RAISE YOUR DESIGN IQ
ONE MOVIE AT A TIME
We have a studio meeting every Monday at 11:30. We are supposed to talk about what we’ll be getting done in the upcoming week, but inevitably we start chatting about extraneous issues. Last Monday Marcel was telling us about a documentary he recently watched called “Minimalism”. That got us all on a roll talking about movies that had something to teach us about design and architecture. Here is a short list, go check them out and let us know what you think. And we’d love to hear your recommendations for those nights when we just want to sit home with Netflix and chill.
MINIMALISM: A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THE IMPORTANT THINGS
Learn how your life might be better with less. Is this the waive of the future? Will the trend of smaller footprint living burn out or continue? Is the death of excess on its way? Can Americans learn to design and live with multi-purpose rooms? You can watch it here and decide for yourself.
(image from Minimalism Film)
GATTACA
One of Marcel’s favorite Sci-Fi movies is “Gattaca” . It features two iconic architectural gems: the Marin County Civic Center by Frank Lloyd Wright and the CLA Building by Antoine Predock. See the trailer on YouTube.
(image from Geek Tyrant)
(image from Mother Nature Network)
(image from Poly Centric)
DARJEELING LIMITED
Chelsea adores the set design in this film by Wes Anderson. Watch the trailer here.
(image from OzoneDesign)
CITIZEN ARCHITECT: SAMUAL MOCKBEE AND THE SPIRIT OF THE RURAL STUDIO
Emily is inspired by the work of the Rural Studio. Play the trailer here.
(image from Blue Sphere: Earth Art Expo)
MINDWALK
Another one nominated by Marcel because it features the beautiful island of Le Mont St. Michael in Normandy France. See the trailer on YouTube.
(image from Pinterest)
MY ARCHITECT: A SON’S JOURNEY
Joseph likes this documentary by the illegitimate son of noted architect Louis Kahn, who died in bankrupt and alone in 1974. Why is being an architect such a thankless job? You can watch the full film on YouTube and find out more.
(image from Architectural Digest)
HELVETICA
This is an independent film about typography, graphic design, and visual culture. It also explores urban spaces and the type within them. This film will help you understand how type affects your life. For real! You can watch it here.
(image from The New York Times)
THE STORY OF STUFF
I haven’t watched this 20 minute movie in over 10 years, but I remember the visceral feeling I had when I saw it and I remember that feeing every time I buy something with a ton of packaging or receive something that I know is going to end up in the landfill. It isn’t about design or architecture, but it is applicable to the stuff we fill our homes and offices with. Watch it here, but I warn you, you’ll feel guilty after you see it.
(image from The Story of Stuff Project)
SO YOU WANT TO BE AN ARCHITECT
I’ll end with my favorite little movie about being an architect. It may just be a silly cartoon, but it is spot on. Go watch it on YouTube right now! It is only 5 minutes long.
(image from YouTube)
THANKS FOR READING
I’m trying to embrace 50.
Brandy LeMae, CEO / Creative Director
18 March 2017
