Dope. Kind of. Right? Inspired by TRON.

(VIA GIZMODO)

In honor of Black History Month, I wanted to take the opportunity to write about one of the most incredible architects you probably never heard of. Paul Revere Williams is not only responsible for some of the most iconic architecture in California, but for breaking through major racial barriers.

Architecture and design careers are challenging enough. Some give up, many struggle, few shine like Williams. Not only did he design some of the most gracious homes and legendary public works in in Los Angeles, he did this while overcoming tremendous adversity as a black architect during his entire career spanning from the 1920s-1970s. Williams had to go so far as to teach himself to draw upside down. A skill which allowed him to circumvent prejudices by being able to present designs to white clients without making them have stand next to a man of color.

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How cool is this? I love how it’s both a functional objet d’art and a visual metaphor for the interactions of different ecosystems. I have never had a strong desire to keep a fish in the house, but this thing is changing my mind. Now if only I could figure out how to cop one. I think it’s just a design concept right now. From the site:

What could they provide for eachother, you might ask? Waste! Yes, the fishes turn their eaten bait remnants into nutrients for the plant, while the water fed to the plant is filtered as it passes though and becomes clean for the fish. It is a totally natural and lovely system.

Rad. Check it out HERE.

This post is contributed by our resident Design + Architecture Blogger, David Alvarez.

If so, let me introduce you to one of my favorite reads, Tim Brown’s CHANGE BY DESIGN. Written by the head of what might be the top design firm in the world, this book is for anyone interested in being more innovative in work and in life. No matter your profession, “design thinking” has the ability to transform your discipline and inspire innovation. Enjoy…

CR&S (an acronym for Cafe Racers and Superbikes) is a Milan-based bike builder made quite an impact at this year’s Milan International Bike Show. This custom built naked bike integrates various styling elements in a stunning way, combining the sportiness and of a European bike with an American-style v-twin engine and dominant presence. The styling is absolutely outstanding; it seems to unify the brutal engineering of a Confederate bike with the chrome details of a Harley, and adding some curves and form in a very Italian- Ducati kind of way. Seems that aside from the seating options, we’re not sure what else can be customized on the bike, but for a relatively low $30,000, we would be happy to let the professionals at CR&S make this decision for us.

(VIA NAXMIX)

This post is contributed by our resident architecture + design curator, David Alvarez of Studio Alvarez + Smith Row in Los Angeles.

That’s right…free. Lindsey Adelman a designer, craftsman and artist is giving it away. For most, a $10,000 chandelier simply falls outside of our financial comfort zone. Traditionally, these beautiful pieces have been reserved exclusively for the rich, leaving everyone else with, well, lesser options. Until now, Lindsey and her studio have actually released a DIY blueprint for anyone with a little bit of time and $120 in their pocket.

So, why is this important? Well, for one, it’s a commendable gesture by a designer who is thinking beyond simple profits. More importantly, this gesture celebrates design itself by inviting everyone to get involved. How great would it be if more designers did the same?

(VIA LINDSEY ADELMAN’S WEBSITE)

Double 7 Worlders: As our community expands, it’s only right that we bring in new voices to keep you on the bleeding edge of what’s happening in global culture. Our latest addition to D7W is David Alvarez, a California based architect who will be providing an insider’s look at how our lives are designed. I’ve learned to appreciate living spaces and general design at a higher level through our conversations and I am sure you will too…so how ’bout a round of applause!

~ Pete Chatmon

Hello, all. I want to first say how excited I am to be a part of the Double 7 family. For those of you who don’t know him personally, Pete Chatmon is not only an incredibly talented filmmaker, producer, and writer, but someone with the most inspiring work ethic and creative hustle that I have ever met. That is why when he asked me to contribute to the Double 7 World blog, the answer was undoubtedly, yes.

As a professional Architect, principle of Studio Alvarez (a boutique architecture firm based in Santa Monica, CA), a partner in Smith Row (an interdisciplinary design collaborative), and a professor at UCLA…I hope to share my love for “all things design” with all of you. In an age where most designers look the same, act the same, and much of design has been reduced to making an already developed idea more appealing, I hope to share with you those who stand out through my eyes as true visionaries. Design processes that inspire as well as products and ideas that break through boundaries.

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Yep, that’s my sister. Apparently, Lucky Magazine is pretty big with the ladies so this is a big deal. I know because I see it hanging out of plenty purses in Manhattan.

Tait was featured in the magazine’s “Party Guide” section for her cutting edge tastes in event planning and how she translates that into her home life. Mainly, how to entertain family and friends in a way that mixes her NYC style (born and raised) with an LA life. She’s done some great events and campaigns for LA Magazine, Pop Chips, and other exclusive clients.

Check back for when I can get a direct link, but in the meantime, enjoy some scans and let us know if you need any event planning expertise. Her website is undergoing a redesign but I can personally connect you. Contact Tait HERE and peep the rest of the article after the jump…

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Classic New York graffiti-themed porcelain dinnerware. A staple at any fine-dining function.

(Via Craft)

Porsche Panamera North American Debut from Tangent Vector on Vimeo.

There’s no point to this post other than “I likes”. I’ve been a Porsche fan since before I had double-digits in my age and I soon plan to become a connoisseur. You can’t be a connoisseur until you own, right?

I did recently test drive a 911 4S and it was incredible. 75 mph in a jughandle entering Route 4 traffic in New Jersey. The salesman told me to do it