Saving the World!

Interesting article from Timeout Dubai

15 ways to save the world

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Crispin Porter + Bogusky Has No Integrity For Design

Great Article!

Crispin Porter + Bogusky Has No Integrity For Design

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I think when a graphic powerhouse starts outsourcing their work, then the branding quality is severly damaged.

What do you guys think?

Nouvel's Agbar Tower in Barcelona

Jean Nouvel Complete Works

Nouvel on Sale

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Miami Heat fan all day!

Homes + Schools + Communities Abandoned

From time to time, I pull myself out of my bubble and look at the mayhem going on in our communities. Miami has been one of the biggest victims to the market crash resulting in massive layoffs and cut-backs, foreclosures and so on. But there has been another city that has been suffering for much longer. Detroit.

The city of Detroit was the backbone of U.S. industry for nearly 50 years, now it is the apparent black sheep by many. I strongly disagree.

I spent a summer at Detroit studying at College for Creative Studies, and I had a great time enjoying the people and the entertainment. Many of my friends actually attended the school for their undergrad and have had tremendous careers afterwards. That proves to you that Detroit that has quality.

James D. Griffioen documents Detroit's abandonment in his photography. The beautiful, slightly chilling images show you the condition of environments being left vacant and unsupervised. But just like James, many people still call Detroit home. People still exist there and they deserve for America to start believing in them again.

As a Miami resident, I feel for the Detroit families and know that it can all change if we give them a chance.

My new stop for comedy :)

Run This Town (Official Directors’ Commentary)

I think its weird how these guys can poke fun at Hip-hop artists and get away with it. Their jokes and videos with famous guest appearances are great.

Check them at : itsthereal.com

Killer Building Graphics Projected!

Twitter + Facebook + LinkedIn + MySpace = Free$

Is it my fault that I was a whiny and irritating employee for the past 4 months at Urbaniza + S.A.S.S.I. ? Is it my fault if all I wanted was some attention for my wacky ideas about the future of business and socializing?

Guess what? Now every business magazine I pick up puts attention to the availability of free marketing. All the pinching pennies ideas take aim at optimizing your business in a era where most would suspect revenue loss across the boards.

I am so glad I am in a profession that allows me to expand my business management skills (Yes. I learned I had business management skills!) and grow my design experience. Now, the real trick is trying to merge those two skills of mine for keeping with the times. I guess what I am describing is a new world of communication that can be the salvation for business and design.

With the speed of new websites and applications available now, I must be conscience of what items are beneficial to my business and what items are for my own social life. My biggest argument has been the effect of Twitter as a business tool.

Let me try to break it down:

• Twitter is Free
• Post your business information + websites + contacts
• Customize your page (colors, images, logos)
• Update your clients or associates with information with links or pics
• 140 words for your status limits you but makes it quick to use
• Follow people working in your field for sharing research
• Build a strong Network in a short time

Now, I believe the people at Twitter are looking to revamp their website soon, but in the meantime get that key Twitter name that's going to give you the top search. Update your status modestly and follow people. Sooner than later, your page will be able to automatically run itself. Free marketing!

Don't get left out. Just do it!

Check out our new twitter accounts for Urbaniza + S.A.S.S.I.

Architecture is Art!

In my mind, boundary lines do not exist. Instead, we have layers of governing, rebellion, interaction, information, expression, emotion, reaction and growth. Try to classify that into one category or one term. I don't, I just simply say that architecture is everything, beautiful or ugly.

While I was experiencing the amazing Wynwood Art Walk last Saturday night, I felt at place with the art-lovers filling the galleries and the streets. Waves of people flowing from warehouse to warehouse reminded me of the dance clubs in Rome, while the police lights reminded me of what Wynwood was just a few years ago. Though I don't fit the trendy art look anymore, I still share a passion for the kinds of atmospheres creative people produce.

Working in the architecture + construction field is like designing while being handcuffed. The end result is a filtered version of my dream concept. But in all, it is still my work. I squeeze all my effort to creating something that is both functional and beautiful. My process is similiar to what artists of the canvas do, I am just classified differently by others.

The above work done by an architecture student reminds me of what it is to be free of restraints but observant of surrounding environments. In all, the student's effort to include his design in a brute space is beautiful.

Wynwood Art

So evidently, me being away from Miami for so long has made me miss out on some amazing events in my own neighborhood. The Design District and the Wynwood Community has become a breeding ground for fresh art and design.

The Wynwood Art Walk has been in effect for quite a bit, and I am looking to join in on the fun and excitement. I am planning on stopping by the YOUNG BLOOD: New World Mixx; a collection of work from alumni of New World School of the Arts with proceeds going towards the school's art department.

I am big on supporting the arts as I went to 2 art schools in Miami : Norland Middle School and Design and Architecture Senior High (DASH). Those schools catapulted me into the Ivy Leagues and great experiences.

I am really excited to see some new stuff from emerging artists, especially Jose Mertz. I remember seeing his work a few years ago for Parish Nation clothing and I couldn't pull my eyes away from how fly the designs were.

Expect me there Saturday.

Cheers (British Thanks/Farewell)

Allow me to reintroduce myself

So I am back in Miami after some abroad architecture experience in Dubai. I must say there isn't a better place to be than a city full of great culture and opportunities. With my family back in my life after 6 years apart (School + Work). I am learning to balance my personal and business life. My new company Urbaniza Realty and SASSI Asset Management has helped expand my knowledge in Design and Construction, and even the politics of Miami.

I created this blog because I am excited to share my thoughts and ideas with my friends on the professional, social, and spiritual level. My intentions are to keep you posted on matters that may pertain to you or that you are oblivious to. Just know that I will be 100% truthful.

To briefly mention the "recession", I want people to know that no matter what you're going through that it doesn't give you a reason to give up. Money is paper and nothing more. Keep your friends and family close to your heart and don't forget God is always here to help.

So lets get ready for some blogging. Peace