Sandcastle Esquisse - Team IBM 

Participants from Team IBM which consisted of Dean Sakamoto Architects, Benjamin Woo Architects and Ferraro Choi collaborated to build the Basalt Columns of Iceland in sand at the 38th Annual Sandcastle Esquisse at Kailua Beach Park. Team IBM captured the Best Use of Materials Prize. This event was hosted by the American Institute of Architecture Students Hawaii Chapter from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Dean Sakamoto photo.

For more info on the Basalt Columns and pics of other cool architecturally inspiring rock formations see: http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2010/12/07/good-day-at-black-rock-10-cool-columnar-basalt-formations/

Revit Share Event Hosted by DSA

Staff from Benjamin Woo Architects, Ferraro Choi and Dean Sakamoto Architects shared lessons learned and tips for Revit users. Nicole Hilgendorf of BWA discussed a high-rise residential project she is working; Michelle Spitzer of DSA toured us through a new school athletic facility on Hawai'i island; and Jason Takeuchi of FCA shared a health care job and the value of creating a "model warehouse" in the office server. Poster graphics by Lindy Hsieh.

SHADE design by HMS 8th Graders

Working with the 8th Grade class at the Hongwanji Mission School (HMS), Dean Sakamoto is facilitating the design of a shade structure and class gift on behalf of these students. After a site visit and discussion of the meaning of this legacy effort and the need for covered space on campus, the students quickly made sketches and paper board models of their ideas. The students are working toward realizing their designs with tremendous energy. Pictured above are three students in action. Dean Sakamoto photo. 

For more info on HMS see: http://www.hongwanjimissionschool.org/

Modern Honolulu Slide Show

Bishop Museum historian Desoto Brown presented a compelling set of archival ephemera featuring mid-century Honolulu at Docomomo_US Hawaii Talk Story event tonight. Local businesses, people and modern architecture shot by professional photographers were the subjects of Desoto's narrated show in vintage black & white. From his archivist perspective, Desoto emphasized the key role played by commercial photographers such as Robert Wenkam who artfully captured the moment and the importance of proper archiving to preserve historic record. Never seen before, this presentation is a "must see" for others who have interest in the modern roots of our mid-Pacific metropolis. Thanks to Docomomo_US Hawaii resident historian Don Hibbard and Desoto Brown! Photo of first Toyota for sale in Hawaii in 1959, courtesy of Bishop Museum.

For more info on Docomomo US_Hawaii see https://www.facebook.com/docomomohawaii