This series of work by Chris LaBrooy contains beautifully composed typography. Letterforms become architecture, while the architecture shapes the letterforms. With apparent inspiration rooted in found objects and imaginative material, and a keen sense of color, balance, and composition, we’re provided concepts for spaces that speak to us through our language while retaining their necessary function, that being shelter and various types of open and closed space.

“Somewhere” attempts to visualize the idea of downloadable architecture. In this mindscape, the local becomes global, and global becomes local. The technology may come in the future when anything and everything, even the tremendous structures around us, has the capability to move in and out of information, data, spaces, and places that were never before possible.

As some of you may see, I haven’t been around to really publish any inspiration this week. I fell ill Tuesday evening, and remain fairly ill today. However, while resting up I sat and watched this documentary on origami. Needless to say, it fascinated me. It wasn’t the results of origami art that struck me, though they were amazing, rather it was the process in which one undergoes to land at the desired (and sometimes undesired) results. I immediately thought of the possibilities having to do with typography, particularly the possibility of letterform creation with single fold origami. For some inspiration outside of the computer screen, check this documentary out. Here’s the trailer.

Dubai is known for some crazy architectural ambitions, so here’s another concept that’s insane, but insanely awesome and potentially realistic. The main contributions of this spectacle would be water collection and natural energy via wind and vibration. You can see this is all possible through the modern leaf-like structure element throughout. Read the rest of the technology and service behind this project here.

Arlo Vance is a typographer and graphic designer residing in Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.A. Vance is the owner of the digital type factory Typecaste as well as the senior designer at 3Form, the widely known firm for interior and architectural design materials.What I enjoy most about Vance’s work is the many areas of design engaged upn and the ability to keep the results cohesive throughout various mediums and displays.

This piece by Francesco Zorzi is not only beautiful to look at but is extremely informative of technologies, their impact on paralleling areas and their advancement in the energy game. Taking an abstract approach to visual aesthetics, Zorzi comments on various technologies and their potential to push us into an age of better sustainability.

This exhibition from 2006 was made possible with 5 days of work, 1,500 nails and 300 meters of wool. The intricacy of the installation is quite awesome, showcasing some great typography and craftsmanship.

This is truly insane, in a good way. Leong Huang Zi grew up dreaming of distant futures and foreign life forms. The future has always been the driving force for Zi’s imagination. Now, after years of conceptualization, Zi has put together not only concepts but stories and characters for what the future could hold. I’ve included the foot notes provided by Zi in reference to some of the shots.

1. I’m no longer using Digg. I now use Reddit. Why? Traffic, that’s why!

2. Four Fifths Design is now on Facebook! Just click here!

3. While you’re at it, follow me on Twitter to know each time there’s a new feature (and a few personal thoughts here and there). Just click here!

Cheers!

Patrick

Four Fifths Design is officially 2 years old as of today! I want to personally thank all my readers for their constant input and enthusiasm. I also want to thank the numerous artists, designers, organizations, collectives and companies who have continuously shown interest in Four Fifths Design, especially General Motors, American Apparel and KDU for their ongoing support, feedback and exclusive features.  2010 looks to be another promising year, and I will do my best to continue the growth of Four Fifths Design!

Cheers,
Patrick Branigan