Field Lab

New York photographer turned West Texas desert dweller, John Wells learned a lot on his own. But that was sort of the point. When Wells, 51, bought his 40 acre parcel for $8000, his intentions were not reclusive or even artistic. He simply sought the challenge of living with less and relying on his own ingenuity -- building solar cookers from scrap, for example. The result of Wells' pursuit, more than three years in, include, among other things, his initial internet-equipped one room shack, a solar shower and composting toilet, and four shipping containers sheltered from the sun by an arch of corrugated metal. While there is nothing entirely unique about Wells' accomplishments (being an "off-the-gridder" is sort of a thing), I definitely admire his approach to it all as fundamentally about challenging himself, not necessarily a cultural escape or artistic statement. Plus, he has a blog. Via The NYT.

Fernlund + Logan

I was reminded this morning of the New York firm Fernlund + Logan Architects. As you may have noticed, I have a sort of soft spot for understatement. See more at Fernlund + Logan. Via Remodelista.

Hoeber Residence by QB3 Studio

We found what just may be the greatest loft in the world. Philadelphia's QB3 Studio adapted the space, formerly a window factory, to be "silent background for the client's collection of artwork, books, and objects." The dryness of the wood floor and the diligently white walls both do well in contributing to this goal of neutrality. And the shelving. My god, the shelving. Learn more at QB3 Studio. Via Remodelista.

The Camperdown House

Spotted on Contemporist, we have been admiring this modest Sydney home by Carter Williamson Architects. The owner and architects deferred to simple, robust materials like concrete block to keep costs and flashiness low. While decidedly noticeable in its modernity, there is a clear respect for neighborhood's aesthetic. Personally, I can't get enough of the kitchen run that cantilevers over the stairs -- really solid detail.

See more at Carter Williamson Architects.

Wilde Haire Ranche by Mell Lawrence Architects

Austin-based Mell lawrence Architects designed this residence to suit its environment both in terms of culture and climate. The home's silhouette is an obvious reflection of Texas' barn vernacular. But through details like the creative use of translucent panels over the deck and asymmetrical window layouts, the outcome is at once passive and eye-catching. See more at Mell Lawrence Architects. Via Remodelista.

A Visit to Marfa: El Cosmico

I've been to Texas four times and each time I have planned and failed to visit Marfa, the Donald Judd/conceptual-Prada-store/out-of-context-awesome-hotel capital of West Texas. But it so happens that my girlfriend and I will be in Austin for a friend's wedding in May and we are committed (COMMITTED!) to getting to Marfa. While Thunderbird had been on the agenda previously, I recently stumbled upon another, possibly even more awesome place to stay; El Cosmico. Best known for her work on Austin's Hotel San Jose and Hotel Saint Cecilia, Liz Lambert of Bunkhouse Management conceived of El Cosmico as "part creative lab, greenhouse and amphitheater - a community space that fosters and agitates artistic and intellectual exchange." Guests can choose from a series of restored vintage camper trailers, yurts, a teepee, or, for those more budget-aware, simple tent sites. While the trailers sport their own kitchens and private outdoor showers, all guests have access to a shared kitchen, bathrooms, and rent-by-the-hour Dutch tubs. Best of all, they are all priced affordably, ranging from $150/night for a trailer in peak-season to $20/night for a tent site. Currently, I am debating whether to work an extra Saturday to be able to upgrade from teepee to trailer...Here's hoping.

See more at El Cosmico. via Remodelista.