Design Debate

  I just love the new brand for Retroviral designed by Nicework. They had a challenging brief - don't change the logo. When you are trying to move a company forward but the client is unsure of change it can be pretty tricky, but I think they struck the right balance.  Taking the circled 'v' from the old logo and creating a brand with vibrant reds, muted neutrals, quirky old photographs and reoccurring circles. It is so important when branding to consider the whole, the tone, the voice and I think Nicework nailed it.  

Immensely opulent green walls With Spring in the air it makes me want to bring the outside in. A step further than a vase of daffodils, how about some very bold wallpaper? These are a few examples that make me want to get out the wallpaper paste! Bathe in the jungle with palm wallpaper   Traditional botanical wallpaper Dreaming of meadows as you climb the stairs A breath of fresh air from Sandberg

“Jungle Green” by Parker Bloomingdales commissioned for Spring 2015 some unusual outfits for their window display. Designers made brilliantly bright and inventive clothes out of Crayola crayons. Designers such as Nanette Lepore, Rebecca Taylor, Clover Canyon, Rebecca Minkoff, Torn by Ronny Kobo and Parker. “Unmellow Yellow” by Nanette Lepore As you would expect with with such a medium, these dresses have a kind of 1960s structure, Torn by Ronny Kobo's dress has a Punk edge but Clover Canyon's design is quite sophisticated and Parker manages to add a little bit of softness by using the wrappers. “ Mountain Meadow ” by  Clover Canyon  I love great window design, a chance to take a minute and pause, appreciate and be inspired. You can read more at This is Colossal . Photographed by Matthew Carasella . “Bittersweet” by Torn by Ronny Kobo

When you think of Istanbul what comes to mind? Sumptuous patterns, Mosques and ancient architecture? Well architect Yener Torun decided to show a different side to the city he lives in. He has been photographing strong Modernist buildings and with bright block colours for a photo-essay using the social media platform Instagram.  He says even locals don't recognise his images as being from Istanbul, but he wanted to show an alternative side.  I would normally gravitate to the traditional, as I just adore intricate patterns and how different cultures chose to embellish their built environment to such an extent. However, I think the strength of Torun's photography, especially the composition, makes these buildings worthy of our attention.      Read more at Dezeen .