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Urban Plaza's in Big Development

Wider sidewalks, plaza's and parks... things vital to realize a true pedestrian friendly city. In an effort to maximize return on investment big development unfortunately does not usually include these things. The United States Courthouse in Seattle is a prime example of successful incorporation of public space into a large scale block development. Not to mention a fantastic building. For sure, the design and style of the plaza fits the business of the building, that being a place to uphold the law. And much like the building, the plaza makes use of beautiful materials and design that then balance themselves nicely with the function of the space. The architect was NBBJ and the engineer was MKA, two huge international firms based out of Seattle.

As one makes their way around the south and west sides of the building, they'll be welcomed with continuous steps that turn 90 degrees to parallel both blocks. The steps flow into the natural slope of the western block, growing in number as the grade lowers to the northern side of the block. As you near the entry to the building the steps continue into a water feature and become part of the design of the plaza, thereby meshing function into form.

This shot back towards the entry looks through the iron fist of the law sculpture. Don't mess with the law, but have a seat in our lovely plaza and ponder your freedom. Just be sure to mind the hidden cameras!

Residential Neighborhoods of Boston

Fresh back from a visit to Boston and touring around the city viewing some architectural history. One thing of note about Boston is the fantastic urban neighborhoods that pocket themselves around the city. History is no stranger to this old east coast city, so tons of charm can be found roaming the streets. Following are a few images of typical housing you may stumble across...

The Brownstones of Commonwealth Avenue, just a block away from the amazing shopping on Newbury Street

The dripping history to be found in the Italian neighborhood known as the North End

Classic units of Beacon Hill, just a block away from the banks of The River Charles

Alley way entrance in Beacon Hill

Tacky Smack Vinyl Wall Art Installation Photos

Some pics of a recent installation for our new company, Tacky Smack, at the Seattle retail store Retrofit Home located in Capitol Hill... In these shots Tricia and I are putting up a bunch of our vinyl wall art designs in preparation for our launch party! Our new company focuses on vinyl surface art, sometimes referred to as wall tattoos or wall decals, which are essentially removable stickers for a new twist on home decor. Tacky Smack style! The team is: Betsy, Joshua, Tricia and Matthew.

Tricia working out the final details on "Mermaid Spice"

I'm prepping "Hanging Gardens"

Removing transfer tape from "Mermaid Spice" with our "Bombass" collection next door (Fairy, Bleeding Heart, Unicorn)

Tacky Smack Launch Party Flier

Our new vinyl surface art company, Tacky Smack, launches next week! If you live in Seattle, then please join us for the party at Retrofit Home on October 8th... we'll have our product in Retrofit Home, and our e-commerce website launches on the same day. Our current offerings total over 60 designs, all available in varying sizes and color palettes and ready for you to purchase via our website on October 8th...