"Kinfolk is a growing community of artists with a shared interest in small gatherings. We recognize that there is something about a table shared by friends, not just a wedding or once-a-year holiday extravaganza, that anchors our relationships and energizes us."

In a world where convenience is placed above all other endeavours, where efficiency is of paramount importance, it's beautiful to see that there are people out there who truly care about the intricacies of life, caring enough to slow down and celebrate it with family and loved ones.

The online magazine is really nicely done up as well, which is another plus.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:7

I don't quite know what spurred me to design this, other than perhaps a little bit of boredom within me. Regardless, I suppose, as amateurish as this attempt may seem, it sums up my design ethos - a bit of the whole "Less is more" from Mies, but not being entirely sterile (i.e. like the work of Vincent Van Duysen). And now allow me to explain the details behind this little pavilion.

Rough, brutal concrete, juxtaposed against the semi-reflective aluminum support shafts, capped with a glossy white ceiling. Austere benches, for contemplation and reflection, and a tall glass wall, to protect against the elements, yet not obscure. Lofty volume, for air circulation, and simple in design, simple enough to be modular.

Comments and criticisms are more than welcome.

Be near me when my light is low,
When the blood creeps, and the nerves prick
And tingle; and the heart is sick,
And all the wheels of Being slow.
Be near me when the sensuous frame
Is rack'd with pangs that conquer trust;
And Time, a maniac scattering dust,
And Life, a Fury slinging flame.

Be near me when my faith is dry,
And men the flies of latter spring,
That lay their eggs, and sting and sing
And weave their petty cells and die.
Be near me when I fade away,

To point the term of human strife,
And on the low dark verge of life
The twilight of eternal day.

Lord Alfred Tennyson

I had a chat with a friend a few days ago. "Neglected" was what she was feeling - they say that loneliness is the most painful of human emotions. I suppose the pain of being absent works two ways - for both the absent and the one left there to pick up the mess. Its even sadder when both parties have abandoned hope. Yet we do it. Yet life works that way for us - we simply leave when its too much, or too little. We give up.

And for that I'm sorry.

Image Credit: Trevor Patt & ArchDaily

A careful, measured balance between nature and man; the Leca Swimming Pools serve as a silent compliment to the rugged Portugal shoreline.

C'est magnifique!