The Inspirations Collection.
Explore.
Catalog.
Scroll to view more.
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.
Search Inspiration Entries
Shapes from the Future
As a means of inspiration, the bivouac recently thought back to iconic objects, those notable stepping stones that have inspired generations of designers and have led, in some part, to the brighter side of where we are today. Perhaps we can learn from these successes and failures as we shape a new and exciting future together.
The bivouac recently began collecting objects that have or are likely to serve as timeless shapes from the future, inspiring generations of designers. Perhaps we can learn from aspects of these product successes and failures as we shape our future together.
Presented here are a few iconic designs that seem to have come from the future to inspire. What shapes from the future or your past do you draw inspiration from?
Cruisers Yachts 338
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes.
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes. And they are doing so while still offering stunning vessels. Witness the 2019 Cruiser Yachts 338 South Beach Edition.
It is a stunning yet pragmatic approach to designing a smaller yacht that can meet the needs of those setting out for a long weekend. The innovative rear seating, generous forward gunnel side storage, and an asymmetric passway through to the front bow area all distinguish the 338’s design. The rear platform even works well with the newest version of the 338 that incorporates outboard propulsion.
The generous berth below the foredeck has a modern and minimalist ambiance. Thoughtful integration sinks, refrigerators and microwaves, and an accessible rear swim platform show great attention to detail and sensitivity to balancing pragmatism with style. A powered extending bimini top helps provide shade for a large portion of the aft deck if desired. The rear swim platform provides a generous space to access the water, while an ingenious powered seat solution provides multi-position sun seating for lounging or socializing. Rear outboard propulsion is an option as well.
In a world in need of downsizing and the age of mega yachts, it is great to see companies offering solutions that are more appropriate in the context of the world economy today that still push design forward.
Form Follows Function: Camaro LZ-1
The audacity of the Chevy Camaro LZ-1’s design is a strong example of Louis Sullivan’s often-quoted axiom “form follows function.”
The audacity of the Chevy Camaro LZ-1’s design is a strong example of Louis Sullivan’s often-quoted axiom “form follows function.” Its massive and open grill, complete with a hollow Chevy bow tie logo known in this instance as a flow time, is critical in supplying the high-performance 6.2L LT4 Supercharged V-8, VVT with Direct Injection engine with adequate airflow. Overall, it becomes the primary signature element of the car.
Blending this striking visual element with functional performance benefits lends legitimacy to the design. Side sculpting shows that GM still knows how to sculpt surfaces for a dramatic interplay with natural lighting along the shoulder line of a vehicle, which is a type of visual functionality.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the highly controversial front grill of the BMW iX shows no evidence of function and appears entirely ornamental, serving brand purposes alone. Perhaps this lack of a tie to functionality makes this design feature subject to opinions. Both are bold, but the LZ-1 design benefits from being grounded in function, lending credibility to the design.
Functional features support engine cooling and aerodynamic downforce to support track handling on the LZ-1.
Features on the BMW iX are decorative and support the controversial styling of the vehicle rather than providing functionality.
The electrically powered Tesla Model Y requires minimal cooling, evidenced by a closed-form nose, allowing storage in the front trunk or “frunk.”
Timeless Timekeeping
The Rolex GMT-Master II is an excellent timepiece. This remarkable piece of human engineering and mechanical artistry inspires.
The Rolex GMT-Master II is an excellent timepiece. This remarkable piece of human engineering and mechanical artistry inspires. Rolex has a time-honored tradition of honing its products, refining each subsequent edition with subtle and dramatic technical advancements. Take a closer look at the bezel production process, and one's appreciation for these masterpieces is sure to grow. Few products manage to balance technical appeal while blending into formal contexts as well as this timepiece does. Established in 1905, the bivouac is looking forward to what the next 113 years bring from the company.
The Rolex GMT-Master II, often referred to as the "Batman" or "Blue and Black," is a highly coveted and iconic timepiece in the world of luxury watches. This distinctive model gained its nickname due to its unique bezel design, which features a combination of blue and black colors, resembling the iconic superhero's mask. The "Blue and Black" GMT-Master II is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and versatility. It is equipped with Rolex's proprietary Caliber 3285 movement, which offers impeccable timekeeping accuracy and a second time zone function. This feature makes it famous among travelers and pilots, allowing the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously.
The watch's blue and black ceramic bezel, also known as the "Cerachrom" bezel, is aesthetically striking, extremely durable, and resistant to fading, corrosion, and scratching. This combination of colors adds a touch of elegance to the watch and enhances its readability, thanks to the high contrast. The Rolex GMT-Master II "Blue and Black" is crafted from Rolex's renowned Oystersteel, ensuring both durability and a timeless design. With its classic and versatile appearance, this watch seamlessly transitions from formal occasions to more casual settings. It has become a symbol of Rolex's commitment to precision, innovation, and style, making it a prized possession for watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
How they did it: It is remarkable to see from the video below how much innovation goes into signature elements on the GMTII, including a proprietary ceramic bezel manufacturing process.
Keeping up with the times. The "Batman" blue and black version of the timeless Rolex GMT II (Reference: 116710BLNR) strikes a dynamic balance between technical advancement and timeless elegance.
AI-Enhanced article