Contemporary Design

The new technology was one of the prime basis of modern design. Steel, concrete, and glass were 2 products used often. The popular term given to design based on advanced technology is Hi-Tech. More than 50% of the cost of any modern project is generated by the systems that provide electrical, telephone, plumbing, and air-quality services.

Richard Buckminister Fuller was an American Engineer, designer, inventor and philosopher. Much of his work ended after the few prototypes that he could produce. However, Richard made hemispherical dome structures from triangulated units. One of his domes was the U.S. exhibit pavilion at Expo 67. 

Charles Eames was a contemporary designer. His own house was built from standard industrially- produced parts. It is a great example of how technologically-based design could produce interior spaces of great beauty. 

Norman Foster was another contemporary designer during post modernism. His partnership was with Richard Rogers from 1963-1965. He designed Dumas Offices in Ipswich, England 1970-1975. 1300 workers are accommodated in this structure. He also renovated the Great Court of the British Museum, London 2001 and designed the commercial skyscraper called the Gherkin in London England.

Current Applications:

Reviews:

I reviewed Allison's blog and learned a lot about Frank Gehry. His own house in Los Angeles was one of his most famous works. I also reviewed Paige's and she explained the different movements of Contemporary design very well. Also, she explained the green aspects related to design.  

The Rise of the Interior Decorator

The rise of the Profession of Decorator began in Paris during the Art Deco period. Decorateur or an Emsemblier is one who creates an ensemble, choses objects, combines objects and in doing so makes aesthetic choices. The interior decorator was a growing need of a wealthy class of people for houses that reflected status, including professionals to help with outfitting the interiors.

Elsie de Wolfe was an actress who pursued interior design. She got her education in New York and Edinburgh. Elsie restored Victorian interiors into light and bright spaces using French furniture. She was also a professional who helped interior design become a separate entity from architecture.
Below is an example of a room Elsie de Wolfe designed. She liked to combine greens, purples, and lavenders. The room features a few of Elsie's favorite things such as, a writing desk, abundant light sources, seating situated for ease of conversation, and chintz curtains.

Dorothy Draper was a women who used traditional furniture in non-traditional ways. Her style was fun and appealing and she relied on social connections. Dorothy is known for dramatic use of black and white on walls, flooring and upholstered pieces. Her style was modern baroque with clear vivid colors. The Greenbrier Hotel in West Virginia is one of her famous works. 

For more pictures and information on the Greenbrier Hotel, here is a video giving you a tour of the hotel.

Current Applications: 

Reviews: 

I reviewed Paige's blog and I found many similarities comparing my blog to hers, however, I really enjoyed how she included chairs from the rise of the Interior Decorator. She connected them well with her current application photos as well. I also reviewed Alex's blog and I learn about Billy Baldwin in her blog. He quoted that "Nothing was interesting unless it was personal".