ISSUE NO. 30

A March Issue

A few years back, I experimented with a digital detox: once a week, for a month, I turned off my phone for 24 hours—no texts, no apps, no scrolling. I’d take in my surroundings, spend time in nature, sit with my thoughts, and just exist with my conscience being. Time slowed almost to a crawl and each detox felt like an eternity. And it was challenging every single time—but afterward, I always felt like I hit a reset button. Maybe it’s time to try it again.

ARCHITECTURALLY CURIOUS

A Digital Detox

In today’s world, where we’re constantly plugged in and rushing from one thing to the next, more and more individuals are craving a break—a chance to unplug, breathe, and reconnect with nature. Located in the Mojave Desert are a handful of unique, eco-conscious retreats and properties—including this 200-acre retreat—Folly Mojave.

Nature’s Backdrop

Its design takes cues from the ancient architecture of Petra and AlUla. Instead of fighting against the desert’s rugged vibe, the retreat leans into it—using raw, natural materials like sand-mixed concrete, reclaimed wood, and blackened steel.

Off the Grid

The retreat features 4 standalone suites each themed around the elements: water, wind, fire, and stone. Water is drawn from a community well and the wastewater is recycled through a greywater system to keep the landscape lush. The entire property is powered by solar energy, with these sleek, tree-inspired solar panels that almost feel like art.

GLOBAL GLIMPSE

Byron Bay: Retro Revival

Surrounded by tropical greenery and just a stone’s throw from the ocean is a 1970s-inspired home in Byron Bay. You’ll notice a lot of deep browns, retro chrome accents, and vintage furniture which creates a sense of nostalgia and playful whimsy.

Chrome Sweet Chrome

The kitchen includes a circular island topped with pearlescent marble and chrome balustrades inspired by old-school skate parks—creating a casual spot to lean and chat around the island.

Checkmate

From the checkered tiles in the bathroom to the outdoor high seat ledge perfect for morning coffees or evening drinks. The primary bedroom features cork flooring adding a soft, spongey texture underfoot. Upstairs is a latticed timber screen that filters light into the corridor—adding warmth and visual interest.

VISUAL COMFORT

Visual Vernacular

Decades ago, just north of San Francisco, there was a small artistic community called Marin County—a place full of creatives drawn to its wild landscapes and free-spirited vibe. Among them were JB Blunk—a sculptor known for his nature-inspired works—and Fritz Rauh—a painter with vibrant hallucinogenic canvases—who shared a friendship and a deep love for the rugged beauty of their surroundings.

Preserving the Pulse

Fast forward to today, Blunk’s daughter stumbled upon the work of Rio Kobayashi—a London-based furniture designer known for his intricate wood detailing and bold use of color. She was instantly reminded of Rauh’s paintings—there was something about the way Kobayashi played with patterns and textures that felt so familiar.

Decades in Dialogue

She invited Kobayashi into a residency where he created a new collection of furniture using salvaged redwood. His pieces—tables, chairs, and benches—feel both functional and sculptural with their curves and textures mirroring the organic forms in Rauh’s work. It’s like the two artists are speaking the same language—just decades apart.

DESIGNER PICK

What I’m Currently Obsessing Over

Fragmented Female Figures

I’m drawn to Teresa Pągowska's work because it challenges traditional ideas about the female form—moving away from idealized or passive portrayals to instead depict raw, fragmented, and emotionally intense figures. Her work addresses themes like erasure, violence, and sacrifice, offering a bold perspective on women’s experiences.

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

What I'm Listening to in March

The quietness that exists after you power down isn’t just silence—it’s a mirror. It shows you who you are when the world isn’t buzzing in your pocket. The real question isn’t whether you can disconnect—it’s whether you’re willing to face what’s left when you do. I’ll see you next week, my friend.

Warmly,
/shane