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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Hobie Revolution 13
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution.
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution. Offering excellent stability in the water and superior ergonomic positioning over the last generation of sea kayaks, the Hobie Revolution 13 is designed to allow users to sit on it rather than in it. The lightweight seat is breathable and fully adjustable thanks to its integrated BOA-powered lumbar adjustment system and other thoughtful angle adjustments.
Coupled with the ground-breaking Hobie Mirage Drive, it transforms occupants into superheroes. Covering longer distances that would have once crushed one’s back and shoulders is now child’s play. The Mirage Drive is a remarkable piece of design and engineering. It empowers riders to move through the water quickly for long periods. Modeled after how penguins shift their fins through the water, the fins turn back and forth while pivoting, ensuring an unheard-of efficiency. Excellent ergonomics keep back fatigue at bay and allow occupants a more upright view, freeing them to focus more on their surroundings.
An ingenious rudder system rounds out the offering, providing agile and easily controllable handling and subtle wind offset functionality. Overall, the Hobie Revolution 13 is a well-rounded, stable platform upon which to move at speed or fish confidently. Two thumbs up and paddle raised high from the bivouac!
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.
Volvo's New Shining Star
Volvo’s Polestar helped shape perceptions of the brand’s performance capabilities. Now, Volvo has announced the Polestar 2, which will usher the brand into new, fully electric vehicle territory.
Volvo’s Polestar division has already played a key role in reshaping the brand’s identity, showcasing its ability to deliver refined performance with a modern edge. Now, with the launch of the Polestar 2, Volvo is charting a bold course into the fully electric future. This sleek, all-electric fastback blends Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology, marking a significant step in the brand’s sustainability journey. If Volvo can continue to build on the momentum and innovation that Polestar represents, it’s clear that this guiding star is lighting the way toward a bright and electrified future.
The Volvo Polestar 2 is a standout electric vehicle (EV) that embodies Volvo's commitment to sustainability and innovation. As part of the Polestar brand, Volvo's electric performance division, the Polestar 2 offers a unique blend of style, performance, and environmental consciousness in the luxury electric vehicle market.
One of the most distinctive features of the Polestar 2 is its design, which strikes a balance between modern minimalism and Scandinavian luxury. The clean lines and uncluttered interior create an inviting and spacious cabin. The vehicle's infotainment system, powered by Google's Android Automotive OS, provides a user-friendly and highly connected experience. Drivers and passengers can enjoy a range of innovative features, including voice control, navigation, and various apps.
In terms of performance, the Polestar 2 offers an impressive electric powertrain. It features a dual-motor setup that delivers all-wheel drive and robust acceleration. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, offering a sporty driving experience. With a large battery pack, the Polestar 2 boasts an estimated range of over 200 miles on a single charge, making it practical for daily commutes and longer journeys. Its commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its use of vegan materials in the interior and a focus on reducing its carbon footprint throughout its production and usage. The Volvo Polestar 2 represents a compelling option for those looking to combine luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness in an electric vehicle.
Danny Goodman's Macintosh Handbook
Bringing together Danny Goodman and Richard Saul Wurman, this publication was and remains an exceptional example of accessible and visually delightful educational material.
Many fond memories of shaping early interaction design courses in 1993 persist here at the bivouac. I was fortunate to enter the field at a time when computing had matured just enough to become accessible to a broader range of creatives. I was also lucky to teach both introductory and advanced courses in computer visualization.
For the introductory course, I relied upon Danny Goodman’s excellent Macintosh Handbook Featuring System 7. Bringing together Danny Goodman and Richard Saul Wurman, this publication was and remains an exceptional example of accessible and visually delightful educational material. The illustrations are clear and inviting, and they demystified the breakthrough technology on offer from Apple at the time. For other inspirational publications, check out the bivouac’s list of design-related readings. Overall, Danny Goodman’s Macintosh Handbook remains an outstanding exemplar of explicit and inspirational instructional reference material. It passes the test of time in a fast-moving technical context. For a first-hand account of what went into creating the publication, visit Nathan Shedroff’s site article.
The book is innovative in other ways as well. Information and terms are supplemented with hypertext-like cross-references to related content in different book sections. This is an excellent reminder of the heady days of the dawn of the Macintosh and the promise of newly accessible computing for all creatives to enjoy. The publication visuals mimic the Macintosh operating system visuals, including a “finder” menu along the top of many pages, to further demystify the new world of Apple technology.
New UPS electric truck aids helps driver safety
Form can follow function and still be cute as well. Equipped with ADAS features and greater visibility, these electric trucks with a range of around 150 miles should serve London and Paris well.
Form can follow function and still be cute as well. Equipped with ADAS features and greater visibility, these electric trucks with a range of around 150 miles should serve London and Paris well.
Beyond Skin Deep
Something is striking about viewing cutaways of objects. One has the sense of being invited into a secret world, allowing us to see what lies beneath the skin of an object and how it is made.
Something is striking about viewing cutaways of objects. One has the sense of being invited into a secret world, allowing us to see what lies beneath the skin of an object and how it is made. This cutaway mockup of a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited four-door model gives the viewer a sense of the improvements made to the new model. This transparency shows Jeep’s confidence in their new vehicle and is visually fascinating, especially for objects as complicated to manufacture as automobiles.
Under the skin: The 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
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.
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Just Ship It Series: Cadillac Cien
Although debuting way back in 2002, once the ELR starts shipping in January, kindly return your attention to the Cien, please, Cadillac.
Although debuting way back in 2002, once the ELR starts shipping in January, kindly return your attention to the Cien, please, Cadillac. The design of the Cien is a seamless fusion of aerodynamics and luxury. Its dramatic, angular lines and distinctive vertical headlamps make it visually striking. The cockpit blends innovative technology and refined materials with features like a heads-up display and premium leather surfaces. The gullwing-style doors add a touch of drama and accessibility. One in hybrid or BEV form would be an excellent "halo" vehicle for the brand.
The Cien, which means "one hundred" in Spanish, was created to celebrate Cadillac's centenary and to showcase the brand's innovation, performance, and design capabilities. The Cadillac Cien is a mid-engine, two-seat supercar that blends cutting-edge technology with elegant design. Its most notable feature is a 7.5-liter V12 engine that produces an impressive 750 horsepower. This powerplant is complemented by a hybrid system featuring a rear-mounted electric motor, which enhances the car's performance and efficiency. The Cien can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of approximately 200 mph, underlining its supercar status.
While it is understood that the Cadillac Cien was never intended for production, it serves as a bold statement of Cadillac's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology. Many luxury performance car enthusiasts would love to see an updated version shipping from the luxury brand. Perhaps the Corvette C8 platform could prove worthy.
The Cadillac Cien powerfully demonstrates the capabilities of General Motors Design Studio.
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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.
Enlightened Signature Elements
The Cadillac ELR design has been getting much attention at the bivouac lately. In addition to the striking design and progressive technologies inside and out, various small details stand out.
The Cadillac ELR design has been getting much attention at the bivouac lately. In addition to the striking design and progressive technologies inside and out, various small details stand out. Cadillac logo placement within both headlamp and tail light elements is well executed. Each adds an elegant and refreshingly understated yet dynamic signature touch. That's a tricky middle ground to hit. Here's hoping such attention to detail lights the way forward to continued impressive designs from the Cadillac studio in 2013 and beyond.
Cadillac ELR: Faithful to the Concept
With the release of the production version of the Cadillac ELR at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past week, General Motors proved that the resurgence of the American automotive industry continues.
With the release of the production version of the Cadillac ELR at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past week, General Motors proved that the resurgence of the American automotive industry continues. Cadillac has stayed faithful to the 2009 Converj concept car that inspired the ELR, deserving high praise. Audi came close to this when they introduced the production version of the TT. However, with respect to the Cadillac ELR, it is a rare instance where the shipping car looks better than the concept car.
GM also deserves credit for moving into the luxury Extended Range Electric Vehicle luxury niche before other large-scale luxury vehicle manufacturers. They are introducing new driving affordances unique to this type of vehicle, such as steering wheel-mounted paddles that allow drivers to induce regenerative braking on demand. While we will have to wait and see how the ELR performs, on paper, things look promising. And if you are a fan of Cadillac's "Art and Science" aesthetics, on the showroom floor, things are looking great.
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New York Times Budget Puzzle
Frustrated with the way Congress is handling the nation’s budget? Take a look and try to balance the budget for yourself.
Frustrated with the way Congress is handling the nation’s budget? Take a look and try to balance the budget for yourself.
This is a great example of how to empower users to relate to an abstract concept...our federal budget deficit. Its minimalistic approach and small details, like representing 1 billion dollars with small blue squares that tally up in real time depending upon decisions users make, is a nice touch.
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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Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept
Cadillac's Urban Luxury Concept, which debuted this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is just the kind of product that will continue to fuel General Motor's emergence from bankruptcy.
Cadillac's Urban Luxury Concept is the vehicle that could help continue General Motors's transition to a battery-electric vehicle fleet with zero emissions. The original concept, which debuted a few years back at the Los Angeles auto show, was not a BEV but still offered an impressive estimated fuel economy rating of 56 mpg city/65 mpg highway.
The size and styling of the Urban Luxury Concept could be resurrected and applied to the company’s new Ultimum electric platform. With room for four and several innovative features in store beyond the scissor-style doors, this could be a cutting-edge "Art and Science" vehicle.
Apple's Accordion Fold Interface
This Bivouac Interface Hall of Fame entry from Apple is an outstanding example of reducing perceived complexity and helping pull users through transactions that can otherwise seem overwhelming.
This Bivouac Interface Hall of Fame entry from Apple is an outstanding example of reducing perceived complexity and helping pull users through otherwise overwhelming transactions.
By collapsing most of the information entered in one section of the form into a strata, Apple keeps users grounded but reinforces a sense of progress throughout the checkout process. Along the way, a yellow prompting box appears next to the unfilled required fields, indicating what users must enter to continue. Stratification of information in clear zones serves as landscape "mile markers," allowing users to sense how far along they are in completing the tasks.
From Luke Wroblewski on A List Apart. Thanks to Arjun for passing this one along.
The Warmth of Great Ideas
While perhaps not entirely ideal in that BioLite still draws on burning wood as a source of fuel, it is nonetheless a revolutionary stove that makes cooking on wood as clean, safe, and easy as modern fuels while generating electricity to provide illumination and cell phone connectivity to those that are off-grid.
While perhaps not entirely ideal in that BioLite still uses burning wood as a source of fuel, it is nonetheless a revolutionary stove that makes cooking on wood as clean, safe, and easy as using modern fuels while generating electricity to provide illumination and cell phone connectivity to those who are off-grid.
Like other carefully designed stoves using fans to blow air into the fire, BioLite dramatically improves combustion. However, other stoves require small amounts of electricity to power their fans. BioLite stoves solve this problem by converting a fraction of the fire’s thermal energy into electricity to power our combustion improvement system. Excess electricity is available to users to charge small electronic devices such as cell phones and LED lights. A bright idea indeed.
Note: As an Amazon Associate, Designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.
The Magic of Iteration
A few months back, I received an Apple Magic Mouse as a birthday gift. Since then, it has served as a powerful reminder of the power of offering a thoughtfully designed ecosystem to users and of the need to pay attention to even the smallest parts of that environment.
I received an Apple Magic Mouse as a birthday gift. Since then, it has proven the power of offering users a thoughtfully designed ecosystem and the need to pay attention to even the smallest parts of that ecosystem.
Companies offering extensive ecosystems are empowered to shape hardware and software touchpoints in powerfully integrated ways. Volumes have been written about how Apple has thoughtfully enhanced its user experience for years. But something else inspiring here has to do with focus and iteration.
Sometimes, the folks in Cupertino manage to release things that are not accompanied by a special press event, which nonetheless has a deep impact on our day-to-day user experiences. The "magic" of the Magic Mouse is one of those thoughtful additions that slipped into the ecosystem. While I don't use all the features offered by the Magic Mouse, I continue to find that just having the ability to scroll through deep web pages with the flick of the index finger is magic enough.
This kind of seamless hardware and software integration builds loyalty. Powerfully "sticky" parts of the user experience sometimes come in small packages. Many result from numerous iterations and refinements in the marketplace. In a world where new-to-market offerings are so highly valued, it serves us well to click "pause", to double-click if you will, to pause, and recognize when outstanding incremental innovations do come along.
Here's to paying attention to the little things. Indeed, there is magic in the details at Apple.
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.
Echochrome: A New Perspective On Gaming
Although somewhat puzzling initially, Echochrome offers Escher-like environments that players navigate by "filling" broken pathways as they change their perspective on the scene.
Although somewhat puzzling initially, Echochrome offers Escher-like environments that players navigate by "filling" broken pathways as they change their perspective on the scene. This title provides a refreshing angle on brain-enhancing gaming.
