Austin TX: Architecture

1011 east 15th.
This past weekend , my family and I traveled to Austin. We travel there quite regularly, since it is only a 2 1/2 hour drive (in Texas we measure distance in time..as in , just how long will you be in the car). So, I decided to post some of my favorite haunts. I know when most people think of Austin they think of the music scene, UT sports, or outdoor activities, but I think ,design and architecture. Like all junkies, I go around town hunting down a fix. Its a sickness really. Anyway, I have pictures of great shops and modern houses, but I am having technical difficulties with Blogger right now. So far , I have only been able to upload one set of photos, as soon as I find a solution to my problem , I will upload more.I found this fantastic spec house quite by accident. I was trying to pick up my husband who was a tailgate and got completely lost. I mean I found entire lakes that I didn't know existed, because I was so off course! But I now realize that it was meant to be, because as I wondered around; I stumbled upon this house. It still under construction, but the exterior alone, made me have to photograph it. It features large expanses of glass and a wonderful combination of materials.

I was walking around the structure and discovered that one of the side doors was open. So, of course; I let myself in. Above, are pictures of the kitchen. The cabinets are gorgeous. They are wood, with beautiful graining. Also, the entire house has concrete floors, but I don't know if they are finished yet.

Here is a picture of what I believe is the master bedroom. It has access to a small courtyard and a cool wood clad accent wall. The photo to the right is the main entry to the house. It is predominately, all glass with a large skylight. Below are two bathrooms, both with sea glass green mosaic. This house is actually for sale. So if you are house shopping in Austin, here you go! It is being built by KRDB Builders and sold by Urbanspace Realtors.

Traer Scott Photography

Shelter Dogs and Street Dogs

I recently found these wonderful photography books, and was immediately mesmerized by them. I have always been a dog lover, so these photos really spoke to me. This is the work of Traer Scott, compiled in to two books. Shelter Dogs (Merrell Publishers 2006) includes portraits of dogs in shelters waiting for homes. Street Dogs ( Merrell Publishers 2007) capture the lives of many homeless dogs and their manner of survival.

"Joshua"
I really love this portrait of "Joshua". He is such a stately animal.

"Terrier"

"Rosie"

"Beach Dog on Roof"

I have many relatives in Mexico, so as a child I would often travel there. This photo of the dog on the roof, reminds me of what is a rather familiar sight there.

"Gumdrop"

Traer Scott's books donate fifty cents from each book sold to the ASPCA (Shelter Dogs) and WSPA (Street Dogs). These books are available at all major bookstores and on the ASPCA site (click here), and the WSPA site (click here). I recommend going to Traer's site also. (click here). Her portfolio is wonderful.

Nama Rococo Wallpaper Studios

On my first blog I included this photo of a Nama Rococo wallpaper, but didn't list a credit. I guess I was caught up in the excitement of posting for the first time. Anyway, I know many bloggers have seen these funky wallpapers before , but for those of who haven't, here you go.I have to say that my personal taste is quite minimal. I mean I love looking at a bare concrete wall! Despite that, I do love this wallpaper. Above is the limited edition Chateau 66 in color Hot. What I like about it is that it is sold by the sheet. So for all the minimalists in the world, you can add a fun pattern, without feeling overwhelmed by it.

I also, like this paper called French Dot in color Ooh La Black. So, for those of us who can't deal with a lot of pattern, wallpaper sheets are a fun solution.

Downtown Living Pics

Here are some pics from the Downtown Living tour this past week. I know I am a little late in posting them. I'd like to thank Heather at the Houston Downtown Alliance , VJ Arizepe and Sandra Gunn properties for forwarding these photos.

Its refreshing to experience a very different way of living than I have. I love seeing the cityscape and the interesting people walking around downtown.

Several of these lofts are on the market. I have a link to Sandra Gunn Properties here, who is selling the loft pictured below, and the loft at the top.

Around Town: Brasil

My favorite hang out in Houston...Brasil! I decided to feature this great coffee house after reading Denise Kiggan's post on Freshly Found. Denise posted a coffee house she found in her hometown of Durban South Africa. I would love to see bloggers around the world post their favorite hangouts. Imagine, the world united by coffee!

Anyway, Brasil is a funky and eclectic place; where you find every type of person imaginable. I often go with my husband and son, and sit outside. There are two patios filled with lovely trees and greenery. I also, like to go when I am alone to work on a project or read a good book.

There are two great shops surrounding Brasil. Domy Books and Raye, a designer clothing boutique. All three places are owned by partners Dan Fergus and Magda Sayeg, so they have a cohesive feel.

After all that activity, its probably time for lunch...or maybe a nap.

Houston Downtown Home Tour

This Saturday is the downtown home tour. It will be held by the Houston Downtown Alliance from 10 a.m-5 p.m. I love having the opportunity to see how other people live.

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