Styleture

We don’t normally blog about the designs of board games, but since Monopoly is the most famous board game of all time and has somewhat its root in different real estate “properties” we thought we would use it as a perfect way to start the weekend.

The new Monopoly board is circular, doesn’t have paper money but debit cards instead, and when you pass go you don’t get a measly $200, but $2,000,000 to account for all the inflation and the change in real estate prices since 1935 when Monopoly was first released.

What do you think of the new design of this game? Do you like the new look or does it disappoint? Post your comments below, @ reply your thoughts on our twitter or post them on our Facebook Fan Page!

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New Monopoly Game

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Tags: monopoly debit game, new monopoly design, new monopoly game, new monopoly game design, new monopoly pieces

As the Eastern US braces for what some news outlets are calling “Snowmageddon” and a “Snowpocalypse” people are going to be looking for ways to enjoy their dwellings, while staying warm. We thought what better way to stay cozy during this weekend’s snowstorm than enjoying one of these amazing fireplaces?!?! Click any image to view a larger version.

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The Zeta fireplace by EcoSmart has been one of the hottest designs in the past year or so (no pun intended), winning awards for its design which is crafted from timber, leather, and stainless steel. This design was created by architect John Dimopoulos and was the winner of the 2009 Design Award at the Australian International Design Awards in Sydney, Australia . The fire runs on denatured ethanol, which is an easily renewable energy source. The Zeta is actually larger than the first two images appear as you can see in the third image. It is just over 32 inches tall, about 3 1/2 feet wide and nearly 3 feet deep. The Zeta costs around $9,700:

EcoSmart's Zeta

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Tags: designer fireplace, designer fireplaces, fireplaces, luxury fireplaces

Widely recognized as the most innovative structural designers in the world, the Swiss revolutionized the engineering field by creating new forms that integrated technology and aesthetics. The art of Swiss engineering lies in seamless precision: combining the methodical, the understated and the efficient, to create functional, cutting-edge designs. Fuse the accomplished engineering standard of the Swiss into the diligent and tailored accuracy attributed to Italian manufacturer MGS’ designs, and the result is the perfect contemporary creation. Brilliant in its final form; the simplicity, durability and functionality of MGS’ Minimal Beauty Collection and stunning Rain Showers feature the finest in Swiss engineering, Italian style.

Uncomplicated and dependable, the contemporary designs of MGS’ Minimal Beauty Collection feature simple shapes and slim silhouettes. Crafted out of true solid stainless steel, the designs feature high-quality materials paired with functionality, yet the finish is refined and smooth – an ode to Swiss perfection. The collection is comprised of six deck and wall-mount faucets, including a bidet faucet. Unique to the collection, the MB4 and MB6 faucets come without traditional handles; temperature and volume are operated with a handle at the end of the spout.

Manufactured using the most progressive machines available, each flawless piece in the Minimal Beauty Collection is perfectly polished to an impeccable shine; beautiful in its final form.

The stunning Rain Showers, also composed of 100% solid stainless steel, pair luxury with cutting-edge technology. Bringing modern style to a typically traditional fixture, these exposed shower systems are available with a round or square rain canopy and feature a thermostatic mixer. The mixer incorporates a volume control that is operated independently of the temperature control. Rain Shower systems are available as a showerhead, or can be upgraded to include a stylized handshower. All systems are available in matte or polished stainless steel.

Here are some pictures of some MGS products. Click on any image for a larger version:

MGS Insets Details

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Tags: amazing faucet designs, italian bath design, swiss bath designs, swiss engineered bathroom faucets, swiss engineering bathroom fixtures, swiss manufacturing

Studio Italia Design is based in Venice, Italy and is a fine lighting product manufacturer that lives the nature of their art. The company is made up of artisans and craftspeople working in studios teeming with liquid glass and metals, designing spectacular hand-blown glass products; from the grandest chandeliers to the most perfectly appointed wall sconce. The art of glassblowing is alive and well in Venice, as it has been for centuries. At Studio Italia Design, each customized lighting fixture produced reflects the artistic spirit of the talented craftsmen who conceive and create these products in their Venice factory. Each metal and glass piece in the Studio Italia Design collection is a one of a kind creation, crafted from element to finished product under the watchful eyes of skilled artists.

Studio Italia Design combines art, science and ritual into one fascinating procedure. Using glassblowing techniques passed down for generations, Studio Italia Design’s artists create glass from a mixture of silica, silicates, soda, lime, various gasses and coloring agents. When the glass reaches the casting furnace, it is in a liquid-plastic state and is then extruded, poured, rolled, stamped, hand blown and spun into a wide range of shapes. In a process that can take up to 24 hours for each design, precise measurements between the perfect mixture of air pressure and temperature must be achieved before the artists move on to the creation of the frame and final shape for each fixture. Judging from the results, it is easy to see that the art and science of glassblowing remains as vital today as it has been for centuries.

All images provided by Studio Italia Design: sid-usa.com . Click any image to see a larger version:

The Art of Glassblowing

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Tags: art of glassblowing, blown glass lamps, blown lights, glass lamps, glassblowing, glassblowing art, glassblowing techniques, hand crafted lights, hand made lights, handmade lighting products, how hand blown lights are made

The green movement has just gotten a boost from one of the most famous designers in the world. Philippe Starck has teamed up with the Italian manufacturing group PRAMAC to develop the first designer wind turbine designs for home use. The turbines come in two designs, and will produce 400 watts of power and 1 kilowatt of power. They will cost $3,495.25 (2,500 euros) for the smaller  “quadrangular” turbine and $4,893.35 (3,500 euros) for the 1 kilowatt “helicoidal” turbine.

These designs comes on the heels of the ultra-famous designer denouncing design and his works and announcing his retirement saying that ‘Design is Dead’, and that he felt that ‘Everything I designed was unnecessary… and I am ashamed of this fact. When he unveiled his new turbine designs in Milan his tune had changed when he said:

“We have to help people to produce energy, to be part of the fight. Energy should not be a punishment, we should create a desire (among people to produce it).”

Philippe Starck Wind Turbines

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Tags: designer wind turbines, philippe starck, revolutionair, revolutionair wind turbines, revolutionary wind turbines, wind turbine designs

This excerpt has been provided by ConstructionManagementDegree.org. Please visit their website to see the rest of the worldwide destinations .

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Top American Travel Spots For Architecture Buffs

You don’t have to leave any of the 50 states to see these architectural wonders.

1. San Francisco : See the Golden Gate bridge, China Town, Fisherman’s Wharf, and more all in one city. This article includes restaurant and hotel reviews, along with San Francisco for kids. There is also information on walking tours and the city in a day. A must see sight for architecture buffs includes The Painted Ladies, an ornately decorated Victorian home.

2. Boston : Although the capital of the United States contains many historical landmarks, this city contains impressive architectural appeal. Buildings from the colonial era still remain, including the Old North Church and Old State House, where the Declaration of Independence was born. Other architectural goodies include the John Hancock Tower and Quincy Market. This article from “The Boston Herald” shows how to enjoy the city at half price.

3. New York : With museums, bridges, churches, and more, New York is one of the most recognized cities in the world. Building styles include everything from art deco, to the most recent in American architecture. You can also see lesser known synagogues, clubs, theatres, and more. A must visit for any architecture buff or lover of travel.

4. Chicago : Architecture buffs with a special love of skyscrapers will enjoy this city. From the well known Sears Tower to the lesser known 311 South Whacker Drive, a trip to the top of these buildings can show you four states all at once. Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright has various buildings throughout the city which are open to the public. The local paper also has tips on where to shoot your photos, take a happy hour on the water, and more.

5. Los Angeles : Buildings such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Getty museum are a must visit for architecture buffs. The city also boasts historical Hollywood buildings such as the Roosevelt Hotel and Mann’s Chinese Theater. Other architectural achievements include churches, galleries, neighborhoods, and more.

6. Portland : Lovers of green architecture will enjoy this city. Portland architects design their buildings to blend in with their surroundings, making for a distinctive visit. There are also many municipal fountains worth viewing, along with the Pioneer Courthouse Square and other destinations.

7. Seattle : Come for the Space Needle, stay for the architecture. The Seattle Architecture Foundation takes great pride in showing visitors the artistic side of the city. Various tours include Architecture 101, Art Deco, Gay Pioneer Square, and many more. Don’t forget to have a look at the gigantic glass public library.

8. Philadelphia : Another city with a historic past, Philadelphia has options for architecture buffs who enjoy both past and present works. Famous homes include those of Walt Whitman and Betsy Ross. The local paper has more resources for visiting the city and planning your trip.

9. Las Vegas : Not just a hot spot for parties and gambling, this Nevadan city also has options for the architecturally minded. AskMen.com lists the top five design destination including the Crystals, El Cortez, and Beijing Noodle. The number one spot? The Veer Towers combines unbelievable design to create a work of wonder.

Tags: arch destinations, architecture destinations, top architecture, top architecture destinations

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, a Los Angeles based designer, has been taking high-end designs for the wealthy and celebrity clientele to a new level to say the least. Some of his high profile clients include Cher, Elton John, Eva Mendez, Cheryl Tiegs, Edward Norton, Christina Aguillera, Mr. and Mrs. Vidal Sassoon, Kid Rock, Rebecca Romaijn, the Osbournes, Felicity Huffman and Keenen Ivory Wayans. Martyn is known for taking what you’d think of a typical design trend, and turning it on its head to create truly innovative fabric, furniture, outdoor and interior designs.

Martyn defines his designs as sophisticated, comfortable, eclectic and in any and all periods. While this is true, many of his designs are extremely innovative and new, which is a result of his travels to new places with different cultures, colors, food, music and smells from exotic places, and which he incorporates into his designs.

Architecture Digest has chosen Martyn as one of the top 100 designers, and chose him to design the Exotic Greenroom for the 61st Primetime Emmy® Awards last year.

Learn more about Martyn Lawrence-Bullard from his website: martynlawrencebullard.com

Here are just a few samples of his work, please click any image for a larger version:

Martyn's Design for Elton John

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Tags: designers in la, designers in los angeles, la designer, la interior designer, los angeles interior designer, martyn bullard, martyn lawrence-bullard

In a stunning throwback to a time when classics were born and elegance reigned, THG presents the Passion Collection with Bernardaud Porcelain. Touched with a whisper of old Hollywood glamour and a splash of fresh, flowing angles, Passion evokes an age when grand gestures meant the world, and love was the stuff of legends. Romantic and graceful, Passion combines delicate vintage details with exquisite modern design, for a look you’re destined to fall for.

The Passion Collection featuring fine Bernardaud porcelain is a testament to gracious living and fanciful design. The Passion faucet combines the femininity of the clover-shaped handles with the architectural savvy of the right angled, geometric spout. The accessories that adorn the suite feature the Bernardaud mascot – the butterfly – in a refreshing green. Here are some pictures of the collection. Please click any image to view a larger version.

THG Passion

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Tags: amazing faucet designs, bathroom accessories, lux bath, luxe bath, luxury bath accessories, luxury bath design, luxury bathroom designs

Beth Dotolo

Beth Dotolo is the Vice President of the design firm Nest Interior Design in Dallas Texas. Beth and her team produce creative and noteworthy designs in the Dallas area and they are currently working on several high-end residential and small commercial projects. Beth is a Registered Interior Designer who is also LEED AP and is anxious to work on a LEED certified project. Beth was also awarded ASID’s 2008 Legacy of Design Award.

Beth realizes that sustainable designs are the future of her industry and sees that the Dallas area is catching up in the sustainable movement. In order to make her designs more sustainable the majority of the furniture and products that she uses in her designs are custom designs that are created or manufactured by local building companies. Other furniture is found locally and refurbished locally as well, making sure that as much of the existing materials are used as possible. Beth’s design experience includes work at a local commercial design firm with national accounts and time spent as Principal Interior Designer of Pulp Design Studios.

The firm subscribes to a six part plan when they take on a new design project, beginning with an in-home or office consultation. Once the analysis of the consultation is completed, the next step is to create the schematic design, followed by the design development phase which includes nailing down finishes, fixtures, and furniture selections. The fourth, construction administration phase only applies to larger projects where construction and contractors are consulted and the construction designs are finalized. The fifth phase, the purchasing and procurement phase follows any construction needs and then the design is finalized with a full installation. This process results in personalized, amazing, sustainable designs that make their clients happy every time. Please visit Nest Interior Design at: www.nestdallasdesign.com and their boutique retail store at www.nestdallas.com

Here are just a few examples of Beth’s & Nest’s designs. Most furniture is either custom designed or refurbished as previously noted. Please click on any image to view a larger version.

All photographs courtesy of Kevin Dotolo Photography: www.kevindotolo.com

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Tags: dallas designer, interior design firm, interior designer, interior designer in texas, texas designer

Beverly Hills, California – THG USA, the exclusive importer of luxury bath products from the house of Tetard, Haudiquez and Grisoni (THG), made a notable appearance at last night’s Golden Globe Awards ceremony. The elegant Papillon, from the THG Cristal de Lalique Collection, was the lavatory set of choice in the world-class Presenters Lounge. Designed by internationally renowned interior designer Kenneth Bordewick, the Presenters Lounge was visited by many of Hollywood’s favorite celebrities and award-presenters, including Halle Berry, Sophia Loren, Nicole Kidman and Harrison Ford. The celebrities were pampered with culinary-treats and a fully-stocked bar in the glamorous accommodations before making their way to present the world famous Golden Globe statuette. THG’s Papillon was a natural fit for the striking environment of the Presenters Lounge. An exquisite piece, the Papillon set features intricately detailed butterflies designed by Lalique, the world-renowned crystal art and jewelry design house. The beautiful set flawlessly complemented the other fine furnishings in the luxurious lounge, which included $800,000 worth of stunning vintage Lalique crystal pieces shipped from France, exquisite hand-embroidered drapes, and art-masterpieces worth more than $1,000,000 from the Frederick R. Weisman foundation, as stated by interior designer Kenneth Bordewick. “I wanted the Presenters Lounge to combine the glamorous luxury of Hollywood’s Golden Age with the glitter of today’s top stars,” said Bordewick. (Click on any image to view a larger version.) All images and text courtesy of THGUSA.com

THG Papillon at the Golden Globes

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Tags: amazing decorative bathroom, amazing faucet at golden globe awards, amazing faucet designs, decorative bath fixtures, decorative faucet at golden globe awards