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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.
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.
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.
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, this vibrant street scene offers a captivating glimpse into the harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary Japan. As you stroll down this bustling avenue, you'll be greeted by an array of shops, restaurants, and businesses, each adorned with distinctive Japanese signage that tells a story of its own. The architecture here is a fascinating mix of old and new, with modern buildings standing shoulder to shoulder with structures that echo the rich history of Kyoto.
Walking through this street, you can feel the soul of Kyoto, a city that honors its history while embracing the future. The traditional wooden buildings with gracefully sloping tiled roofs are quintessential elements of classic Japanese architecture. The intricate wooden latticework and earthy tones of these structures evoke a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the past. These buildings, likely historic teahouses or traditional inns, stand as proud reminders of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
The presence of street lamps, designed in a classic style, illuminates the pathway, creating a warm and inviting ambiance as day turns to night. This area is not just a commercial hub but a cultural treasure trove, where every corner holds a piece of Kyoto’s storied past. The backdrop of lush mountains serves as a constant reminder of the city’s natural beauty, providing a serene contrast to the urban hustle. Whether you're here to shop, dine, or simply soak in the atmosphere, this street offers an authentic Kyoto experience that is both timeless and contemporary.
From the intricate details of the traditional tea houses to the sleek lines of modern architecture, this street encapsulates the essence of Kyoto’s unique charm. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true spirit of Japan.
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.
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Scarf 200x17 cm. (78,7"x6,7")
Each scarf is numbered
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Edition size confirmed after pre-order period
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Standing boldly at the intersection of 7th and Potrero Avenue, this sleek, contemporary structure exemplifies the next chapter of San Francisco architecture—where innovation, density, and design integrity converge. The building’s distinctive curved façade, clad in vertical silver panels, immediately catches the light and transforms with the shifting sky. Its rhythmic windows and aerodynamic form introduce a subtle softness to the industrial geometry of the surrounding neighborhood, creating a visual dialogue between the city’s manufacturing past and its tech-forward present.
This address, 1010 Potrero, sits at the gateway between Showplace Square and the emerging Mission Bay corridor, two areas long associated with creativity and reinvention. Historically home to warehouses, print shops, and furniture showrooms, the district has evolved into a hub of design studios, production spaces, and mixed-use developments that retain the grit and character of their industrial roots while embracing sustainable modernism. The building’s metal cladding and rounded corner echo this lineage—an homage to the riveted steel and corrugated textures once common here—now refined through minimalist precision.
Designed for both residential and commercial use, the property blends contemporary urban living with public engagement at the street level. The ground-floor restaurant, Ama Mediterranean, invites a sense of neighborhood vibrancy, activating the corner with outdoor seating and warm light that spills onto the sidewalk in the evening. Above, the streamlined façade offers residents expansive views toward Potrero Hill, Twin Peaks, and downtown’s skyline. The design is distinctly urban yet human-scaled, aligning with San Francisco’s shift toward walkable, mixed-use density that prioritizes sustainability and connection.
The building also reflects the architectural optimism shaping post-industrial San Francisco—where form and material are employed not to dominate the skyline, but to harmonize with it. Its aluminum skin mirrors the Bay’s changing light, turning from cool silver at dawn to golden bronze by sunset. The vertical seams create a rhythm reminiscent of the city’s maritime and manufacturing past, yet its silhouette feels undeniably contemporary, expressing San Francisco’s ongoing evolution through design.
Seen from the intersection, with bike lanes, tree-lined sidewalks, and Muni buses threading past, the structure embodies the city’s modern ethos: adaptable, efficient, and alive with movement. This is the new San Francisco—where architecture continues to reinterpret its past while looking confidently toward the future.
Matryoshka style hand crafted soft sculpture, one of a kind piece of art made with needle felted wool and handmade embroidery. by Nufar Livny Laskov
Against a canvas of blue sky and wispy clouds, this striking modern apartment building in Berkeley, California showcases a bold interplay of concrete, glass, and rhythm. Its distinctive zigzag façade creates a sculptural tension between solidity and motion—a dynamic interpretation of urban housing that reflects Berkeley’s evolving architectural landscape.
At first glance, the building’s monolithic concrete surface appears austere, but closer inspection reveals deliberate precision. Each vertical bay shifts slightly, giving the façade a sense of depth and shadow that changes throughout the day. The alternating angles capture light differently, animating the structure as morning turns to afternoon. It’s a contemporary evolution of brutalist design, softened through human-scale detailing and sustainable sensibility.
The building sits along University Avenue, one of Berkeley’s most storied corridors, where decades of architectural experimentation coexist—craftsman homes, mid-century commercial blocks, and new urban infill projects. This structure represents the city’s forward-looking approach to density and sustainability, using concrete not as a symbol of heaviness but as a medium for clarity and permanence. Its rhythmic windows echo the pulse of city life, while the clean street frontage offers a respectful nod to the pedestrian experience.
Architecturally, it embodies the Bay Area’s shift toward minimalist urban housing—simple in palette but rich in geometry. The structure’s sharp angles create deep shadows that lend drama to an otherwise restrained composition. There’s poetry in its pragmatism: vertical repetition balanced by asymmetrical nuance, form driven by function, yet never without aesthetic ambition.
As the photograph captures it, the building feels both monumental and intimate. The warm evening light softens the gray façade, emphasizing texture over mass. Nearby, the red structure provides a counterpoint of color and contrast, revealing how contemporary architecture can harmonize with its surroundings through thoughtful restraint.
In a city known for its architectural experimentation, this building stands as a quiet yet confident expression of modern Berkeley—rooted in function, shaped by design, and alive with urban rhythm. It’s not a landmark by name, but it reflects the evolving identity of a city constantly redefining what home and density mean in a 21st-century context.
A modern condo complex spills down a dark hillside, its stacked balconies and angular volumes rendered in stark black and white. Deep shadows swallow most of the architectural detail, leaving only the pale stucco panels and window glass to catch what little light remains, giving the building a ghostly, sculptural presence against the sky. A row of young trees lines a path at the base of the slope, their bare branches silhouetted like a delicate fringe along the bottom of the frame. Rolling hills fade into the distance behind the complex, hinting at the hilly terrain that defines so much of this stretch of San Francisco. Stripped of color, the image emphasizes pure geometry, the repeating rectangles of balconies and windows stacking into a rhythmic pattern across the hillside.
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.
We transformed The Grove over a four day period into a winter wonderland, inspired by imagery from C S Lewis' Narnia chronicles. I wanted to avoid using too many glittery things, so I kept mainly to white by painting all the Birch trunks white, using whole white-dipped birch trees and bunches of magnolia branches. Here, in the events area, we hung hundreds of acrylic icicles from the branches. Cellophane edging helped keep the fake snow in place on the tables, which were dressed with juniper plants in metal pots.
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.
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.
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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
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.
Located in San Francisco's vibrant Mission Bay neighborhood, Mission Bay by Windsor Apartments stands as a testament to contemporary urban living and architectural finesse. This modern complex, with its striking red façade, embodies the innovative spirit of San Francisco’s evolving skyline. The exterior's bold color palette, juxtaposed against clean lines and expansive windows, creates a visually appealing contrast that captures attention. The design's emphasis on minimalism reflects the broader architectural trend in the city, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Mission Bay, historically an industrial area, has transformed into one of the city’s most sought-after residential districts. The area’s redevelopment over the past two decades has been marked by a focus on sustainability, green spaces, and community-centric design. Mission Bay by Windsor is a perfect example of this, offering residents not just a place to live, but an immersive experience in urban life. Its proximity to parks, waterfronts, and the thriving commercial hubs of the city provides unparalleled convenience.
Inside, the apartments continue the theme of modernity, with open floor plans, high ceilings, and state-of-the-art amenities. Large windows flood the living spaces with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The building also offers a range of communal facilities, including a rooftop terrace, fitness center, and resident lounges, all designed to foster a sense of community among residents.
Living at Mission Bay by Windsor means being at the heart of one of San Francisco’s most dynamic areas. With easy access to public transportation, dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, it’s an ideal location for those who want to experience the best of city living in a stylish and comfortable setting.
Sanno Park Tower, an iconic high-rise in Tokyo’s Chiyoda district, seamlessly combines sleek, modern architecture with functional design. Completed in 2000, this 44-story building is notable for its sophisticated structural lines and innovative architectural features that highlight Japan's commitment to combining aesthetics with practicality. Designed by renowned architectural firm Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei, the building is a masterpiece of Japanese urban design, showcasing minimalist yet impactful features that make it stand out in Tokyo's skyline.
One of the building’s unique architectural highlights is the circular glass structure at its entrance, which creates a visually striking focal point. This pavilion-like addition, with its radial design and metal framework, provides a sense of openness and flow that welcomes visitors while maintaining a distinctively modern feel. The glass and steel elements reflect light beautifully, especially on rainy days, adding an element of elegance to the entire structure. The area around Sanno Park Tower is immaculately landscaped, providing a balance between the building’s imposing presence and the surrounding greenery.
Sanno Park Tower serves as a business hub and is home to major companies and government offices, making it a vital part of Tokyo’s economic landscape. The tower's environmentally conscious design incorporates energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials, reflecting Japan's ongoing dedication to eco-friendly construction practices. With its blend of modern aesthetics and thoughtful design, Sanno Park Tower is not just a building; it’s a statement on the future of urban architecture in Tokyo. This landmark appeals to architecture enthusiasts and photographers alike, capturing the spirit of contemporary Japanese design.
This is the exterior of an apartment building on the edge of Oxford, taken in my role of in-house photographer for Riach Architects. Recently the building won an Oxford Preservation Trust Environmental Award.
I've posted some photos of this before but I've been back since and got some better lighting on this side of the building and some more of the landscaping has been carried out.
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.
Last week, the hot pink phalenopsis were caged, this week they are set free. As we were removing the bircage design from last week's display, I decided to use the orchids as cut flowers to bring some colour to the new display.
I self-consciously set out to do something similar to Jeff Leatham's designs, by using a lot of vases filled to the top with water, and leaning flowers near the top.
I still cant get enough of English Hydrangeas and their beautiful mottled colours. I chose lilac and blue shades this week to compliment the elegant silk grass. The subdued colours of the hydrangeas, the grass and the sempervivums in short vases are the prefect foil for the vibrant pink phalenopsis.
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.
Glowing softly against a deep blue sky, the newly rebuilt St. Thomas’ Parish Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. offers a striking example of contemporary sacred architecture. Located at the corner of 18th and Church Streets NW in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, this modernist structure is a bold departure from traditional ecclesiastical design—yet no less reverent. Clean lines, rhythmic textures, and a glowing vertical tower capped by a radiant cross define its facade, guiding the eye upward in quiet awe.
The building, completed in 2019, replaces a historic church destroyed by fire decades earlier. Rather than recreate the past, the parish chose to move forward—commissioning a design that reflects today’s values of openness, inclusivity, and light. A translucent glass tower bathes the entrance in gentle illumination, while the shimmering metal and ceramic cladding hints at warmth and resilience. The exterior pattern, evocative of stained glass or liturgical rhythm, invites interpretation and contemplation.
At ground level, the welcoming glass entryway and gentle lighting signal transparency—both literal and metaphorical. This is a place of gathering, healing, and forward movement. Around the corner, a preserved stone arch from the original church remains as a nod to legacy, but the message here is clear: faith can be contemporary, community-centered, and architecturally ambitious.
This photo captures the spiritual quiet and urban sophistication of a church confidently situated in both the present and the future.
Architectural Survey Appendix (Historic Documentation Format):
Name: St. Thomas’ Parish Episcopal Church
Address: 1517 18th Street NW, Washington, D.C.
Date of Construction: 2019 (Rebuilt)
Architect: Hickok Cole Architects
Style: Contemporary / Modernist Sacred Architecture
Architectural Features: Illuminated vertical glass tower, cross motif, geometric metal cladding, asymmetrical elevation, glass entry pavilion
Building Material: Metal panels, glass curtain wall, ceramic rainscreen
Number of Stories: 3
Historic Integrity: Contemporary reconstruction with preserved elements from prior structure
Current Use: Active Episcopal parish
Contributing Structure: No (modern rebuild outside original period of significance)
And now for something completely different. This is the interior of a newly completed apartment building (June 08) on the edge of Oxford. Taken in my role of in-house photographer for Riach Architects.
The building recently won an Oxford Preservation Trust Environmental Award.
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.
The monumental geometry of Casa da Música reveals its most abstract side in this view, where sharp concrete planes intersect under Porto’s blue sky. Designed by Rem Koolhaas, the building’s slanted façade is etched with subtle gridlines that trace its construction, turning structure into pattern. A few recessed windows punctuate the surface, creating rhythm and balance within the vast wall. The minimal plaza below heightens the building’s sculptural presence, emphasizing scale, proportion, and texture. Sunlight glides across the concrete, softening its edges while celebrating the precision of contemporary design that defines Porto’s most iconic cultural landmark.