Lane Architecture + Design

How to Select the Right Color for Your Home

2012-01-12T23:06:00.017-05:00

How much of one color should you use while decorating your home? Here is a rule of thumb that will help you better balance your choice of colors. Use the 60-30-10 ratio. What does that ratio mean? When I choose a men’s suit, I first choose the jacket and the trousers. The color of the suit is primarily one color. That choice of color will be 60% of my entire ensemble. Then, I will choose a shirt

A Daily Dose of Architecture: Today's archidose #548

2012-01-11T23:05:00.000-05:00

A Daily Dose of Architecture: Today's archidose #548: Here are some photos I took of the Woman's Home Companion House in Warson Woods, St. Louis County, Missouri by Paul Rudolph, 1956. I learned...

Could You Live In A 161-Square-Foot House? Tech + Design: Details.com

2011-12-11T00:07:00.000-05:00

It is not always that we have the opportunity to see how Mc Mansions are not the only way to enjoy our lives at home. Here are some examples of how living in much smaller spaces might not be so bad (at least for a weekend).Could You Live In A 161-Square-Foot House? Tech + Design: Details.com

10 Secrets toTransform Your Home During The Holidays

2011-12-09T11:51:00.005-05:00

1. Not just green and red anymore: Green and red are the traditional colors of the holiday season. After seeing it in almost everything and everywhere during this time of the year, the two colors become kind of dull and unimaginative. Instead, make your home more sophisticated by using deep forest greens, rich burgundies, and dark cranberry colors. Use only one color throughout or use two or

October brings some tricks to use in your home

2011-10-25T00:33:00.008-04:00

Click here and subscribe to my newsletterMy younger son became a big close up magic trick enthusiast earlier this year. He was mainly learning card tricks and has a YouTube channel where he performs and teaches others what he learned. This YouTube channel has a growing list of subscribers. Some of his videos have attracted over a thousand viewers. I guess he is not alone with his interest in

How to save on your commercial utility bill

2011-09-29T01:39:00.006-04:00

Check out my latest podcast that shares ways you can put more cash into your pockets while saving on your business' utility bills. Listen to my intereview with an expert in the commercial real estate energy profession and learn what you need to do right now to increase your bottom line at Click here to hear how you can keep cash in your pocket while paying your business' utility bills Here is the link to MY Designed Office website Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there. tweetmeme_url = ''; Check it out and let me know of your thoughts on my Facebook Fan page. Please "Like" the FB page while at...Click Here to

Caught in a Rain Storm Today

2011-08-19T20:22:00.003-04:00

Today, I was driving from one place to another while filming several videos for some upcoming campaigns that I will be launching soon. The sun was shining when I started the day but I found myself in a heavy rain storm while about to shoot my last set of videos. Sure am glad that I brought my umbrella. I found out a bit after shooting this video that the reason I was at an almost stand

Jackson Browne Doctor My Eyes - About My Imagination

2011-08-14T22:40:00.004-04:00

I am a big fan of Jackson Browne. Guess one reason is that he has such a raw and poetic way of sharing his feelings. He also has a redemptive spirit by coming out of bad choices of crazy rock and roll lifestyles while still sharing his creation with new reformed spirit. We all go through stages in life that make us either stronger, or if we choose to not learn from those experiences. They

How Cities Can be "Pop up Spaces"

2011-08-09T00:00:00.005-04:00

The near-by forecast of the world’s population is expected to reach 8 billion people. Using the energy producing technology that is available today, we will be in the same mess ecologically and without enough clean energy as our Federal government has allowed our economy to become in recent days. (Just today, the Dow Jones dropped further than in recent history as the S & P's rating of the US

How to use fixed principles to design your world

2011-06-19T00:31:00.000-04:00

How can we create architectural design? The same way that we can create music with known phrases as you will see and hear from this video link below. We use architectural referrences that we know will create certain proven perceptions that have been used in the past and apply the same principles with new adaptations to our current spatial needs.Check out this video that is called "Onyx Ashanti:

Why Architects are Unemployed

2011-06-12T10:01:00.014-04:00

I have recently needed to update my architectural license in NY State. This is a very straight forward thing to do and it requires me to prove to the state board that I have attended at least 36 hours of continued education during the past 36 months. Today, I received an email from the state board that affirms that I am in good standing. It also reminds me that I have to obtain 36 more continued

Frank Gehry: Major Breakthrough

2011-04-25T22:27:00.021-04:00

I came across this video of Frank Gehry sharing how he was influenced by artists who would not be as concerned with the finished detail but more so in the overall composition. Here is a photo of one of Frank's earlier works (before he starting making fish buildings and curved metal formed buildings)Rauschenberg's work -------> Jasper Johns' "False Start" Carl Andre's work:----> Donald Judd's

Simple life Manhattan: a 90-square-foot microstudio

2011-04-07T22:34:00.001-04:00

It is time for spring cleaning. I am thinking about selling the piano, sofas, beds, large flat files, lawn equipment, BBQ, books, tapes, and a lot of other things that should really find themselves in the garbage. Surprising to me, this video is a bit inspiring for me. It shows how one can enjoy life with, well, not much stuff. Check it out and let me know if this appeals to you.

Listen to our new podcast about how to organize your closets and cabinets

2011-03-07T23:49:00.010-05:00

My podcast guest, Ben Rozenblat, shares how ShelfGenie is your source for custom designed, built and installed Glide-Out shelving solutions for any existing cabinet in the home or at the office. Be sure to click on the iTunes icon and upload this podcast onto your ipod so you can listen to it at your leisure - at work or at play.Just click on this link to listen how you can orgainze your home and

How a better design can save your back

2011-03-07T23:05:00.001-05:00

Check out the next blog post above to hear the podcast with Ben and me.Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

Clean Solar Power Alternative Energy

2011-02-27T22:03:00.001-05:00

Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

How web based telephone systems can work for your office 10/19/2009 - Lane Architecture | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-02-02T15:08:00.001-05:00

How web based telephone systems can work for your office 10/19/2009 - Lane Architecture | Internet Radio | Blog Talk RadioClick on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

How Architects Help Realtors Close Deals Faster

2011-01-26T16:07:00.019-05:00

Our office has developed a presentation that we give to only the top leading Realtors in the NY and NJ areas. In this program, we share how architects can:1. Close Their Residential Deals Faster2. Add to Their Credibility3. Get More Quality ReferralsAnd 4. Get More Repeat Clients.You might ask, what does an architect know about closing real estate deals? Get a glimps of what you would learn if

Common Mistakes that Architects make on Façade Inspection Reports

2011-01-24T17:42:00.010-05:00

There was a tragedy that occurred on May 16, 1979 in NYC that changed the way we look at buildings forever. The story behind this can be heard at our short podcast by clicking on this link ----->Most Awesome Architecture Podcast in the WorldDuring the podcast, I offered a list of items that owners and their architects forget to submit to the NYC Department of Buildings while reporting the

China goes big with building of skyscrapers

2011-01-21T11:17:00.001-05:00

BEIJING — In Chicago today, visiting Chinese President Hu Jintao will see a city famed as the birthplace of the skyscraper, for decades the towering symbol of U.S. economic ambition and power. These days, China has taken over as the skyscraper's home.If the fast-rising nation continues its current rapid pace of urbanization, China could build a new Chicago every year until 2030 — more than 1,500

How to Install Solar Panels for FREE

2011-01-10T19:32:00.003-05:00

Here is the link to learn more about how you can install a solar panel for little or no money... Click Here For the Best Money Saving Architecture Show in the WorldFor more helpful articles that can improve your lifestyle around your home, sign up for our free e-zine by filling out the form to the right of this article.Click Here For the Best Home Owner's e-zine that is FREE!Click on the "ReTweet

Bring Prosperity into your Front Door

2011-01-09T21:30:00.005-05:00

If increasing your prosperity is one of your new year resolutions, then here is part of an article that was written by Sally Philips that might help you at home:The inside entrance area (of your home) should also feel spacious, even if it's a small area. Keeping it clutter-free goes a long way in this regard. If you have a coat rack, don't let out-of-season coats and paraphernalia accumulate and

Larry Lane on the Design Jury at NYC School of Interior Design

2010-12-15T22:26:00.010-05:00

The students were given a real building in lower Manhattan and asked to find a medical cause of which that they wanted to provide a designed space as a part of the solution. The building shown on this blog post is the one that the students had to design within. It is located near Battery Park in the lower part of Manhattan (not too far from ground zero). Some put their creation on the 1st and 2nd

Architecture's Version of "Twist and Shout"

2010-12-13T12:37:00.001-05:00

Have you ever seen a high rise Condo/Commercial building designed to be twisted? By the looks at this article, there are some (quiet) shouting from the Landmark Commission about this design concept. Check out what this is all about at The Architect's NewspaperBTW - Be sure to join the "My Designed Home" team by leaving your name and email on the form to the right. I have some great stuff waiting

Home Owner Protection Strategies

2010-12-12T22:38:00.003-05:00

Click on this link ----->Home Owner Protection StrategiesIf you are a home owner, then you really need to hear this important podcast!Find out in just a few short minutes the right and wrong way to enter a contract with contractors. Click on iTunes icon and "Follow" while at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lanearchitecture/2010/12/13/home-owner-protection-strategiesClick on this link ----->Home

How to Create the Blueprint of Your Life

2010-11-30T21:14:00.025-05:00

You may have read an earlier blog post of mine where I described how to design a windowless house. This post is a follow up to that one.Since the writing of that post, my clients decided that they would compromise and have only a few windows added to their home. You might recall, that the three reasons my clients did not want any windows on three of the four sides are because:1. They are in the

How You are Throwing Away Money by Designing Your Own Home

2010-11-16T17:27:00.027-05:00

In these times of recession, we are always trying to find ways to cut costs. If we can do it ourselves, we will. Companies are downsizing because they find that they can maintain an acceptable profit margin with fewer employees. Homeowners are finding that they would rather clean their own home instead of hire someone else to do their dishes. There are all sorts of cheap software at various

How to Restore Storefronts

2010-11-01T19:19:00.011-04:00

What are some ways that store owners can restore their storefronts to increase sales in their stores?Are there guidelines to follow in historic districts?What do the building codes and zoning laws say about restoring storefronts?All of these questions and many more practical and valuable information will be shared during my talk at the Main Street Forum this coming Monday, November 8, 2010. Come

How to Reduce Glare from Patio Doors

2010-10-30T22:32:00.005-04:00

There are so many houses with a sliding door that goes out from an informal dining room to an outside patio. Several of my family members have this in their house and chances are you know someone that has this in their house too. Perhaps you have this in your house.Have you ever noticed that glass doors can turn into black mirrors at night? Imagine looking at a sliding door in your dining room.

The art of living in small spaces

2010-10-29T08:19:00.005-04:00

After the miners were freed from the Chilean mine and after recently reading about how the Russians are studying people's reactions from being confined in tight spaces for a long period of time so they can better plan for a one way manned trip to Mars, I have been self-prodded to learning more about how people live and work in small spaces. The miners in Chile would be a good resource because of

THE CRISIS ON MAIN STREET: How Washington Continues to Ignore Small Busi...

2010-10-25T00:31:00.003-04:00

Too often we just stay on the side lines and don't vote for many reasons. Maybe you don't like any of the candidates. Or there is always something that comes up that could make it inconvenient to get the polls. This video is a simple but powerful way to better understand why your vote is so important. Take an look and see for yourself.The person talking in the video is my friend, Chris Hurn. He

Future of 3D

2010-10-19T20:18:00.001-04:00

This tool would be a great thing for you to have. Wouldn't it be great to view your home by virtually walking around it before having to commit to the cost and time of construction?Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

Play Guess the Architect Game #1

2010-10-07T23:15:00.004-04:00

Get the tools that you need by clicking on "Give me the tools to turn my office into a marketing machine"Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

In-Depth Look - Renewable Energy Companies - Bloomberg

2010-10-06T00:50:00.007-04:00

How is your business doing during this recession? Do you need a bail out from Obama? While your are waiting for that Fed check to come in the mail, here are somethings that you can do. Did you know that there are ways that you can build your business with the office space that you already have? In fact, you can turn it into a marketing tool. Here's how...Get the tools that you need by clicking on

What are the Two Types of Energy Codes?

2010-09-24T10:11:00.027-04:00

The construction industry is starting to introduce and enforce more energy codes that architects, engineers, manufacturers of building products, lighting designers, and others to follow. The energy codes affect how we build homes and our commercial buildings.There are two types of energy codes. One is “Prescriptive” and the other if “Performance.”What is a Prescriptive Code?Prescriptive codes are

Pulling Back the Curtains

2010-09-08T13:41:00.019-04:00

What a pleasure to meet and visit with some people that share something in common with me last night! OK, let me back up and explain who these people are. In order to do so, I have to open the curtain a little bit so you can grab a small glimpse as to why I do the things that I do….There is a brilliant individual and corporate coach that teaches how you can achieve things that may seem impossible

How an Architect can increase your Profits

2010-08-29T21:52:00.010-04:00

I have finally released my DVD of me sharing some hidden secrets as to how your store or restaurant can profit more than your competition during this recession. The video on this blog post is only the tip to the iceberg. In fact, it is hardly a quarter of the entire presentation that I have waiting for you to view. The DVD will dig much deeper with a lot more graphics, examples, and stories that

How to Design a Windowless House

2010-08-28T21:38:00.018-04:00

Currently, I have several residential projects on the board. One of them is for a site in the Hill Country of Texas, just northwest of San Antonio. The clients are a man and wife. The husband is an airline pilot and the wife is a flight attendant. So, there are several occasions that they come home after flying around the world and need to sleep during the day. Because of this and because they do

Jersey Shore and Dream Houses

2010-08-08T14:45:00.002-04:00

Join me at the Jersey Shore without leaving your computer on or after August 9th, 5:30 pm EST. I will be searching Snooki and her gang at the Jersey Shore while sharing how you can have the home of your dreams in just 7 Simple Steps.Go to this link to download the podcast to listen at your leisure... "Click Here For a Podcast at no cost to you!"Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on

Sustainable Home Design

2010-08-05T18:19:00.017-04:00

You might have heard me on our weekly podcast talk about a current project that I am working on. If not, you are missing out on a priceless resource that can improve your lifestyle and your business. Go to this link to download the podcast to listen at your leisure... "Click Here For a FREE Podcast!" Be sure to click on the ituns icon while at the podcast site!This home is an energy conscience

How to Customize Your Own Art

2010-07-26T14:42:00.004-04:00

Meet today's podcast guest, Don Rattner. He is an architect like me and has been creating ways for you and I to customize our own artwork for our home and office. Check out the short video to hear more about it. Go to this link to download the podcast to listen at your leisure... "Click Here For a FREE Podcast!"Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch

Yikes! Mold in your basement! What do you do?

2010-07-19T22:24:00.007-04:00

Maybe it is the same in your area; we have had a lot of rain during the last few days in the NYC area. The rain has made the air really humid in-between the times when the downpours come. During this season, you need to be aware of any mold that might be growing around your home and office. Here is a photo of one of the areas where they found a patch that looks like black mold. It seems to be

Freedom Is Not Free

2010-07-04T00:07:00.002-04:00

Hope you are having a wonderful 4th of July. Take pause for a moment and watch this video by a mentor of mine, Mr. Ron Legrand. (His name sounds alot like "Legare'" doesn't it?). Ron shares a story about the sacrifices that the signers of the Declaration of Independence had to risk and endure. It will help you appreciate today even more!Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter

Bamboo Living Homes

2010-06-28T19:38:00.002-04:00

This short video shows how efficient bamboo is as a building product.Would you like to live in any of the homes in this video?Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

Office Furniture Ideas

2010-06-24T23:00:00.016-04:00

In case you were not able to attend the NeoCon convention this year, let me share with you some of the things that I saw there."Haworth" had an outstanding showroom filled with awesome furniture that can be used in offices and classrooms.Knoll’s and Herman Miller’s showrooms were a good place to visit too. Some of the things that I saw in their showroom and in some of their “me too” competitors

Give Your Dad This for Father's Day!

2010-06-18T15:15:00.014-04:00

"Click Here to Get the Best Father's Day Present Ever"Don't forget that this Sunday is Father's Day. What are going to give that person who mentored you? Here is a great idea, give him a package of Kennedy's All-American shaving products. They have been developed over 9 months of trials by my friend, Chris Hurn.This is my buddy, Chris Hurn. You may remember Chris from my last two podcast shows.

David Byrne: How architecture helped music evolve

2010-06-13T22:05:00.003-04:00

I have always been a fan of David Byrne because he has consistantly hit a nerve inside of me. From studying (architecture, I think) at the Rhode Island School of Design, writing and filming a spoof about living in my home republic of Texas, and to his experiencial use of spaces to create music, David has demonstrated that he really is a creative artist that likes to push the envelope.Take a look

The Best Kept Secret in Commercial Real Estate

2010-06-07T15:12:00.003-04:00

I was able to convince Chris Hurn, an expert at commercial real estate loans and frequent expert guest on FOX business news TV shows, to join me as a guest on my radio show today. The title of the show is "The Best Kept Secret in Commercial Real Estate." Chris will expose how simple it can be to find money, especially during these recession times, to buy commercial real estate. Imagine, owning

What Does Tiger Woods and My Birthday Have in Common?

2010-06-05T10:51:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was my birthday. A few days before, my younger son was so impatient for me to open my present from him and his older brother that he just had to give me some clues. “What is one thing that you talk about that you really like,” he asked me.“You and your brother,” I answered without taking a second to think about his question.“No, I know that, but besides that, what else?...This present

What does Memorial Day mean to you?

2010-05-31T00:26:00.008-04:00

What does Memorial Day mean to you?BBQ? Parades? Beach trip? Fireworks?Yes, those are fun images of the day, but my uncle, Richard, comes to my mind on Memorial Day. As a young boy, Richard Laxson was the apple of his parent’s eyes. And to everyone that met him. His brother and sister looked up to him. He had that natural leadership set of character traits that others wish they had. It was like

My mentor, I.M. Pei

2010-05-19T16:10:00.003-04:00

I.M. Pei is one of the most important architects that shaped my career. He was my boss and my mentor for 6 years before I started my own firm, Lane Architecture + Design, P.C. I am excited to have the opportunity to share this documentary with you. At the time of this posting, I have not yet viewed it yet either. But, since finding it available, I wanted to waste no time getting out and available

Nicholas Christakis: The hidden influence of social networks

2010-05-12T23:11:00.002-04:00

I first watched this presentation because I thought I would learn new insights about social media networking and better ways to share my passion of architecture with readers such as you. But, instead, the person in this video, Mr. Nicholas Christakis, has shared his scientific findings about how people interact with one another.He brings up some very interesting points that can easily bridge over

Who was George W. Snow?

2010-05-10T11:54:00.000-04:00

There are a lot of unsung heroes in the construction industry. George W. Snow is one of them. Click here Who Was George W. Snow? to listen to a brief and interesting story about this man who shaped your life. Larry Lane, of Lane Architecture + Design, shares a story about this interesting man, George W. Snow, who was an adventurous and enterprising man. Mr. Snow owned a lot of real estate. He was

Ayn Rand Mike Wallace Interview 1959 part 3

2010-05-08T23:00:00.002-04:00

Ann Rand is the author of the famous novel about architecture, "The Fountainhead." Shen was also the writer of the novel that illustrates very current issues of socialism in a book called "Atlas Shrugged." Both of these books are Must Reads! Here is a very interesting video of a liberal newsman, Mike Wallace, challenging her in a interview back in 1959. Check it out, it is very interesting.Click

Warren Buffett quizzes former Treasury Secretary Paulson

2010-04-28T22:19:00.000-04:00

How Has Architecture Shaped Your Life?

2010-04-15T10:54:00.004-04:00

This week, the president of the American Institute of Architects proclaimed that it is "Architecture Week." With that announcement, George Miller asked, "How has architecture shaped our lives?" Check out this video of people on the street answering this question... Share your stories with me on this blog. I really want to hear about it! This is one one of the four videos of people that

Making Money on a Rainy Day

2010-03-15T02:14:00.011-04:00

Today, on my weekly radio show, we explore ways to save water while finding ways to cash in on tax rebates and protecting your property from a flood. Flooding can be prevented with proper drainage. There are ways to control water damage. We need to work around the natural water cycle while collecting pond water, storm water, and ground water that can easily be lost through the sewer if not

Will Haiti or Chile Type of Earthquakes Happen in US?

2010-02-28T00:43:00.019-05:00

What is the probability that one of the four corners of USA lower 48 falling off into the ocean? “Devastating” is a word that is pale to the reality of the horror that Haiti and Chile continues to suffer after their recent major earthquakes. We have seen families torn apart, local businesses and government coming to a standstill, and charitable groups and church missionaries beating even our own

I Need Your Opinion

2010-02-16T21:46:00.005-05:00

"I always wanted to become an architect, but...." I can't tell you how many times I have heard people tell me this throughout the years. There is now a way you can live your dream and design anything that you want, wherever you want, and see your dream drawn up into reality. You might even want to take it the next step and get it built. It is all up to you. In order for me to design an

Ten Money Making Advantages of Sustainable Design

2010-02-04T19:51:00.002-05:00

At the request of the Environment and Public Works Committee of the U.S. Senate, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) came up with 10 Advantages of Sustainable Design. Their publication was titled, “Making the Business Case for High Performance Buildings.” Here are the 10 things that they listed:1. Higher up-front costs (if any) for high performance green buildings can be recovered.2.

Top Places to See Great Architecture

2010-01-29T15:40:00.006-05:00

Whether you are planning to have a "Stay-Cation" in your own neck of the woods or maybe you are a more adventurous person that wants to tour distant lands, I found a web site that lists some really great spots to see. Use this list to plan your next time off and enjoy the "Experience" of being in the midst of great architecture.Here is the link: http://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-sf31-2010jan31-

How Haiti Earthquakes Destroyed Buildings

2010-01-25T00:35:00.012-05:00

Check out the video above to see the reason why the earthquakes in Haiti caused so much devistation. You can also view this video at my new vlog athttp://www.YouTube.com/LarryLaneTVListen to the podcast at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LaneArchitecture to hear more reasons why this tragedy happened and how we can help prevent it from happening again in the future - anywhere!I also share a

How is NYC Overcoming the Recession?

2010-01-20T14:57:00.008-05:00

Mike Bloomberg gave his State of the City (NYC) Address today. He is doing a good job at bringing the City into the new technologically savvy world. In his address, he covered four very key points. They were:1. How can we help those who’ve been hit hardest by these tough times? o To help those about to lose their homes to foreclosure, his administration is implementing some things that no

Why Did Scott Brown Win the Mass Senate Race?

2010-01-20T02:53:00.004-05:00

Scott Brown was born in a family whose parents divorced when he was only one year old. He spent some time living with his aunt during the unsteady times of this mom and dad’s well being. In fact, for a period of time, his mom had to resort to welfare to just make ends meet. At a young age, Scott was arrested for shop lifting record albums in a local store. The judge asked him what he thought that

Do you live in a house that was built before 1978?

2010-01-18T12:52:00.008-05:00

Above is a video of me introducing an expert about lead paint. He shares how contractors can be fined over $30,000 per day per incident after April 22, 2010 if they do not follow the guidelines that the EPA has put into law. Tune into the podcast at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lanearchitecture/2009/12/21/new-federal-laws-affecting-home-owners-and-contractorsClick on the "ReTweet" button

Do You Want to Avoid Suprises During Home Renovations?

2010-01-12T16:09:00.008-05:00

Getting to that extraordinary place has often required homeowners to endure an endless number of challenges. We all have heard of have lived through horror stories during a home renovation. * Difficulties obtaining permits* The contractor disappears in the middle of tearing out everything.* Neighbors complain about dust and noise coming from your home* Cost over-runs* Construction DelaysAll of

Fort Worth New Museum of Science and History Needs to Go Back to the Drawing Board

2009-12-31T23:12:00.016-05:00

While visiting my family in Fort Worth during the Christmas holidays, I went to the Cultural Center where the town has a cluster of notable buildings. The city recently finished rebuilding the Museum of Arts and Science that was designed by Legorreta + Legorreta and I was curious to see how it turned out. What a disappointment!Most of the visitors will be arriving to the cultural center via

Where to Find a Bunch of Modernist Houses

2009-12-13T09:44:00.007-05:00

What are some of the characteristics of a modern home design? Where can you see a large collection of modern houses in one location?What is the difference of "modernist design" and "contemporary?"These are just a few questions that will be answered by my special radio guest Mr. George Smart, tomorrow (Monday, December 14, 2009) at 5:30 pm, EST. George is an expert in modernist architecture. He

Tigers Woods Wife to Flee to Sweden

2009-12-12T19:42:00.030-05:00

Where do you go when your world is falling apart around you? How about to the same quiet island that your parents would take you as an escape during your childhood? This seems to be what Tiger Woods' wife plans to do. I really hope that the Woods couple is able to mend their marriage. Word is out that Mrs. Wood has already packed the kids and moved down the block a ways from their own mansion.

Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Live!

2009-11-26T10:32:00.004-05:00

Here is the link to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade LIVE right now!http://www.inquisitr.com/49503/watch-the-macy%E2%80%99s-thanksgiving-day-parade-live-online/If you like this article and would like to keep informed about other important news of the day, please subscribe to this blog by clicking on the buttons along the right column. Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on

Design Like an Architect with Us - Please Take a Quick Survey

2009-11-21T10:56:00.010-05:00

Cut, paste, and go to this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=AW2dFCmNGomZCIaSqRVZ_2bQ_3d_3dDid you know that even our US president, Obama, wanted to be an architect before he went into politics? Everyone has a dream. Yeah, I have heard a lot of people tell me throughout the years that they once thought about being an architect before they decided to take their current career path. I

Something For Nothing: Ambition

2009-11-19T08:41:00.005-05:00

Here is a good article from Brian Tracy that describes the type of office workers exists. Which type are you?Theory X versus Theory YIn the 1960’s, Harvard Psychologist Alex Mackenzie suggested two visions of people in the workplace, each leading to different forms of motivation in organizations. McGregor called these two views of mankind, “Theory X” and “Theory Y.“Theory X was defined as the

How to Create an Office that will Increase Your Profits

2009-11-18T11:43:00.005-05:00

You don’t have to go to your nearest office depot, office max, or staples office supplies in order to pick up a valuable office resource that can transform your office into a marketing tool. Just pick up a copy of the book, “The Designed Office” to find at least 35 profit pointers that can immediately start putting money back into your pockets.Here are some things that you will learn from the

Was Frank Lloyd Wright an Alien?

2009-11-13T08:13:00.008-05:00

As I was dropping my older son off at school, I asked him if he has any big plans today. He said that he was looking forward to hearing a friend of his share his talk during their Communications Arts class about Area 51. If you are as clueless as I was about what Area 51 is, here is the quick rundown. Area 51 is an area in Rachel, Nevada that is a restricted site where it is believed the

Experiences in Scouting and Architecture

2009-11-08T16:54:00.010-05:00

(Image above is the "Tooth of Time" at Philmont Scout Ranch) I am a big supporter of the Boy Scouts organization. Having gone through all of the ranks of Cub scouts and Boys scouts – Bobcat to Eagle then beyond into Explorers as a kid, a lot of good memories were made and skills learned that help me in my day to day living even now.Be Prepared, the Twelve Scout Laws and many more oaths and

Seven Proven Strategies to Fill Vacant Office Spaces in Dying Downtowns

2009-11-04T19:44:00.005-05:00

Have you started to notice more vacancies in your local office buildings and strip shopping centers? If you watched one of my latest YouTube videos, you will see me in front of a vacant office/warehouse building that is 720,000 SF. It used to be a major distribution plant for K B Toys before they went out of business in NJ.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEH3u7XgS7s How can we fill our vacant

Herding People Like Cattle

2009-10-21T22:15:00.001-04:00

Why in the world would I post such a crummy photo?It is to make a point. Look how all of the fuzzy people are grouped together. Notice that they are all herded roughly along the dark grey line on the floor. There is no sign that says, “Stay on this side of the line.” There isn’t even a definite traffic pattern that people must follow. In fact, there isn’t anything in this room except for a few

How to Fill Vacant Commercial Properties

2009-10-10T12:55:00.007-04:00

There is no place you should rather be than in Liberty, NY on November 1st and 2nd this year. Liberty, NY is the town that was had to lend a helping hand to the wayward hippies that found themselves cold, hungry, and in need of first aid during the famous Woodstock concert. Liberty, NY is now the destination of many movers and shakers who want to learn from experts how to revive their dying

Wind Energy Systems

2009-10-08T11:59:00.005-04:00

I can still hear his annoying hyena sounding laugh over 30 years later. He taught freshman architectural design at my alma mater, Texas Tech University. If you take a look at the photo above, you will see his office window. It is located in that dark vertical slot between the two bulks of the building. The window looks down onto a bridge that connects this sidewalk (in the foreground) to the

Solar Panels: Pros and Cons

2009-09-30T12:10:00.004-04:00

There is much talk about having solar panels on roof's of homes. In fact, a friend of mine is doing quite well with his solar panel business. Particularly with commercial properties that are cashing in on tax rebates which will pay for the full installation costs of the the project. Here is an interesting video that discusses some of the basic issues of solar energy. It exposes some facts that

Recession Relief

2009-09-28T17:08:00.005-04:00

What can we do to fill all of these vacancies in commercial properties that we see popping up everywhere? This video will steer you in the right direction. If you like this article and would like to keep informed about other important news of the day, please subscribe to this blog by clicking on the buttons along the right column. Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter.

Trust Me, I'm an (Unlicensed) Architect

2009-09-23T22:31:00.006-04:00

If you don’t have an architectural license, it’s illegal to call yourself an architect or perform architectural services—but people still do. Who are they, who’s policing them, and can they be stopped?(this article is by:Amanda Kolson Hurley,additional research by John ScappiniRelated ArticlesSave / Share and found at http://www.architectmagazine.com/legal-issues/

Fun to Assemble Bookshelf

2009-09-22T12:55:00.006-04:00

Check out how easy it is to assmeble a Legare bookshelf. This guy is only 12 years old and he can casually put a whole bookshelf together in about one minute. As you can see, this would be perfect for college students, urban living, kid's study areas, and home offices. If you like this article and would like to keep informed about other important news of the day, please subscribe to this

Lane Launches into the Media

2009-09-21T15:39:00.010-04:00

Thanks to my friend, David Mathison, I now have more ways to share my passion of architecture with others. David is like the wizard behind the curtain. He really spilled the beans when it came to exposing the new and innovative ways to communicate to others.David recently launched his new book, "Be The Media." In this book, he gives away more stuff than you could imagine. He even shows how

"Smackdown" with Frank Gehry

2009-09-20T22:33:00.005-04:00

“Smackdown” with Frank Gehry Posted by Jay Walljasper in Town SquareThe popular real estate and urbanism blog Curbed created this image to describe the ongoing debate (Photo credit: Curbed LA)This year’ Aspen Ideas Festival lived up to its name with a lively exchange about Placemaking vs. the iconic architecture of Frank Gehry and other “starchitects”. But not in the way anyone expected.When PPS

Broker Blood Feud

2009-09-17T10:06:00.005-04:00

From the "New York Observer." View Story On One Page Print This Story Share This Story By Dana RubinsteinJuly 31, 2009 | 8:05 a.m.It’s the end of July, and for the brokerage community, that means one thing: Crain’s publishes its biannual list of Manhattan's top office leasing deals, using data from CoStar. Though, frankly, publishing the list this annus horribilis—and then writing about the

Soaring with the NJ Nets

2009-09-14T15:05:00.005-04:00

This is Brook Lopez of the NJ Nets next to me. He is at least a foot taller than I. Brook was the first round draft pick in 2008 and is the Center for the team. He soars at 7'-0" in height. I asked Brook an experience architecture related question. He related to his own perceptions and past experiences. This is exactly what I discuss in my book, "The Designed Office." Check out the today's radio

Ten Energy Saving Tips for New York City Residents

2009-09-09T15:15:00.012-04:00

1. Live in NYC. Dense, urban living is the most sustainable, resource and energy efficient, and environmentally responsible way to organize modern society. Hard to believe? Consider this: ever drive to work? live in a space with more than 1000 ft2 per person? It’s true that NYC buildings can be horribly energy inefficient (and there are a lot of low cost, easy things to do about it), but density

How Strong is Legare Furniture?

2009-08-24T12:04:00.010-04:00

As an architect, I fell in love with Legare furniture system. In fact, the design of this revolutionary furniture system impressed me so much that I persuaded Mike Markwardt, the owner of Legare Furniture, to allow me to represent their furniture line in the tri-state areas of NY/NJ/CT. While sharing this “Fun to Assemble” furniture system with furniture dealers and end users, people would always

2009-08-20T13:47:00.001-04:00

Saving the Green Stuff

2009-08-13T09:26:00.001-04:00

Here is a link to a web site that can help you make better decisions that will make your life better and help the environment.

Increase Profits Even During the Recession!

2009-08-12T00:11:00.003-04:00

With the current recession, we really need an edge with our commercial real estate investments. I found some really cool ways to increase profits within our offices and wrote the book about it. Check it out at http://www.MyDesignedOffice.com.If you can't wait to get your hands on your copy of this book, just click on the book icon at the top of the right column of this blog. By the way, there are

How the Recession Affects the Affluent

2009-08-10T17:43:00.008-04:00

Check out my blogtalkradio feed on the right column to hear what I said to the 2008 Main Street Forum about attracting the affluent, like Trump's clientele, to the downtowns.Do you agree with my comments? Let me know by emailing to me at info@LaneArchitecture.net.Click on the "ReTweet" button below and follow me on twitter. I am LaneArch there.tweetmeme_url = '';

Back on the Edge of the Prairie

2009-08-06T19:57:00.011-04:00

What do you do to get your mind off of the pressures of the day? For me, I have found refuge listening to The Prairie Home Companion podcasts shows on my ipod while training to my office. Here is a video clip of his show http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wewzGYW_HrwLike my radio show and podcast, Garrison Keillor's show is only about 15 minutes, but it can really put you into a different frame of

Adaptive Reuse

2009-08-03T16:38:00.007-04:00

When you are holding on a commercial property and can't find a buyer for it, what are your other opitions?One of them is to propose a different use for the building. Check with the zoning department in the town that the building is in. There, you will find out what uses are allowed for that property. You can also find other buildings of the same zone designation and learn what uses are allowed in