Single-Family City Home Marries Modernism with Greenery

Creating a green residential oasis is no easy feat when faced on three sides with potentially nosy neighbors on an urban plot – the key is making the hard building decisions look easy.
A series of perforated metal, natural stone, cast-in-place concrete and glass deck walls frame the entryway to a relatively secluded-feeling series of indoor and outdoor spaces designed by Australian architect Michael Morris.

Softening the edges of these straight-lined design elements are a complementary set of vegetation-related strategies, starting with a row of young pines in front of the lot, followed by a series wild grasses suspended at eye level, an overhanging old peppercorn tree from an adjacent property and a series of semi-abstract green walls in the courtyard.

Inside, a simple repetitive use of red accents ties together disparate rooms, each designed in a pragmatic way to address its particular function, using conventional finishes and traditional materials in combination with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities.

There is nothing expressly novel about the material palette or the visual techniques employed, but in combination they show a remarkable sensitivity to site and context, and exert conscious control over all views in and out, all without feeling forced or otherwise artificial.

Well-Off on Wheels: Futuristic RVs are Packed with Luxury

Driving around the country in an RV is not the first thing most of us think of when the word “luxurious” is mentioned. Perhaps the futuristic luxury RVs from Marchi Mobile Vehicles will change that.

The slightly strange-looking RV is based on the strikingly futuristic truck designs of Luigi Colani. Like Colani’s trucks, the eleMMent RV sports some truly crazy looks and over-the-top parts.

The 38-foot-long, 13.5-foot-tall RV boasts around 500 square feet of usable interior area, making it larger than some apartments. The push of a single button causes a large “sky bar” to rise from the top of the vehicle, letting residents and guests party under the stars in style.

But a pop-up bar is just the tip of the ultra-luxurious iceberg. The eleMMent also features a huge master bedroom with a 40-inch flat screen TV, a gorgeous spa bathroom and, oddly enough, a fireplace.

Lest your exceptional vehicle ever look like it has actually been driving around on dusty roads, the eleMMent features an integrated vehicle cleaning system to keep the paint job looking nice and fresh.

The specific amenities on each eleMMent can be changed around and customized based on each buyer’s preferences. Although there are not many actual photographs of the ultra-cool RV, there are plenty of renderings to ogle.

Provided you can afford one, you can order an eleMMent today with your individual preferences in place. Just remember the traditional wisdom: if you have to ask how much it costs, you can’t afford it

Digital Sundial Shines Time on Walls with Bright Laser Lights

White walls can be a boring waste of space during the day, dull and dark by night . Why not add some color and life, use them to project your schedule, adjust your social calender, view the weather and tell time on demand? This clever little all-in-one gadget proposes to do all of the above, and perhaps even more.
Yonggu Do, Dohyung Kim & Sewon Oh fashioned the device as a simple circular attachment – an unobtrusive, wall-mounted object that is activated by touch or via remote connection. Bluetooth, WIFI, and more – these days, all easy add-ons. A music player (with laser-light display of what you are listening to) would not be difficult either.

A series of lasers project digital information onto the flat surface surrounding the sundial, using familiar frames of reference for things like numerals one expects to see at a certain angle from center (making it easier to read from a distance, knowing the positions of hours and minutes and the relative size of the hands).

How To Send Music and Video Anywhere From An Apple iOS Device

One of the great features of Apple devices is AirPlay, the technology that enables them to wirelessly stream media to one another. The company has also set out to enable a growing range of other equipment, such as A/V receivers and speaker docks, to get content from your iTunes library simply by being near your computer or iOS device. Still, AirPlay has some Apple-imposed limitations, including the required use of iTunes and a relatively small pool of supported third-party devices. Recently, several tricks have been developed to extend AirPlay’s functionality, letting you stream music and video to and from more places.

Easy: Send Video To Your Mac

One of AirPlay’s major shortcomings is its inability to sling content to a Mac. A free app, AirPlayer, solves that problem by transforming your iPad, iPod Touch or iPhone into a video transmitter and allowing them to wirelessly stream iTunes clips to your Mac so you can watch on a bigger screen. The program works its magic by imitating the Apple TV’s connection protocols. Note: This is not to be confused with another app called AirPlayer, which sells for $5 in the iTunes store.

Medium: Enable Non-iTunes Video-To-TV Streaming

With the free content-management application Plex Media Center installed on your computer, the new Plex 1.1 iOS app ($4.99 on iTunes) lets you search through all your media (not just iTunes content) with your iPhone or iPad, stream it over 3G, and channel it to a friend’s HDTV via experimental AirPlay support. You’ll need to enable a setting on your router known as port forwarding to connect devices outside of your local network; for instructions, head to wiki.plexapp.com. Note that purchased videos with digital rights management (DRM) controls cannot be streamed.

Advanced: Stream To Any Device

The biggest difficulty with AirPlay is having to buy hardware that supports it. ShairPort lets you keep your current gear. The software can be installed onto any PC, allowing any device to take advantage of AirPlay streaming. For now, this allows only streaming to third-party software, so you’ll need a second computer to act as a go-between. For example, you could use your primary computer to stream music to the free VLC mediaplayer software running on a home-theater PC, and then from VLC to an A/V receiver. You can get the ShairPort code free at mafipulation.org, but fair warning—using it may void your equipment’s warranties.

Color-Picking Pen Concept Imagines Real-World Photoshop Eyedropper Tool

Designer dreams up pen that perfectly replicates colors in the environment

Any artist or designer who works with color knows that the best inspiration and perfect coloration can often be found in real-life objects all around us. What if you could take your trusty drawing pen and simply scan any color you want and then turn around and draw with it? This innovative pen design by Jin Sun Park allows you to do just that. Next step? A complete texture selector and replicator?

Most of the Photoshop tools familiar to artists import old school analog devices onto the computer. Before computers, artists would use actual razors to crop, and physical scissors and glue to cut and paste. But South Korean designer Jinsun Park has envisioned a pen that reverses the process, taking a tool developed for the computer and porting it to physical reality.
Park has designed a concept pen that adapts Photoshop's eyedropper tool for real life. On one end of the pen is a camera that captures a complex, real world color. Then, like an inkjet printer, a computer in the pen calculates the mixture of red, green and blue ink needed to replicate the color photographed by the camera. Ink in the perfect proportions then flows out of the ball point on the other end of the pen.

A color sensor on the top of the pen registers the color of the object you select, which in turn is displayed digitally on the back of the device for verification. Red, green and blue inks are then mixed – much like in a traditional printer – to create your desired color.

Of course, such an invention has its limitations: space for ink and batteries are challenges to be sure, but presumably you would only use this periodically and would also transfer the color data in some cases directly to another electronic advice, thus saving ink. While only in pre-production and sure to be extremely expensive initially one could easily see this become a household gadget and essential tool for every artist and designer for both real-life and web applications.

Samsung Flexible Display Transparent Tablet Also Involves 3D Technology in a Beautiful Concept

It’s one thing to see a concept from a designer and another to see an idea coming straight from a big company, such as Samsung. This is what happened with the following images and clip, that showcase the features of a Samsung flexible display tablet of the future.

This incredible device is also transparent and very, very thin, plus it’s foldable, so it can fit in the tiniest purses and bags. Samsung’s flexible concept tablet shows 3D graphics, allows instant translation, augmented reality interaction and even projects 3D holograms on its surface. Meanwhile the technology behind this is flexible AMOLED, something we’ve heard about and even seen in recent trade shows at Samsung’s booths.
Everyone is saying that the main problems with flexible screens and devices are batteries and resilience. The key to solving problems would be organic materials and solar charging, but we’re maybe years away from that and all we can do now is glance at prototypes and concepts. Would a transparent tablet make the difference on today’s market?

How to Wear a Scarf

Do Choose a Sophisticated Monochromatic Look:

Tone-on-tone scarf and outfit looks work best with neutrals -- black, navy, camel, cream -- and take on a sophisticated vibe when you mix fabrics (satin, shine, wool, etc.) Charlize Theron's all-black is elegant because she paired a long knit scarf with a metallic jacket.Get This Look: Take a long scarf and hold it in front of you. Twist it a few times in the middle, then toss the ends straight over your back. Bring each end back to the front on the opposite side and leave the ends to dangle.

Don't Think a Scarf Can Save a Bad Outfit:

Even gorgeous Faith Hill looks frumpy in a voluminous shirt and skinny scarf. Faux Pas to Fab: Save skinny scarves for more fitted tops and jackets. Although monochromatic looks can be chic, they can also be boring unless you mix textures.


Don't Overwhelm Your Look with a Scarf :

It may have been a stab at being trendy, but Julianne Moore's oversized scarf looks like it's choking her. Faux Pas to Fab: Skip the trend of giant knotted scarves on your neck, and go for a more timeless look with a simply draped or tied scarf.



Do Make a Scarf Your Spotlight Accessory:

Olivia Palermo's white scarf, which contrasts nicely with her black pantsuit, is all she needs for a sophisticated evening look. Get This Look: Start with a long scarf, holding it midpoint in front of your neck. Toss the ends over your back, then pull the ends forward on the opposite sides of your shoulder and leave the ends to dangle.

Don't Throw on a Scarf as an Afterthought:

Throwing on a random scarf with an cocktail dress doesn't work for Diane Krueger. Faux Pas to Fab: Eveningwear works best with a pashmina shawl, gracefully draped around the shoulders.

Don't Overaccessorize:

A scarf and a floppy hat for Naomi Watts is too much of a good thing (it's only a pair of sunglasses short of looking like a disguise). Faux Pas to Fab: Wear a smaller brimmed or knit hat with a large scarf so the two accessories don't compete with each other.

Do Try a Print Scarf:

Kelly Osbourne's natty Burberry plaid scarf sets off her coat perfectly. Get This Look: Loosely drape a long scarf around the front of your neck, pulling the ends over opposite sides and letting them hang free.

Men of Styel : Arjun Rampal

Arjun Rampal. The name instantly translates into the God of Fashion in the country.
He is one of the few Bollywood actors who spell fashion and class whenever they make an appearance. From the day Rampal started his foray into the limelight he has had an unmistakable streak of fashion-forwardness which has elevated his status amongst the style conscious.
We try to decipher what exactly makes this half-Dutch/half-Sikh man oh-so-desirable and a true blue 'man of style'.

Style Evolution

Rampal was just a normal college going boy before he was spotted by ace designer Rohit Bal discovered him in a Delhi discotheque. His style statement has evolved a lot since the time he started out. The flamboyant look has given way to a more sleek and sophisticated dress sense today. However, the nonchalance and casual-cool quotient have stayed on for this rocker.

Wardrobe Basics

The staple in Arjun Rampal has always been denims. Simple T-shirts would probably come a close second since he absolutely dotes on casual wear. He also sports formal blazers and crisp shirts, with denims of course, quite often. However according to Rampal himself, his underwear is the most important part of his wardrobe.

Top Fashion Moment

Our pick would be the time when he was picked by Giorgio Armani to be their brand ambassador in the Indian subcontinent owing to his knowledge of fashion and global presence.

Trademark Style

The one thing that Arjun Rampal has come back to time and again, and is identified with, is his long-ish mane. His shoulder length hairstyle has won him many followers.

Best Feature

Rampal's deep throaty voice wins hands down in terms of the best feature he possesses.

Hair Story

Arjun Rampal's hair has always been pretty close to his heart. During his modelling days, he had an easy-to-maintain crew cut while he sports long hair at present. He also sported spikes at one point– a look he totally rocked. The super long locks that he had for the role of a troubled guitarist in the film 'Rock On' drew him a lot of compliments as the hairstyle suited him and the role perfectly.

Style Mentor

Rampal's style mentor is most definitely Rohit Bal as it was him who discovered Rampal. The designer considers Rampal his muse till today and Rampal walks the ramp for him more than often as a gesture of love and loyalty.

In terms of style, personality and intelligence, Arjun Rampal always strikes the perfect chord. The man defines style in comfort and vice versa. Also, Rampal never comes across as one who gets his fashion statement right without trying too hard unlike many of his Bollywood counterparts. Right from his modelling days, to the present, Rampal has always been the ultimate style icon of the country, which is why everybody (us included) loves him!

The Working Man's Dressing

When it comes to building a functional wardrobe, the first thing a guy must do is assess his lifestyle. Does he need to wear a suit every day? If so, then he will need several suits.
Is he in a more casual setting at work? If so, then perhaps he needs more khakis or jeans than trousers or suits.
No matter what his particular situation though, there are things every man should have in his wardrobe. Be it a board meeting, or a casual get together, he needs to dress aptly for the occasion.
Here are some essentials that have to be there in a working man's wardrobe.

A Suit (Navy or Gray)

Even if you only need a suit a couple of times a year, you're glad to have it on hand when those occasions arise. Navy or gray suits are classic and neutral and can be dressed up or down. You can even wear the blazer with khakis or jeans. This is an item worth spending some money on.

Black Shoes and Belt (Brown can be an add on)

These can be worn with khakis, jeans and your suit. This is an essential combo. Before buying brown, get black. I think you will find you get more mileage out of them, especially when attending more formal or evening functions.

White Dress Shirt (Good for Day and Night Occasions)

White dress shirts look good on just about everybody. They look sharp and are versatile but should not to be worn as a casual shirt. Also read the Dos and Don'ts of Wearing a Shirt.

Solid Tie

Solid ties are easy and versatile. If solid isn't your thing, try a classic diagonal stripe. Having several tie patterns on hand will ensure you are prepared for interviews, weddings and evening events.

Scarf – A style Statement

Silk will do an elegant evening moment. And a wool silk blend is right for a board meeting.
Cufflinks – They may be small but cufflinks speak volumes about your style sense. It adds so much class and polish to your look. Board meeting or a n evening occasion, suits all purpose.

Blue Blazer

A blue blazer is good for all year round and easily coordinates with khakis and other items. If that bores you, try a tweed sport coat but also keep in mind that tweed is really only useful in fall and winter. Either way a blazer or tweed sport coat holds a look together.

Khakis and Jeans

No explanation necessary here. Jeans are a staple of the any wardrobe. Khakis are the same.

Overcoat

An overcoat doesn't necessarily mean a long coat. It also means 3/4-length or car coat length. This item really finishes an outfit and can be worn with everything including jeans. And everyone needs a coat in winter, right? Well, maybe not if you live in places like Phoenix or San Diego.

Briefcase

A briefcase does not necessarily mean a hard case. It can be soft, or messenger bag style. In a man is has to carry files and other documents, this is an essential.

Casual shirt

A casual shirt such as a polo or button down is a must have to wear with jeans or other casual pants.

Deconstructed suit

A deconstructed suit is great because it has a relaxed look but is pulled together. Also, the pants and blazer can be worn separately.
A word of advice: Start simple and expand according to lifestyle. Classics don't mean boring.

Types of Men's Suits

A suit is a two or three piece outfit consisting of jacket or trouser of the same fabric sometimes accompanied by awaistcoat.
Actually, a wardrobe of a man cannot be complete without a suit. Globally, the most accepted piece of attire. Is a mark of one’s reputation, character and style.

Single Breasted

A single-breasted jacket has only one set of buttons and button holes, which do not overlap. It can be two buttoned, generally accepted, or three buttoned. The one button version is generally for dinner jackets. The single-breasted jacket may be worn with a waistcoat, a close fitting waist length garment, without sleeves or collar. Waistcoat may be made of the same fabric of the suit. It has a ‘V’ shaped neck and the back is of silk. Also called, the British style suit, it generally gives a casual look as compared to the double breasted.

Double Breasted

The double-breasted is the one which has two front overlapping across the body. It is traditionally ventless i.e., having no flaps at the back. It generally has four or six button options. It is also known as the Italian style suit and generally worn by tall men for an elegant look. It is more of a conservative and a neat tailoring piece.

Lounge Suits

Lounge suits, a man’s formal suit for ordinary day wear. As meant for day work so the fit is comfortable. It can be worn with or without a tie. Light to medium colors are preferred. Single breasted is preferred with two buttons. Three buttons give it a more formal look. Lately, linen suits are a big draw in this category.

Dinner Suits

Dinner suits, basic black tie suit. Generally in dark colors and traditional fit. Lately, slim fit is preferred.

Business Suits

Next in line are the business suits, very formal cut and stylish in sober colors and sharp fits. Different from lounge, as they are more conservative and formal, common being the pinstripe suit in navy or black. Double and single breasted, both go well.

Mandarin Suits

Mandarin suit is an oriental inclusion into this list. With a Nehru collar or the band collar, is generally worn with full button on. Cut very closely to the body, gives a very lean and sharp look. These are very elegant for an evening out.

Wedding Suits

Wedding suits for the ceremonial occasions are catching on fast. They vary in cuts and silhouettes. Fabrics are velveteen, jacquard and other sheen or a luxury fabric meant for luxury wear. The trend is currently of single to two buttons with slim fit. Experiment with lapels and pockets.

Zoot Suits

Worth mentioning in the article are the zoot suits or the Jazz age suits. Originated by the African Americans – long coats, high waisted, big lapels, should think before trying it out. Not everyone can fit this bill.

Tuxedos

And yes, the tuxedos are ultra formal and the ultimate in the suit line. It can be stylized for the ceremonial wear. It is mostly seen being worn by Hollywood stars walking the Oscar red carpet in the traditional black tuxedo. Has widely caught up in the eastern part also. Can be worn with a cummerbund, same color or of some dark royal tone in satin preferably.