Oklahoma Modern

Anyone who questions the validity of architecture as a tourism generator in Oklahoma got a firm rebuke last week. The unique skyscraper in Bartlesville known as the Price Tower was included on a list of Frank Lloyd Wright structures nominated for international recognition by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (mercifully known as UNESCO). Just the nomination is a huge honor, and recognition as a World Heritage Site would mean a huge boost in international visitors to the Price Tower. The 19-story skyscraper currently houses an art center, boutique hotel and a struggling restaurant.

One of my favorites sites to waste time on is Plan59.com. They offer the most impressive collections of lush retro graphics on the web. These images are taken from commercial artwork, most from the Fifties and Sixties. The high-res scans they create eventually become prints you can buy, clipart for Corporate America or eye candy for nerds like me to enjoy. Plan 59.com The site was created in 1999 as Ephemera Now. While I happened to like that moniker, it was deemed too cerebral for the average putz. In 2006 the site became Plan 59, which I can only assume is an homage to the year Detroit reached the pinnacle of tail fin technology: 1959. But chrome and fins are only part of the story. Images scanned from Mid-Century ads include modern kitchens, wacky products and sporty swimsuits. There's even a section of artwork from vintage produce crates!

Jackie dons her booties during last year's White Rock Home Tour We attended the White Rock Home Tour last year and really enjoyed it. Unfortunately we can't make it this year. Bummer! For 2011 the tour features five modern homes, an opening reception at Design Within Reach and meet-and-greets with notable architects. Plus, the proceeds benefit an area school, Hexter Elementary. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the event. For more details and ticket locations visit the website... 6th Annual White Rock Home Tour April 16-17, 2011 Speaker Reception- April 15 Roadtrip Adventures: Plan a roadtrip and find things to do plus great deals on hotels stays at Expedia!

Concept cars are cool. But where does "concept" end? The idea behind most concept cars is to prove feasibility or test new design ideas. Constructed mostly of bamboo and rattan, the Phoenix is intended to offer a glimpse of sustainable car design. I think this project might be more accurately described as a "fantasy" car. The gearhead in me wants to dismiss this effort, by furniture designer Kennith Cobonpue, as merely art masquerading as a car. But I applaud his effort to explore new materials, as well as some really old ones. Here's more info from our friends at Unica Home... Concept Car by Kennith Cobonpue