The Inspirations Collection.
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Welcome to designbivouac’s inspiration collection.
Exploring design and innovation.
Over 30 years of collaboration, designbivouac has uncovered lasting insights. Inspirations is a curated collection of inspirational objects and ideas shaping a continuous journey of creative exploration.
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Sawmill House: A Rugged Retreat
Nestled in the rugged high desert of Tehachapi, California, the Sawmill House by Olson Kundig stands as a testament to sustainable design and harmonious integration with nature. Designed as an off-grid family retreat, this 4,170-square-foot residence embodies resilience, adaptability, and a profound respect for its environment.
Nestled in the rugged high desert of Tehachapi, California, the Sawmill House by Olson Kundig is a testament to sustainable design and harmonious integration with nature. Designed as an off-grid family retreat, this 4,170-square-foot residence embodies resilience, adaptability, and a profound respect for its environment.
Architecture Rooted in Place
Sawmill's design draws inspiration from the site's former mining and logging area history. The homeowners aimed to honor this legacy by creating a structure that gives back to the land. The house comprises three wings connected by a central hearth, reminiscent of tents gathered around a campfire—a nod to communal living and connection to nature.
A standout feature is the 12-by-26-foot window wall in the living area, which retracts with the turn of a wheel. This innovative design blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the patio to become an integral part of the living area.
Sustainability at Its Core
Operating entirely off the grid, Sawmill utilizes an 8.4-kilowatt photovoltaic array to power all electrical systems, including the water pump. The home's orientation maximizes natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. These strategies result in the house generating 96% less CO₂ than a typical single-family home.
Materials were selected for their durability and minimal environmental impact. Concrete block, steel, and glass form the primary palette, with salvaged and recycled materials incorporated wherever possible. This "scavenger mentality" reflects a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness.
Recognition and Awards
Sawmill's innovative design and environmental stewardship have earned it several accolades, including the 2018 AIA National COTE Top Ten Award and the AIA National Small Project Award.
Visual Highlights
The Sawmill House seamlessly integrates with its desert surroundings.
The 12-by-26-foot window wall opens to merge indoor and outdoor living spaces.
The central hearth serves as the heart of the home, connecting all three wings.
A Model for Sustainable Living
The Sawmill House exemplifies how thoughtful design can create a self-sufficient, environmentally conscious dwelling that does not compromise on aesthetics or comfort. It stands as an inspiring model for future sustainable architecture, demonstrating that living in harmony with nature is both achievable and beautiful.
Sources: Olson Kundig, ArchDaily, Contemporist, Architect Magazine
SOLSTICE - 5 | Masterfully Visualizing Scale
Solstice—5: Forgotten Archives offers remarkable visuals that capture the scale of interplanetary exploration. It also delivers a powerful cautionary tale about our exploitation of nature and potential future uses of AI right here on Earth.
Solstice—5: Forgotten Archives offers remarkable visuals that capture the scale of interplanetary exploration. It also delivers a powerful cautionary tale about our exploitation of nature and potential future uses of AI right here on Earth.
The art direction and design by Paul Chadeisson are remarkable. The narrative weaves together suspense, discovery, and the ethical dilemmas of tampering with newly discovered planets. With its blend of mystery, technology, and human curiosity, SOLSTICE—5: Forgotten Archives offers a compelling journey into the unknown, inevitably forcing us to think about how we continue to explore and exist on our own planet.
The visualization masterfully captures a sense of scale. The world it presents is one of immense, forgotten technology — massive spacecraft and towering mechanical platforms that stretch far beyond the horizon. These colossal structures are not just remnants of some distant technological age but monuments to lost ambition, crumbling slowly in the face of time and erosion. What gives them true gravity, however, is their juxtaposition against vast natural landscapes — windswept deserts, jagged cliffs, and still valleys that seem to whisper stories of long-past industrial glory.
The visual storytelling is precise and intentional. Human figures are shown only sparingly, but when they appear, they are small — almost invisible at first glance. A lone explorer, a maintenance worker, or a robed traveler might be standing on a catwalk or dwarfed by the base of a landing gear the size of a city block. These moments are quiet but powerful. The contrast between human and machine scales invites reflection: not only on the limits of human capability but also on the haunting beauty of what we leave behind.
Embracing Nature: A Bivouac-Inspired Home
In the rugged landscape of New Zealand's Queenstown-Glenorchy Road lies an architectural marvel inspired by the simplicity and integration of traditional bivouacs. Designed by Vaughn McQuarrie for Alan Luckie and Jen Arnold, this home blends seamlessly with its schist-heavy hillside environment.
In the rugged landscape of New Zealand's Queenstown-Glenorchy Road lies an architectural marvel inspired by the simplicity and integration of traditional bivouacs. Designed by Vaughn McQuarrie for Alan Luckie and Jen Arnold, this home blends seamlessly with its schist-heavy hillside environment.
The design of this 112-square-meter home is a thoughtful response to the surrounding natural environment, drawing inspiration from the raw beauty of the landscape and the simplicity of traditional tramping huts. It features rugged concrete panels and bandsawn timber cladding, materials chosen not only for their durability but also for their textural connection to the outdoors. These elements evoke a sense of groundedness and authenticity, bridging modern architecture with timeless rustic charm.
A soaring, high-ceilinged interior enhances the sense of space while maximizing passive thermal performance—capturing warmth in winter and encouraging natural airflow in summer. Expansive windows are carefully oriented to frame uninterrupted mountain views, inviting the landscape into the living space and fostering a continual connection with nature.
More than just a residence, the home embodies a holistic commitment to reducing ecological impact without compromising on aesthetic integrity. Every detail—from material selection to spatial layout—reflects a deep respect for the environment and a desire to live in quiet harmony with it.
For more details, visit Home Magazine.
A Cabin in the Trees
Kariouk Architects created a remarkable lakeside cabin in the sky for owners in the province of Quebec. Innovative use of materials, including low-waste Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and unique structural angles of support, are signature elements of the structure.
Kariouk Architects has designed an extraordinary elevated retreat—a “cabin in the sky”—set against the serene backdrop of a lakeside property in Quebec. Suspended above the landscape, the structure blends daring design with environmental responsibility, offering a fresh interpretation of cabin living. At the core of the project is the innovative use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)—a low-waste, high-performance material that offers both structural integrity and a warm, tactile quality. The architects skillfully combine this sustainable material with bold, angular supports, creating a visually striking form that appears to hover lightly above the terrain while firmly anchoring into place.
The cabin’s dramatic elevation not only minimizes its impact on the natural landscape below but also elevates the experience of its occupants—literally and figuratively—offering panoramic views of the lake and treetops, as well as a powerful sense of serenity and escape.
This architectural feat stands as a testament to Kariouk’s commitment to thoughtful design, where material innovation, environmental sensitivity, and sculptural form come together to create something truly remarkable. Living off-grid entirely is possible with passive and active solar accommodations, as well as minimal solar panel and battery requirements. A high-efficiency wood stove and backup propane heater provide emergency backup if needed, as the site is remote. Minimal foundation pads reduce the amount of concrete used for the home’s foundation, thereby enhancing the overall design's sustainable aspects.
Related Information: www.kariouk.com/
Photos: Kariouk Architects.
Revisiting 3D Printed Homes
We previously posted about Matt Rissinger from The Build Show visiting Lennar and ICON’s 3D-printed neighborhood in Texas.
We previously posted about Matt Risinger from The Build Show visiting Lennar and ICON’s 3D-printed neighborhood in Texas.Matt returns to the Lennar/ICON community to check out more features of homes in the build process and view finished homes. Benefits of 3-D printed homes include increased strength over wood framed homes, increased efficiency for heating and cooling, lower cost, shorter construction time, increased resistance to insects, increased resistance to mold, increased fire resistance, and a longer lifecycle of the material and the structure.
Lennar and ICON have made a significant mark in the Texas housing market with their innovative 3D-printed homes. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, these industry leaders are revolutionizing the construction industry in Texas. Lennar, a renowned real estate company, has partnered with ICON, a 3D printing construction technology pioneer, to create sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions. Their collaboration has produced stunning, energy-efficient homes that reduce construction waste and offer a faster and more affordable housing option. These 3D-printed homes in Texas are a prime example of how technology is transforming the real estate landscape, offering environmentally friendly and economically accessible housing options to residents in the state.
Moving Lounges of Dulles
Once seen as a critical element in ensuring efficiency in the nation's aviation mobility infrastructure, Dulles Airport's “People Movers” were part of a grand vision that involved transporting airline passengers directly from the ticketing area to their aircraft.
Once a critical element in ensuring efficient aviation mobility, Dulles Airport's “People Movers” were part of a grand vision that transported airline passengers directly from the ticketing area to their aircraft.
The system failed to scale with the advent of the 747 and other jumbo jets. Yet, it is inspiring to see the macro-level thinking that inspired a system envisioned to rise to the jet age and beyond, as captured in the promotional film from 1958.
However, the modular concept and convenience of conveyance underpin even today’s successful mobility-on-demand services. Modern airports achieve this via moving walkways, trams, shuttle buses, and carts. The means of delivery may have changed, but the value of the point-to-point mobility concept remains anchored in human need, which persists today.
An underground air train system now services terminals with greater efficiency. The original concept fell short of the compelling storytelling that the masters of design, Charles and Ray Eames, are known for. As with many notable moments in mobility, concepts from over 60 years ago can seem quaint or quirky.
Images: Library of Congress. Learn more about the Dulles International Airport’s “Mobile Lounges.”
Just Print It!
The always informative Matt Risinger with Build recently explored how Icon is now printing a neighborhood in Texas to learn how to scale up their home printing technology best.
The always informative Matt Risinger with Build explored how Icon is printing a neighborhood in Texas to learn how to scale up their home printing technology best. Working with Lennar homes, this 100-home neighborhood may be making history as more resilient and affordable homes take shape one printer pass at a time.
While the kinks with the technology are still being worked out to achieve efficiencies at scale, it is inspiring to see larger projects beginning with large home builders. Take a look at the future of homebuilding at iconbuild.com. Naturally, floodproof, fire resistant, insect proof, sign me up!
Related Article: www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/worlds-largest-3d-printed-neighborhood-set-to-break-ground-in-austin-next-year/2818293/
Images: Lennar
The Unreal Work of William Faucher
This process video by William Faucher does an excellent job of capturing the process of photogrammetry and applying remarkable digital visualization skills to capture a scene inspired by Norwegian fishing villages.
This process video by William Faucher does an excellent job of capturing the process of photogrammetry and applying remarkable digital visualization skills to capture a scene inspired by Norwegian fishing villages. This current generation of visualization tools is powerful, but, in the end, the artist must, as always, master the medium that makes the work remarkable.
Photogrammetry is a sophisticated technique that involves the process of extracting precise three-dimensional information about objects, structures, or landscapes from two-dimensional photographs or images. It is widely used in various fields, including surveying, cartography, archeology, and remote sensing. Photogrammetry relies on the principles of geometry and trigonometry to determine the spatial relationships and measurements of objects within the images. Modern photogrammetry often combines traditional methods with advanced software and technology, including aerial and satellite imagery, to create highly detailed and accurate 3D models or maps. This technology has numerous applications, such as creating topographic maps, reconstructing accident scenes, and even producing 3D models of cultural heritage sites, making it an invaluable tool in a variety of industries.
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Flying Through Giga Berlin
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin factory. It is remarkable to see all that goes into making some of today’s most advanced vehicles at one of the most impressive factories in the world.
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin—a striking showcase of cutting-edge manufacturing in motion. From the moment you enter, you're immersed in a meticulously choreographed ecosystem where robotic arms, automated conveyors, and human technicians work in seamless harmony. It's remarkable to witness the scale, precision, and innovation that power one of the world’s most advanced vehicle production facilities.
Every stage of the process, from gigacasting massive body components to battery pack integration and final assembly, reflects Tesla’s drive toward efficiency, speed, and sustainability. Giga Berlin isn’t just a factory—it’s a glimpse into the future of industrial automation and a testament to what's required to bring today’s most modern electric vehicles to life. Giga Berlin is designed to be an advanced electric vehicle (EV) production hub capable of producing a wide range of Tesla vehicles, including the Model 3, Model Y, and future models.
The factory is expected to incorporate cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and technologies, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has emphasized that the facility will include many innovations, particularly in battery and powertrain technology. One notable aspect of Giga Berlin is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The facility was designed with a strong emphasis on renewable energy sources, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. Tesla intends to make the factory a green and environmentally responsible operation, aligning with its broader goal of advancing sustainable transportation.
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What Lies Beneath
Often, when the details of how structures are made can be seen, they become more impressive. Such is the case with large windmills anchored to solid ground.
Many products surround us in our day-to-day lives that require deep engineering excellence to come to fruition. Often, when the details of how structures are made can be seen, they become more impressive. Such is the case with large windmills anchored to solid ground. When you look beneath the surface, it is impressive to see how the Peikko Group provides deep anchoring for these mammoth structures.
Peikko Group's Rock Foundation system for onshore wind turbines is a revolutionary and sustainable solution that addresses the challenges of wind turbine foundation construction. The Rock Foundation system primarily consists of precast concrete elements that can be assembled on-site with ease. It takes advantage of Peikko's proprietary technology, which enables using local materials, significantly reducing transportation costs and emissions. This approach enhances the sustainability of wind energy projects by minimizing the carbon impact associated with the foundation's construction process. One of the key benefits of Peikko's Rock Foundation system is its adaptability to a wide range of soil conditions. By offering a versatile solution for various geological settings, it streamlines the installation process, reducing the need for extensive ground preparation and site-specific engineering. Peikko Group's Rock Foundation technology not only accelerates the installation of wind turbines but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective approach in the renewable energy industry.
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Hassel + EOC Envision a Home on Mars
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism that was once experienced by many during the beginning of the space age.
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism once experienced by those taking part in earlier lunar exploration programs like Apollo. The 3D printed habitation concept is a beautifully considered design that accommodates constraints, builds on modular redundancy, anticipates harsh conditions of the red planet, and provides for the essential needs of a new generation of human explorers.
The Hassel + EOC concept of "Envision a Home on Mars" represents an innovative and forward-thinking approach to the prospect of human habitation on the Red Planet. This visionary project aims to design a feasible and sustainable living space for future Martian settlers, taking into account the challenges of the Martian environment while prioritizing the well-being and functionality of its inhabitants. With an inner inflatable living area architecture surrounded by a solid 3D printed structure made up on Martian soil, the facility will have dual layers of protection from atmospheric conditions. The design integrates cutting-edge technology, such as 3D printing and the use of local resources, to create a modular and adaptable living environment. It focuses on maximizing efficiency and self-sustainability, emphasizing features such as radiation protection, life support systems, and robust structures capable of withstanding the harsh Martian conditions. This concept envisions a habitat that fosters a sense of community and well-being while pushing the boundaries of architectural and technological innovation in the pursuit of establishing a viable human presence on Mars.
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The Work Continues at Oroville Dam
If you have not been tracking the progress of the Oroville dam spillway repair project, the scale of the effort has been impressive since the collapse of a portion of the main spillway two winters ago.
If you have not been tracking the progress of the Oroville dam spillway repair project, the scale of the effort has been impressive since the collapse of a portion of the main spillway two winters ago. The California Department of Water Resources has been capturing progress through compelling videos. It’s inspiring to see projects of this magnitude in the United States today, accompanied by an excellent safety record.
Dwelling On Mobility and the Workplace
It was nice to see Dwell inquiring about possible futures of mobility and the workplace in their recent printed issue.
It was nice to see Dwell inquiring about possible futures of mobility and the workplace in their recent printed issue. The range of responses includes thinking about what is in IDEO's Slow Becomes Fast, flexible interiors concept and Inverse Commute Work on Wheels concept from its Future of Automobility provocation series. Take a closer look at an extract from their online feature.
Farnsworth House
An earlier bivouac post spoke to the merit of building items with Lego Technic. Depending on the kit, one can gain a genuine appreciation for certain mechanical relationships within drive trains, limited slip differentials, pistons and camshafts, and the like. It turns out that a recent encounter with Lego's Architecture series had a similar effect, leading to a renewed appreciation for Mies van der Rohe's iconic Farnsworth House.
An earlier bivouac post spoke to the merit of building items with Lego Technic. Depending on the kit, one can gain a genuine appreciation for certain mechanical relationships within drive trains, limited slip differentials, pistons and camshafts, and the like. It turns out that a recent encounter with Lego's Architecture series had a similar effect, leading to a renewed appreciation for Mies van der Rohe's iconic Farnsworth House.
While not as resilient to the 2008 flooding event as a Lego version would have been, hopefully, the master architect's minimalist selection of travertine marble, glass, and steel will mean that any further restoration can mainly focus on the more precious interior, such as silk curtains and an interior core element clad in primavera paneling. Farnsworth House stands as a testament to simplicity and minimalism. As I struggled during my "construction project" to keep each Lego tile as perpendicular to one another as possible, the exercise proved to be a poignant reminder that sometimes, keeping things pure and simple is hard.
Still Hyped By "Hyper-Matrix"
This "Hyper-Matrix" work from the media artist group Jonpasang made the rounds a while ago. Still, seeing it again, as well as the "making of" video, gives me a newfound respect for those who are taking experiences like this squarely to new levels of execution and excitement.
"Hyper-Matrix" is a dynamic, multi-dimensional display that combines kinetic elements, LED lights, and moving screens to create mesmerizing and ever-changing visual experiences. Created in 2012, the work is still an immersive standout amongst interactive installations at scale. The space transforms and reconfigures itself, creating a constantly shifting and engaging visual spectacle. This immersive and interactive art piece has been showcased at various exhibitions and events, garnering attention and acclaim for its fusion of art and technology.
Jonpasang's "Hyper-Matrix" is a testament to the creative possibilities when art and technology come together, offering audiences a unique and captivating experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. The installation has been celebrated for its ability to engage viewers and create a sense of wonder through its dynamic and evolving visual narratives.
What Is Your Project Space Like?
And how are you getting on with your mates in it? We all know that space matters...and so does gravity, as Paul Harrison and John Wood delightfully illustrate in Tate Shots Issue 12.
And how are you getting on with your mates in it? We all know that space matters, and so does gravity, as Paul Harrison and John Wood delightfully illustrate in Tate Shots Issue 12. Harrison and Wood's work has had a significant impact on the realm of contemporary art. They've inspired a new generation of artists to explore the intersection of humor and profundity. By questioning the nature of existence and inviting viewers to engage with the absurd, they've challenged traditional artistic conventions and opened doors to fresh perspectives on the human experience.
In the world of contemporary art, where experimentation knows no bounds, the work of Paul Harrison and John Wood stands out as a testament to creativity, humor, and a flair for the unexpected. This artistic duo has garnered international acclaim for their innovative and often humorous approach to video and performance art. Their work is celebrated for exploring human nature, the absurdity of everyday life, and clever visual storytelling.
Origins and Collaboration
Paul Harrison, born in Wolverhampton, England, and John Wood, originally from Hong Kong, first crossed paths during their studies at the Bath College of Higher Education in the late 1980s. Their artistic collaboration began organically as they shared a passion for exploring and transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. Drawing inspiration from artists like Bruce Nauman and Eadweard Muybridge, they embarked on a journey to create a distinctive artistic language characterized by wit, absurdity, and meticulous execution.
Video Art as a Medium
Harrison and Wood's primary medium is video art, and their works often feature the artists themselves as protagonists. Their early pieces involved deceptively simple yet meticulously choreographed actions, blurring the lines between performance and film. One of their most iconic works, "One More Kilometer" (1999), showcases their love for dry humor. The video depicts the artists running in a loop to mark the passage of time, echoing the monotony of life's routines.
Themes and Concepts
At the heart of Harrison and Wood's work is a deep exploration of the human condition. They excel in distilling the absurdity and often futile nature of human actions, presenting them in a way that resonates with viewers on both a philosophical and comedic level. Whether walking in reverse, attempting to create a perpetual motion machine, or navigating surreal landscapes, their pieces provoke thought while evoking laughter.
International Acclaim
Paul Harrison and John Wood have exhibited their work internationally, from the Tate Modern in London to the Guggenheim Museum in New York. Their art has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning them recognition and respect in the contemporary art scene. Their willingness to tackle profound concepts through an unconventional lens has made their work accessible to many viewers, transcending language barriers and cultural differences.
Influence on Contemporary Art
Paul Harrison and John Wood's journey in the world of art has been nothing short of exceptional. Their ability to blend humor and philosophical depth in their work sets them apart, making them visionaries in the realm of video and performance art. Their creative collaborations have not only entertained but also forced viewers to reconsider the world around them. As their influence continues to resonate, it's clear that the artistic legacy of Harrison and Wood will remain a source of inspiration for years to come, reminding us that even in the most ordinary moments, there's potential for extraordinary art.
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Erosion of Luxury
The skyscraper "Erosion" designed by Herzog & de Meuron would undoubtedly make a striking addition to the New York skyline.
The skyscraper "Erosion" designed by Herzog & de Meuron would be a striking addition to the New York skyline. The Swiss architects have designed a building that supports individualized floor layouts for occupants, offering more external space for some depending upon tastes and desires. As pointed out in a recent post on Eikongraphia, one of the more notable features is a floor-to-ceiling height of four meters. Many urban dwellers would welcome the modernist aesthetic, panoramic cityscapes, and open plans. But in these tough economic times, could such a design see the light of day, or will the force of current economic winds wear away this vision?
For more discussion of this proposed design, head over to Eikongraphia.
Old and New Make Something Newer
This work by Daniele Marques has made a lasting impression at the bivouac.
This barn conversion work by Daniele Marques has made a lasting impression at the bivouac. In particular, it shows how new designs can co-exist with history beautifully.
For more about Daniele Marques' work, visit: www.marques.ch
Old School in New Schools
During a recent trip to Los Angeles, I was reminded of all the hours I once spent creating and learning with Sim City 2000. These memories are timely given that this month's Wired Magazine special edition entitled "The New World of Games" is Guest Edited by Sim City's creator, Will Wright.
A recent trip to Los Angeles reminded me of all the hours I spent creating and learning with Sim City 2000. These memories are timely, given that this month's Wired Magazine special edition, "The New World of Games," is Guest-edited by Sim City's creator, Will Wright.
