The New Museum presents “Here and Elsewhere,” a major exhibition of contemporary art from and about the Arab world.
Tag Archives: modern
CVI. CHE 105: Peruvian classic with a hip twist
The small, mom and pop eatery in Downtown Miami is slowly disappearing, replaced by modern, hip restaurants and leading the trend is Cvi.che 105.
Chef/owner Juan Chipoco and sous chef and co-owner Luis Hoyos have created an incredible ambiance and menu that is indicative of their passion for traditional, delicious Peruvian cooking. The space is deceivingly large and inviting, with a bright interior, open kitchen and ultra-contemporary furnishings and accents.
Chipoco blends sexy dishes like seafood orgy ceviche, a blend of marinated raw seafood including fish, calamari and shrimp served in typical Peruvian tiger milk with more traditional ones like Mama Ele Corvina Fish – his grandmother’s recipe of pan roasted fresh corvine fish served with a crab cake in a rocoto sauce and a homemade potato cake
They also take great care in developing specific flavors for each ceviche depending which region of Peru it represents.
Cviche 105 is located at 105 NE 3 Ave., Miami, FL 305-577-3454, www.ceviche105.com
Miami Twice: Great shopping for vintage goods
A mainstay of Miami’s shopping scene, especially for those who prefer something different than the mall, Miami Twice is a great place to shop for vintage goods.
Courtesy of Google Images
The store is packed with wares and accessories not easily found, rare gems that can make a wardrobe unique and different. Think great dresses and shoes from the early 1900s to the 1980s. They’ve also got modern designer duds and purses. They’re jewelry, especially brooches and costume pieces, as well as vintage shoes and purses from classic eras are all the rage here.
It’s a fun experience walking into this place and browsing through their merchandise, whether it’s for just looking or actually buying. A stop in Miami is worth a trip here. Hey, they’ve been in business a quarter of a century, they’re definitely doing something right.
Miami Twice is located at 6562 SW 40 St., Miami, FL 305-666-0127 http://www.facebook.com/pages/miami-twice
Baltus: Upscale store’s way to jazz up home
The Miami Design District is home to many upscale specialty home furnishing stores and Baltus, with a corner location in the main artery of the area has the market cornered when it comes to must have items.
The hand crafting of their contemporary high-end furniture and attention to materials, size and shape make the pieces a unique addition for any home. Clean lines and meticulous construction are key here and although a majority of the designs are square and sharp edged, there are a few of them inspired by other eras like the Picasso chair with French style legs, back and seat. Elegant screens are also available for rooms where privacy is needed and the variety of shelves, bookcases and tables are perfect storage units.
Baltus is located at 3925 North Miami Ave., Miami, FL
EQ3: Home lover’s haven boasts original style
Home furnishings with an original flair is what EQ3 is all about. That, and offering a concept to help people create a cozy and comfortable environment. They’ve got their CORE program where pieces are made for mixing and matching with an urban feel and made of red oak veneer and available in earth and onyx finishes.
In the bedroom their Sleep by Natura collection is meant to provide a perfect night’s sleep with mattresses and pillows in a range of comfort levels and made of several natural materials.
Rounding out their collection are a wide array of chairs, sofas, ottomans, lamps, mirrors, office furniture, dining and entertainment pieces as well as accessories.
EQ3 is located at 3466 North Miami Avenue, Miami, FL
Circle Art at Home: Posh furnishings and accessories
The furnishings and accessories available at Miami Beach’s Circle Art at Home are lovingly created by designer Jesse Brody with quality, style and affordability in mind. Although most of the styles are contemporary, there are also touches of African art and Oriental rugs.
There are two store locations on South Beach. The Lincoln Road store is where most of the public goes to check out their unique mirrors, modern lighting, sofas and ottomans, rugs and other accessories. Over on Lenox Avenue is where custom pieces can be ordered and there’s a bit less inventory. However, the massive expanse of Oriental rugs available at the Lenox location are a don’t miss.
One common factor between the two stores though, design and decorating enthusiasts will certainly walk out with an original piece that will add flair and style to any room in the house.
Circle Art at Home is located at 714 Lincoln Road and 1560 Lenox Avenue, Miami Beach
The W Buckhead Pops for Atlanta
Sexy, fun, and vibrant but definitely respectable enough to get some business done, the W Buckhead stands out from Atlanta’s other Ws while still retaining its local charm. Simultaneously retro and modern chic, the lobby has many floral details that recall the 1950s/1960swithout any hint of stuffiness though.
Rooms are typically cozy but there are eleven suites for larger ambitions. Of them, the Extreme Wow Suite is all that and more. Spacious beyond imagination, with an eclectically, stylish pop that would make Andy Warhol proud, there’s a half bath as well as a full bath designed for two. Dreamy beds are a W standard and so are the ever nice plasma screens and the uber-fab bliss products.
Staying in the room is so boring so get fit at Sweat (where cable goes well with treadmills), cool off at Wet (the adorable pool overlooking Peachtree) and dance it off at Whiskey Blue (their elevated, rooftop club). Hungry? Just dine at Market, a delicious part of the Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s culinary empire, or lounge at Living Room.
Actually, if clothes were not required, the Living Room might rival the rooms. It has plasma TVs plus comfortably oversized chairs and nice couches which help getting neighborly a breeze. Music by a jazz trio or DJ isn’t uncommon either. And, then, there are nibbles like the truffle pizza and lamb chops from Market plus great drinks like the truly fantastic ginger margarita.
It’s pop life for sure at the W Buckhead.
Puck Packs Modern Asian Punch at The Source
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Add a little Asian influence to your evening with a trip to celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck’s exclusive Asian eatery, The Source, situated right along politically-infused Pennsylvania Avenue. As the Newseum’s signature restaurant, The Source combines the museum’s sleek, modern design with flawless fusion cuisine to create a dining experience worthy of a top spot on The Washingtonian’s “Top 100 Restaurants” list.
With three contemporary levels donning floor to ceiling windows, 
diners overlook America’s most famous address while ogling a selection of over 300 wine labels and two distinct mouth-watering menus. Opt for a relaxed meal out and grab a seat at The Source’s ground level lounge, complete with a Izakaya-inspired menu full of sushi, sashimi, noodle and traditional Japanese “Robata” grilled options. Try the Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops with seaweed butter and braised bamboo or the signature Kobe Sliders with cheddar and smoked onion marmalade.
For a true Wolfgang Puck dining experience, head to the upstairs dining room – connected to the lounge by an impressive (think 2,000 bottles) two-story, temperature-controlled glass wine wall. Try the Pork Belly Dumplings with Chinese black vinegar dipping sauce or the Szechuan Filet “Au Poivre” with wild mushrooms and finished with a caramelized shallot sauce. One trip to The Source, and you’ll be vying for a little more Asian minimalism.
The Contemporary Jewish Museum’s Ever-Changing Exhibits
As a non-collecting institution, the Contemporary Jewish Museum’s ever-changing exhibition program embraces a range of artistic disciplines. From Andy Warhol’s pantheon of Jewish portraits to a retrospective of Where the Wild Things Are author 
Maurice Sendak’s career, each presentation is timely and relevant, fostering a dialogue between museum-goers of all faiths. Partnering with national and international cultural institutions, the Museum showcases contemporary art, historical objects, film and music, literary readings, and other live performances that pertain to Judaism as both a religion and culture.
Founded in 1984, the Contemporary Jewish Museum opened its doors as the “Jewish Community Museum” in San Francisco’s Financial District with a goal of introducing audiences of all backgrounds to contemporary perspectives on Jewish culture, history, art and ideas. After much success, ten years later, the Museum hired acclaimed Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind — who won the competition to reconstruct Manhattan’s World Trade Center site — to re-envision a 1907 landmark in SoMa as its new home. Reopened in 2008 with a vibrant blue metallic steel roof surging from a Beaux Arts brick façade, the dynamic 63,000-square-foot structure marries historical and contemporary architecture.
Steps away from the SFMOMA and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, it’s a can’t-miss for culture vultures.
“SEI” Hello to a First Lady Favorite
For a chic evening out, head to SEI – the Japanese-inspired hotspot known for its creative cocktails, unexpected sushi rolls and delicious Asian-fusion cuisine. With fresh whitewashed walls and ultra modern artistic touches, SEI sets the mood for the perfect city-chic dining experience.
As one of Michelle Obama’s favorite spots (so
much so that she had SEI cater a White House gathering), it’s safe to say that SEI’s inventive cuisine is sure to please even the most prestigious politico’s palate. Pair a tangy Japanese Whisky Sour (egg white, fresh lemon, 5 spice-infused syrup) with a humor-infused roll or two – sushi favorites include the Fish & Chips roll (flounder, malt vinegar, French fries, wasabi tartar sauce) or the Let Us Roll (romaine, carrots, Caesar dressing). For those looking for a more substantial dish, try the Mini Kobe Sliders with tomato jam and tempura onion rings. For a sweet finish, dig into some Miso Orange Bread Pudding with soy ice cream.
Get Rady For The Getty
Amongst the 110-acre property of rolling Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center is L.A.’s most popular and prestigious museum. Filled with paintings, sculptures and changing exhibits, every trip to the Getty seems to be different and always feels like you should come back another time to see more.
Though the art and exhibits are worth the tram and long lines, the Getty offers guest lectures, live performances and concerts for those looking for that true Getty experience.
If you are lucky enough to visit the museum during the spring and summer time, you will find that bringing your lunch and lounging in the Gardens truly makes this the best museum.
The Georgian Terrace is the Grand Dame of Atlanta’s Hotels
Built in 1910, The Georgian Terrace holds a special place in Atlanta’s history, with its rich heritage and elegant charm. Once dubbed Atlanta’s “Paris hotel,” the building’s nineteen-story design features stunning architectural details, floor-to-ceiling Palladian-styled windows, white marble columns along with crystal chandeliers, making it the grand dame of hotels in the city’s glamorous midtown district.
Saunter the Italian tiled floors to your spacious, luxurious suite with classic furnishings and modern amenities including full kitchens, pillow-top mattresses with 
300-thread count cotton bedding, 37-inch flat screen HD TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Feed your soul inside the hotel’s Livingston Restaurant and Bar, where guests can dress up for a four-course evening at the restaurant or dress down for cocktails and a light supper at the bar, while surrounded by classic architecture and early 20-century glamour.
Whether you’re a local in need of a “staycation” or visiting from out-of-town on real vacation, there’s an exclusive package catered to your specific needs, such as the Pampered Girlfriends or Romance Special.
While The Georgian Terrace first opened its doors a century ago, it still remains a notable Atlanta landmark located on the corner of Peachtree Street and Ponce de Leon Avenue across from the world-renowned Fox Theatre. It also accommodated the likes of American Idol winner Fantasia during her time in the city as the star of The Color Purple Broadway musical.
Sleep in the Lap of Luxury at the W Hotel DC
Plan your next DC stay with a bit of flair in mind. Book a room at the luxuriously chic W Hotel, one of the newest hotspots on the DC hotel (and nightlife) scene. Overlooking the statuesque White House, the W is a favorite amongst trendsetters, politicos and celebrities looking for a fresh scene – to stay or be seen. As the former Hotel Washington, the new home of the W brings with it a rich history, having hosted guests like Elvis and Duke Ellington.
With a modern, yet sophisticated flair, the W incorporates cutting edge décor with an ideal location to make this overnight hotspot the perfect place for those looking to experience the 
District in style. Marked by its cool elegance and almost South-Beach-meets-Washington vibe, the W brings a bit of whimsy into the Washington mix with room classes marked with cheeky labels like the Wonderful, Spectacular and Fabulous rooms, and the WOW and Extreme WOW suites.
Besides the award-winning Bliss Spa and state-of-the-art fitness facilities, the W brings more than just ritzy digs. Travel no further than the lobby or rooftop terrace for some of the best dining and nightlife in the city. Grab a pre-dinner cocktail in the chic lobby bar, The Living Room, before indulging in an exceptional meal at Jean-Georges’ elegant J&G Steakhouse.Then start your evening out in style at POV, the ultra lounge located on the top floor of the hotel.
Insider Tip: In the warmer months, make your way to POV’s rooftop terrace. Guests of the hotel have guaranteed access to some of the hardest tables to nab at one of the hottest spots in the city – the view alone will make the room rate worth it.
Sofitel Hotel is Synonymous with Luxury
Sofitel is a name synonymous in the hotel industry with prestige, luxu
ry and elegance. The Sofitel in Philadelphia is right off of ritzy Rittenhouse, and carries the company’s signature blend of French and American styles.
The Sofitel notoriously houses some of Philadelphia’s most high profile visitors, including politicians and famous musicians (have you heard of the New York Philharmonic? I thought so). It is no surprise that the cream of the crop is staying here because the service is impeccable, having won Travel & Leisure’s Best Hotels of 2010 award.
The basic run-down of amenities is quite more than basic. Sofitel is pet friendly, and by that we mean the front of house staff will learn Fido’s name before they learn yours, and the hotel’s charming brasserie Chez Colette has received accolades over its lifetime for its French cuisine and stylish 1920s atmosphere.
Twelve Reasons to Love TWELVE Atlantic Station
Behind the sleek glass doors of TWELVE Atlantic Station lies urban sophistication, as the stylish décor and modern furnishings take this boutique hotel beyond drab to fab. It’s all about location, as this preferred luxury boutique hotel sits in the heart of the bustling midtown district.
Standing 26-stories high, these chic one and two bedroom suites offer skyline views, contemporary designs, luxurious linens and 24-hour room service. The simplicity of GHOST in-room technology is indeed paranormal as guests can access the internet to check e-mail, 
the latest news and weather updates, or reach concierge and housekeeping with the click of a mouse. Amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, outdoor pool and fully-equipped kitchenette with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops are parallel to your dream condo in the city – making you feel right at home.
If urban cool describes you, commune with the movers and shakers and young professionals at the onsite bar, Lobby at TWELVE, which is open to the public. Watch as the chef prepares your favorite traditional American dish with a modern twist in the open-style kitchen where a wood-burning grill and pizza oven serve as the backdrop.
Situated at the forefront of one of Atlanta’s vigorous live/play communities – access to trendy bars, upscale restaurants and prime retail shops is right at your footsteps – within walking distance to each other. Of course, they didn’t forget about those kid-friendly trips, offering Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and Family Date-Night packages.
Open House – Gifting at its Finest
Open House, located in Washington Square West, is a one-stop shop for endless gift-giving possibilities! We’re not the only ones convinced Open House is the place
to go for something special – Philadelphia Magazine voted this lovely shop Best of Philly 2009 for hostess gifts.
The shop features eye candy for the home plus much more, like specialty stationary, artisan jewelry, quirky maternity clothing and children’s toys. There are treasures to find in every nook of the store, chock-full of stylish, fresh and unique merchandise that caters to a variety of tastes. Highlights of the goodies: quirky greeting cards and stationary, an enormous candle selection, unique furniture, awesome earrings, and cool yet functional serving utensils. If you chat with the staff, they are always friendly and give great recommendations.
Miami Art Museum Draws In Art Lovers
Innovative and thought-provoking art is what the Miami Art Museum strives to present to art lovers. With contemporary greats, like photographer Chuck Close, icon Robert Rauschenberg, and artists Wilfredo Lam and Jose Bedia featured, there’s no doubt the envelope is being pushed to the max.
The rule of admiring works of art from afar does not apply here, the installations, paintings, and sculptures beg for the viewer to become engrossed in the work, examine it and in essence become affected by it.
Besides the permanent collection and traveling exhibits that are presented, the MAM offers the monthly happy hour, Jam at MAM, featuring varying jazz performers, nibbles, and cocktails, as well as regular lectures to coincide with the show schedule.
Modern Italian at Bibiana
In the mood for a little Italian? Skip the checkerboard tablecloths and drip candles, and say “ciao” to Bibiana Osteria & Enoteca, a very chic alternative to the typical Italian eatery. Outfitted in luxe chocolate browns and interesting metallic lighting, Bibiana’s chic interior exudes sophistication, reaching out to power diners and well-traveled patrons alike. 
A product of well-known restauranteur Ashok Bajaj, Bibiana is led by executive chef Nicholas Stefanelli, who brings a light, updated Italian menu full of traditional classics like decadent pastas and crisp pizzas, as well as unique main courses that modernize the Southern European cuisine.
Start off with the gorgeous Datteri, or Mejool dates stuffed with ricotta salata, salty pancetta and sprinkled with slivered almonds. For a decadent entrée, try the Anatra, or roasted Muscovy duck breast with creamy celery root puree, dried cherries and rich red wine sauce. For the adventurous diner, Stefanelli offers veal sweetbreads with rutabaga, and candied oranges, dusted with fennel pollen.
Insider Tip: For a more low-key evening, grab a seat in Bibiana’s mod lounge area and sample the small plate menu, available from 2:30-5:30 PM on most weekdays.
Hotel Indigo Midtown is an Urban Nature Oasis
Hotel Indigo first unleashed its unique magic at this Midtown Atlanta location in 2004 and the charm has definitely caught on. Different from most hotels, Hotel Indigo is all about creating an urban oasis, whether it’s with fresh greenery in the guest rooms, the hotel’s perfect 1.618 ratio design as found in nature, or changing up the hotel’s look, feel, sound, and taste for every season.
Brightly colored throughout in soft blues and greens,
there’s nothing drab here. There are many comfortable spaces perfect for lounging, because the goal really is to evoke a lazy Sunday at home on the patio, and Wi-Fi just makes it better.
Guest rooms are stacked with shabby chic charm; they are also cheery and brightly covered. No space is wasted so rooms are purposely compact. Spa touches haven’t been abandoned though- the bathroom might be tiny, but the pressure in the shower isn’t.
Venturing outside is easy thanks to its convenient Midtown location just across from the Fox Theatre and its close proximity to quite a few nice restaurants. Those who cherish the simple things in life without giving up convenience will easily fall for the Hotel Indigo’s considerable charm.
The Interactive Institute of Contemporary Art
Formerly The Boston Museum of Modern Art, The Institute of Contemporary Art has made a prominent name for itself in the city since its inception in 1936. Located on Boston’s waterfront, even its beautiful building is a work of art. Among the artists whose work was introduced to U.S. 
audiences by the ICA are Cubist Georges Braque, Expressionists Oskar Kokoschka and Edvard Munch (The Scream), as well as Andy Warhol.
Here, you will find access to contemporary art as well as artists and the creative process, encouraging audiences of all ages and backgrounds to participate in new art. The museum hosts numerous courses, talks and films for families, teens and educators each month so be sure to check the calendar of events to find out what is currently going on. For young adults, don’t miss the teen filmmaking program Fast Forward where participants become the producers of their own documentaries.
Insider’s Tip: Every Thursday night, the museum offers complimentary admission from 5 to 9 pm for Target Free Thursday Nights.
Spice Up the Abode with Sleek Beau Living
For most people, sprucing up their home’s interior and exterior is a welcome change, and with the sleek furnishings offered at Beau Living, it almost becomes an art form.
The large showroom located on Miami’s up and coming Biscayne Boulevard, houses a massive amount of furnishings- sofas to pillows to artwork- for every room in the home.
The mission of the Sebaaly family, owners of the store, is to work directly with the manufacturers to provide the latest styles their customers are seeking out. The featured designs are streamlined and clean and run the gamut to include funky yet functional chaise lounge chairs, chairs and ottomans, as well as sofas and sectionals with unconventional designs. For the exterior, the cool daybeds, seating sets, and sofas are reminiscent of what’s found around a hip, cool lounging area surrounding a South Beach hotel pool. They also sell artwork and accessories for the home.
Get a Taste of “Art in Motion” at the Hotel Palomar
Looking for comfy accommodations with a little something extra? Marked by the theme “Art in Motion,” DC’s Hotel Palomar prides itself on its unique partnership with the Smithsonian and the Phillips Collection – national institutions marked by their artistic prestige. The boutique hotel, part of the well-known Kimpton group, pairs modern accommodations with a bit of avant-garde panache – perfect for the out-of-town guest looking to see the trendier side of the District.
From the oversized modern art in the striking two-story lobby, to the attentive staff trained in graceful service by the Washington Ballet itself(!), the Hotel Palomar exudes creative touches that seek to intrigue and inspire guests from the moment they enter, to long after they have returned home.
With nearly 350 rooms inspired by 1930s French Moderne design aesthetic, the four star hotel boasts some of the roomiest accommodations in the city as well as a variety of appealing amenities. The hotel showcases a 40-foot heated outdoor pool (open seasonally) that serves lunch daily, as guests lounge in trendy cabanas. Additionally, guests can utilize the well-equipped fitness center, in-room spa services and nightly, complimentary wine receptions (known to host creative speakers and guest artists).
Insider Tip: For those who can’t bare to part with their favorite companions, not to worry! The Hotel Palomar is a pet friendly hotel (free of charge) with a variety of amenities geared toward all types of furry friends. Grab a glass of wine at the evening reception while your pup relaxes at The Dish, the nearby pet lounge, complete with tasty treats!
It’s Modern Charm at the Inn on Castro
The Inn on Castro may be Edwardian charm on the outside, but it’s all modern design inside – reiterating what it means to not judge a book by its cover. This guest home has 8 bedrooms (and yes, 8 private bathrooms!) that give you
a comfortable mix of modern eclectic décor with old-fashioned service. Each room is decorated with original artwork and adorned every morning with fresh exotic flowers. Enjoy a locally famous homemade breakfast in the morning, and brandy in the warm Italian style living room for your evening, complements of your host. There are also three self-catering apartments available off site for those who want to fully be a part of the Castro community.
Located in the heart of the lively Castro District, at Castro and Market intersections, you are immediately immersed in everything this vibrant part of town has to offer: boutique shopping, modern bars, local and friendly restaurants, and four types of public transportation to help you with your sightseeing. In this part of town, you will never be bored and nothing will ever be out of reach.
The Bass Museum: Art Inside and Out
The Bass Museum of Art has an expansive and impressive collection of art – and the building the works are housed in isn’t too shabby either. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, the one time Miami Beach Public Library is
now the centerpiece for today’s historic district.
Expanded a few years back, the original building and the new wing are home to a massively impressive 500 piece permanent collection that includes paintings, sculptures, works on paper, decorative objects and textiles by greats like Rubens and Boticcelli to modern art.
The Bass also has cool, fun events like Hot Nights & Cool Jazz at the Bass, complete with buckets of beer, to scavenger hunts on Family Fun Days. The traveling exhibitions feature modern art, video and photography and are definitely worth a special visit as well.
Aloft Hotel: Loft-Inspired Luxury
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to live in a downtown loft, a stay at the Aloft Hotel just might satisfy your curiosity. Nine foot tall ceilings and exposed original columns in the historic building give off an urban feel, but with a major dose of luxury; Bliss spa products, dreamy platform beds, and 42 inch televisions ro
und out the rooms.
If you’d like to get your sweat or swim on, a fully-equipped fitness center and salt water heated pool are at your disposal. If exploring downtown Dallas is on your to-do list, simply walk out the front doors and you’re on your way. The hotel is literally steps from City Hall, the Dallas Convention Center, and numerous bars and restaurants.
Staying inside the hotel can prove to be just as exciting with the WXYZ bar located in the center of the modern-chic lobby. With rooms starting below $110 per night, you can experience the big city life at its finest with only a small dent in your pocketbook.
Pop Art & Graffiti at Andenken Gallery
You won’t find your traditional portraits here, but at the Andenken Gallery you can see much more interesting things like bodies wrapped in wooden flooring and works of art featuring the alphabet. Specializing in anything pop and graffiti, this LoDo gallery has featured some of the world’s best known modern artists. It always challenges the boundaries of tradition, making the Andenken Gallery a fun trip.
Controversial De Young Museum Shines
Unless you’re a local who knows its history, visitors who pass by the De Young Museum might think an abstract spaceship had crash-landed into Golden Gate Park. Providing San Franciscans with a never-ending debate over aesthetics, the building is intended to unify modern art and architecture with the natural landscape. Meant to oxidize and turn pale green the way the Statue of Liberty has done, the museum’s copper mesh exterior will eventually blend in with the surrounding eucalyptus trees.
Before you even enter the De Young Museum, explore over five acres of native landscaping, in which you can wanarden, koi ponds, waterfalls, and the Andy Goldsworthy “Faultline” installation in the courtyard.
Like any great museum, the De Young features an impressive permanent collection: Ancient Teotihuacan stone murals from Mexico, the finest collection of American paintings, African and Oceanic art, and The Anderson Graphics Art Collection. Great exhibitions have included Yves Saint Laurent, Andy Warhol, Chihuly, and most recently King Tutankhamun. You can also explore the 144 ft. observation tower that provides views of the park, the new California Academy of Sciences building across the lawn, the Golden Gate Bridge, and downtown.
Whether you love the building and what it contains, or hate its aesthetics, the architects and curators have obviously done their jobs – eliciting reactions.
Contemporary and Cool at Parc 55 Hotel
Sometimes all you want is a convenient and comfortable place to stay. At the Parc 55 Hotel off Union Square, you’ll get all you need: central location, friendly service, modern style, and an uncluttered room with a view.
With its downtown location, Parc 55 is perfect for business and vacation travelers. You don’t have to walk far to experience the best of San Francisco: take a stroll to the Museum of Modern Art o
r Yerba Buena Gardens, enjoy downtown’s fashionable night scene, attend a function at the Moscone Convention Center or ride a cable car– just a block away.
Within the hotel, there is plenty of business space with 15 board-style meeting rooms. You can also invite your friends up to the 31st floor club lounge for your birthday soiree or plan your wedding reception in the 5,610 square-foot grand ballroom.
At the end of the day, you’ll be pleased to enter a room that doesn’t overload your senses with stale air conditioning and dated floral prints. Each of the hotel’s 1,010 rooms are the model of contemporary sophistication, having recently celebrated a $30 million renovation.
Parc 55 is so confident with their new look, they’ve hosted a 55-hour party in Union Square and even outfitted every room with a 36” plasma TV – show offs!
Sleep Chic at The Donovan House
Step away from the political frenzy and into the intimate, modern oasis of The Thompson Hotel Group’s The Donovan House. Located just off Thomas Circle on busy 14th Street, this boutique hotel, known for its impeccable service, is a breath of fresh air from the notoriously “stuffy” Washington hotels. The sleek, minimalist decor and swanky vibe are perfect for the hip, sophisticate looking to take advantage of the nation’s Capitol.
Open since early 2008, The Donovan House boasts just under 200 rooms, outfitted in stark white decor with unique cocoon-like showers and dramatic, extended leather headboards. Freshen up after a long trip with complimentary Kiehl’s bath products or indulge in the fabulous Dean & Deluca mini bar before cozying up to luxurious Sferra sheets.
Insider Tip: For added value, book in the warmer months and be sure to take advantage of The Donovan House’s exclusive rooftop bar and pool lounge, ADC (“Above DC”). Take in breathtaking views while you sip a cool cocktail or two at DC’s trendiest warm-weather hotspot.
Funky, Trendy & a Museum? Only at New Museum
Not many buildings sport a rainbow “Hell Yes” on their facade, let alone an art museum. “New Art, New Ideas;” that’s the motto for the aptly named New Museum in the hip Lower East Side. Unlike most contemporary art galleries, the art here is so new that it includes YouTube videos(!) and art that’s a social commentary on current political hot topics like the Iraq War.
Not only is the art inside super hip and new, so is the building, that is like a modern Goliath among the aging downtown buildings. It’s actually the first art museum ever to be constructed from the ground up in downtown Manhattan.
Fitting to its artsy Bowery locale, the crowd here is more likely to be sporting Converses and Aviators than suits and ties. Before leaving, check out the seventh floor Skyroom that has a spectacular panoramic view of Manhattan from the Financial District to the Midtown skyscrapers.
The Art Institute of Chicago: The Modern Wing
Local lovers of art and museum-marveling out-of-towners will go gaga for the Art Institute of Chicago’s new Modern Wing. The 264,000-square-foot addition, designed by Renzo Piano, is a magnificent home for the museum’s much lauded collection of modern European paintings, contemporary art, and photography. The entry hall’s grandeur rivals that of a cathedral, and the staircase, supported by metal rods, makes the Wing a work of art in its own right. Come see what all the fuss is about!
Sushi Hai
Tucked in the Highland Area lies a restaurant that could only be described as the perfect juxtaposition between Denver’s art district and the Japenese Orient. View local modern art while the masters prepare your meal. Sushi Hai uses only the freshest ingredients to deliver the top-notch sushi to satisfy your cravings. Sip on hot sake or premium saketinis with friends in the Hai Bar. The atmosphere is perfect for an intimate evening.
Koo de Kir
Think Warhol’s Factory Girl without the high drama! Koo de Kir, from the French “Coup de Coeur,” translated to “a strike to the heart,” offers the modern space to show off functional art that would complement any home. The lifestyle shop offers modern home furnishings and accessories designed for the urban lifestyle. Since opening in 1997, this boutique shop has been catering to the city’s biggest trendsetters. Because your home is an expression of who you are, the folks here hope your experience both in the store and on the website “inspires you to think, dream, live laugh and love in an home imbued with a sense of style.” Check out the website at koodekir.com.
The J. Paul Getty Museum
Resting on top the Santa Monica Mountains is the gorgeous glass building holding amazing art. The 110-acre Getty Center is home to an incredible wide collection of western art and culture. From paintings and drawings to sculptures and photographs, the museum is dedicated to preserve and present the achievements of western art and culture. Its new addendum, the Getty Villa in Malibu, houses more antique objects. Make sure to check on their changing exhibitions – there’s always something new to discover. And the best of all, admission is free.
Warwick New York Hotel
The Warwick New York Hotel epitomizes European-style elegance and is convenient for both business and vacation travelers. The hotel stands across the street from New York’s newly revitalized Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and is within four blocks of New York City’s Broadway, Central Park, Carnegie Hall, Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center.