Thomas Phifer and Partners

Modernism grounded by the natural world in this architect's first monograph

The beautifully simple design of architects Thomas Phifer and Partners’ first monograph (even lacking page numbers) almost rivals the buildings themselves. Rather than rely on text and sketches, high-res photographs and renderings show in vivid detail what makes the firm’s stunningly minimalist ideas and emphasis on eco-friendly construction so renowned. Central to their design process is the use of technology to connect inhabitants to the …

Rube Goldberg Photobooth

A Rube Goldberg photobooth, superhero art and craft-brewed ginger beer in this week's look at the web

The work of two Pratt MFA students, this project takes a Rube Goldberg machine and adds an inventive punchline to the perennial favorite.

HTI Hydro Pack

A Rube Goldberg photobooth, superhero art and craft-brewed ginger beer in this week's look at the web

“Like an empty Capri Sun pouch with powdered nutrients inside,” the HTI Hydro Pack offers residents of flood-prone African communities a way of obtaining pure drinking water when disaster strikes. The pack is a filter that can be dropped into any water source and 8 to twelve hours later it is filled with potable, fortified water.