Frjtz

So I've been holding back on posting this project for awhile now. There are a few missing items from the original design that got cut in the budgeting process and I was hoping that they might be added back in and we could re-shoot the project but as of yet it has not happened and now is not the time to be holding back... right? So, If I remember correctly we were able to finish the project for some incredible amount of around $80.00 per square foot.

But first some background shall we..

Frjtz (Belgian fries, beer and creperie) was originally located directly next door, a fixture of Hayes Valley. The space was bohemian and quirky and had a prized outdoor patio, something that is almost nonexistent in San Francisco. When they lost their lease the client decided to rent the space next door, a dark and pancaked all concrete shell, essentially nothing like the original space.

There were a few must haves the client layed out. One was that he didn't want the space to feel static and that there would be a need for revolving artwork.

With these two in mind we went to work on creating an 'indoor garden'. The indoor garden would be a nod to the original outdoor patio and a way for us to inject light into this dark concrete of a shell. The terrariums survive on artificial light alone since the only light comes from the 10' storefront. They also serve as nonstatic art pieces that will continue to grow and evolve over time.

We also worked to create different seating areas so that the new larger space could be used in a variety of different ways. Up front you have the history of the French Fry inscribed in Flemish. This was handpainted but the original idea was that it would be made of cut vinyl and stretch from end to end as a background for the revolving art gallery.

The rear of the space incorporates 3 spaces, a typical dining area, a lounge, and the forest room. The forest room can also double as a specially rented room for private parties and the lounge allows for a more relaxed dining area, a place for a beer and fries with friends

And finally one of the big missing items was there was to be beautifully folded soft burlap on the walls surrounding the terrariums. The use of burlap was to help with deadening the noise that an all concrete shell can perpetuate as well as as a wink to the bags potatoes are delivered in. Oh how I wish to see those soft walls. Burlap on the whole is fairly inexpensive, it was the fireproofing it that killed it.

We (Y.A. studio) were incredibly lucky to be able to work with a great and open minded client. An extrordinary construction team. (Jeff and Sasha of Stingray Builders) And Christopher who was the creative mind behind the miniature worlds of the terrariums.(Sorry no Link for Christopher but if you contact me I can give you his information) And of course the ever talented photographer Lucas Fladzinski.

Cafe Racer

As much as I love riding my bicycle I am getting awfully tired of climbing up 'The Hill' day in and day out.

The other day I saw this stylish gentleman on what the boys in the office informed me was a 'cafe-racer' . I thought now that is a bike I could ride.... just one problem. I hear they are awfully difficult to maneuver. Aren't there any other Bikes out there that are just as stylish but an easy ride?

I am not into the crotch rockets yuck! And nope not a Harley either. And a Scooter seems alright in Italy but not here. It seems all bikes are really styled for boys no? The photo above I found here.

What I love about them is the low handlebars and more petite frame. Like it would be a sweet easy ride around a small city like mine and I wouldn't have to sacrifice my sartorial habits to ride it. Any thoughts?

Roman Williams

Can you imagine working in this space? How could you not be inspired on a daily basis? This is the office of the talented Roman Williams. You know the kids responsible for the ever lovely Ace Hotel.

Miss Kitt To You

The New York Times posted these photos when Eartha said good-bye to us all. I fell in love with her upon hearing 'Miss Kitt to You' an album of cheeky standards that I could listen to over and over again and never tire. What an incredible life she had!

p.s. I also told my mister I loved him for the first time during an Eartha Kitt song.

Year of Whimsey

This year is starting out to be a heavy one. I find myself wishing it away.

So needless to say coming across this project by David Horowitz injected just the right amount of lightness into my day. These two were my favorite.

This will be a bookmark I'll be coming back to often. Thanks Vic.

Oh Jo!

I know everyone has seen the uber-talented Joanna's engagement photos but I was so in awe of them (I mean the colors, Los Angeles in the background, and that balloon, and oh yes the very obviously in love couple) I had to write her right away and share our wedding photos. To which she said.... Could I use them on Smitten?

How could I say no? Take a looky over here. Thanks Joanna! (By the way doesn't she have the best last name ever! Oh to be a Goddard.)

Jarmusch

Hello Hello...... well I just HAD to take a hiatus. I had so much to do so I thought... lets cut some things out for awhile and make things simple. I'm halfway there. Where is there? Well I'm working on a website and studying for the dreaded LEED exam. Yuck!

I came across this quote on Swiss Miss the other day and it really resonated with me. It couldn't be more true. Originality IS nonexistent. As a designer this sure is a relief to hear, you know its true but its good to hear someone else say it.

I also love it because it brought back a memory of a night in Basel Switzerland. That night I saw my first Jarmusch film (Down by Law) introduced to me by a talented Swiss illustrator Benedikt Fürst in a theater I never would have found on my own. The film was on actual real film and the reel had to be changed thus a real reason for a mid-show beer. Shouldn't all films have a recess for a leisurely beer?