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Ipods have been the latest obsession of the youngsters and so have the ipod docking stations. But how are you doing anything for the environment in all of this? The ReVerb iPod dock from Regen sets an example by drawing energy from the sun to charge the battery and play the music for approximately 4 to 12 hours. Yes, so what if your product isn’t environment friendly. The other accessories related to the product can be chosen sensibly- just like this ReVerb iPod. The ReVerb won’t only dominate a room’s landscape with its huge proportions that include a 13.75 in (35 cm) by 19.7 in (50 cm) flat panel speaker with stereo drivers and a 6 in (15 cm) by 9 in (23 cm) sub-woofer which give an actual output of 6 watts with a frequency range of 50Hz to 20Khz. Adding to the green features, the flat panel system includes solar panels that fully charges the battery if given access to 20 hours of direct sunlight outdoors or direct sunlight indoors for 40 hours. For those who can’t wait that long for the sun to donate its energy, the ReVerb pairs the ability to draw power from the sun or a traditional electric outlet. The Regen ReVerb will be available in April next year will cost US$2,299.

[Gizmag]

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Lightweight design has been one of the core skills of the BMW Group for decades – after all, reducing weight is a major factor in cutting fuel consumption. But now BMW has something more to contribute towards the environment. It has decided to produce carbon fiber and textile semi-finished products for the new line of electric vehicles that is going to launch in the coming years. Megacity will be launched under a BMW sub-brand in the first half of the next decade, the extremely sturdy but ultra light material constitute an important proportion of the materials used. The Megacity Vehicle constitutes the combination of the superior CFRP fibers’ developed by the SGL Group and the BMW Group’s expertise in the industrial manufacture of CFRP components. This is making it possible, for the first time, to install CFRP on a large scale in a series vehicle at a competitive cost. A very good move and since especially when a brand like BMW promotes, will definitely have a flurry of followers, which will make a huge difference!

[Autoblog]

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You might be surprised to learn that Abu Dhabi is fast catching up with its more famous cousin, Dubai in terms of architecture. Though a smaller town, the city is gaining prominence because of the fact that the Abu Dhabi leg of the Grand Prix will take place soon. With that in mind, Asymptote Architecture has designed the Yas Hotel which is inspired by the Formula 1 and sits in the heart of the new Formula 1 circuit. The complex consists of 500 rooms and its bridge allows an unhindered view of the Grand Prix event.

The most unique quality of the hotel is the veil-like structure which creates a sort of crystalline aura, and the diamond-shaped glass panels make the whole structure look totally outlandish. The hotel complements the sky, sea and the desert in the background. Elegantly designed, Yas Hotel is key to placing Abu Dhabi on the International architectural map. Formula 1 and motor racing fans can stay in the Yas Hotel if they have deep pockets. You could also take a look at the Strata Tower, which adds to the architectural significance of this desert city.

Via: World Architecture News

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While still quite nascent in the market, Blu-ray disc players have begun to permeate the shelves and the demand for these devices has only gone up. Denon has unveiled a coo new Blu-ray disc player which meets world standards in audio-quality and comes with state of the art technology. DBP-4010UD is their latest player which also comes with many of the features found in Denon’s award winning DVD-A1UD model. The DBP-4010UD can be used for audio and video playback of all disc-based formats along with the facility for enjoying various alternative media formats.
The Ethernet port allows Internet connectivity, BD Live interactivity and web control, and of course the much needed firmware updates. It is expected to cost $3,200 which really isn’t much if you consider the features. The Blu-ray player can read different formats including DVDs, DivX, JPEG, MP3, WMA, AAC, amongst others. The sleek and stylish design makes sure that the DBP-4010UD is a sure winner, and the guys at Denon deserve all the credit. We had earlier written about Denon’s DVD-2500BT Blu-ray player which was praiseworthy too.

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Horace Burgess has built the most outstanding tree house using tons of reclaimed wood. This treehouse is 10 story big in Crossville, Tennessee. This treehouse is commonly known as the Minister’s Treehouse with a 80-foot-tall white oak tree foundation. The treehouse is measures around 8,000 to 10,000 square feet. The wood used in the making of this treehouse is has been donated or salvaged from from sheds, barns and garages. Burgess, a landscape architect and an ordained minister, has put in a of effort and patience in the process. About $12,000 has been spent on this treehouse solely by Burgess. Approximately 258,000 nails have been used in this treehouse. Other recycled materials used are license plates, furniture, roofing material, and Plexiglas skylights.

The Inside of the tree house has spiral staircases, sanctuary, choir loft, basketball court, and countless rooms, walkways and balconies.

[Inhabitat]

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With changing times every individual is now being more careful about the environmental issues today. Olympics is the new target of the environmentalists this time. The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic Games has come up with designs for the gold, silver, and bronze Olympic Medals which are made out of recycled materials. These medals are designed by Canadian artists and are made up of used electronics. 6.8 metric tons of circuit board diverted from landfills has gone into the making of these medals. The design of these medals is curved and is laser etched, making every medal unique.

[Geeksugar]

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Music enthusiasts in Moscow will be treated to the tune of the world’s costliest violin. Made by the famous luthier Giuseppe Guarneri, this violin was crafted in 1741, in honor of the great musician Paganini’s 227th birthday. The violin has a history of great owners including great violinist and composer of the 19th Century, Henri Vieuxtemps. Named the “Ex-Vieuxtemps”, presently this violin is the most expensive musical instrument in the world. The violin was purchased and brought to Russia by lawyer and businessman Maxim Viktorov in 2008. The instrument is very closely-connected with Paganini and hence it is the apt that this violin should be played on the great composer’s birthday. Apparently it was Paganini, who first heard Vieuxtemps play the violin aged 14, and predicted that “the boy would definitely become a great man.” Japanese violinist, and winner of the first prize at the 4th Paganini Awards, Kyoko Yonemoto will have the honor of playing this violin at the concert to be held at Moscow’s Conservatorium to celebrate Paganini’s birthday.
This is the second time that the Moscow’s citizens will be treated to the tunes of this famous violin as it was earlier played at Pinchas Zukerman’s concert in 2008.

[RussiaToday]

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The style icon of many, Victoria Beckham is all set to expand her fashion empire by launching her line of shoes and handbags. Posh Spice who has already found success with her VB designer clothing collection is said to have made the decision because she is fed up with being a “walking advert” for other designers’ clothes. Apparently, hubby David completely supports his wife’s new plans and has reportedly offered to build her a huge design workshop in Beckingham Palace, Herts, when they return to the UK. A Friend of Mrs. Beckham told The Sun, ‘It is feasible that after David retires she could become the main breadwinner in the Beckham house.”
Known to be a trendsetter when it comes to fashion, we are sure Victoria will find success with her new line of shoes and handbags.

[Telegraph]

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MasterCraft has made its foray into the big boat business with their latest offering the MasterCraft 300. With the 30-foot, 4-inch twin inboard (the platform adds another 3.5 feet) boat, the company wants to reset a boat buyer’s expectations about how a day-tripper should make its owner feel. A recreational vessel like no other, its cockpit features big-boat electric equipment standard, but you can also opt for the Raymarine E80 and get a systems monitor with maps, radar and a 3-D terrain view of the ocean floor. The boat’s tinted glass hardtop is lined with a misting system. Guests can lounge on the transom’s adjustable seating with custom wetbars on either side. There is also space to accommodate an electric grill or a Flatscreen. The 300 is the first boat in the segment with a twin-tipped monohull, which opens up space in the interior cabin. The interior boasts of hardwood cabinets and hardwood floors, ultra-leather fabrics, a galley with all the mod-cons, and a stand-up shower with a full-sized door. There is also a room with a big bed for you to take short nap in. What is more, the room includes a Contour Zone remote (or C-Zone to you, Commodore), which puts you in pushbutton control of all the boat’s electrical systems.
A boat for the recreational luxury lover, it is definitely a class apart.

[Luxist]

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Valentino definitely knows what a girl wants! After winning the hearts of many divas with the sparkling Kaleidoscope Stone Tote, Valentino is all set to impress every fashionista with the Swarovski crystal leather boots. Valentino’s Swarovski crystal-embellished caramel leather knee-high boots with suede trim are sure to set the trend for Fall fashion. The chic boots have a red Swarovski crystal-embellished trim and a zip-fastening at the back. Team these knee length boots with jersey leggings and a pretty blouse and you are sure to turn into a show stopper.
Extremely chic, these boots with a 1 inch heel are priced at £929 ($1540) and available here.

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Watch collector’s and connoisseurs are eagerly waiting for Antiquorum’s 35th anniversary sale which is slated to be held on the 14th and 15th of November in Geneva. The anniversary sale is expected to feature some of the most exquisite and exceptional timepieces. The highlight of this auction is the Patek Philippe Calibre 89 timepiece from the Matsuda Collection which is the world’s most complicated timepiece with a total of 33 complications! Only four unique models of the Calibre 89 were ever produced; one each in yellow, pink and white gold and one in platinum. The exclusive timepiece has rarely been seen at an auction, making this the perfect opportunity for watch collectors to cast their bid for this complicated watch. The present Calibre 89 in yellow gold was previously sold by Antiquorum in their April 9, 1989 sale of “The Art of Patek Philippe” to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Patek Philippe. The complicated timepiece is estimated to fetch a price between 4,500,000 – 5,500,000 CHF ($4,422,430-$ 5,405,574).
Besides this, some of the other Patek Phillipe timepieces to be featured in this auction include a limited edition “Officier Répétitions Minutes,” Ref. 5029 watch (which is estimated to fetch between 350,000 – 450,000 CHF ($343,990-$442,265)), a rare 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe Ref. 1436 watch retailed by Tiffany (estimated to fetch between 180,000 – 220,000 CHF ($176,885-$216,190)), as well as the Richard Mille “Tourbillon RM0003” two time zone watch.

Thanks Michelle

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You can tell a lot about a person by the shoes he/she has on the feet. Let your footwear tell a lot about you too as you put your best foot forward in Anna Lunna Boots. Crafted out of exclusive and rare hides, this Miami based company allows every woman to create her own design. Fashionistas can pick from a range sixteen styles, five different heel heights, ten different heel styles and seventeen leather colors to shape up their most desired boots. This kind of custom-couture footwear will promise 100% exclusivity as no other woman will be wearing the same pair of boots. And this luxury comes for a price of $4,500 for ankle boots and $5,000 for knee boots. The brand also spares 10% of the price to a noble cause of helping impoverished women worldwide.

Thanks Marianna

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James Law has designed an outstanding building for Dubai’s Technopark, this new development goes beyond just exploring sustainable technologies and planning principals to create a desert community that will be not only carbon neutral but will also be free from zone waste. The Technopark of Dubai will be constructing a building in such a way that it will reflect the state of Planet Earth in the current and future times. Planet Earth reflects the essence of the ecosystem that we live in. This concept interprets the planet earth as a Cybertecture building that wonderful for people to visit, live and work in and be a symbol of technological power. This building will be called ‘Technosphere’. The key features of the Technosphere are it’s technological systems and architectural spaces that will help the building to generate a self breathing environment as well as generate electricity from solar power to supplement the energy needs of the building.

The Technosphere has loads to offer for all it has sky gardens for offices and the hotel not only gives a outdoor terrace advantage to the occupants but also provide solar shielding from the sun as well as natural green plantations to contribute oxygen to the environment in a sustainable way. There are other beneficiaries from it too like water recycling.
[worldarchitecturenews]

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The basketball players have it all laid out to them on a silver platter. Or must we say, a golden platter? They seem to be getting more bling in their lives than the Queen of England and judging by what they get when they win, it certainly must be true. The NBA Lakers Championship winners got the 15 carat gold rings which were crafted in honour of their 15th championship title. The ring comes with 14 diamonds on the outside and also a small trophy to tell the tale of winning the championship.

Moreover, the players could also boast of their individual portraits on one side of the ring and their jersey number on the other side. The rings look so heavy that the players might need physiotherapy to play basketball again after wearing it for a while. You could check out other rings like the Leonore Annenberg’s 32 Carat diamond ring and the Alliance Ring, if you don’t play basketball good enough to win NBA championships.

Via: Trend Hunter

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Diamonds are a girl’s best friends or so they say. Such sayings usually contain a grain of truth and in the case of Bagues Boule ring, diamonds are almost the masters of the girl in question. No girl would be able to resist the temptation of this $16,620 ring designed by Edouard Nahum. It comes with several brilliant black and white diamonds which are mounted on a white gold ring. A total of 8.24 carats sit heavily in the Boule’s triple-ball design.

The Bagues Boule looks appropriate enough to be worn in lavish parties at places like Monte Carlo. Even if you do not plan to visit Monte Carlo, it is enough to make any snooty faced lady burn with jealousy. You could check out the $7 million Chopard diamond ring and the Chanel 18k Yellow Gold ring as well, if you are planning to adorn yourself with riches.

Via: Embelezzia

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65″ eco-friendly LED panels by AUO have proved that AUO also wants to to green. The LED panel that will come with QFHD high resolution are their latest invention. The speciality of this model is that it sips up to 50% less juice on average compared to other devices in the same category. This LED panel also features a 7.9mm thickness for its 65″ TFT LCD module and also a a contrast ratio of over 2,000,000:1. Other than the eco-friendly aspect AUO has also pre-mixed “LED Light Cell” with 256 zones for local dimming promising you a premium image quality.

[Ubergizmo]

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Power by the people is power for the people! Generating power out of every step of pedestrians is not too common. We have seen dance clubs generating energy from dancer’s thumping on the dance floor. Now Laurence Kemball-Cook intends to trap energy out of more than 50,000 pedestrians everyday on a busy street by paving a stone. The rubber Pavegen stone will produce kinetic energy when it is stepped on. When it flexes 5 mm, the dynamo technology will capture this energy. Such pedestrian power can help to energize lights, computers, automatic doors and ticket machines. Also streets and shops frontages can be illuminated with this power. Whenever stepped on, the slab glows to indicate that the energy is captured. It is estimated that five paving slabs distributed over a section of a pavement will provide sufficient power to illuminate a bus information panel overnight. Early next year, trials will take place in several locations throughout the UK. To know more details, please read here.

[Worldarchitecturenews]

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Tired of all those aluminum cans horded in your house and only occupying space? Most times even when we discard these cans, they aren’t really discarded sensibly. EZ Life LLC has finally come up with a smart way of discarding these cans without using power, that is, without electricity. The ‘EZ Power Crusher’ crushes cans, but without power. It crushes the cans in a matter of seconds using compressed air. This is a very smart move I feel, and a rarely used concept. The crusher body, mount, and safety door are all-steel for a strong, great looking machine. The crusher was designed with safety in mind - the can is completely encased in the crusher body and the crushing ram does not operate without the safety door being closed.

In addition, the drop out chute keeps the area clean by depositing the flattened can directly into the recycling bin. This can be made available for around $275 here.

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Only if things were unlimited on earth and there would be no pain and struggle for the human kind, wouldn’t it be perfect? Nevertheless designers Kim Hyo Jin and Seol Ah Sun have sought nature’s help to solve nature’s problems. Inspired by the Giving Tree, this project called the “Savior Bud” latches on to trees and uses it’s natural recycling processes to obtain water. In a simple process which basically involves collecting the moisture from the leaves and emptying it out into containers, the Savior Bud takes one more step toward acceptable living conditions in Africa where out of the little available water most of it is polluted and undrinkable. After clamping the ‘Savior Bud’ onto the leaves, about one cup of drinkable water can be produced in a matter of 4 hours.

[Yankodesign]

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Blackberry Bold is bold enough to don exotic skins to make a luxuriously wild statement. If Ostrich skin failed to kindle your wild senses then Republica Fashion offers Blackberry Bold with python skin to dare. Designed by Katherine Hughes, the Blackberry Royal Blue Edition, clad in luxurious blue python skin, stands out for one more reason. Specially designed for Everton Football Club, this handset has dazzling diamonds highlight the year 1878 in blue sapphires. This year signifies the evolution of the Everton F. C. For £5,995 (almost $10,000) the Blackberry Royal Blue Edition is up on Republica Fashion.
They also offer Blackberry Bold designed by Katherine Hughes in various editions. The Diamond Blackberry Viper as well as Diamond Blackberry Caviar also sells for same price.

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