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Third Studio 501 Project - Water in the Landscape
Oct. 21st, 2009 | 12:35 pm
My first studio project was on topography, the second was on plant form, and this post is of my third project, water in the landscape.
These three projects are considered small when compared to our final term project, which is to design a cemetery.
As discussed in my last post, i studied Lawrence Halprin's fountains, in particular the Memorial Fountains for Franklin D. Roosevelt in Washington DC.
His War Fountain was a major influence on my final design. Halprin designed a fountain that symbolized the chaotic and uncertain years in which Roosevelt served as President during World War 2.
By using water to convey emotions of uncertainty and suspense, i created an almost playful, yet frightening, water room. Our design constraints were the size of our site (24m by 38m) and that it had to be enclosed by some sort of wall.
Please check out my poster for more information on my "Fountain Room" (you must click on it several times until you can see it in its full size)
These three projects are considered small when compared to our final term project, which is to design a cemetery.
As discussed in my last post, i studied Lawrence Halprin's fountains, in particular the Memorial Fountains for Franklin D. Roosevelt in Washington DC.
His War Fountain was a major influence on my final design. Halprin designed a fountain that symbolized the chaotic and uncertain years in which Roosevelt served as President during World War 2.
By using water to convey emotions of uncertainty and suspense, i created an almost playful, yet frightening, water room. Our design constraints were the size of our site (24m by 38m) and that it had to be enclosed by some sort of wall.
Please check out my poster for more information on my "Fountain Room" (you must click on it several times until you can see it in its full size)
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Presentation on Halprin's Fountains
Oct. 21st, 2009 | 12:17 pm
As explained in my last post, before we begin designing our projects (which this term focus respectively on Topography, Plant Form, and Water) we study the works of notable Landscape Architect's who are masters at manipulating each of these design elements.
Our next design project is to create a space that uses water as its main feature. Before starting this project i had to learn about the fountains of Lawrence Halprin (which i did through analytical sketching and research, the process is explained in my last post)
I enjoyed sketching Halprin's fountains since they are so lively and dynamic, especially the ones i looked at: The FDR Memorial Park Fountains (Washington DC), and the Lovejoy and Ira Keller Fountains (in Portland, Oregon).
The Foutain's skyline at Ira Keller fountain (below) interested me so i drew its lines. The fountains are supposed to represent the Cascade Mountains. My drawing of the fountains' skylines reminded me of Lawrence Harris' paintings of mountains. Geometric in form but smooth, almost rounded at the corners.
Our next design project is to create a space that uses water as its main feature. Before starting this project i had to learn about the fountains of Lawrence Halprin (which i did through analytical sketching and research, the process is explained in my last post)
I enjoyed sketching Halprin's fountains since they are so lively and dynamic, especially the ones i looked at: The FDR Memorial Park Fountains (Washington DC), and the Lovejoy and Ira Keller Fountains (in Portland, Oregon).
The Foutain's skyline at Ira Keller fountain (below) interested me so i drew its lines. The fountains are supposed to represent the Cascade Mountains. My drawing of the fountains' skylines reminded me of Lawrence Harris' paintings of mountains. Geometric in form but smooth, almost rounded at the corners.
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Second Studio 501 Project - Plant Form
Oct. 2nd, 2009 | 11:57 am
Having explored Topography in our first project, we now moved on to plant form.
I enjoyed the Planted Form and Path Project because it finally felt like real "Landscape Architecture School", in that we weren't doing as much abstract and conceptual thinking, but actually designing a path with plant form as a main element.
We began by studying path systems and how they interact with planted form. We did this by analyzing the works of Landscape Architects known for their handling of plant form. Students were put in groups of 3's and did analytical sketches and research on those Landscape Architect's most notable projects. We then shared our findings to the Studio in presentations. The same process will be followed for our next project, Water in the Landscape.
For our path assignment, there were again almost 0 constraints.
Interested in the sculptural and textural qualities of a dark brown exterior wood decking, with contrasting tufts of soft green plantings sprouting up between them, i created "The planted Boardwalk"
(Please keep clicking the same image until you get the magnifying glass and can see it in full size - The process is further explained in Posters 1 & 2).
I enjoyed the Planted Form and Path Project because it finally felt like real "Landscape Architecture School", in that we weren't doing as much abstract and conceptual thinking, but actually designing a path with plant form as a main element.
We began by studying path systems and how they interact with planted form. We did this by analyzing the works of Landscape Architects known for their handling of plant form. Students were put in groups of 3's and did analytical sketches and research on those Landscape Architect's most notable projects. We then shared our findings to the Studio in presentations. The same process will be followed for our next project, Water in the Landscape.
For our path assignment, there were again almost 0 constraints.
Interested in the sculptural and textural qualities of a dark brown exterior wood decking, with contrasting tufts of soft green plantings sprouting up between them, i created "The planted Boardwalk"
(Please keep clicking the same image until you get the magnifying glass and can see it in full size - The process is further explained in Posters 1 & 2).
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First Studio 501 Project - Topographic Explorations
Sep. 23rd, 2009 | 11:37 am
Studio is where the majority of my time at school is spent.
All first years students in the program have the same 3 classes: History of Landscape Architecture, Trees and Shrubs in L.A., and Studio. Studio is worth 4 times the credits than the other two classes, and is therefore the most important one
Our first 3 projects have (almost) 0 design constraints and require very conceptual thinking. With this strategy, our professor Daniel Roehr wants to get us loose, and have us think outside of the box and explore all the options we can possibly think of for a design solution.
Our first project was called "Topographic Explorations".
We had to explore how different topographies could be created (and the word topography is interpreted in its broadest sense) on a 30 x 30 cm base, using a material we are new and unfamiliar with. This will be the only project where we won't actually be designing something, but rather exploring new and different materials, and how we can abstracise topography with them.
My materials were stirring sticks and a variety of 30 x 30 cm landing surfaces that i threw them on. I studied and recorded the landing patterns of the sticks, and those became my topography. The process is explained more in the last poster. (You will have to click the images below until you get the magnifying glass, and then you can see it in full size)
All first years students in the program have the same 3 classes: History of Landscape Architecture, Trees and Shrubs in L.A., and Studio. Studio is worth 4 times the credits than the other two classes, and is therefore the most important one
Our first 3 projects have (almost) 0 design constraints and require very conceptual thinking. With this strategy, our professor Daniel Roehr wants to get us loose, and have us think outside of the box and explore all the options we can possibly think of for a design solution.
Our first project was called "Topographic Explorations".
We had to explore how different topographies could be created (and the word topography is interpreted in its broadest sense) on a 30 x 30 cm base, using a material we are new and unfamiliar with. This will be the only project where we won't actually be designing something, but rather exploring new and different materials, and how we can abstracise topography with them.
My materials were stirring sticks and a variety of 30 x 30 cm landing surfaces that i threw them on. I studied and recorded the landing patterns of the sticks, and those became my topography. The process is explained more in the last poster. (You will have to click the images below until you get the magnifying glass, and then you can see it in full size)
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First Project of Landscape Architecture school
Sep. 13th, 2009 | 10:35 am
My first weeks of graduate school at UBC have been generally good. Besides the late nights, lack of sleep, and malnutrition, it has been an enjoyable month for me.
I prepared myself mentally for the work load so i wasn't too surprised with that...learning to think like an Architect doesn't come easily or in a couple of weeks! (One big lesson i've learned so far)
Our very first project was a collaborative video done with our colleagues in the Architecture program. It is the result of a week long workshop that was mainly introductory, in the sense that students and faculty of SALA (the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture) could get to know each other and work on a fun project collaboratively.
We we're split up in groups of 8 and asked to make a video about Vancouver. The challenge was that our video had to have a transect as its main theme. The transect, or the line, through its careful placement, was supposed to tell us something about Vancouver, or make us see it (and present it) in a different way.
For our transect, our group decided on a horizontal line, that divides a person's vision in an upper and lower plane. Our video can be simply explained with a diagram:
Video's front cover
Video's back cover
From Left to Right: Stephanie Au, Sandy Wang, Erin Ramsey, Me, Nial Macrae.
Other group members not pictured here: Will Blair, Sindre Sahlqvist Blakar, Nicolas Robitaille
I prepared myself mentally for the work load so i wasn't too surprised with that...learning to think like an Architect doesn't come easily or in a couple of weeks! (One big lesson i've learned so far)
Our very first project was a collaborative video done with our colleagues in the Architecture program. It is the result of a week long workshop that was mainly introductory, in the sense that students and faculty of SALA (the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture) could get to know each other and work on a fun project collaboratively.
We we're split up in groups of 8 and asked to make a video about Vancouver. The challenge was that our video had to have a transect as its main theme. The transect, or the line, through its careful placement, was supposed to tell us something about Vancouver, or make us see it (and present it) in a different way.
For our transect, our group decided on a horizontal line, that divides a person's vision in an upper and lower plane. Our video can be simply explained with a diagram:
Video's front cover
Video's back cover
From Left to Right: Stephanie Au, Sandy Wang, Erin Ramsey, Me, Nial Macrae.
Other group members not pictured here: Will Blair, Sindre Sahlqvist Blakar, Nicolas Robitaille
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Rob Crauderueff & NYC's Green Roof Tax Credit
Aug. 25th, 2009 | 09:23 pm
Reading a journal i received from BCIT's Green roof testing facilities (see last post), i learned about a community leader and environmental activist based in New York, who has been making some big moves recently.
Rob Crauderueff was instrumental in the implementation of a Green Roof tax abatement, which is considered a big victory for the green roof industry, and environmentalists alike.
"Under this law, building owners in New York City who install green roofs on at least 50 percent of available rooftop space can apply for a one-year property tax credit of up to $100,000"
Rob's a principal member of two successful non-profit organizations: Sustainable South Bronx and Storm Water Infrastructure Matters (SWIM). The latter is responsible for the success of the Green roof tax credit.
The article where i learned about Rob and this recent bill can be read here.
Rob Crauderueff was instrumental in the implementation of a Green Roof tax abatement, which is considered a big victory for the green roof industry, and environmentalists alike.
"Under this law, building owners in New York City who install green roofs on at least 50 percent of available rooftop space can apply for a one-year property tax credit of up to $100,000"
Rob's a principal member of two successful non-profit organizations: Sustainable South Bronx and Storm Water Infrastructure Matters (SWIM). The latter is responsible for the success of the Green roof tax credit.
The article where i learned about Rob and this recent bill can be read here.
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Visiting a High-tech Green Roof Testing Facility
Aug. 20th, 2009 | 09:09 pm
Today i attended the BCIT School of Construction & the Environment's Centre for Architectural Ecology. The Centre is located in South East False Creek. Each third Thursday of the month, the Centre holds an open house to explain their research and give a tour of their facilities.
The centre is essentially a collaborative think tank consisting of industry, government, and academic partners whose "vision is to help advance the widespread adoption of green roof and living wall technologies in this region".
The Centre is a dedicated field test site, so the Greenroof that they study, is the Centre's actual roof....
Here is the Centre:
And here is its Roof:
The Centre has over 100 sensors in its roof to gather scientific data about its functioning. For example, its thermal performance, storm water mitigation performance, and plant species' health are tracked and analyzed.
This scientific research is being done to gain a better understanding of what the most efficient greenroof system in our temperate rainforest climate would be.
A Green screen system being tested on one of the Centre's walls.
A few simulated greenroofs being researched as well
If you're interested in greenroofs, i would strongly suggest stopping by the Centre's next open house.
The centre is essentially a collaborative think tank consisting of industry, government, and academic partners whose "vision is to help advance the widespread adoption of green roof and living wall technologies in this region".
The Centre is a dedicated field test site, so the Greenroof that they study, is the Centre's actual roof....
Here is the Centre:
And here is its Roof:
The Centre has over 100 sensors in its roof to gather scientific data about its functioning. For example, its thermal performance, storm water mitigation performance, and plant species' health are tracked and analyzed.
This scientific research is being done to gain a better understanding of what the most efficient greenroof system in our temperate rainforest climate would be.
A Green screen system being tested on one of the Centre's walls.
A few simulated greenroofs being researched as well
If you're interested in greenroofs, i would strongly suggest stopping by the Centre's next open house.
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Cliff Jumping in "Metropolitan Water [with] Eagles Above and Salmon Below"
Aug. 18th, 2009 | 05:29 pm
I had a great time cliff jumping with my friend today in the Capilano Regional Park, which we live less than a minute away from.
While surfing the web for the best cliff jumping sites in the park, i found this article in the New York Times that raves about Capilano Regional Park's uniqueness: It is a vast and spectacular park, yet it is located less than 10 minutes away from downtown Vancouver.
Finding an article in the New York Times about a park i live right next to really encouraged me to get out and explore the Park more. If only summer could be extended by one more month, so that i could explore the park and discover the best jumping and swimming spots...But as our shrieks in the videos demonstrate, the water is VERY cold!
While surfing the web for the best cliff jumping sites in the park, i found this article in the New York Times that raves about Capilano Regional Park's uniqueness: It is a vast and spectacular park, yet it is located less than 10 minutes away from downtown Vancouver.
Finding an article in the New York Times about a park i live right next to really encouraged me to get out and explore the Park more. If only summer could be extended by one more month, so that i could explore the park and discover the best jumping and swimming spots...But as our shrieks in the videos demonstrate, the water is VERY cold!
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Re-Shaping my Blog - My First Post in this new format
Aug. 15th, 2009 | 06:36 pm
When getting caught up with an old friend, and discussing her successful blog, i realized my blog is not so hot, because my posts are too LONG!
When i asked my friend how long it takes her to do a typical post, she responded nonchalantly, "not too long". That's when i realized that my posts take WAY too much time - perhaps that is why they felt unnatural and somewhat forced.
i also figured that if i want to keep my Blog running for at least a few more years - which is something i do want to do - i have to re-shape it's format, mainly because once school starts, i will have VERY little extra time.
Therefore, my new posts will be nice and short: i'll briefly discuss an interesting article or news story, or write about a particularly exciting day or adventure i had, or maybe record my experiences as a student of landscape architecture.
Furthermore, i browsed through successful blogs today, and i noticed that almost all of them have quick and short posts - Yes, i admit i'm a blogger, who doesn't read other blogs.
By documenting my interests and experiences, and by recollecting them in visual and written form, hopefully you (the reader) will find something that interests you. But the point is, this blog should be primarily for ME - because when i think of the critics, my posts become unnatural and too long! No more Essays on my blog!!
So here's my first post in this new brief format.
There's a television show called "Landscape as Muse" that i've never had the chance to sit down and watch.
The show "illustrates the relationship between Canada's world-class artists and its dramatic and inspiring landscapes. The goal of the series is to study unique lesser-known landscapes, and explore their link to artistic inspiration."
As a landscape architecture student with a background in History in Art, its only natural for me to be drawn to this show.
Here's a trailer for the show, and a short snippet from an episode.
When i asked my friend how long it takes her to do a typical post, she responded nonchalantly, "not too long". That's when i realized that my posts take WAY too much time - perhaps that is why they felt unnatural and somewhat forced.
i also figured that if i want to keep my Blog running for at least a few more years - which is something i do want to do - i have to re-shape it's format, mainly because once school starts, i will have VERY little extra time.
Therefore, my new posts will be nice and short: i'll briefly discuss an interesting article or news story, or write about a particularly exciting day or adventure i had, or maybe record my experiences as a student of landscape architecture.
Furthermore, i browsed through successful blogs today, and i noticed that almost all of them have quick and short posts - Yes, i admit i'm a blogger, who doesn't read other blogs.
By documenting my interests and experiences, and by recollecting them in visual and written form, hopefully you (the reader) will find something that interests you. But the point is, this blog should be primarily for ME - because when i think of the critics, my posts become unnatural and too long! No more Essays on my blog!!
So here's my first post in this new brief format.
There's a television show called "Landscape as Muse" that i've never had the chance to sit down and watch.
The show "illustrates the relationship between Canada's world-class artists and its dramatic and inspiring landscapes. The goal of the series is to study unique lesser-known landscapes, and explore their link to artistic inspiration."
As a landscape architecture student with a background in History in Art, its only natural for me to be drawn to this show.
Here's a trailer for the show, and a short snippet from an episode.
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Apologies to my loyal readers for making you wait so long for a post...Sorry to all 7 of you!
Jul. 12th, 2009 | 10:49 pm
To all my loyal fans out there, your long wait for my next post will not be in vain.
In the last 2 months i have taken many photos, and i am especially happy with a few of them.
My blog has inadvertently evolved into one that (usually) discusses topics that are either directly or indirectly related to nature and/or the outdoors. My text is often accompanied by either my own, or someone else's photographs, to help illustrate my points.
So continuing with this theme of photography, nature, and the outdoors, my seminal post after a 2 month hiatus - in which some of you feared that my blog may have flopped - will showcase a number of my favourite photos taken in the last 2 months.
I'll start with my recent trip to Northern California, where I enjoyed my cousin Rose's wedding, and got to explore San Fransisco and the East Bay.
TransAmerica Pyramid
The famous City Lights Bookstore. The headquarters of the famous "beatniks" like Allen Gensberg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti.
And next door to City Lights is Vesuvio, the infamous hangout for the beats.
Washington Square Park in North Beach, one of San Fran's 3 original parks
Towering over the park is Saints Peter and Paul Church. Joe DiMaggio, a North Beach native, had his funeral here.
View of Coit Tower from Filbert St.
The row of Painted Ladies made famous from the opening theme of Full House
Braves versus the Giants at AT&T Park. I am not a baseball fan, however, I am a big fan of peanuts, beer, and ocean views!
One of the best nights of my trip, thank you Catherine for these excellent seats!
View of the homes facing Ocean Beach, on the Western edge of San Francisco.
Ocean Beach with the Cliff House in the distance
Curious as to what type of plants are on these coastal bluffs
Sign at the steps before going down to Ocean beach
Ecosystem Restoration in effect, it reads: "San Francisco Recreation & Parks" - PARCEL 4 - Restoration of Coastal Dunes and Plantings - Partial funding provided by Coastal Conservancy"
i like how accessible the parcel was
Old Sacramento
Cousin Rose's garden wedding in Sacramento
Contra Loma Regional Park, located in Antioch, California
Not a very warm welcome to Contra Loma
California Quail
Burrowing Owl
What's with the cattle?
The interpretive sign will tell you! i have more to say about interpretive signs...please see the last image's caption.
San Joaquin River from the Antioch Marina, with a wind plant in the distance
United Nations Plaza
Unidentifiable coniferous tree behind two beautifully restored, typical San Franciscan homes.
Oakland Yacht Club
can anyone help me identify this plant?
Same plant in full view
Cool house in Santa Clara
Now some random photos from around Vancouver...
At Vanier Park: First time i have seen a team of practicing kiters, making interesting formations with their kites.
Strange bushfire in Steveston...
Luckily the brave kids from the nearby concession stand were ready to battle the blaze
Dried fish in Chinatown, Vancouver
Beaver Lake
And lastly, a beautiful Interpretive sign at Lost Lagoon. i've recently come to terms with my obsession with these signs. if i pass one that i have yet to read, i must stop to read it. They satisfy my hunger for knowledge about a certain location's natural processes, and by gaining this deeper understanding, i feel more connected to the location.
During my recent bike rides around Stanley Park, if its a leisurely ride, i will stop and photograph every interpretive sign i can, in order to study them more when i get home. i wonder if the park board has a record of all their interpretive signs? They should, so that they can be looked up and downloaded by anyone who wants to learn more about a certain park's natural environment.
In the last 2 months i have taken many photos, and i am especially happy with a few of them.
My blog has inadvertently evolved into one that (usually) discusses topics that are either directly or indirectly related to nature and/or the outdoors. My text is often accompanied by either my own, or someone else's photographs, to help illustrate my points.
So continuing with this theme of photography, nature, and the outdoors, my seminal post after a 2 month hiatus - in which some of you feared that my blog may have flopped - will showcase a number of my favourite photos taken in the last 2 months.
I'll start with my recent trip to Northern California, where I enjoyed my cousin Rose's wedding, and got to explore San Fransisco and the East Bay.
TransAmerica Pyramid
The famous City Lights Bookstore. The headquarters of the famous "beatniks" like Allen Gensberg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti.
And next door to City Lights is Vesuvio, the infamous hangout for the beats.
Washington Square Park in North Beach, one of San Fran's 3 original parks
Towering over the park is Saints Peter and Paul Church. Joe DiMaggio, a North Beach native, had his funeral here.
View of Coit Tower from Filbert St.
The row of Painted Ladies made famous from the opening theme of Full House
Braves versus the Giants at AT&T Park. I am not a baseball fan, however, I am a big fan of peanuts, beer, and ocean views!
One of the best nights of my trip, thank you Catherine for these excellent seats!
View of the homes facing Ocean Beach, on the Western edge of San Francisco.
Ocean Beach with the Cliff House in the distance
Curious as to what type of plants are on these coastal bluffs
Sign at the steps before going down to Ocean beach
Ecosystem Restoration in effect, it reads: "San Francisco Recreation & Parks" - PARCEL 4 - Restoration of Coastal Dunes and Plantings - Partial funding provided by Coastal Conservancy"
i like how accessible the parcel was
Old Sacramento
Cousin Rose's garden wedding in Sacramento
Contra Loma Regional Park, located in Antioch, California
Not a very warm welcome to Contra Loma
California Quail
Burrowing Owl
What's with the cattle?
The interpretive sign will tell you! i have more to say about interpretive signs...please see the last image's caption.
San Joaquin River from the Antioch Marina, with a wind plant in the distance
United Nations Plaza
Unidentifiable coniferous tree behind two beautifully restored, typical San Franciscan homes.
Oakland Yacht Club
can anyone help me identify this plant?
Same plant in full view
Cool house in Santa Clara
Now some random photos from around Vancouver...
At Vanier Park: First time i have seen a team of practicing kiters, making interesting formations with their kites.
Strange bushfire in Steveston...
Luckily the brave kids from the nearby concession stand were ready to battle the blaze
Dried fish in Chinatown, Vancouver
Beaver Lake
And lastly, a beautiful Interpretive sign at Lost Lagoon. i've recently come to terms with my obsession with these signs. if i pass one that i have yet to read, i must stop to read it. They satisfy my hunger for knowledge about a certain location's natural processes, and by gaining this deeper understanding, i feel more connected to the location.
During my recent bike rides around Stanley Park, if its a leisurely ride, i will stop and photograph every interpretive sign i can, in order to study them more when i get home. i wonder if the park board has a record of all their interpretive signs? They should, so that they can be looked up and downloaded by anyone who wants to learn more about a certain park's natural environment.
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Heritage Trees: Helping to Develop and Foster a City's Identity
May. 12th, 2009 | 08:07 pm
While searching Google for some information on the native trees of Vancouver, i stumbled upon Vancouver Washington's Heritage Tree Guide.
This was the first time I learned about Heritage Tree Programs. These programs are ordained by municipalities around the world to protect special trees found in their communities.
If a tree's nomination for heritage status is approved, it becomes protected by law against cutting or removal. This ensures that the tree will remain in the community for its future generations, and that its legacy and value will continue to be honoured.
The process by which a regular tree becomes a heritage tree varies slightly from city to city. But essentially, it starts when a citizen nominates a tree for heritage status, and it ends when some sort of municipal board approves or disapproves the nominated tree.
The Board's decision could be based on a variety of factors including horticultural value, age, beauty, or associations with historical people and/or events.
Check page 2 of the Vancouver Washington's Heritage Tree Guide for how this municipality selects its heritage trees.
Trees are an important aspect of a city's identity and history. Protecting these treasures from developers and shortsighted residents who want unobstructed views is a good way of developing and fostering a city's culture.
I was disappointed to learn that there are no Heritage Tree programs in either Vancouver or my hometown of West Vancouver. I haven't searched for other local neighbourhood's Heritage Tree programs yet, but I was happy to learn that North Vancouver has one.
Here are some links to various cities' Heritage Tree Programs:
West Hollywood
Singapore
Portland
New York City
Brisbane
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JAPADOG-The World's Greatest Street Meat
Apr. 26th, 2009 | 09:56 pm
JapaDog's flagship stand; in front of the Sutton Place Hotel on Burrard
My girlfriend introduced me to JapaDog upon hearing about this Japanese Hot Dog stand in the media. JapaDog gets alot of good press. I doubt there's another Hot Dog stand in the city that gets as much media attention as this one, and for good reason.
Poster leaning on JapaDog's Cart boasting its celebrity clientele
The Japanese-infused Hot Dogs from JapaDog are incredible. Last weekend was the first one in 4 weeks in which Catherine and i didn't make an excuse to go downtown to get a Japadog. i think about JapaDog almost on a daily basis. I am infatuated with JapaDog, and feel forever indebted to Catherine for making me try it.
The first time you go, make sure you get the Jalapeno & Cheddar Smokie Terimayo. Its a delicious Jalapeno & Cheddar smokie garnished with toppings that will forever change the way you think of Hot Dogs. It is topped with Japanese Mayo, Teriyaki Sauce, fried onions, and nori. I like to add Wasabi Mayo.
My favourite JapaDog: Jalapeno & Cheddar Smokie Terimayo. You haven't fully lived until you've tasted one of these
Next time you're spending some leisure time downtown make sure to visit JapaDog on Burrard & Smithe. Be prepared to spend 10-20 minutes in line, but trust me, its well worth the wait.
JAPADOG in the media:
Recent Vancouver Sun article
Macleans Article
Segment on Anthony Bourdain's popular Food Network show "No Reservations". Skip to 7:25 to get straight to the JapaDog segment.
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Panorama shots with Photoshop
Apr. 19th, 2009 | 11:47 am
My current favourite feature on Photoshop is the "Photomerge" function.
Using "Photomerge", amateur photographers such as myself can make professional-looking panoramic shots with their simple point & shoot cameras, that look like the product of a specialized panoramic camera.
Here are some panoramic shots i've taken around the North Shore:
These first 2 shots were taken at Lighthouse Park. They enabled me to see the interactions between the sea and the sky in a way that i hadn't before. Notice how in both pictures the sky is grey and cloudy on the left, but in the centre of the image, there is a more or less blue sky; these colours are reflected in the water below. i
never noticed how dramatically the sky effects the sea's colours until i took these shots.
Lost Lagoon in Stanley Park, from a previous post.
Capilano River
View of the heritage homes on Comox St from Nelson Park
Burrard Inlet from 15th Street
Using "Photomerge", amateur photographers such as myself can make professional-looking panoramic shots with their simple point & shoot cameras, that look like the product of a specialized panoramic camera.
Here are some panoramic shots i've taken around the North Shore:
These first 2 shots were taken at Lighthouse Park. They enabled me to see the interactions between the sea and the sky in a way that i hadn't before. Notice how in both pictures the sky is grey and cloudy on the left, but in the centre of the image, there is a more or less blue sky; these colours are reflected in the water below. i
never noticed how dramatically the sky effects the sea's colours until i took these shots.
Lost Lagoon in Stanley Park, from a previous post.
Capilano River
View of the heritage homes on Comox St from Nelson Park
Burrard Inlet from 15th Street
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Bicycling Vancouver
Mar. 25th, 2009 | 10:28 pm
I am a total amateur biker (i dont have a helmet or even officially own my own bike!)
With that being said, i am very proud of myself for having successfully biked from my home to Yaletown (and back) today. The trip is about 10 km 1 way and took me 30 mins with a 10 minute break halfway. Since i love Google Earth, i created a map showing my route:
The ride was very pleasant and relaxing since most the time i was either right by the water or in the forest. How nice being able to bike to downtown, without having to deal with cars and traffic, but rather being able to enjoy the sights and sound of nature. Today's trip made me appreciate our city's planning in a way i never had before, and helped me see why Vancouver is one of the world's most livable cities.
i've always wanted to be one of those hardcore bikers who bikes to work everyday...but because i dread biking in cities and around traffic, i never could see this happening. However, after learning today how pleasant and safe the ride from my home all the way to downtown is, my biking aspirations may one day come true.
With that being said, i am very proud of myself for having successfully biked from my home to Yaletown (and back) today. The trip is about 10 km 1 way and took me 30 mins with a 10 minute break halfway. Since i love Google Earth, i created a map showing my route:
The ride was very pleasant and relaxing since most the time i was either right by the water or in the forest. How nice being able to bike to downtown, without having to deal with cars and traffic, but rather being able to enjoy the sights and sound of nature. Today's trip made me appreciate our city's planning in a way i never had before, and helped me see why Vancouver is one of the world's most livable cities.
i've always wanted to be one of those hardcore bikers who bikes to work everyday...but because i dread biking in cities and around traffic, i never could see this happening. However, after learning today how pleasant and safe the ride from my home all the way to downtown is, my biking aspirations may one day come true.
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Rock Balancing
Mar. 10th, 2009 | 10:02 pm
Since learning the great news that i was accepted into UBC's MLA program, and my Spuraway project is basically finished, my mind has been at rest, and i feel very happy.
My current state of mind, the great weather we've been having, and seeing the scene pictured below, has re-sparked an interest of mine in Rock balancing.
The last time i had the state of mind to sit worry-free, by the river and play with rocks for hours, was in highschool. I briefly got into rock balancing then, but not too seriously.
This photo was posted in my latest entry - This scene and the success of its photo reminded me of rock balancing.
The trail i take along the Capilano River to get to Park Royal is very nice, and has some great rocks for balancing. Here are some pictures of my balanced rocks.
i strongly recommend rock balancing. Its a very relaxing pastime, and it's also mentally stimulating. It can be likened to playing with very advanced Legos: You have to find the pieces that fit or mould into one another, establish a point of balance, and then stack.
There is also a sense of accomplishment one feels when stepping back, and looking at the sophisticated structure just created.
Searching "rock balancing" on Google Image shows a number of extraordinary balanced rock photos. will i ever be that good?
My current state of mind, the great weather we've been having, and seeing the scene pictured below, has re-sparked an interest of mine in Rock balancing.
The last time i had the state of mind to sit worry-free, by the river and play with rocks for hours, was in highschool. I briefly got into rock balancing then, but not too seriously.
This photo was posted in my latest entry - This scene and the success of its photo reminded me of rock balancing.
The trail i take along the Capilano River to get to Park Royal is very nice, and has some great rocks for balancing. Here are some pictures of my balanced rocks.
i strongly recommend rock balancing. Its a very relaxing pastime, and it's also mentally stimulating. It can be likened to playing with very advanced Legos: You have to find the pieces that fit or mould into one another, establish a point of balance, and then stack.
There is also a sense of accomplishment one feels when stepping back, and looking at the sophisticated structure just created.
Searching "rock balancing" on Google Image shows a number of extraordinary balanced rock photos. will i ever be that good?
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Some Photos i want to show off
Feb. 18th, 2009 | 03:06 pm
The weather here has been nice and sunny lately, prompting me to get out, and take lots of photos. Here are a few pictures i have taken that i particularly like.
(i must acknowledge Ashley Houlihan for the success of this last photo. She saw this scene's beauty before i did, and suggested i take this shot)
(i must acknowledge Ashley Houlihan for the success of this last photo. She saw this scene's beauty before i did, and suggested i take this shot)
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Why i love Lil Wayne
Feb. 11th, 2009 | 07:37 pm
Besides his musical talent, [i am not embarrassed to say that] i love Lil Wayne because of his character and his success story, which represents to me many years of hard work, determination, and loyalty.
His climb to the top of the rap world began 15 years ago. At age 11, after persistently recording raps on Brian 'Baby' Williams' answering machine, the record label owner eventually signed Wayne to his company, Cash Money Records.
Lil' Wayne's special abilities stood out from a young age. He was enrolled in his elementary school's program for gifted children, and got straight A's until he dropped out of school at 14 years old.
He never knew his father, and his mother was a drug-addict who bought him a gun when he was 13. A year later, he had his first daughter.
Despite this troubled childhood (if you can even call it a childhood) he remained focused on his passion: Rapping.
Brian 'Baby' Williams treated Lil Wayne like his own son. This solid relationship demonstrates to me Lil Wayne's character: his undying loyalty and gratefulness to Baby is one of the main reasons why he is where he is today.
Baby, realizing Lil Wayne's talent and potential, put him straight to work. Starting as an intern with Cash Money, Lil Wayne eventually became a member of the Cash Money act the Hot Boyz when he was 15.
Following his commercial success with the Hot Boyz (in a recent song he raps: "I'm hungry like I didn't eat / I want it like I didn't see a mill before seventeen") he began his solo career.
Picturing a young Lil Wayne, thrilled to be in this musical environment, and the conversations he must have had with Baby, make me appreciate this artist much more.
i can just imagine Baby telling him "if you keep practicing, keep writing, keep rapping, one day i will make you famous, and we will be on top of the rap world".
The fact that he did this, stayed loyal to Baby all through out, and continues to demonstrate his gratefulness to his surrogate father, is a beautiful thing. Amidst rumors arising from a photo that appears to show Lil Wayne and Baby kissing, many believe Lil Wayne and Baby have a homosexual relationship. Whatever type of relationship they have, i think it is a beautiful one, because it has lasted over 15 years, and from it a musical messiah has emerged.
In an interview, Wayne said senior members of Cash Money often kiss each other on the cheeks, like the Mafia does. Here is a quote from a Lil Wayne song, in which he addresses the infamous photo.
"Damn right, I kissed my Daddy
I think they pissed at how rich my Daddy is
And I'm his kid, so I stunt with my Daddy
Cuz who was there when no one wasn't
Just my Daddy
Who was there when I needed money
Just my Daddy
So who'll be there when I see the money
Just my Daddy
Who said that I'd be the one
Just my Daddy"
i'll admit that i jumped on the Lil Wayne bandwagon that started to pick up after his 2005 release, The Carter II. This was Wayne's most highly acclaimed album to date, and the first time i heard it, i knew there was something special about this rapper.
After The Carter II, Wayne's career sky-rocketed. He calls himself the hardest working man in hip-hop. The slew of material that he released after The Carter II and before his most recent album, The Carter III, supports this claim.
Following the lead of other innovative artists like Radiohead and Nine Inch Nails, who embraced (rather than battled against) the internet as a means of getting their music heard, he released numerous mixtapes for free download online.
The buzz these mixtapes created led to the monumental success of The Carter III, which remains the top selling album of 2008.
Lil Wayne had 8 Grammy nominations this year, more than any other artist. He won 4 of the 8 nominations.
His insatiable desire to learn, and further his musical experiments is another trait of his i admire. Despite already being a millionaire rap star, in 2005 he completed courses to obtain his GED. He then enrolled at the University of Houston, and took courses online towards a degree in Psychology. He has also recently learned how to play the guitar, and is expected to release a rock album this year, entitled Rebirth.
His climb to the top of the rap world began 15 years ago. At age 11, after persistently recording raps on Brian 'Baby' Williams' answering machine, the record label owner eventually signed Wayne to his company, Cash Money Records.
Lil' Wayne's special abilities stood out from a young age. He was enrolled in his elementary school's program for gifted children, and got straight A's until he dropped out of school at 14 years old.
He never knew his father, and his mother was a drug-addict who bought him a gun when he was 13. A year later, he had his first daughter.
Despite this troubled childhood (if you can even call it a childhood) he remained focused on his passion: Rapping.
Brian 'Baby' Williams treated Lil Wayne like his own son. This solid relationship demonstrates to me Lil Wayne's character: his undying loyalty and gratefulness to Baby is one of the main reasons why he is where he is today.
Baby, realizing Lil Wayne's talent and potential, put him straight to work. Starting as an intern with Cash Money, Lil Wayne eventually became a member of the Cash Money act the Hot Boyz when he was 15.
Following his commercial success with the Hot Boyz (in a recent song he raps: "I'm hungry like I didn't eat / I want it like I didn't see a mill before seventeen") he began his solo career.
Picturing a young Lil Wayne, thrilled to be in this musical environment, and the conversations he must have had with Baby, make me appreciate this artist much more.
i can just imagine Baby telling him "if you keep practicing, keep writing, keep rapping, one day i will make you famous, and we will be on top of the rap world".
The fact that he did this, stayed loyal to Baby all through out, and continues to demonstrate his gratefulness to his surrogate father, is a beautiful thing. Amidst rumors arising from a photo that appears to show Lil Wayne and Baby kissing, many believe Lil Wayne and Baby have a homosexual relationship. Whatever type of relationship they have, i think it is a beautiful one, because it has lasted over 15 years, and from it a musical messiah has emerged.
In an interview, Wayne said senior members of Cash Money often kiss each other on the cheeks, like the Mafia does. Here is a quote from a Lil Wayne song, in which he addresses the infamous photo.
"Damn right, I kissed my Daddy
I think they pissed at how rich my Daddy is
And I'm his kid, so I stunt with my Daddy
Cuz who was there when no one wasn't
Just my Daddy
Who was there when I needed money
Just my Daddy
So who'll be there when I see the money
Just my Daddy
Who said that I'd be the one
Just my Daddy"
i'll admit that i jumped on the Lil Wayne bandwagon that started to pick up after his 2005 release, The Carter II. This was Wayne's most highly acclaimed album to date, and the first time i heard it, i knew there was something special about this rapper.
After The Carter II, Wayne's career sky-rocketed. He calls himself the hardest working man in hip-hop. The slew of material that he released after The Carter II and before his most recent album, The Carter III, supports this claim.
Following the lead of other innovative artists like Radiohead and Nine Inch Nails, who embraced (rather than battled against) the internet as a means of getting their music heard, he released numerous mixtapes for free download online.
The buzz these mixtapes created led to the monumental success of The Carter III, which remains the top selling album of 2008.
Lil Wayne had 8 Grammy nominations this year, more than any other artist. He won 4 of the 8 nominations.
His insatiable desire to learn, and further his musical experiments is another trait of his i admire. Despite already being a millionaire rap star, in 2005 he completed courses to obtain his GED. He then enrolled at the University of Houston, and took courses online towards a degree in Psychology. He has also recently learned how to play the guitar, and is expected to release a rock album this year, entitled Rebirth.
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Mount Pleasant: One of Vancouver's many colourful neighbourhoods
Jan. 31st, 2009 | 09:21 pm
I found this map a little while ago that shows every neighbourhood in the City of Vancouver.
Seeing this map and learning the exact locations of Vancouver's 23 neighbourhoods (and learning for the first time some of their names) impelled me to explore each one.
Mount Pleasant is the newest neighbourhood in Vancouver i have (consciously) explored, leaving another 18 neighbourhoods for me to visit - i am already quite familiar with Downtown (15), West End (14), Kitsilano (3), and W. Point Grey (4)
Mount Pleasant is a very young and colourful neighbourhood. Most the businesses are locally owned. It reminded me of the Abbot and Hastings area, with lots of young and trendy boutiques...but the store keepers in Mount Pleasant seem friendlier.
Next time i am in the area i want to eat at The Foundation, a vegan restaurant known for its nachos (located on Main & 7th).
Here are some pictures i took during a visit to the commericial area of Mount Pleasant.
Seeing this map and learning the exact locations of Vancouver's 23 neighbourhoods (and learning for the first time some of their names) impelled me to explore each one.
Mount Pleasant is the newest neighbourhood in Vancouver i have (consciously) explored, leaving another 18 neighbourhoods for me to visit - i am already quite familiar with Downtown (15), West End (14), Kitsilano (3), and W. Point Grey (4)
Mount Pleasant is a very young and colourful neighbourhood. Most the businesses are locally owned. It reminded me of the Abbot and Hastings area, with lots of young and trendy boutiques...but the store keepers in Mount Pleasant seem friendlier.
Next time i am in the area i want to eat at The Foundation, a vegan restaurant known for its nachos (located on Main & 7th).
Here are some pictures i took during a visit to the commericial area of Mount Pleasant.
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Pictures of the fog
Jan. 19th, 2009 | 10:26 am
For the last 5 days, a thick fog has enveloped Vancouver. i wanted to share some photos i have taken of this photogenic weather over the last few days.
These first four photos were taken while on a short hike around the Capilano Regional Park, which i am grateful to live less than 5 minutes away from.
The next photos were taken at Ambleside.
Playing around on Photoshop
These first four photos were taken while on a short hike around the Capilano Regional Park, which i am grateful to live less than 5 minutes away from.
The next photos were taken at Ambleside.
Playing around on Photoshop
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The Online war between the Israelis and the Palestinians
Jan. 11th, 2009 | 03:00 pm
This article reaffirms what i have noticed on Facebook in regards to the current war in the Middle-East: Young adults from across the world will be much more involved in this conflict than any previous one, due to the dominance of the internet in our daily lives.
i have seen a number of my friends on Facebook "donate their status" to applications that broadcast the numbers of civilian casualties, missiles launched, and other war stats from this conflict.
For example, two of my Facebook friends' statuses currently read as:
" In the past 36 hours, 33 Hamas rockets hit Israel. 1 hit near a kindergarten in Ashdod city. Donate your status: http://qassamcount.com/fb "
and
" In 16 days: 888 Palestinians killed in Gaza (including 284 children and 100 women) and 4080 injured". Donate your status: http://apps.facebook.com/s
Each count is bias and only serves the purpose of making the other side seem like ruthless killers.
Maybe this is just my stance as a firm critic of anything militaristic, but by partaking in this online war, as removed citizens from this troubled region, we are only perpetuating the hate among Palestinians and Israelis, and bringing the war closer to the home front.
i believe those who "donate their status" are being used as pawns in the game of the Israeli government or Hamas. By "donating your status" you are essentially saying: "Look! our people DO have a right to kill and bomb and start wars".
This attitude will get us nowhere closer to peace in the Middle-East.
i have seen a number of my friends on Facebook "donate their status" to applications that broadcast the numbers of civilian casualties, missiles launched, and other war stats from this conflict.
For example, two of my Facebook friends' statuses currently read as:
" In the past 36 hours, 33 Hamas rockets hit Israel. 1 hit near a kindergarten in Ashdod city. Donate your status: http://qassamcount.com/fb "
and
" In 16 days: 888 Palestinians killed in Gaza (including 284 children and 100 women) and 4080 injured". Donate your status: http://apps.facebook.com/s
Each count is bias and only serves the purpose of making the other side seem like ruthless killers.
Maybe this is just my stance as a firm critic of anything militaristic, but by partaking in this online war, as removed citizens from this troubled region, we are only perpetuating the hate among Palestinians and Israelis, and bringing the war closer to the home front.
i believe those who "donate their status" are being used as pawns in the game of the Israeli government or Hamas. By "donating your status" you are essentially saying: "Look! our people DO have a right to kill and bomb and start wars".
This attitude will get us nowhere closer to peace in the Middle-East.