After arriving in London- the first place on our European tour, I was overwhelmed with the idea that we were in one of the most historical and influential design areas of the world. Those of us that have been fortunate enough to love design and study its history know that London, Milan, Venice, and Rome have influenced our world for centuries and that we reference these design elements in everything that we do today and everything that we will do in the future.
Design is cyclical, and we draw inspiration from the past to support and enrich our designs. So, besides the obvious architectural, art and cultural histories of these areas, which many of us are familiar with, what will influence me in the future? What will I take away from each place that was unexpected?
London
The first thing that we did in London was take the Underground - a spaghetti of train lines that weaves throughout the city. Let's get real - there is nothing like this anywhere in the States! And it was packed! We are going back there on our way home, so I will have much more to report when we can spend a little time adventuring around!
Dublin
Color, Color, Color! Ireland is the most colorful place I have ever been. The landscape is almost electric green and the city in contrast is full of every color in the rainbow. Everywhere I look there are flowers of the most vibrant colors. So honestly, the people in Dublin drink A LOT of beer, and there are more bars in Dublin per capita than anywhere else in the world! So, how do these bars distinguish themselves when there is so much competition? Paint. Every color possible and as many colors as they can put together. We stayed in the Temple Bar area, which is basically only bars, and I was amazed by the bar culture there - it lived up to my expectations of loud singing and bar brawls. Here are a few fun pics of the area...
Venice
Working in the hospitality industry, I have worked with many lighting companies that make their glass fixtures in Venice. But until I actually saw the amazing amounts of glass, I didn't know how much Venice inspired those designs. Everywhere you look, there are beautiful glass fixtures of different design ideas, from contemporary to very traditional, and are mixed into every style of architecture. I will never again look at glass lighting the same way - it was simply beautiful!
Studionv will continue to follow Lea on her European adventure. In the meantime, take a look around Reno and observe the architecture that has been influenced by European design elements. And watch how this influence is used time and time again in new architecture and design.
Image Source: Unknown source
Image Source: Luxe Magazine
