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Rising elegantly above San Francisco’s Financial District, the Transamerica Pyramid is an architectural icon that defines the city’s skyline. Completed in 1972 and designed by William Pereira, this 853-foot tall structure was initially met with skepticism due to its unconventional shape, but it quickly became one of San Francisco's most beloved landmarks. The building’s unique pyramid shape was conceived to maximize sunlight on the surrounding streets, a thoughtful touch that sets it apart from the typical high-rises of the era. The exterior is clad in crushed quartz, giving it a shimmering, light-reflective quality that changes with the time of day. The Transamerica Pyramid’s tapering design and innovative engineering have earned it a place in the pantheon of modern architectural masterpieces. Beyond its striking appearance, the building is also a marvel of efficiency and foresight, designed to withstand earthquakes and other seismic activity, which is essential in this region. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city's forward-thinking spirit, blending form and function seamlessly. Visitors to the area can explore the plaza at its base, which offers a serene contrast to the bustling streets of the Financial District, and snap photos of this futuristic structure from various angles. For those interested in San Francisco’s architectural heritage, the Transamerica Pyramid is an absolute must-see, offering a glimpse into the city’s dynamic blend of innovation and tradition.
BUY HERE: www.league-extraordinaire.com/season8/108.php
Scarf 200x17 cm. (78,7"x6,7")
Each scarf is numbered
Time-limited edition
Edition size confirmed after pre-order period
Minimum edition of 60
This vivid, golden one of a kind statement necklace was created by hand.
The body of this collar necklace is needle felted wool (100% wool), swarovski colorful cristal stone, green and yellow Czech beads and gold embroidery thread.
My inspiration for this necklace comes from primitives culture and wild nature.
by Nufar Livny Laskov
Broken terracotta pots, moss and ivy add interest to these 'terrariums' I created using beautiful Hellebore plants.
Jade Ocean is a luxury 51 story oceanfront tower offering 252 residences with 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms. Its contemporary design and decor are exclusive: the seamless glass tower features an infinity edge pool flowing through the entire building plus a tall cascade on Collins Avenue's entrance, and views of the Atlantic Ocean are reflected through the building itself in raised pools and fountains. Jade ocean is located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami Beach with quick access to all of the business, services and amenities of both of these great cities. It offers astounding views of the ocean, coastline and Intracoastal Waterway at Sunny Isles Beach's tranquil atmosphere.
Credit for the data above is given to the following websites:
www.skyscrapercenter.com/building/jade-ocean/3008
miamiresidential.com/jadeocean
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jade_Beach_and_Jade_Ocean
© All Rights Reserved - you may not use this image in any form without my prior permission.
Looking up from the center of the Potomac Atrium in the National Museum of the American Indian, visitors are met with a mesmerizing architectural spectacle: a concentric oculus spiraling upward toward the sky. This iconic interior element, located at the heart of the Smithsonian museum in Washington, D.C., echoes Indigenous architectural traditions that center light, circularity, and the natural world.
Designed by Douglas Cardinal (Blackfoot/Algonquin) in partnership with Johnpaul Jones (Cherokee/Choctaw) and the firm Jones & Jones, the building opened in 2004 and stands as a celebration of Native peoples across the Western Hemisphere. The oculus—symbolizing the connection between earth and sky—is central to that vision. As natural light pours in from the skylight above, it moves with the sun, tracing daily and seasonal rhythms deeply rooted in Native cosmologies.
This photograph captures the oculus looking straight up, emphasizing the soft radial flow of the architecture. The gentle curves—free of sharp corners—echo the natural erosion of stone by wind and water. Rings of light fixtures sparkle like stars or ancestral spirits, reinforcing a sense of cosmic unity. From this vantage point, the building becomes almost celestial, a quiet act of reverence and grounding in a city of marble and monuments.
Unlike the rigid symmetry of classical architecture found elsewhere on the National Mall, the Potomac Atrium’s spiraling form draws on organic and Indigenous spatial concepts, honoring communal gathering spaces such as kivas and longhouses. It functions not just as a dramatic architectural moment but as a ceremonial center—where festivals, dances, and public programs come to life.
The oculus is more than a design flourish. It is a spiritual and cultural gesture, framing the sky as a place of story, ceremony, and continuity. It connects the past with the present and future—linking generations of Native peoples to each other and to the land.
Photographing from the center looking up offers viewers a rare perspective on this sacred geometry, revealing layers of meaning that transcend materials and form. In a city dominated by power and politics, the National Museum of the American Indian reminds us of deeper truths—of cycles, light, land, and legacy.
This avant garde big flower necklace one of a kind statement necklace was created by hand.
The body of this collar necklace is needle felted wool (100% wool), swarovski colorful cristal stone, light turkiz Czech beads and colorful embroidery thread.
My inspiration for this necklace comes from Russian folk art and Japanese manga culture.by Nufar Livny Laskov
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s dynamic Mission Bay neighborhood, Arden stands as a testament to modern architectural brilliance and historical richness. With its sleek glass exterior punctuated by bold orange highlights, this residential marvel invites you to experience luxury living with a view. Each window serves as a canvas showcasing panoramic vistas of the bustling cityscape and serene bay waters.
Arden’s design pays homage to San Francisco’s storied past while embracing its future. The building’s strategic location offers residents an insider’s perspective on city life – where history meets innovation amidst verdant parks and waterfront leisure spots. Its proximity to renowned tech hubs echoes Mission Bay’s transformation from an industrial railway yard to a thriving community for pioneers in technology and medicine.
The structure itself is an embodiment of sustainable living, featuring energy-efficient windows that bathe interiors in natural light while providing insulation against the city’s infamous foggy chills. Inside, one finds meticulously crafted spaces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal – all designed with an acute awareness of San Francisco’s unique urban rhythm.
Living at Arden means more than just enjoying its architectural splendor; it signifies being part of a neighborhood steeped in cultural heritage yet constantly evolving – where every corner tells a story, every facade reflects dreams realized, and every resident embodies the spirit of ‘We Live Here’.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling Financial District, 2 Embarcadero Center stands as a beacon of modern architectural brilliance. This iconic structure, part of the larger Embarcadero Center complex, is renowned for its innovative design and strategic urban planning. The centerpiece of this architectural marvel is a striking golden sphere, which serves as both a visual focal point and a conversation starter among locals and visitors alike.
As you approach 2 Embarcadero Center, the golden sphere immediately captures your attention, flanked by gracefully curved staircases that lead up to the building’s glass facade. This artistic installation not only adds a touch of sophistication but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the plaza. The building itself features sleek lines and expansive windows, reflecting the dynamic life of the city and offering a glimpse into the vibrant spaces within.
Designed with meticulous attention to detail, 2 Embarcadero Center seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. The thoughtful landscaping and strategic use of natural light create an inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both work and leisure. The building’s facade, a masterclass in contemporary architecture, showcases the innovative spirit of San Francisco.
Embarcadero Center in San Francisco is an iconic example of modernist architecture, embodying the city’s mid-20th-century urban redevelopment vision. Comprising five office towers, the center stretches along the Embarcadero waterfront, offering a blend of commercial, retail, and public spaces. This photo highlights the striking linear symmetry of the building’s balconies, each one precisely aligned in a grid-like pattern that emphasizes repetition and rhythm. The design, characterized by minimalist aesthetics, exudes a sense of order and efficiency, reflecting the architectural trends of the 1960s and 1970s. The repetitive vertical lines of the balconies draw the eye upward, while the muted color palette enhances the structure's bold, geometric forms. Designed by architect John C. Portman Jr., Embarcadero Center is a testament to the urban planning and architectural ingenuity of its era. Its clean lines and functional design have made it a landmark in San Francisco's Financial District, symbolizing both the city’s economic prowess and its embrace of modernity. Whether viewed up close or from a distance, the Embarcadero Center’s architectural significance and its place in the fabric of San Francisco are undeniable, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and visitors alike.
With some funding from www.gardenmuseum.org.uk and further support from www.tomcecil.co.uk I was able to showcase this prototype at my exhibition. Tom did an amazing job at bringing my vision to life. It's still at prototype stage and this exhibition will enable us to improve on the design and make it commercially available.
The M.H. de Young Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park is an iconic blend of modern design and historical significance. Originally opened in 1895, the museum was completely reimagined and reopened in 2005 with a striking new architectural look designed by the renowned Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron. This copper-clad structure stands out for its sleek, minimalist lines, and the way the building's surface transforms over time. As the weathered copper ages, it develops a patina that allows the museum to harmoniously blend with its natural surroundings.
At the museum’s entrance, visitors are greeted by intriguing outdoor sculptures, like the seated lion and intricately detailed urns, which provide a fascinating juxtaposition to the building’s angular, contemporary design. One of the museum’s defining features is its 144-foot Hamon Tower, which rises into the fog, offering stunning panoramic views of the park and the city beyond. The tower’s sharp, geometric lines are softened by the surrounding palm trees and lush greenery, offering an engaging contrast between nature and modernity.
Inside, the de Young houses an extensive collection of American art, textiles, and artifacts from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, representing cultures from across the globe. This museum is not just a space for art lovers—it’s a celebration of architectural innovation. Whether you're visiting for the art exhibitions or simply to admire the building itself, the M.H. de Young Museum is a must-see for both locals and tourists, perfectly marrying San Francisco’s historical depth with a forward-looking aesthetic.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s iconic waterfront district, the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero boasts one of the city’s most awe-inspiring architectural gems—the stunning 17-story atrium. Designed by renowned architect John Portman, this soaring interior was once the world’s largest hotel atrium when it opened in 1973, setting the stage for Portman’s revolutionary concept of communal hotel spaces. The vast, light-filled atrium welcomes guests with its open design, featuring exposed glass elevators, futuristic lighting, and sweeping walkways that guide your eyes upward to the dramatic skylights. The atrium’s symmetrical lines and angular design create an almost sci-fi ambiance, perfect for fans of modern architecture. This cutting-edge design has also made the Hyatt Regency a favorite filming location, most notably featured in the 1977 thriller High Anxiety by Mel Brooks.
The atrium seamlessly blends with the waterfront energy outside, just steps from the Ferry Building, offering unbeatable views of the San Francisco Bay and the Bay Bridge. Its proximity to the Embarcadero makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers seeking luxury with a touch of history. In addition to its architectural flair, the hotel offers high-end amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, fine dining, and spacious, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, all encapsulating the spirit of San Francisco’s vibrant waterfront district.
With a limited budget and time, I created a scene to allude to the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, with stacked plates, pots and plants. It would have been nice to made a complete setting with trees and grass, etc, but just placing tall cylinders with willow branches and recycling some old forsythia helped create some atmosphere.
All the plants were removed from their pots and either wrapped in cellophane bags and concealed amid the crockery, or planted directly in the cups, etc.
I would have liked to have used vintage furniture, but the colour of table and chairs I borrowed from my boss works well here.
Perched above the rugged Sonoma coastline, this weathered cedar residence at The Sea Ranch captures the defining ethos of the community—architecture as landscape. The linear form steps gently along the bluff, its wood siding faded to silver by decades of salt air and sun. Expansive glass panels reflect the horizon, while interior light spills outward in quiet dialogue with the Pacific beyond.
Every element of the structure serves the philosophy that shaped The Sea Ranch in the 1960s: restraint, respect for the environment, and the celebration of natural materials. The home’s unpainted boards and angular massing allow it to blend seamlessly into the coastal meadow, where native grasses and low shrubs flow right up to its edges. Even the simple outdoor seating area, surrounded by mulch and wind-shaped vegetation, feels like part of the terrain—an intentional erasure of boundaries between built and wild.
The play of sunlight across weathered grain transforms the facade throughout the day, echoing the rhythm of waves below. Seen here under a clear blue sky, this Sea Ranch home exemplifies how thoughtful design can coexist beautifully with untamed nature.
This Sea Ranch coastal home embodies the region’s iconic modernism—minimalist wood architecture integrated with the Northern California landscape and open Pacific horizon.
A burst of bold geometry and color defines this intriguing image captured at The Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. The photograph frames a dramatic transition between gallery spaces: a doorway perfectly centered in the composition opens onto a brilliant red stairwell, bisected by sharp diagonal lines and a steel-gray handrail. Above the doorway, a glowing red “EXIT” sign adds a theatrical touch, echoing the dominant color beyond.
The contrast between the spaces is striking. The foreground is subdued, with warm wood flooring and neutral-toned gallery walls that host classical artworks in ornate gilded frames. The lighting is soft, designed to enhance the texture and tones of traditional oil paintings. The left edge of the image hints at one such painting, reinforcing the quiet dignity of this gallery zone.
In contrast, the world just beyond the doorway is louder—visually, if not literally. Red dominates the stairwell walls, creating a vibrant and almost surreal transition space. The staircase itself zigzags diagonally across the background, injecting energy and motion into the otherwise still image. It's not just an architectural element—it’s a visual protagonist.
The design of this photograph plays with perspective, boundaries, and themes of transition. The doorway acts like a frame within a frame, emphasizing movement from one conceptual space to another: from classic to contemporary, from enclosed to open, from hushed to bold. It's a meditation on the museum experience itself, where visitors are constantly moving not just through space, but through time, ideas, and artistic eras.
Subtle cues add to the atmosphere. A fire alarm rests quietly on the right wall, and safety handrails on either side of the doorway signal an ADA-compliant and thoughtfully designed environment. The visible portion of the stairwell includes a mid-century modern railing design, with slim vertical bars and a gentle curve on the stair landing—an elegant blend of form and function.
What makes this image particularly resonant is its quiet symbolism. Museums often house polarities: tradition and innovation, stillness and movement, permanence and impermanence. This photograph embodies all those dualities through simple, precise framing. The open doorway doesn't just suggest physical movement, but intellectual passage and emotional transition.
It’s also an invitation. The stairwell draws you in, offering a literal path forward into the museum’s more modern or experimental spaces. The brightness of the red walls compared to the ambient gallery lighting calls to the viewer like a siren, challenging the calm predictability of the museum routine.
Taken as a whole, the photo is less about the physical structure and more about how space, color, and line interact to tell a layered story. It's about the unspoken narratives that architecture can provide—where even an exit becomes a moment of drama, direction, and design intent.
Sunlight slices through the high clerestory windows of this quiet Sea Ranch bedroom, painting geometric patterns across the white walls and unmade bed. The architecture here is quintessentially Sea Ranch—spare yet deeply intentional, where every line and volume responds to the rugged California coast outside. Designed for simplicity and reflection, this interior balances light, texture, and shadow in a way that feels almost meditative.
The tall, asymmetrical window invites the Pacific sky inside, framing a fleeting play of clouds that echo the organic patterns of the bedding below. The smaller operable windows, inset with frosted glass, filter light through a soft diffusion—just enough to preserve privacy while maintaining the rhythm of the façade. Together they form a quiet dialogue between openness and enclosure, a hallmark of Sea Ranch design.
On the bedside table, a modest lamp anchors the scene—its vintage base and pleated shade introducing a touch of human warmth to the otherwise architectural calm. Beside it, a single framed seascape connects interior and exterior worlds, as if to remind the viewer that this home exists within the larger continuum of wind, salt, and sea. The rumpled bedding, left just as the morning light enters, adds a necessary imperfection—a trace of lived-in authenticity that balances the precision of the space.
This moment captures the emotional architecture that defines Sea Ranch: restraint that never feels cold, form that honors function, and beauty that emerges not from excess but from essence. The play of light on surfaces is the real protagonist here, moving like a slow tide across the room. Even the shadows participate in the design, creating depth and dimension that change by the minute.
As a photograph, the composition embraces asymmetry—the dark triangle of shadow at left counterbalances the bright upper window, leading the eye from corner to corner. The use of natural light transforms what might otherwise be an ordinary morning into something timeless and contemplative. It’s a perfect illustration of what architect Charles Moore and the original Sea Ranch designers envisioned: a life lived in tune with nature, where architecture doesn’t dominate the landscape but listens to it.
In this quiet room, the viewer can almost hear the distant ocean and the soft creak of wood expanding in the morning sun. It’s not just a photograph of a room—it’s an invitation to pause, breathe, and appreciate the luxury of simplicity.
This colorful Matryoshka style statement beaded necklace was created by hand.
She has a lovely black face and playful Braids hair.
The beads made from needle felted wool (100% wool), scissors cut wool felt, painted wood and black stone.
by Nufar Livny Laskov
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling Financial District, 2 Embarcadero Center stands as a beacon of modern architectural brilliance. This iconic structure, part of the larger Embarcadero Center complex, is renowned for its innovative design and strategic urban planning. The centerpiece of this architectural marvel is a striking golden sphere, which serves as both a visual focal point and a conversation starter among locals and visitors alike.
As you approach 2 Embarcadero Center, the golden sphere immediately captures your attention, flanked by gracefully curved staircases that lead up to the building’s glass facade. This artistic installation not only adds a touch of sophistication but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the plaza. The building itself features sleek lines and expansive windows, reflecting the dynamic life of the city and offering a glimpse into the vibrant spaces within.
Designed with meticulous attention to detail, 2 Embarcadero Center seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. The thoughtful landscaping and strategic use of natural light create an inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both work and leisure. The building’s facade, a masterclass in contemporary architecture, showcases the innovative spirit of San Francisco.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s iconic waterfront district, the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero boasts one of the city’s most awe-inspiring architectural gems—the stunning 17-story atrium. Designed by renowned architect John Portman, this soaring interior was once the world’s largest hotel atrium when it opened in 1973, setting the stage for Portman’s revolutionary concept of communal hotel spaces. The vast, light-filled atrium welcomes guests with its open design, featuring exposed glass elevators, futuristic lighting, and sweeping walkways that guide your eyes upward to the dramatic skylights. The atrium’s symmetrical lines and angular design create an almost sci-fi ambiance, perfect for fans of modern architecture. This cutting-edge design has also made the Hyatt Regency a favorite filming location, most notably featured in the 1977 thriller High Anxiety by Mel Brooks.
The atrium seamlessly blends with the waterfront energy outside, just steps from the Ferry Building, offering unbeatable views of the San Francisco Bay and the Bay Bridge. Its proximity to the Embarcadero makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers seeking luxury with a touch of history. In addition to its architectural flair, the hotel offers high-end amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, fine dining, and spacious, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, all encapsulating the spirit of San Francisco’s vibrant waterfront district.
A long wooden bench stretches along a wall of weathered cedar at The Sea Ranch Lodge, softened by a neat row of pale linen pillows. The scene feels quiet and exacting — every surface aligned, every seam intentional. Here, design fades into calm precision, letting space itself do the talking.
The cedar boards have aged into a silvered patina, the kind only Pacific wind and salt can create. Light drifts across them in soft gradients, shifting with each passing cloud. The air carries a faint scent of ocean and wood oil. Even in black and white, you sense color — the pale grain, the sun-bleached cushions, the deep tone of the planks beneath your feet.
This moment captures The Sea Ranch philosophy distilled: shelter shaped by nature, restraint used as expression. The bench offers an invitation to pause, listen to wind in the cypress, and let the architecture dissolve into the landscape it was made for.
I'm happier with this week's design, as I limited myself to the use of one type of flower and containers made from the same material. The look suggests a rustic setting without indulging in pastiche. I love the muted colours of English hydrangea at this time of year.
You can find a large number of full-resolution photos under a Creative Commons license on my official website: nenadstojkovicart.com/albums
InterContinental Miami IHG Hotel at 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, Florida aerial view - © 2023 David Oppenheimer - Performance Impressions aerial photography archives - performanceimpressions.com
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. This striking cityscape photograph perfectly captures the essence of Tokyo's architectural and cultural landscape. The image features a blend of towering skyscrapers and historical landmarks, offering a panoramic view that tells the story of the city's dynamic evolution.
At the center of the photo, a sleek, glass-covered skyscraper stands tall, reflecting the modernity and futuristic vision that Tokyo is renowned for. This architectural marvel is a symbol of the city's rapid development and innovative spirit. To the right, a classic beige high-rise adds a touch of traditional architectural style, contrasting beautifully with the contemporary structures surrounding it. This juxtaposition of old and new is a hallmark of Tokyo's urban design, showcasing the city's ability to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing modern advancements.
The vast urban sprawl visible in the background highlights Tokyo's immense size and density. Every building, from the tallest skyscrapers to the smaller structures, contributes to the city's unique skyline, creating a visual narrative of growth and progress. The soft hues of blue and orange in the sky add a serene backdrop to this bustling metropolis, enhancing the overall beauty of the scene.
Tokyo's cityscape is a reflection of its rich history and architectural ingenuity. The city has managed to retain its historical charm while continuously evolving to meet the demands of a global metropolis. This photograph not only captures the physical beauty of Tokyo but also encapsulates its cultural and historical significance. It is a testament to the city's resilience, creativity, and its unwavering commitment to progress.
Rising at the edge of San Francisco’s Mission Bay neighborhood, this contemporary structure at 100 Hooper Street demonstrates how adaptive urban architecture can balance innovation and warmth. Its façade alternates between sleek black metal and classic red brick, creating a dialogue between the industrial history of the surrounding area and the precision of 21st-century design. The building’s massing is distinctly modern—crisp, geometric, and composed of clean vertical lines—but its human-scaled ground level and textured materials invite approachability.
Designed with flexibility and sustainability in mind, the structure reflects San Francisco’s ongoing evolution from a city of factories and shipyards into a hub for technology, design, and education. The use of brick at the base roots the building in the city’s architectural past, while the upper stories of dark, minimalist cladding and glass communicate forward-thinking intent. Together, they embody the dual character of the Mission Bay district—historic yet future-oriented, practical yet refined.
The intersection of Hooper and 7th Street, where this photo was taken, has become a showcase for the city’s new generation of mixed-use buildings. The adjacent California College of the Arts (CCA) campus contributes a creative pulse to the area, while nearby biotech and design firms highlight the district’s diverse economy. This proximity between creative and technological spaces is no accident—it’s part of a broader effort to cultivate interdisciplinary collaboration through thoughtful urban design.
Light plays a crucial role in defining this architecture. The narrow vertical windows cut cleanly through the façade, catching San Francisco’s sharp coastal sunlight and revealing subtle tonal variations in the exterior materials. In the late afternoon, the building glows softly against the blue sky, its forms sharpened by the long shadows typical of the city’s western light. The result is a space that feels both substantial and alive, an urban composition of rhythm and restraint.
As with much of San Francisco’s contemporary architecture, 100 Hooper embodies sustainability not just as a set of features, but as a philosophy of permanence. Its materials are chosen for longevity; its form for adaptability. The design invites natural light deep into its interior spaces, minimizing energy use while enhancing the experience of those who work and study within. It’s a quietly confident building—urban in scale, timeless in detail, and distinctly Californian in spirit.
Bathed in the crisp California light, 1700 Owens Street rises from San Francisco’s Mission Bay district as a striking example of contemporary sustainable architecture. Completed in 2008 and designed by Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum (HOK), the building anchors a key corner of the city’s modern life-sciences corridor. Its shimmering turquoise-blue curtain wall reflects both the Bay’s waters and the city’s dynamic transformation from industrial port to innovation hub.
The six-story structure was among the first large-scale office developments in Mission Bay, part of the neighborhood’s early wave of biotech and healthcare expansion. Behind its grid of teal glass and aluminum mullions lies an interior conceived to maximize natural light and flexible workspaces. The design prioritizes energy efficiency through high-performance glazing, sunshades, and environmentally responsive materials—principles that helped the project earn LEED Gold certification.
At street level, cafés like Espos East open the glass façade to the public realm, softening the corporate edge and creating a lively pedestrian experience. The building’s transparency and rhythm of vertical lines give it a nautical sensibility, a subtle nod to the nearby waterfront and to San Francisco’s maritime heritage. When the sun shifts across the façade, the glass transforms from aquamarine to cobalt, constantly reshaping the building’s presence against the sky.
1700 Owens exemplifies the new identity of Mission Bay—a district built on reclaimed land that now thrives as a center for research, medicine, and urban living. Steps from UCSF’s Mission Bay Campus and Oracle Park, the building represents the city’s forward-looking commitment to innovation balanced with environmental responsibility. It’s a space designed not only for productivity but also for wellness: abundant light, open air, and proximity to green corridors like Mission Creek Park.
Today, 1700 Owens stands as both an architectural and cultural marker of 21st-century San Francisco. Its cool, modern geometry contrasts the city’s Victorian and Art Deco past, yet its craftsmanship and attention to proportion reflect the same dedication to beauty that has defined the city’s built environment for over a century. In a single glance, the building captures the essence of Mission Bay—ambitious, sustainable, and always evolving under the Bay Area’s brilliant blue sky.
Akasaka Star Gate Plaza, located in Tokyo’s bustling Akasaka district, is a modern architectural marvel that embodies the sleek, minimalist design ethos characteristic of Japan’s contemporary urban landscape. This impressive high-rise stands as a symbol of Tokyo’s growth, blending cutting-edge design with functionality and sustainability. The building’s glass facade reflects the surrounding cityscape, creating a mesmerizing blend of architecture and environment. Designed to maximize natural light, the reflective surfaces and tall, seamless windows give the structure a sense of openness while maintaining an imposing urban presence.
The Akasaka area has long been known for its dynamic business and entertainment scenes, making Akasaka Star Gate Plaza a prime spot for companies and professionals seeking to be in the heart of the action. Inside, the building offers a mix of office spaces designed with flexibility and collaboration in mind, catering to Tokyo’s vibrant workforce. The plaza below the building features carefully planned landscaping, integrating green spaces into the urban environment to provide a refreshing contrast to the sleek, metallic exterior.
Akasaka Star Gate Plaza is not only an architectural highlight but also a part of Tokyo’s green building movement. With sustainable materials and energy-efficient features, the building showcases Japan’s commitment to environmentally conscious design. This site has become a favorite among photographers and architecture enthusiasts, who are drawn to its clean lines, mirror-like facade, and how it harmonizes with the surrounding skyline. Whether visiting for work or admiring Tokyo’s architectural achievements, Akasaka Star Gate Plaza is a stunning example of modern urban design in one of the world’s most advanced cities.
Set against a clear Pacific horizon, this understated residence at 40516 Sea Ranch exemplifies the community’s devotion to architecture that yields to the land. Clad in weathered cedar, the home’s minimalist form and muted tones blend seamlessly into the dry coastal meadow—a hallmark of the Sea Ranch ethos established in the 1960s. The façade presents clean planes and deliberate restraint, concealing a warm, light-filled interior that looks outward toward the sea and sky.
The design follows The Sea Ranch’s guiding principle of “living lightly on the land.” Vertical cedar boards and unpainted finishes encourage the house to age naturally, its silvery patina reflecting years of salt air and sun. Angular rooflines and small window groupings balance privacy with panoramic views, embodying the master plan’s careful choreography of solitude, sightlines, and shared landscape. Even the driveway and fencing feel integral, forming part of an overall rhythm of simplicity, texture, and coastal harmony.
While the architecture appears modest, every element—from orientation to material choice—reveals deep environmental sensitivity. The quiet sophistication of 40516 Sea Ranch captures the enduring appeal of this Northern California icon: architecture as both refuge and reflection of the wild beauty around it.
40516 Sea Ranch is a cedar-clad modernist home designed in the Sea Ranch tradition of natural materials, environmental harmony, and quiet geometric precision along the Sonoma Coast.
BUY HERE: www.league-extraordinaire.com/season8/108.php
Scarf 200x17 cm. (78,7"x6,7")
Each scarf is numbered
Time-limited edition
Edition size confirmed after pre-order period
Minimum edition of 60