In the dynamic world of fashion, collaborations often bring forth exciting and innovative creations that captivate style enthusiasts. The recent collaboration between renowned shoe designer Brian Atwood and the trendsetting brand Express is a perfect example of the magic that happens when creativity and craftsmanship converge.
Brian Atwood, celebrated for his luxurious and glamorous footwear designs, has joined forces with Express, a brand synonymous with contemporary and accessible fashion. The result? A collection that seamlessly marries Atwood’s signature elegance with Express’s modern flair, offering fashion-forward individuals a unique and affordable taste of high-end design.
Atwood, known for his meticulous attention to detail and bold aesthetic choices, brings a fresh perspective to Express’s fashion landscape. The collaboration features an array of footwear that effortlessly transitions from day to night, providing a versatile and chic option for every occasion. From sophisticated stilettos to trendy sneakers, the collection caters to diverse tastes while maintaining the quality and style that define both Atwood and Express.
One standout aspect of the collaboration is the infusion of Atwood’s iconic design elements into Express’s accessible pricing model. This partnership bridges the gap between luxury and affordability, making high-end fashion more inclusive and attainable for a broader audience. The result is a collection that not only reflects the craftsmanship and artistry of Brian Atwood but also aligns with Express’s commitment to providing on-trend and accessible fashion for all.
The color palette of the collection is a harmonious blend of neutrals and statement hues, allowing fashion enthusiasts to express their individuality with each step. Whether it’s a classic pump in a timeless shade or a bold boot in a vibrant color, the Brian Atwood x Express collaboration encourages self-expression through footwear.
In conclusion, the Brian Atwood x Express collaboration is a celebration of style, accessibility, and sustainability. It proves that when two forces in the fashion industry join hands, the result is not just a collection of shoes but a statement that resonates with fashion enthusiasts worldwide. So, step into the future of fashion with Brian Atwood and Express, where luxury meets affordability, and style knows no bounds.
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It’s fair to say that indoor furniture typically looks nicer than outdoor furniture. That doesn’t feel like a hot take; just look at the variety of indoor furniture pieces online. You fall in love with sofas and chairs, but outdoor pieces don’t have the same style elements.
For this reason, you’re tempted to use indoor furniture outside. Whether this means moving some of your current indoor pieces outdoors or buying new indoor furniture for outdoor use; neither idea is great. There are reasons the two are kept separate, and here’s why:
Indoor furniture is not weatherproof
During outdoor furniture assembly, you’ll notice that outdoor chairs or sofas are made from very different materials. You’re not going to find leather outdoor furniture, nor will you see the same fabrics as you would on indoor pieces.
Why?
Because indoor furniture is designed to be kept away from the elements. When people make sofas or chairs, they don’t have to worry about rain or cold weather. If you take these items outside, they will not stand a chance. One bought of rain can be all it takes to ruin the furniture once and for all.
On the other side of things, outdoor furniture is designed for the elements. It sacrifices some comfort touches to be more robust and able to withstand rain, wind, sleet, or snow. Without wanting to sound too obvious…it’s made for the outdoors!
Outdoor furniture is easier to move
How often do you move your indoor furniture items? Let’s be real, you’re placing them in a position and they’re probably staying there for years. If you do move them, it’s a rare occasion and usually requires multiple people to help you reposition.
An outdoor living space is supposed to be more fluid. You constantly move furniture around to chase spots of shade or sun. If you have more guests visiting, you may move more chairs onto your patio. When it gets cold, you could move all the furniture closer together so you can share body heat and create more coziness outside.
In other words, you need furniture that’s easy to move. The indoor stuff is far too heavy and bulky, but outdoor furniture is designed to be lighter. It won’t be the lightest thing you’ve ever moved, but it will be easier for you to slide around on your patio or shift into different positions.
Keep indoor furniture inside your house
It’s such an obvious statement to make, yet you need to remember it. Indoor furniture is for the inside of your home. It has not been made for constant outside use and you will ruin it if it gets exposed to the weather. Why waste money on perfectly good furniture when you can buy some that’s specifically made to withstand the outside world?!
If you have an outdoor living area, look for outdoor furniture. Check that you’re buying things that can be used outside, so you don’t risk making a costly mistake. Now, you can sit back and relax both inside and outside your home with funky furniture choices.
Rainy days don’t have to be synonymous with dull and dreary fashion. They present a unique opportunity to showcase your style even when the weather is less than ideal. A fashionable raincoat is not just a practical addition to your wardrobe; it’s a statement piece that can elevate your entire look. Enter Kristen Fox rainwear, where functionality meets fashion most delightfully.
- Stay Dry in Style: Traditional raincoats may keep you dry, but they often lack the flair that a fashionable raincoat can bring. Kristen Fox rainwear combines water-resistant technology with chic designs, ensuring you stay dry while turning heads.
- Versatility Beyond the Rain: The beauty of a Kristen Fox raincoat lies in its versatility. These pieces aren’t reserved solely for rainy days; they make for stylish outerwear even when the sun shines. Transition seamlessly from a rainy morning to a brunch date without sacrificing your fashion-forward sensibilities.
- Express Your Personality: Your wardrobe is an extension of your personality, and your raincoat should be no exception. Kristen Fox rainwear offers a variety of styles, colors, and patterns to suit every taste. Whether you prefer a classic trench or a bold statement piece, there’s a raincoat for every fashionista.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Investing in quality rainwear is an investment in both style and durability. Kristen Fox is known for its commitment to craftsmanship, using high-quality materials to ensure longevity without compromising on aesthetics. Say goodbye to disposable raincoats and hello to a wardrobe staple that stands the test of time.
- Celebrate Every Season: A fashionable raincoat isn’t just for spring showers. Embrace the changing seasons with Kristen Fox’s collection, featuring styles suitable for all weather conditions. From lightweight options for summer drizzles to a detachable hood for rain or shine, your wardrobe will be ready for anything.
Conclusion: Incorporating a fashionable raincoat into your wardrobe is a game-changer. Kristen Fox rainwear keeps you dry and allows you to express your unique style, and embrace versatility. Don’t let the rain dampen your fashion spirit—step out in confidence with a Kristen Fox raincoat and show the world that style knows no weather limits.
A lot of us are trying to have eco homes these days, and it’s easy to see why that might be. After all, as long as the home is eco-friendly, you can say that you are doing your part for the environment, as that is the most important part of that overall. However, it’s something that requires some care and attention, and you will need to make sure that you are focusing on it in the right manner. Here are some of the areas to focus on to ensure that your home is truly eco in no time.
Green Energy
One of the main things that you will need to try and make sure of here is that you have a lot of green energy going on and that the energy you use is as sustainable as possible. As long as that is the case, it’s the kind of thing that is going to make a huge difference to how your home runs, and how eco you can really consider it. So make sure that you are utilizing a clean, renewable form of energy – perhaps solar, or heat pumps if you prefer. That is hugely important here.
Natural Materials
Part of the eco home is about the aesthetics as well, and you should make sure that you are happy with how your home looks – because, after all, you will need to live in it for a long time. For eco homes, it can be helpful to stay inspired by eco lodges or other such buildings, which have a great look to them based on the use of natural materials. That is something that you will find helps you to design a home that looks great while being truly eco as well.
Water Source
Depending on how far you want to go with this, you might find that you need to think about where to source your water from as well. If you are truly off-grid, then this is going to be an issue you have to think about, after all. The best situation would be to have a natural spring that you can make use of, but that might actually be something of a pipe dream. In any case, you should make sure that you are finding a way to get water and to do so sustainably, because that is a major part of all this too.
Insulation
Finally, it’s a simple thing, but it’s really important – you need to make sure that you have good insulation if you want your home to be as eco as you would hope. That is vital because without good insulation you are probably going to struggle to actually keep your home warm and that means that you need to use more energy to heat it up. So this is something that you should look out for as well, and which you might want to try and focus on as well as you can.
Weeknights can be hectic. After a long day at work or school, the idea of preparing a complex dinner may be the last thing on your mind. But what if you could have meals that are not only quick to make but also brimming with flavor and heartiness? Whether you’re a busy parent or simply seeking to simplify your evening routine, the following recipes are designed to make your weeknights smoother without sacrificing taste.
Delve in and savor the convenience of swift and delicious dinners that will please both your taste buds and your schedule.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, which translates to “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” is a classic Italian dish celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors. Originating from southern Italy, it exemplifies the artistry of Italian cuisine, where a handful of ingredients come together to create a delightful dish. The key components are spaghetti, fresh garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil. Some variations may incorporate red pepper flakes for a hint of heat and parsley for added flavor. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese introduces richness and creaminess.
To craft this delectable pasta, begin by cooking the spaghetti until it reaches the desired al dente texture in salted boiling water. While the pasta is simmering, sauté finely minced garlic in olive oil until it takes on a light golden hue, ensuring it doesn’t become burnt. If desired, you can introduce red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Once the pasta reaches perfection, drain it and combine it with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is thoroughly coated. Conclude the dish by garnishing it with parsley and a generous serving of Parmesan cheese. Serve it hot to relish the flavors of Italy from the comfort of your own home.
Beef and Rice
Beef and rice is a hearty and comforting dish enjoyed by many worldwide. This flavorful combination typically features beef tips and tender pieces of meat that complement the soft texture of cooked rice. To prepare beef tips and rice, you’ll need beef tips, onions, bell peppers, garlic, beef broth, and uncooked rice.
To make this dish, begin by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan until they become translucent. Add the beef tips, browning them on all sides. Pour in the beef broth, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer until the beef is tender. Meanwhile, cook the rice according to the instructions on the packaging. Once the rice is ready, serve the beef tips on a bed of fluffy rice, and savor a comforting and delicious meal.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Balsamic Glazed Salmon combines the juiciness of salmon with the tangy sweetness of balsamic reduction. This delightful pairing offers a visually and flavorfully pleasing dish. For this recipe, gather salmon fillets, balsamic vinegar, honey or brown sugar, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). In a saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar, honey or brown sugar, and garlic until it thickens into a glaze, monitoring it closely for about 4-5 minutes.
On medium-high heat in an oven-safe skillet, sear salmon fillets that have been seasoned with salt and pepper, skin-side up, for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden. Flip the fillets, brush them with the balsamic mixture, and bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.
Chicken Pesto Wraps
Chicken Pesto Wraps offer a delightful fusion of succulent chicken, aromatic pesto, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This dish delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors that bring both comfort and zesty freshness to the palate. The primary ingredients for this delightful wrap include cooked chicken slices or chunks, creamy pesto sauce, fresh lettuce or spinach, sliced tomatoes, and any other preferred vegetables. For those who love cheese, consider adding mozzarella or feta cheese for that creamy touch.
To assemble, spread a generous amount of pesto sauce on a tortilla. Layer the chicken slices and fresh vegetables. Roll the tortilla tightly to enclose all the fillings. Slice it in half, and you have a quick and refreshing no-cook meal.
Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas
Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas combine Italian and Mexican cuisines, offering the savory flavors of pizza with the crispiness of a quesadilla. For this delicious dish, you’ll need tortillas, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and pizza sauce.
Start by laying a tortilla flat and spreading a layer of pizza sauce evenly. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top, followed by pepperoni slices. Place another tortilla on top. Warm a skillet over medium heat and cook the quesadilla until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted, usually about 2-3 minutes on each side. Slice into wedges and serve hot, perhaps with some extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Stir-Fried Vegetable and Tofu
If you love veggies, the stir-fried vegetable and tofu dish might be just the treat for your palate. This delightful blend combines the hearty texture of tofu with the vibrant colors and crispness of assorted vegetables. To prepare this savory treat, you’ll need cubed firm tofu, assorted vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, along with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and olive oil.
Start by sautéing the tofu in a pan over medium-high heat until it turns golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add ginger and garlic. Stir-fry for a minute until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to become tender. Return the tofu to the pan and add soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat everything evenly. Serve hot with boiled rice or noodles for a hearty and wholesome meal.
Chickpea Salad Sandwich
This bright and briny sandwich is perfect for nights when you don’t feel like cooking. The Chickpea Salad Sandwich is an innovative twist on traditional chicken or tuna salad sandwiches, offering a satisfying and flavorful plant-based alternative. Made primarily with mashed chickpeas, it includes creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Freshly chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice tie everything together.
To make this sandwich, start by mashing the chickpeas in a bowl until they reach a slightly chunky consistency. Stir in mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced celery, and onions, blending everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once mixed, simply spread a generous portion onto your bread, pair it with some crisp lettuce or fresh tomatoes if desired, and enjoy a quick and hearty meal.
Conclusion
With some creativity and planning, weeknight dinners need not be overwhelming. The recipes mentioned not only save time but also offer a delicious and satisfying meal. Keep in mind that the secret to quick weeknight dinners is having essential ingredients at your disposal and a collection of straightforward yet tasty recipes to depend on. Happy cooking!
The Glass House, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, announces the complete restoration of the historic Brick House (1949) designed by Philip Johnson. Completed just months before the Glass House, the Brick House was an integral part of the architect’s original plan for the site, offering two essential halves to a single composition. Closed to the public since 2008 due to ongoing damage from water infiltration, it has left half of the property’s core architectural story untold. The National Trust has secured $1.8 million to restore, renovate, and conserve the Brick House and its collections. Restoring the Glass House campus to its full glory as a National Historic Landmark will coincide with the 75th anniversary of the Glass House in 2024.
The Brick House, aka the “Guest House,” is an essential foil to the glass pavilion it faces. Clad in iron spot brick laid in a Flemish bond pattern, the structures are linked by a grassy court and offer a lesson in contrasts. The Brick House served as both a guest house and a retreat for Johnson and his partner, David Whitney until they died in 2005. Given the vital role of the Brick House in the site’s composition and social history, it is one of the most important and central assets of the 49-acre historic site. Restoration of this building will significantly expand the site’s interpretation and programming, allowing it to engage new visitors and preserve and advance understanding of 20th-century architecture and LGBTQ cultural heritage.
“We are incredibly excited to embark on this project and finally be able to introduce visitors to such an integral part of the Glass House story. Launching this major restoration now, as we reach the 75th anniversary of the Glass House’s construction, is a testament to our commitment as stewards of this National Trust Historic Site. We look forward to using the Brick House as a catalyst for more projects ahead – both future restorations of our buildings, landscape, and collections and as inspiration for new site-specific artistic commissions in the future,” says Kirsten Reoch, the Glass House’s new executive director.
Predicated on Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s idea for a “courthouse” that surrounds a central court, Johnson’s home splits the two wings apart: one opaque and private, the other transparent and exposed. Although both structures are 56 feet long, the 900-square-foot rectangular Brick House is only half as deep as the Glass House. Their fundamental connection is underscored by the fact that the Brick House contains the mechanical equipment for both buildings and is connected by underground pipes and wiring necessary to support the Glass House. Philip Johnson spent his first night on the property in the Brick House.
As a guest house, the Brick House accommodated prominent overnight visitors, including Phyllis Lambert and Andy Warhol. But beginning in the 1950s, the house was primarily used by Johnson and Whitney as a retreat from the exposure of the Glass House, affording Johnson the privacy to relax and the freedom to modify the interior décor in a way the Glass House rarely provided. Originally, the Brick House contained three rooms of equal size, each with a porthole window. In 1953, two rooms were combined into a single large bedroom with an adjoining reading room and bath. This interior was opulent and luxurious with low, sleek, white vaults decorating the bedroom based on the breakfast room of the Sir John Soane House in London (completed in 1824) and harbingers of the elements later found in Johnson’s design of the 1954-56 Congregation Kneses Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Port Chester, New York, and the 1964 New York State Theater (now David H. Koch Theater) at Lincoln Center. The walls were covered in a patterned cotton fabric designed by Fortuny. The Clouds of Magellan, 1953, a sculpture by Ibram Lassaw, hung prominently on the wall above the bed, where dimmer switches (a novelty at the time) were placed to control indirect lighting, further enhancing the spare yet exotic sleeping area. Works collected by Johnson and Whitney hung in the corridor connecting the reading room, which held Johnson’s personal library of philosophy, history, art history, and fiction books. In addition, the privacy of the Brick House allowed for creature comforts such as air conditioning, television, and, for a period, a sauna.
Restoring and reopening the Brick House has long been the museum’s greatest preservation priority. Built at the base of a slope, the building has been susceptible to water infiltration since its conception. And, with failures of the flat roof and skylights, the building damage has been extensive. Despite temporary protection measures, the interior has experienced deterioration of plaster, mold growth, and rusting mechanical systems. However, all objects and furnishings have been preserved and stored safely off-site until restoration commences. The project will be a complete interior and exterior restoration, which includes improvements to site drainage, exterior masonry and metal cleaning and restoration, replacement of the roof and skylights, restoration of interior plaster and finishes, restoration of the building’s three distinctive porthole windows and entrance door, full replacement and upgrade of the mechanical and electrical systems serving both the Brick House and Glass House, and the conservation and reinstallation of artwork, furniture, and books.
Beginning in 2022, National Trust for Historic Preservation Graham Gund Architect Mark Stoner, AIA utilized extensive conservation studies and surveys completed by Li – Saltzman Architects, PC in 2010 to develop a thorough architectural restoration and mechanical renovation plan for the Brick House. In addition to Mr. Stoner, the project design team includes Landtech Consultants (Civil Engineering), Altieri Sebor Wieber (MEP Engineering), and RSE Associates (Structural Engineering). Hobbs, Inc., has been chosen as the general contractor for the project. Fortuny, the source for the bedroom’s fabric wallcoverings, has generously donated the production of the same fabric to replace the water-damaged original. Edward Fields Carpet Makers, who worked with Johnson on the original 1953 bedroom carpet, will generously provide replacement carpets.
Approximately 13,000 people visit the Glass House each year, and reopening the Brick House is critical to providing visitors with a complete experience of the Glass House campus. This project is scheduled to be completed and unveiled in April 2024 at the opening of the annual season of tours, art installations, and public programs. 2024 is also the 75th anniversary of the Glass House and the Brick House, completed in 1949, and this marked year will host a series of special events, featured artists, and exhibitions. Opening the Brick House provides new and exciting avenues for the Glass House site to expand its interpretation, continue to preserve and advance an understanding of LGBTQ heritage, and deepen its impact on new and diverse communities.
The Glass House, built between 1949 and 1995 by architect Philip Johnson, is a National Trust for Historic Preservation site in New Canaan, CT. The pastoral 49-acre landscape comprises fourteen structures, including the Glass House (1949), and features a permanent collection of 20th-century paintings and sculptures, along with temporary exhibitions. The campus serves as a catalyst for the preservation and interpretation of modern architecture, landscape, and art and a canvas for inspiration and experimentation. The tour season runs from mid-April through mid-December, and reservations are required.
Hobbs, Inc. Brothers Scott and Ian Hobbs are committed to honoring Hobbs’ heritage of integrity, quality, and customer service. Hobbs, Inc. has maintained the highest standards in building custom homes for nearly seventy years. Hobbs’ approach for the Brick House Restoration is to join forces with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Glass House teams to learn what is most important to them about this project, to analyze the site, and to work with them together to deliver the best results for this legacy project for present and future generations. Ted Hobbs, who founded the company in 1954, and Mike Hobbs, who ran the company for 25 years, constructed many modern houses designed by the Harvard Five in New Canaan and surrounding areas during their careers. Over the last 25 years, Hobbs, Inc. has been involved with the historic restoration of numerous architecturally significant residences in Fairfield County, Westchester County, and the Hamptons. They also recently completed the restoration of Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, New Jersey.
Fortuny is a world-famous luxury textile design and manufacturing company known for their exquisite and elegant fabrics since 1921. Fortuny fabrics are still produced exclusively in the original factory on the small island of Giudecca in Venice, using the original machinery and methods established by founder and inventor Mariano Fortuny (1871-1949) over a century ago. Using proprietary dyes and applications of metallic patterns, the company continues their deep-rooted tradition of art and alchemy to create handcrafted textiles and products that are each a unique work of art.
Edward Fields Carpet Makers is a vanguard of American design that has created heirloom-quality rugs and carpets for almost 90 years. From its inception through the present, the company embodies the essence of a contemporary brand. In the mid-1930s, Edward Fields developed the first multi-directional tufting tool, known as the “Magic-Needle,” which would define the company’s signature hand-tufted quality and forever change carper production. Edward Fields coined the term ‘area rug.’ He pioneered innovative design, collaborating with notable visionaries, including Raymond Loewy, Philip Johnson, Van Day Truex, Marion Dorn, and George Nakashima. In 2005, Edward Fields Carpet Makers joined the House of Tai Ping. In keeping with the brand’s legacy of mid-century modernist aesthetics, Edward Fields Carpet Makers continues collaborating with inspiring creative contemporaries.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately funded nonprofit organization that works to save America’s historic places to enrich our future, reimagining historic sites for the 21st century. The guiding principle of this initiative is that historic sites must be dynamic, relevant, and evolving to foster an understanding of history and culture that is critical, sensory, and layered.