-V (Electric Networked Vehicle) comes in three different pod-like designs that function like a Segway-Smart car mash up. Click through for details and exclusive pictures from the Detroit Auto Show!

Transportation
GM Shows Off Their EN-V Car of the Future at the Detroit Auto Show
by Jessica Dailey, 01/12/11
filed under: Detroit Auto Show,Green Transportation,Greener Gadgets,automotive

Sometimes, we think it’s awesome when things look like they’re from the Jetsons. Or Battlestar Gallactica. Which is why we’re completely swooning over GM’s EN-V crazy-looking electric concept cars. The EN-V (Electric Networked Vehicle) comes in three different pod-like designs that function like a Segway-Smart car mash up. Click through for details and exclusive pictures from the Detroit Auto Show!

Green Products that Homeowners Looking for

2011-01-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

6 Trends That Will Shape Green Homes
From energy efficiency to water conservation to density, here are the issues that will matter most to sustainable builders and consumers in 2011.
GREEN PRODUCTS
Low-VOC, Dry-Erase Paint From IdeaPaint
FSC-Certified, Recycled-Content VanityFrom Native Trails
Solar-Powered Attic Fan From U.S. SUNLIGHT CORP

6 Trends That Will Shape Green Homes
From energy efficiency to water conservation to density, here are the issues that will matter most to sustainable builders and consumers in 2011.

GREEN PRODUCTS
Low-VOC, Dry-Erase Paint From IdeaPaint
FSC-Certified, Recycled-Content VanityFrom Native Trails
Solar-Powered Attic Fan From U.S. SUNLIGHT CORP

The mugshot seen around the world

2011-01-12T16:08:00.001-08:00

The mugshot seen around the world
There are worries that alleged Tucson shooter Jared Loughner and his distressing mugshot could be a lasting image for tourists and businesses that might consider coming to Arizona. And, that Loughner fits into a negative narrative of the state that includes illegal immigration and angry politics and could discourage some visitors and investment, according to the PBJ's Mike Sunnucks.

Lotus shaped Marina Bay building by Safdie photo

2011-01-06T12:32:00.001-08:00

Lotus shapped building Singapore-Safdie

2011-01-06T12:29:00.000-08:00

The newly opened over-the-top Marina Bay Sands Casino and Resort in Singapore will soon host a slightly more down-to-earth museum focused on the fusion of art and science. Renowned Architect Moshie Safadie, who has been tickling the edge of green design for decades, designed the mega resort to grab the world’s attention — but the soon-to-open ArtScience Museum is certainly the most environmentally-sensitive building in the development. Interpreted as a lotus flower or outreached hand, the roof deftly collects water and light for the museum’s use.Read more: Lotus-Shaped Singapore Museum Collects Rain and Light Inhabitat - Green Design Will Save the World

Twisted Italian Ristorante-Peoria

2011-01-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

Congrats to the Grand opening of Twisted Italian in Peoria-our lastest permitted restaurant. I dined there last night and enjoyed a delightful chicken Piccata and grilled vegetable medley. Others in my party had the Penne Fra Diavolo-also luscious and a fresh Caesar salad. The cozy bistro was full and lively. The food is great and we know that Mike and Franco will do great at this new Location.

Standing room ONLy at BLU AGAVE-Peoria!

2011-01-06T11:13:00.001-08:00

Last night was a spectacular opening the new BLU AGAVE at Vistancia Marketplace in Peoria!
Innovative appetizers, Sangria and Skinny Margaritas were offerings at the happening. Live entertainment added to the hopping crowd!!! Thumbs up to Chris and Jeff Ricke-Managers and Charles Schwerde, Executive Chef (Arrowhead Grill) for a fabulous event at their new Southwest Grill!

Library that looks like Giant Books!!!!

2010-12-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

Cool architecture for a Library!!!

2010-12-03T09:53:00.000-08:00

Bus that Straddles Traffic coming to US

2010-10-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

Transportation
Insane Traffic-Straddling Bus May Come to America
by Ariel Schwartz, 10/27/10
filed under: Green Transportation

Remember that odd-looking straddling bus that we covered a few months ago? The lane-straddling monstrosity might soon be headed to the U.S. Developed by Shenzhen Hashi Future Parking Equipment Co., the bus can straddle up to two lanes of traffic — allowing regular vehicles to go under what is essentially an above-ground subway system. Vehicle drivers, beware.
Read more: Insane Traffic-Straddling Bus May Come to America Inhabitat - Green Design Will Save the World

Shower

2010-10-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

Jobing in Social Media | Jobing.com

2010-10-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

Jobing in Social Media Jobing.com

Most Expensive bed in the world!

2010-10-08T15:52:00.001-07:00

Saw this bed created here in Scottsdale, AZ and boasts that it is the most expensive bed ever!!!

DESIGNLINK DESIGNS CONVEYOR BELT SUSHI RESTAURANT

2010-09-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

SEE OUR LATEST SUSHI RESTAURANT OPENING NOVEMBER 2010!
Downtown Phoenix is getting conveyor-belt sushi restaurant
15 commentsby Howard Seftel - Sept. 21, 2010 04:34 PMRepublic restaurant critic
Attention, downtown Phoenix: Are you ready for a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant?
Ready or not, here it comes, in the form of Sushi Revolution, which will be occupying the spot next to Fair Trade Café on First Avenue at Roosevelt Street around Thanksgiving.
Faster, more casual and less expensive than traditional sushi restaurants, conveyor-belt sushi is very popular in Japan. You sit at the counter and watch the never-ending offerings glide past. Nab whatever you like. Plates are color-coded, to indicate price. At the end of the meal, a staffer adds up your plates and totals your bill. (The Valley's first conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, Sushi Eye, opened in Chandler in 2007.)
//

Chef/owner Antonio Chavira, 28, thinks downtown's business folks and students will appreciate the format at lunch, while everyone will go for it at dinner or after a downtown event. He plans to stay open until 1 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Although he will offer traditional sushi, Chavira, who calls himself an Anglo-Hispanic, promises "lots of fusion influences." You'll see a chile relleno roll, a duck confit and fig roll and a Maine lobster roll.
Prices, he says, will range from $1.50 to $4.
Sushi Revolution is downtown Phoenix's second sushi restaurant. Moira Sushi, at 215 E. McKinley St., opened about 18 months ago.
Details: Sushi Revolution, 1024 N. First Ave., Phoenix. sushirevolutionphx.com (under construction).Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/thingstodo/dining/articles/2010/09/21/20100921downtown-phoenixs-getting-conveyor-belt-sushi-restaurant.html#ixzz10NPALBtq

Use this coffee table for your shredder!!!

2010-07-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

The Papervore Coffee Table is Hungry for Your Paper Scraps

by Diane Pham, 07/06/10

What better way to manage coffee table clutter that with a table that doubles up as a paper shredder? Created by industrial design studio Pigeontail, the Papervore is hungry for all you printed leftovers. Measuring 16″h x 31″w x 16″d and constructed from aluminum, mahogany, oak and acrylic with a distinct mod aesthetic, the Papervore can easily munch up any correspondence with just a turn of the crank. And of course, once you’ve filled up the base container, off to the recycling bin it goes. Click ahead for an adorable video of this clever creation in action!

Creative building skin for an Energy Plant!!!

2010-07-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Gallery: Gorgeous Dutch Power Plant Clad in Delftware Tiles!

The power plant holds two gas turbines that generate on-demand electricity while providing district heating for the community’s buildings. This makes the facility two times more efficient than plants that generate energy alone, but this also means that the plant has to be located in the community it serves.

Check Out this Cool Lavatory Sink Out!

2010-06-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Ekateryna Sokolova’s Iris: Where’s the Water to Go?

By Jenny Rector on Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

Iris. Designed by Ekateryna Sokolova.

I’m not quite sure what to make of it - because I’m not quite sure how it works. Don’t get me wrong, the idea is simple. Ekateryna Sokolova’s concept washbasin “Iris” is manufactured from a single sheet of material (corian or metal), bent into a sinuous form. As a result of the materiality, the washbasin is lightweight and elegant, while retaining its strength. So wherein lies the problem? The pragmatic concept of drainage.

The bends and folds expose the underside of the material, revealing a secondary color - and the resemblance of a flower. Simultaneously, a functional shelf is created for storage of towels, accessories and cosmetics. This form folds inwards such that the water funnels into the naturally formed crevice (or hole). But where does it go from here? According to the images - it hits the floor. The wall-mounted basin reveals no drainage technology, and no means of integrating any that would simultaneously manage to maintain the integrity of the design. I understand that it’s a concept - but it doesn’t seem capable of becoming a reality. The addition of a drainage pipe would visually destroy the design - yet its elimination prevents the design from serving as an actual sink. While we could store our towels, we couldn’t wash our hands.

The designer, Ekateryna Sokolova from Kiev, Ukraine, is also responsible for another basin concept Aqua Vita. This is a free-standing sink that functions more or less per usual: the base serves as the means of connecting the sink to the pipes within a building. It seems to better capitalize on the woven-sheet concept, creating a piece that is both beautiful and functional. As the saying goes: design is in the details. Iris is in need of a drainage detail to propel it from concept to reality. Any ideas?

How To Remodel/Build Your Dream Home in A Recession

2009-03-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Use the Recession to Your Advantage
There is always a silver lining inside a storm cloud. Now is the time for that silver lining to work for you if you have been putting off doing that home remodel project or building from scratch.

Why Now?
During the prosperous times when companies are so busy and clients are lined up at the door, pricing and fees continue their upward rise. The old law of ‘supply and demand’ prevails.

The atmosphere for bidding projects is extremely desirable for the homeowner whereas in busy times, many projects don’t go out for bid but are calculated based on a ‘cost-plus’ type rate structure.

Now, that the work has thinned out or come to a screeching halt, talent, expertise and competitive pricing is available and now the professionals are calling for your attention.

Buyer Beware!
Also, the low workload of architects offers the buyer the opportunity to get the best talent for a lower fee, whereas in previous markets, some registered architects were out of the reach of the average person. Cautionary tale: Be alert to whether you access a licensed architect rather than someone less experienced, less educated or referring to themselves as registered although unlicensed.

The contractors doing all levels of work are experiencing the same lack of projects. That works for you, the homeowner, to invite builders to compete for your work.

Where Do We Begin . . .?

Consider These Points in Your Selection Process:

Select a professional after who reflects your design lifestyle. Use magazines, drive-by neighborhoods, to create a short list of people you might want to contact.
Consider a realistic working budget or ask for assistance to create one. This is often an additional service.
Schedule a preliminary consultation to determine if you have a rapport with the person. This is important because this person will be interpreting your preferences, represent your best interests, lifestyle and tastes. You will be establishing a working relationship with them which can span a year plus.
Create a list of written questions including what services are included, additional fees such as interior design, bidding assistance, construction administration. Is their fee based on a per square foot basis vs. percentage of construction dollars, sliding vs. fixed.
Ask for examples of previous projects to check compatibility with your design goals.
Ask for personal references from recently completed projects of similar scope.
Check with the Registrar of Contractors for complaints lodged.
Ask for a written proposal that outlines exactly what is included in the basic fee and what is additional should you ask for them.

Please email dlinkaa@aol.com with a question and visit our website at www.designlinkarchitecture.com for more examples and project ideas. Good luck on your project.
—DW