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Recap: @Ford’s Design with a Purpose panel discussion @AIANational in NYC!
If you’re into fashion you’ll also have a thing for design, and this week saw a very unique and insightful panel discussion take place at NYC’s American Institute of Architects: Ford’s Design with a Purpose.
This discussion brought Ford designers and AIA architects together to discuss what it really means to “build tough” and how designs have evolved to meet the demands of a changing world—both in vehicles and iconic buildings.
“We are constantly challenged with surpassing our own reputation,” said Rick Bell, a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and executive director of its New York chapter. “New York is one of the greatest cities in the world, and the work we create has global impact. Architects here have the privilege and responsibility of adding durable amenity to this tough, urban context. Millions of people live and work in New York. But it is also here that we dream and succeed. Our city combines form and function, fun and frenzy. Design provides the structure and inspiration.”
Ford group vice president and chief creative officer J Mays was also at the panel discussion to talk about the similar challenges Ford faces in creating something that stands the test of time and lives up to the hype: “With trucks, every surface and feature must be crafted for utility while retaining an unmistakable Built Ford Tough. Trucks are similar to architecture, in that a building must clearly convey its use. Once inside the building, its layout needs to be practical, with intuitive features to assist the person occupying it. A truck operates the same way, with intelligent design that can complement the lifestyle of the person driving it.”
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Show Stopping Shoes @unitednude
Looking to update your shoe collection? You’re wardrobe isn’t complete without a pair of UNITED NUDE’s innovative, quirky, yet sleek designs. Each shoe is a work of art, perfectly crafted by the creators: architect Rem, and shoemaker Galahad.
Their story, is a unique one, which is no coincidence after seeing what their designs are like. This story begins with a broken heart. Rem’s attempt to get the girl back was made by downsizing architecture to its smallest and most vulnerable scale, that of a woman’s foot.
While most romantic notions are often foolish, what was hatched through the inspiration of romance was the ‘Möbius’ shoe. The girl was gone, but he knew the shoe had to become real.
Now add Galahad to our story. The seventh generation of the Clark’s shoe-making dynasty.
When Rem and Galahad first met, Galahad saw the Möbius shoe design, and he was instantly convinced that a new brand had to be formed.
Joined together, Rem and Galahad created United Nude. The name derived from the fact that products evolve from international teams in an open way with direct recognition. United Nude launched in 2003 with the ‘Möbius’ shoe. Since then, United Nude has established itself as an iconic brand at the intersection between design and fashion.
Their Spring/Summer 2012 Collection features a wide range of shoe designs for both men and women, from booties and flats, to mid and high-heeled sandals. Here are a few of my favorite picks from the collection, perfect for a show-stopping Spring Season. United Nude products are about clear concepts, elegance and innovation. Be prepared to turn heads, ladies.
Check out all the fabulous styles and designs at the United Nude website.
