I just came across this great little video.  Apparently some folks a Volkswagon are working on a project called The Fun Theory, trying to get people to behave differently by making their environment interactive. Project one was the "Piano Stairs" in Stockholm.  Check it out.

Aside from the fact that VW seems to have mastered the purpose built viral video, this project touches on so many other points.  Not the least of which is that our environments affect our lives.  Now, I'm not saying that we should need a piano on every set of stair to keep us from getting lazy, but an example like this supports the growing trend for Architects, and Designers to really consider how people will interact with the spaces they are creating.

I take the stairs most times. Usually (and especially in airports) it's faster because there is so much less traffic, and I don't mind the exercise. But, if these stairs were on my regular commute, I would be practicing a new tune every day so I could show off on my way to the train!  Really, this is public art, but it's presented integrated into the architecture. Another great example of art meets architecture that engages the public is Cloud Gate, more commonly known as the 'Chicago Bean'.

Obviously the piano stairs were designed as marketing for VW, but while looking for an idea that would be interesting enough to go viral, they hit on a vital concept: We are connected to the places, things, and people around us. If those relationships can improve our lives and experiences, even better. So, take a look around you.

I'm not usually prone to linking to corporate advertising, but VW's 'The Fun Theory' has earned this one. Here's the link so you can follow along.  thefuntheory.com

A while back I discovered the videos that are available on the TED website. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design. It started out (in 1984) as a conference bringing together people from those three worlds. Since then its scope has become ever broader. Some of the worlds most inspirational speakers, and forward thinkers talk at the conference, and the TED website makes all of the videos available for anyone to view.

I regularly find inspiration and insight watching a TED talk.  So much so that it has become a regular routine for me to snuggle in bed with my laptop and watch a few TED videos before I turn in.  Be careful, it can be addictive.  Of course, I always love the talks about photography, architecture and design, but there are so many other amazing topics, that I could follow non-stop.  That's why I subscribed to the TED video RSS feed. If you don't have that much time, you can go to the "In Bed With TED" category, or subscribe to the feed for In Bed With TED, and check out my favorites!

I Hope you enjoy!

I recently finshed post production on an Interior Design Photography project for Susan Parker, a Designer from Vancouver.  In an awesome place right on the Nicklaus North Golf Course in Whistler, BC.  Susan designed a Modern Mountain Kitchen in granite, stainless and slate with red accents to make it feel amazingly warm, but clean and modern at the same time.

With the same approach, Susan also designed the living space surrounding the kitchen for an up to date cozy ski town feel.  The interior is accented by a brilliant custom stairway designed by Architect Dennis Maguire.

Modern mountain style interior design is one of my favourite things to shoot, clean but warm and inviting.

Photographing Architecture is a big part of what i do, and seeing new and creative architecture regularly gets me excited for the future.  There has been a real move recently towards increased housing density.  Vancouver, BC is one of the most vibrant cities in the world because of its density.  I have been to cities like Dallas, and recently Phoenix that are practically abandoned on a Sunday, because there is very little residential housing in the core of the city.  Vancouver on the other hand, is always alive. Before I lose the point, the trend in residential, since no one is making any more land has been to go up.  This does some great things. Aside from creating metropolitan vibrance, is keeps people living closer to where they work, shop, and play, reducing the need for transportation.  It does mean however that more supplies need to be shipped in from out of town.

photo from http://www.verticalfarm.com

Several innovative architectural designs offer a vertical solution to the urban food supply.  The one above is "The Living Tower" designed by SOA Architects in France. (more designs by other architects here)  Essentially it's a farm in a high rise, using clean energy to grow fresh food for the city centre, reducing transportation costs for produce, eliminating growing seasons, and even cleaning city waste water to provide fresh clean drinking water a s a by-product.  Imagine a farmers market on the ground floor, where you can buy hydroponically grown fresh food that was harvested 15 minutes ago. Not to mention it's an architectural photographer's dream!

While the logistics are not simple, and solutions are more complicated than producing a great looking rendering, it's the innovative thinking that gets me excited.  Solving problems through original architectural design could someday revolutionize the way we live, interact, and even eat.  Personally I'm looking forward to seeing, eating from, and hopefully photographing an amazing vertical farm in the future!

Checkout http://www.verticalfarm.com for more information.