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Archive for October, 2011

The Color Changing Room.


Feeling dark? Switch from colorful rainbow patterns to a pitch black surface in seconds. Want a bit of a flavorful accent? Spin the wheels again to display words or patterns of your choice. This ingenious pixel-perfect wall design renders paint redundant.  Amirkhan Abdurakhmanov (better known as Amirko) has come up with this simple but dynamic wall decor idea for transforming an ordinary surface into a do-it-yourself design canvas that lets you set the tone (or tones) depending on your mood.

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24kt Gold Chocolate Champagne Truffles.


It’s not unusual for gold to be used in products for food and drink. But it seems like Tokyo 24 isn’t the only crew sporting those 2 numbers to bring something new to the table.  Branded the world’s most luxurious chocolate experience, using the most expensive dark chocolate, and wrapped in 24kt gold; The Chocolate company creates “Luxury Truffles” and the taste is hidden behind carefully selected ingredients.

The Chocolate is so special that is has taken more than two years to perfect, thus creating a smoother tasting experience and even though the entire ingredient mix is a secret, champagne is also used to fill the truffles and a lot of it.  All 15 truffles are hand crafted so that no two will be same and a contemporary boutique style box was created, using recycled material, just to further exemplify the effort that went into this magnificent creation of splendor.  More than 400 Swarovski crystals adorn each box, making it a collector’s item and to maintain individuality each box is numbered with it’s own certificate. Priced at $285, they should just put a picture of the box on the cover of the book “How To Get Any Woman To Suck Your D*ck.”

The Han Solo and Millennium Falcon Coffee Tables.


I have to say that the nerd in me for sure came out when I saw these for the first time.  The Han Solo in carbonite table would be a perfect fit into my spot for a one of a kind nerded-out centerpiece.  The millennium Falcon coffee table comes a close second, but is still pretty dope.  Designed by UK based R9 Studios, the cold cast aluminum, machined hardware and toughened glass geeky Star Wars Tables go for about $2,050 (£1,250)

Rémy Martin X La Maison du Chocolat


Rémy Martin and La Maison du Chocolat, have created a new limited edition gift box for lovers of both fine cognac and chocolate.  The red lacquered box contains a bottle of Rémy Martin XO Excellence Cognac positioned side by side with a signature gift box of assorted chocolates.  The box is created by Cellar Master of the House of Rémy Martin, Pierrette Trichet and Master Pastry Chef, Creative Director at La Maison du Chocolat, Gilles Marchal.  Called “Mysteres Des Anges”, only 250 of the exclusive sets will be available for sale worldwide this fall at select locations including Harrods in the UK. Price: £275 ($430).

The Camera Ball.


When you think of the concepts of ‘Cameras’ and ‘Balls’ at the same time, something involving Annette Schwarz might come to mind, but this is far from what you may be thinking. Who hasn’t seen an amazing photo, like the one above, and wanted to be able to do it for themselves? It can now be possible using one of the most clever gizmos we’ve seen in some time: the “throwable panoramic camera”. Developed by the Computer Graphics Group in Berlin, it allows a user to take 36o degree pictures just by tossing it in the air.

How it works is simple, inside the ball are 36 mobile phone cameras, all set to go off at precisely the same time when the ball senses that it is at the height of a toss.  As it detects that it is starting to fall (using an accelerometer), it fires all of it’s cameras, putting image data to storage. Then, using a custom application, users can put together some pretty stunning images.

Rees Roberts Architecture


Rees Roberts + Partners is an award-winning interior and landscape design firm formed in 2007 to give those departments formerly of Steven Harris Architects a distinct presence and identity. Rees Roberts + Partners has completed projects worldwide, including townhouses and apartments in Manhattan and Brooklyn; residences in upstate New York, Connecticut, the Hamptons, Miami, San Francisco, and New Mexico; a house in Cape Town, South Africa; a lakefront home in Geneva, Switzerland; and a boutique hotel and spa on an island off the coast of Croatia.

 

Known for interiors that defer to the elements of art, light, and views, the firm creates spaces that are tailored to both the context of each location and the character of the individual. While inventive and informed by a well-rounded knowledge of architectural styles, the designs remain true to clients’ practical realities and varied lifestyles. Rees Roberts + Partners is also recognized for its innovative landscape design and skill in integrating the built structure and natural environment. The firm understands that landscapes are key in defining the character of a place—particularly in New York, where a garden can provide a welcome respite within the urban cityscape. The firm seeks sustainable and ecologically meaningful design solutions that respect each project’s surroundings.

Louis Vuitton Opens It’s First Maison In Southeast Asia.


Louis Vuitton is celebrating two premieres: its first luxury concept store in the region, and its first ‘Island Maison,’ a multi-story shopping location on a private island.  Located in Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, the Maison built by star architect Peter Marino sells women’s and men’s collections, Louis Vuitton’s jewelry as well as design and art books. It is the 12th Maison in the world for the label.

 

Behind The Scenes: Rihanna – ‘We Found Love’ Video.


Folk probably know Rihanna was filming the video for her next single ‘You Found Love’ recently because as usual there was a load of drama surrounding it – first she fancied her model co-star Dudley O’Shaughnessy, and then a farmer told her off for running around his farm topless.  Anyway, the singer has released a ‘making of’ video for the shoot, where we see her developing the choreography, running around a field in a bikini top and hanging out with model in question Dudley.  And having to be bleeped out a lot.

Dior Makes Vegan Shoes?


Natalie Portman has enthused about her new role as the face of Miss Cherie for Dior, revealing that Dior re-makes its accessories for the strictly vegan actress.  She told WWD.com:

“One of the things that’s been so nice is that Dior made all of the shoes for me with no animals and no leather or anything, because I don’t wear any leather…They re-made all my shoes so I can wear Dior shoes without taking lives.”

In 2008 Natalie Portman launched her own line of shoes, after bemoaning the lack of vegan footwear on sale, and is often seen in Stella McCartney’s vegan styles.

Skateboard Stuntin’.


A soundtrack is often one of the most important, yet overlooked part of any movie.  No matter what the film is about, the music and timing of said music is crucial.  That being said, it’s pretty obvious that when the right piece of material has the right music behind it, things blend mellifluously, and there’s no better example of this than the Rebelo FF I came across a few days ago.  The skate tricks these kids pull off are top notch, all played over a very unexpected piece of music that (to me) makes the finished flick far more dope.

Tokyo 24 At Yoshi’s SF.


Tokyo 24 has been gracing stages all over the Bay with their presence for years now, but recently I was presented with the opportunity to join them on one their biggest shows to date.  Tuesday, October 18th marks the date when yours truly, Miles Brandon, RGLND, and Tokyo 24 will take over Yoshi’s on 1330 Fillmore St. in San Francisco for an epic display of good people, great music, and a never before seen laser light show.  Make sure come through and see the show.  It’ll be one to remember.

Jeff Gogue’s ”Impressive Tattoos”.


Jeff Gogue is a tattoo artist and painter born in 1973, he’s working in Grants Hill, Colorado. He puts his stunning tattooing skills realizing large tattoos inspired by traditional japanese tattoo art and art nouveau’s classic imagery. His work is made of thick lines and realistic shadowing, all completed by a stunning use of colors.

The Galaxy Tab Bicycle.


UK-based bicycle manufacturer, 14 Bike Co., collaborated with Samsung to create a top-range bike with a holder designed to accommodate the Galaxy Tab.  The detachable Tab holder positioned in the triangular frame is made from quality Carbon fibre featuring the same Carbon specification used on F1 cars.  Accessible from the side, the Galaxy Tab 10.1 holder allows for the device to be used easily whilst on the move.  Applications such as dashboards tracking mileage, route planners and repair instructions for punctures, can be downloaded from the Android Marketplace to enhance everyday cycling routes or more adventurous trips.

Cunard And Crystal Cruises.


Cunard has won a clean sweep among the best large ships selected by the Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise.  The annual publication is well known for selecting the best of the industry out of a total of 285 vessels selected by prolific cruise writer Douglas Ward.  This year, Cunard ships managed to place first, second and third in the large ship category (over 1,600 passengers), with the Queen Mary 2 topping the rank, followed by the new Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Victoria.

“That large ships such as Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria can deliver the kind of experience it [Cunard] does to a wide socio-economic passenger range is evidence that the company’s finest asset is not just the ships, but all those individual crew members who simply love what they do,”

Ward said.  Crystal Cruises took the top three places in the Mid Ship category (between 600 and 1,600 passenger) with the Crystal Serenity and the Crystal Symphony and Marina, which tied in second place.  The Small Ship Category (200-600 passengers) was won by Hapag-Lloyd’s Europa, with the Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Odyssey in second and third place.

Among the boutique ships, which carry between 50 and 200 passengers, the SeaDream II took top honours, followed by its sibling SeaDream I and Hapag-Lloyd’s Hanseatic, in third place.  It rounds off a good week for Crystal and Seabourn, which also picked up awards in the recent Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice ceremony for best medium and small ship line respectively (Celebrity won best large-ship line).  The book will be available from October 19, priced at $24.99 and will also be released as an iOS app priced at $9.99.

Best Of Health Wishes To Rick Ross.


Rick Ross’ private jet made an emergency landing in Birmingham, Alabama, 2 hours ago, en route to his concert in Memphis, (TMZ found out).

It’s the second time today where a plane in which Rick was a passenger made an emergency landing.  TMZ broke the story … Rick Ross suffered a seizure this morning on a Delta flight that returned to the Ft. Lauderdale airport.

Rick Ross went to the hospital, was released, and then took off at 5:07 PM ET from Ft. Lauderdale to make his concert tonight in Memphis. But at 5:44 PM CDT, the plane was diverted and landed in Birmingham after he had a seizure on board.

Ross is currently in a Birmingham hospital emergency room. They do not know his condition.

Interestingly enough, when asked if he had any words for Rick Ross, 50 Cent tweeted: ‘Yea he gotta take care his self RT @adamjohnston99: @50cent Any words for Rick Ross?;

5:05 PM PST: MyFoxMemphis just tweeted, rapper Yo Gotti will replace Rick Ross at Memphis Madness tonight.

4:57 PM PST: We’ve just confirmed with the hospital that Rick is in STABLE condition.

Childish Gambino – All The Shine.


A grip of blogs posted an unofficial, leaked version of Childish Gambino‘s new track “All The Shine” yesterday. That was not the real shit, however. This is the real shit. Without further ado, please stream below the officially official album version of “All The Shine” as it will be heard on his forthcoming LP Camp, due out 11/15/11. This track (and CG’s entire oeuvre) may prompt you to ask the question “Is Childish Gambino serious?” To which the answer is: As an Emmy award winning comedian yes he’s funny. As an emcee, he’s no joke. Click either pic to download the track.

The Maxi Racing Yacht.


The boys at Wally have created a breakthrough yachting concept with the launch of a completely new idea. The Wally//Otto is the only One Design Maxi racing fleet.  Otto has been designed to sail with a limited crew and limited sail inventory to minimize campaign costs and maximize enjoyment.  The Otto also features a unique aft ’guest experience’ area where guests can enjoy the racing in comfort and safety, removed from the operations of the racing crew.

When not racing, the Otto can quickly transform into a comfortable and easy to sail ‘day-cruiser’, extending the enjoyment of the boat across the whole season.  As a One Design fleet, the Otto can expect greater racing longevity. Otto has also been designed with the necessary headroom and bulkhead positions to successfully convert into a spacious Wally cruiser-racer, with salon, galley and three guest cabins.

Travis Barker feat. Bun B, Beanie Sigel & Kobe – Just Chill.


No, the man in the photograph above is not Travis Barker, but he does take center stage is Barker’s newest video “Just Chill”.  Whatever their bond is (they both go to the same tattoo guy maybe?) Barker collects his friend after being released from prison in this poetic track about life’s choices, decisions, and repercussions.  The video was directed by Monsee and also stars Bun B, Beanie Sigel, and Kobe on the chorus.  Check the method below.

‘Marvelous’ Digital Fashion Design.


3D animation is something I’ve been interested in since my later years of high school.  Before I was a full fledged DJ, I was studying digital animation in school, so seeing something as wildly creative as 3D digital fashion shows is an intriguing premise.  I’m very used to seeing the tradition sketches, fabric samples, and countless hours of designing and re-designing from my hard working homies like Nas Moinee and Diana Legorreta.  But recently the site Marvelous Designer put together a collection of videos showcasing the incredible marriage of technology and fashion design that break the tradition ‘fashion design process’ mold.  If you take the time to watch all the videos it quickly becomes apparent that a new force in fashion design may be emerging.

The Louis Vuitton Tambour ‘Minute Repeater’.


The first thing that I noticed about this time piece wasn’t that it’s a Louis Vuitton, but the amazing use of vernacular in the name…  A “Minute Repeater”.  Louis Vuitton continues to develop its iconic “Tambour” design with the addition of this new ultra high-end model, the Tambour Minute Repeater.  The timepiece comes in a 44mm white/pink/yellow gold case (your choice), manual wind mechanical Louis Vuitton Caliber 178, and smoked sapphire crystal displays.  To catch up with the hottest fashion trend, the Louis Vuitton watch is endowed with a smoked skeletonized dial.  The men’s watch is submersible to 30 meters and production by special order only.

Shady Records 2.0 – 2011 BET Uncut Cypher.


No matter what crew your allegiance may be pledged to in rap, there’s denying that the new Shady Records team is a force to be reckoned with.  They proved this during the anxiously anticipated 2011 BET cypher this year.  Surprisingly enough however, Eminem wasn’t the only one spitting pure fire and brimstone.  Check the method below to see how the entire crew stacked up.

Xian Mikol Quon.


Every so often I (or someone on my team) come across an amazing woman, who fits the credentials to be put up on this blog.  Some come from expected sources, and other just kind of float into my inbox, but when my assistant put me onto a site named “Me In My Place” I was quite astounded.  The wonder of “Me In My Place” is summed up most perfectly by their own little quote “Real girls in their own place. Not too crazy and just a pinch of naughty….”.   Xian Quon fits this description to the T.  Her photos are simple yet provocative, and seem to draw the eye of everyone without needing to be overly explicit, or blatantly sexual.  All I know about Xian personally is that she currently resides in L.A.  But if you feel the unyielding need to hit her up directly, you can find Xian on Twitter.

The NEW Tallest Building In The World.


Click the pic to enlarge.

The record for the world’s tallest tower is set to be broken yet again… The new skyscraper will measure one kilometer high and will be located in Saudi Arabia.  The tower will outdo Gulf neighbor Dubai, which inaugurated its own record-breaking skyscraper the 828m Burj Khalifa less than two years ago.  The Saudis awarded a more than $1 billion contract for a spire, to be named the Kingdom Tower.  It will have a Four Seasons hotel, serviced apartments, luxury condominiums and offices, encompassing, in all, about half a million square metres.  The Saudi construction giant is owned by the family of Osama bin Laden. The family disavowed the slain al-Qaeda terror group leader years ago.  The tower, designed by Chicago-based Adrian Smith & Gordon Gill Architecture, is the first phase of the planned Kingdom City, a sprawling, $20 billion, two-square mile urban development project first announced in 2008.

What Your Technology May Say About You.


Very recently my assistant’s cell phone bit the dust as suddenly as Steve Jobs, and we were searching frantically for a replacement.  Obviously the ability to call someone is no longer the determining factor when picking out cell phones or more importantly, smart phones.  The topic of smartphone operating systems can be as divisive as politics or the Mac vs. PC debate. (Just add snide comments about dropped calls.)  I delved into some research data to figure out what I could learn not just about the services themselves, but about Android vs. iPhone users.  Luckily for me, some friends at Column Five Media performed some of their infographic magic on the resulting data and the findings were pretty interesting. And people, please don’t forget that these are the statistics summed up by the info collected.  This doesn’t mean that because you own an iPhone your a woman.  Its just an average of all the data.  (If everything is blurry, click the pic to make it larger.)

Click the pic to enlarge.

Skateboard Safety.


I appreciate that I live in a city where half the people would rather ride their bike, roller-blade, or skateboard than drive a car… but I can’t even begin to count how many times I’ve seen people (that I know) almost get run over.  Especially at night. Sure bikes have lights and reflectors but what about skateboards and longboards? Introducing the HAL Longboard Light.  HAL attaches to the underside of the skateboard or longboard between the truck and deck to signal the rider’s presence.

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