VT (for all of my design-obsessed peeps)

photocourtesyrentromeapartmentscom Peeps, Ever since meeting Cathleen Curtin (CA, AIA) in 2004, I have closely watched as her list of accomplishments steadily increases, and am pleased by her success.  And have often wondered where and how does she find the time and energy to keep producing noteworthy projects in the Washington metropolitan area, as well as in California.  Just the thought of packing a week-end bag causes me no small amount of anxiety, much less trying to manage projects on both coasts.  I have to hand it to her, cause she seems to do it quite well, all the while charming and gracious in SOHO chic apparel and perfectly groomed.  Alas, tonight's essay promised by Ms Curtin was not possible because of a heavy work schedule these past months, and I had to console myself with a short interview yesterday.  Still, it went quite well, and we are quite lucky to have had the time together.  I am sure that you will all enjoy our all too bri...

HomagetoGiottobyTomNakashima photocourtesyrabbeinccom Peeps, It seems that architects who toil within the boundaries of the District receive little praise for their efforts.  The casual observer or visitor can almost rightfully dismiss many of our downtown buildings as being bland, unless he or she is aware of the months of wrangling necessary to acquire a building permit.  Here, in Washington DC, neighborhood advisory boards/historic preservation societies/the State Department/Homeland Security/FBI, perhaps also CIA/other federal and stage agencies/developers/architects/builders/anchor tenant(s)/any elected official with an interest/the general public/the press/any architect of renown, as well as any architecture student/intern, and the boyfriend/girlfriend/mistress/long-time call-boy of anyone remotely involved with the project, can weigh in with their prejudices/whims/demands/ suggestions /fears/concerns and every remembered (or imagined) grievance;  thus they ...

photocourtesystartdesigningblogspot Peeps, At this time of the year, we are treated to the ' Best of 2011's _______' and ' 100 Best Designers/Actors/Actresses/Movies/Albums/TV Shows/Books/Corporate Logos, ' and so forth.  I guilty admit to eagerly searching for my faves, and being disappointed or miffed if they fail to appear as noteworthy in their respective category or field.  Yes, there is nothing more thrilling than being included in the celebratory lofts of whatever profession in which one daily labors.  Especially the little perks like event passes, 'free' samples, and hottie interns waiting outside your doors; or the bigger perks such as more projects (with larger budgets).  Earlier this year,  I visited the Washington DC Design Showhouse 2011 and was quite surprised by the tremendous local talent who live and work within the Beltway.  Sadly, many of these talented individuals are ignored by the national shelter magazines who prefer to focus ...