3rd Uncle Design Blog

Season's Greetings!

2011-12-06T13:08:00.016-05:00

From all of us in the 3rd UNCLE studio, we wish you a wonderful holiday season! Thank you for a great year and we look forward to seeing you in 2012.

3rd UNCLE design at the Design Exchange Awards

2011-11-25T17:50:00.010-05:00

3rd UNCLE is proud to have been chosen for a Design Exchange Award for the design of the Audi Lounge featured at the Interior Design Show 2011.

3rd UNCLE invites you to check out the Design Exchange Awards Exhibition (at the DX from Nov 24 to Feb 26) which celebrates the 2011 winning entries from all the DXA categories. 3rd UNCLE would like to congratulate all the other winners and thank the Design Exchange, all the judges and Audi Canada.

We would have liked an Audi A7 as a prize but maybe they can do that next year.

See below for the winning entry and video of the space.

John Tong is a Trekkie

2011-11-25T17:30:00.004-05:00

When recently asked by King West Magazine, "How can condo dwellers bring the outdoors in?” John Tong suggests some practical solutions which are more than science fiction.

Read his and other designer suggestions below.

Testing out the new Hands-On Centre at the AGO

2011-11-15T16:43:00.017-05:00

On a recent Sunday afternoon, 3rd UNCLE principal John Tong’s 4-year old twins Maelle and Luka, tested out the newly opened Hands-On Centre at the AGO designed by 3rd UNCLE design, and it looks like they had a great time!

The new space is located in the renovated Weston Family Learning Centre at the Art Gallery of Ontario. 3rd UNCLE design worked closely with the Education Department at the AGO to develop a vibrant design that will encourage creative play in kids of all ages.

With ever-changing and evolving programming which is as creative about how to interpret found objects for kids to explore and play with, the space was driven more by a concept of versatility than with an overriding theme.

A large round craft table with revolving turntable trays filled with craft supplies mechanically rises out from a shiny white play stage inviting art-making and collaboration.

Organic bubble shaped openings allow easy access to baskets filled with colourful building materials and toys.

A cozy reading nook and a costume closet ignite the imagination for hours of fun.

Now open from 10 am to 2 pm Tuesday through Sunday, artists of all ages can create their own masterpieces, build, play, and learn in the new interactive space.

Buzzing, Cafe Belong

2011-10-07T17:21:00.007-04:00

Brad Long’s latest venture, Cafe Belong designed by 3rd UNCLE at the Evergreen Brick Works opens with great reviews.
Check out the Toronto Star, Toronto Life, NOW Magazine, and Post City to read what all the buzzing is about! Better yet, go and taste for yourself!

Cafe Belong is in Building 14 at the Evergreen Brick Works, located at 550 Bayview Ave. in Toronto.

View Larger Map

Arriz and Suzanne's off-the-grid cottage

2011-09-02T11:50:00.004-04:00

Arriz and his wife Suzanne Dimma have built an eco-conscious and sustainable cottage on their lakeside property. This lakeside retreat in Haliburton, Ontario is a water access property and completely off-the-grid. Arriz designed the cottage with a conscious effort to build a low impact structure that is exemplary of a green approach to building in a natural setting.

The cottage is set in a dramatic landscape - perched on a rock overlooking the lake, the valley and amongst the treetops. Arriz worked closely in a collaborative manner with Level Design to build the cottage with a minimal crew and creative building techniques maintaining a hands-on approach.

Look out for the October issue of Canadian House & Home which features a story on Suzanne and Arriz's cottage. To see a video tour of the cottage on the House & Home website with the couple discussing their goals and experience of making their unique natural retreat, click here.

Cafe Belong Opens at the Evergreen Brick Works

2011-08-17T10:13:00.011-04:00

3rd UNCLE is excited to announce the opening of Cafe Belong at the Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto. Located in the city’s largest revitalized urban park, the restaurant was designed to reflect the historical character of the site and capture the food vision of celebrity Chef Brad Long: locally and sustainably produced, healthy and nutritious food.

Using reclaimed wood, vintage industrial finds, black steel and real brick, the design of the open kitchen, bakery, and eating areas layers textures to achieve a vibrant environment that match the flavours of Brad’s creations. A 60 ft long cloud chandelier hovers above custom designed tables arranged in a harvest table formation.

Working closely with Brad to develop the concept and design of Cafe Belong, 3rd UNCLE is proud to be a part of this important food movement and to be involved in the exciting adaptive reuse project of the Evergreen Brick Works.

Cafe Belong offers delicious meals made with seasonal local ingredients, for eat-in or take-away, fresh baked goods, coffee, and other innovative offerings.

Café Belong is open 3 meals a day, 7 days a week, 4 seasons a year.

Overall design: 3rd UNCLE design
Builder: Parallel General Contractor
Light feature fabricator: Cobalt Fabrication
Graphic design: Chad Roberts Design

Summer of 2011

2011-08-12T10:57:00.009-04:00

Wishing everyone a great rest of the summer, from the 3rd UNCLE studio!

photos: Drake Hotel photobooth

Kids Front and Centre at the AGO

2011-07-05T17:40:00.007-04:00

3rd UNCLE is thrilled to be designing the Hands-On Centre for young children and parents located in the brand new Weston Family Learning Centre at the Art Gallery of Ontario. Working closely with the Education Department at the AGO, 3rd UNCLE is excited to be part of the transformation of the front and centre glass room located just off the common gathering area. We anticipate the centre to be overflowing with active imaginations and creative play. Look out for the opening this fall!

With three kids of his own, 3rd UNCLE’s John Tong has been gathering lots of inspiration for this project. Check out Play's the Thing in this month’s issue of Dwell magazine, where John’s unique Toronto house is featured as a family clubhouse!

The Things We Do For Our Kids

2011-07-05T17:33:00.012-04:00

John Tong’s unique Toronto house has been featured in this month’s issue of Dwell magazine, focusing on play at home.

Check out the interview here.

Video of Audi Lounge at IDS11

2011-05-10T10:11:00.008-04:00

Check out the video of the Audi Lounge designed for the Interior Design Show 2011!

The annual Interior Design Show celebrates the most current and innovative design talents and products available locally and internationally.

For Audi Canada, a sponsor of the Interior Design Show, 3rd Uncle Design created a forum which invited the community of attendees to engage, experience and reflect on design. The space showcases the new 2012 Audi A7, its design driven by "Liberated Luxury".

The 2600 square foot space located at the center of the show is open and accessible from all sides defined only by an organic shaped white luminescent floor which contrasts the black carpet of the adjacent orthogonal layout of the show aisles. Hovering just 10ft above the Audi bar and lounge is an 800 s.f. slowly rotating reflective ceiling. Bracketing the space are two 25 ft long benches inviting all to rest, rejuvenate and contemplate the subtle shifting of the reflective cloud above.

Design Team: 3rd Uncle Design (John Tong, Angela Yee)
Client: Audi Canada
Agency: Lowe Roche
Fabricated and installed by: Geron Associates

Party time at W Hotel Hoboken. Two Years!

2011-04-28T18:23:00.012-04:00

As the W Hotel Hoboken celebrates its two year anniversary with a big party at the Chandelier Bar, 3rd UNCLE is reminded of the fun and creativity that came with designing the special suites at the new hotel.

Take a look at the E-WOW two-bedroom luxury suite (1650 square feet), one of the 23 suites designed by 3rd UNCLE overlooking the Hudson River.

Sweeping curves frame the feature wall in the living room where the millwork has been designed to transform into a full entertainment centre with the push of a button.

Inspired by the classic grand piano, gracious curves are layered over a rectilinear architecture, creating an elegant flow throughout the space.

The bedrooms are softened with sensual, curving bulkheads with a glossy black piano-like finish.

The piano theme is front and centre in the meeting/dining room in the form of a custom dining and meeting table, which opens to an iPod terminal, books and games.

The entertainment wall stores a flat-screen TV, which appears with silky motions reminiscent of a James Bond pad. Drawers of unexpected shapes and sizes are left open by the hotel staff, revealing flowers, chocolates and other surprises that reflect the famous W cheekiness.

The requisite W munchie box was redesigned to double as a soothing nightlight with subtly changing colours, greeting guests when they return to their rooms after an evening out. Originally conceived for just the suites, these boxes were so well received that W incorporated them into all 225 rooms.

A custom image was commissioned for wall coverings, headboards and cushions, injecting the suite with a cosmopolitan consciousness—enchanting, enigmatic and spirited.

Darkshadow House: Studio Visit

2011-03-03T16:52:00.010-05:00

Just hours before the owners moved in last week, the 3rd UNCLE studio toured the newly completed Darkshadow House on Markham Street in Toronto. Careful to avoid the power tools and fresh paint, the studio got the opportunity to walk the empty house and experience the realization of the spaces from drawings and models.

Here are a few pictures taken during the studio visit.

surfaces + landscapes

2011-02-22T16:00:00.021-05:00

On a recent trip to Cuba, 3rd UNCLE's Angela Yee shot some photographs of Old Havana (also known as Havana Vieja) as part of an ongoing personal project on surfaces and landscapes.

“I’ve heard people say that it’s as if time stood still in Cuba. While this is true to an extent, I also think that the effects of time can be seen all over Old Havana. Eroded surfaces, crumbling facades, layers of peeling paint… In their own way, the city’s textures are the result of time and chance and serve as records of an informal history.

Havana Vieja is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO and restoration work is moving along in many parts of the Old City, as such I feel lucky to have caught it during this state of transition.”

IDS11 AUDI LOUNGE

2011-01-24T15:08:00.007-05:00

Starting this week, you can check out Toronto’s annual Interior Design Show (Jan. 27 - 30) where you can’t miss the Audi Lounge designed by 3rd UNCLE. The Interior Design Show celebrates the most current and innovative design talents and products available locally and internationally.

For Audi Canada, a sponsor of the Interior Design Show, 3rd Uncle Design has created a forum which invites the community of attendees to engage, experience and reflect on design. The space showcases the new 2012 Audi A7, its design driven by "Liberated Luxury".

The 2600 square foot space located at the center of the show is open and accessible from all sides defined only by an organic shaped white luminescent floor which contrasts the black carpet of the adjacent orthogonal layout of the show aisles. Hovering just 10 feet above the Audi bar and lounge is an 800 square foot slowly rotating reflective ceiling. Bracketing the space are two 25 foot long benches inviting all to rest, rejuvenate and contemplate the subtle shifting of the reflective cloud above.

Design Team: 3rd Uncle Design (John Tong, Angela Yee)
Client: Audi Canada
Agency: Lowe Roche
Fabricated and installed by: Geron Associates

Paul Sinclaire’s Renovation in House and Home

2011-01-21T16:45:00.008-05:00

Check out the recently renovated home of Fashion Designer Paul Sinclaire in this month’s issue of Canadian House and Home. This 5-level Toronto house was redesigned by 3rd UNCLE to showcase Sinclaire’s extensive art collection.

3rd UNCLE is Awarded Best of Canada Design Award by Canadian Interiors Magazine

2011-01-12T10:36:00.010-05:00

3rd UNCLE is the proud recipient of the Best of Canada Design Award by Canadian Interior Magazine for Crystal Clear, the feature installation for Audi Canada in the Interior Design Show, at the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto.

We would like to thank Canadian Interiors Magazine for this honour and extend our congratulations to all the winners in the other categories.

We are excited to be working with Audi again for the upcoming Interior Design Show 2011, January 27 to 30! Come by the Audi Lounge during the show to grab a drink and check out the new Audi A7.

Exhibition of the Wynford Park Development in Toronto.

2011-01-07T17:17:00.007-05:00

We are happy to announce the exhibition for the Wynford Park Development in Toronto is on display at the Ontario Science Centre and is open to the public for viewing until Jan. 12, 2011.

3rd UNCLE is proud to have designed the exhibition with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and with our collaborators Underline Studios (graphic design) and Holman Exhibits (fabrication). The exhibition was originally installed for the occasion of the ground breaking ceremonies held earlier this year and attended by His Highness the Aga Khan, Prime Minister Harper and 800 distinguished guests. It will be travelling to a number of cities throughout Canada this year.

The exhibition displays renderings and a model for the prestigious Aga Khan Museum, the Ismaili Centre, Toronto and their Park. The display consists of illuminated images on tables and scrims as well as interactive touch screen display and video.

We extend our thanks to The Ismaili Council for Canada, and our congratulations to Maki & Associates, Charles Correa Associates, Vladimir Djurovic Landscape Architect, Moriyama Teshima Architects and The Imara Group.

You can find more information here.

A Mies-Inspired Ensuite Bathroom

2011-01-07T09:58:00.012-05:00

We’re art sourcing for the final touch on our almost complete ensuite bathroom! Stay tuned for final selections.

The bathroom is 12’x14’ with a Verona honed stone tile floor and two feature walls clad in Mare Blue honed marble panels framing a Neptune Jade Air bathtub. The tub is surrounded by a stainless steel upper fountain which flows down into a lit water trough filled with river stone. There is a 8”x 8” pedestal in the upper fountain in which an art piece is meant to sit.

Separating the bath area is a floor to ceiling panel of etched glass and a 5’X8’ step-in shower room flanked by a long Ipe bench.

Food is...

2010-11-12T12:38:00.015-05:00

“FOOD IS FUEL, FOOD IS MEDICINE, FOOD IS LOVE” says Celebrity Chef Brad Long.

Chef Long has a long established reputation for his strong belief and commitment to sustainably and locally produced, healthy, and nutritious food. It is not a surprise he was chosen by Evergreen to create the new food concept at the Evergreen Brick Works. Congratulations Brad!

3rd Uncle is currently working closely with Brad to develop the concept and design of his new Café Belong. Café Belong will offer food crafted in-house with seasonal local ingredients, delicious meals for eat-in and take-away, fresh baked goods, amazing coffee, and other innovative offerings.

Scheduled to open this winter along with the Evergreen Native Plant Nursery (of which 3rd Uncle is also designing), we can already taste the excitement!

The restaurant will be located in Building 14 at the Evergreen Brick Works, just west of the Welcome Centre.

www.cafebelong.ca

Dinner by Design

2010-10-26T13:58:00.006-04:00

3rd Uncle is honored to be selected and invited along with 19 other architects and designers to participate in a charity fundraiser for Casey House. Each was given an iconic Panton chair by Vitra to be rethought or reimaged. All 20 one-offs will be featured at the upcoming Interior Design Show 2011, in Toronto, with the exhibit and auction ‘Dinner by Design’.

3rd Uncle transforms their Panton chair by using green flocking to layer an intricate lace doily pattern onto its surface. 3rd Uncle invites everyone to participate at the IDS Opening Night Party on January 27th, 2011. Look out for 3rd Uncle’s Panton Chair at the show, and place a bid for a great cause!

Craft Burger: The New Flagship

2010-10-18T12:30:00.006-04:00

3rd Uncle Design is proud to announce the completion of Craft Burger’s new flagship location on King Street East right across from the King Edward Hotel. The two-storey space was seen just a week after opening, buzzing with hungry crowds, many of whom eagerly awaited its completion. Keep your eyes open, there may be one coming to your neighbourhood soon.

Darkshadow House: An Introduction

2010-10-05T09:39:00.007-04:00

3rd Uncle Design is excited to announce a current project, the Darkshadow House, and to take our readers through our design process, the construction phase, to the final completion of the project. Please check back regularly to read up on all the new and exciting updates!

The renovations and addition to an existing house were undertaken to provide a program of open living spaces in a building designed to be energy efficient through the use of passive technologies.

The existing two-storey detached house shares a 30-foot wide urban lot in the Bathurst & Queen area of Toronto with a mature “tree of heaven” in the city frontage and a large garage in a former industrial building on the back lane.

New openings at the front & rear have new wood-framed windows, & the entire masonry fabric is stained dark gray. The existing hipped roof is replaced by a new vegetated roof which is penetrated by a new glazed monitor.

A new single-storey addition clad in prefinished metal and containing living space is constructed at the level of the backyard. Its roof serves as a terrace accessed from the second floor bedroom. A new masonry chimney with two fireplaces connects the addition and the existing house.

Inside, a new slot of space containing a suspended stair brings light & natural ventilation to all floors. Heating & cooling is provided by a hydronic system in floors & ceilings with geothermal heat exchange.

Grand Vision

2010-09-27T15:29:00.014-04:00

The October issue of Canadian House & Home features a private residence by Abramson Teiger Architects (LA) and 3rd Uncle Design. The article highlights the spacious views and many elements that reflect a sense of modern luxury for a family residence. It was also featured in HGTV’s Top 10 Homes in North America. The house has also been used as a location for the feature film REPO MEN starring Jude Law and Forrest Whittaker.

To see more on this project, click here.

Working with Trend Expert Karen Von Hahn

2010-09-10T12:09:00.009-04:00

When Karen called upon 3rd Uncle Design to work with her in the renovation of her home, she wanted a firm that would understand her “humor, the schvung” as she writes in the August 2010: The Stylemakers Issue of Canadian House and Home featuring Karen and Thomas’ home. They did not want a home which is “all Victorian or entirely contemporary”. Having known of 3rd Uncle’s diverse work which includes the Drake Hotel, she was convinced that we aligned with her concept of “juxtaposition” which she describes as an “...artful play of old and new, or cool and warm, shiny and matte, primitive and sophisticated”.

As she says about the addition, “the new open kitchen-family room is of course, a source of delight”, we say Karen and Thomas’s philosophy of “remaining open to new possibilities and discoveries” during the process was a source of delight for 3rd Uncle.

In the same issue see another client of 3rd Uncle’s, Joseph Mimran and wife Kimberly Newport-Mimran. Kimberly Newport is the designer of Pink Tartan, whose new Toronto showroom was just completed by 3rd Uncle.

To see more about this project, click here.

To view an online house tour, visit Canadian House and Home.

Canadian House & Home features 3rd Uncle's projects online

2010-08-30T12:00:00.009-04:00

Canadian House and Home showcases 3rd Uncle's residential projects on their online gallery. These selected projects highlight some new built homes, additions, kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.
Check it out at: www.houseandhome.com/design/photo-gallery-3rd-uncle-projects

Art Condo model suite

2010-08-12T18:13:00.004-04:00

Canadian House and Home magazine features the Art Condo model suite designed by 3rd Uncle in the fall 2010 edition Special Interest Publication: Condos, Lofts and Apartments.

Design for Tastebuds

2010-07-30T10:45:00.006-04:00

Reena Mistry, a designer in the 3rd Uncle studio, recently completed the design and photography for The Essential Indian Cookbook. The cookbook was a collaborative effort from the women of a Gujarati community, the Shree Prajapati Mandal, in Toronto. The family recipes were collected in this book to pass down to the next generations and share with anyone with a passion for cooking. Many of the photographs were taken during her travels in India, from rural villages to bustling street markets. The book includes a collection of traditional and innovative recipes from the Gujarati Kitchen and beyond.

To learn more about her culinary design project, or to purchase a copy, you can contact Reena at r.mistry@gmail.com.

Canadian House and Home features John Tong's urban courtyard

2010-06-23T16:15:00.013-04:00

Amongst his many other projects, John Tong, one of the principals of 3rd UNCLE Design has been busy creating an urban oasis for his three children.

As much as John has a clear vision for the design of this hidden gem, he is continually inspired by his three children and open to evolving the design as they grow.

John and his wife Anne joyfully embrace the real life nature of building their home. It is as much a playground of ideas for them as it is a playground for their children. The next project they are in the planning process for is a 4-bedroom second storey addition to their 100 year old industrial dairy building.

Stay tuned......

To see more on Canadian House and Home, click here.

Toronto Life’s 1st Annual Home Guide 2010

2010-06-08T11:24:00.003-04:00

3rd UNCLE wants to thank the editors of Toronto Life for including 3rd UNCLE design in their feature of Toronto's most highly recommended home experts.

And to those "smart and in-the-know homeowners", even if all you are dreaming of is that unforgettable living room, 3rd UNCLE will always be happy to design you one.

Click here to read more on Toronto Life.

To see more 3rd UNCLE residential projects, click here

Undesigning the Drake

2010-05-27T17:56:00.002-04:00

Join 3rd UNCLE at the Drake this weekend for Doors Open Toronto. Paul Syme of 3rd UNCLE design will be onsite between 1 & 3pm on Saturday, May 29, 2010 to provide a glimpse of the design inspiration for the renovation of the Drake Hotel.

This weekend, 150 buildings of architectural, historic, cultural and/or social significance open their doors to the public. Admission is FREE.

The Drake Hotel is located at 1150 Queen Street West, Toronto.
Telephone: 416-531-5042

To see more on this project click here

Love Porter!

2010-05-14T17:02:00.003-04:00

On a recent business trip to NYC, 3rd UNCLE's John Tong was flipping through the spring 2010 issue of Porter Airlines' in-flight magazine and was pleasantly surprised to see that a 3rd UNCLE project, Lileo in the Distillery District, was featured as one of the things to see and do in Toronto. What a great way to travel!

To see more on this project, click here.

3rd UNCLE to design the new Evergreen Nursery at the Brick Works

2010-05-10T12:21:00.002-04:00

3rd UNCLE design is excited to be a part of the large-scale revitalization plan of the historic Don Valley Brick Works. The extensive adaptive re-use project is led by Evergreen, an organization that aims to make cities more livable, bringing nature and people together in a way that benefits both.

The Evergreen Brick Works, opening in September 2010, will be an urban centre for community greening and environmental learning. Located near Toronto’s downtown core, this large natural and cultural heritage site is uniquely positioned to be an urban model for environmental and social sustainability. Working collaboratively with Evergreen, 3rd Uncle will utilize historic building 14 in the innovative design of the 10,000 square foot retail garden centre, adjacent to the café and Discovery Gardens.

The Evergreen Nursery will showcase everyday solutions to urban greening, and will be an exciting, interactive, and educational retail experience that engages and empowers both young and old. The design will use locally recycled and reclaimed materials and provide opportunities for community involvement, exchange of knowledge, urban agriculture, and sustainable living solutions. Visitors will be able to consult experts, learn about native plants and ecological systems, and purchase items to create native gardens in their own yard or balcony.

To learn more about Evergreen Gardens, visit their website.

ART Condo gets nominated for a BILD award!

2010-04-23T15:54:00.001-04:00

3rd UNCLE is honoured to be one of five finalists in the category of Best Highrise Sales Office (over 1800 square feet) at the 30th Annual BILD awards! Every year, the Home Builder Awards celebrates the industry's best in home building. ART Condo, by Triangle West Developments has been nominated for 8 awards at this year's ceremonies taking place on Friday April 30, 2010.

3rd Uncle's Winning Rug Design

2010-04-23T15:10:00.000-04:00

3rd Uncle Design is proud to be featured as a winner of the ERA Rug Design Competition by Weavers Art, raising funds and awareness for local charity (DAREarts) and promoting ethical carpet and rug production (RugMark).

Over 200 anonymous submissions were narrowed down by a skilled panel of judges consisting of Daniel Faria of Clarke & Faria Gallery, Rachel Gotlieb, design journalist and writer, Nelda Rodger, Editor Azure Magazine and Suzanne Dimma, Editor Canadian House & Home. The final selection of 10 winning designs was showcased at IDS 2010 and the limited edition rugs are now available to the public with proceeds going to charity.

Roncesvalles explores the rug as an object that defines space, and through its design evokes a sense of place. It also explores the ability of the design to reverberate from flat graphic image to three-dimensional space. The rug can be physically approached from any side with the center providing the space for contemplation.

RugMark is a not-for-profit organization working to end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and to offer educational opportunities to children in South Asia through the GoodWeave certification program.

DAREarts helps Canadian children find positive alternatives to negative influences in their communities through innovative arts education.

3rd UNCLE is growing! We’re looking to add a designer to our team.

2010-04-12T16:36:00.000-04:00

You are our ideal candidate if you are a graduate of a school of architecture or design and have some experience working in the field. Your immersion in design culture is fueled by passions in other parts of your life. You are able to balance exceptional qualities of creativity, organization & mastery.

You are curious & resourceful. You see a problem as an opportunity to learn. You take initiative & can work autonomously within your abilities. You work effectively with co-workers, consultants & clients. You know how to make decisions and organize for effective action.

You are an innovative designer with developed visual sensibility & facility with 3-dimensional modeling & rendering techniques, both physical & digital.

You have a technical aptitude & an eye for detail. Your understanding of the conventions of architectural & interiors drawing & specification is informed by hands-on experience with building.

If you are our ideal candidate, or know someone who might be, please let us know. Include your resume, along with a pdf portfolio which illustrates employment experience, to John Tong at studio@3rduncle.com. (Make sure you mention how you heard about the position.) All applications will be received in the strictest confidence.

John Tong brings the sun back from Mexico

2010-04-05T17:37:00.002-04:00

Travel is always a great opportunity to rejuvenate and find new inspiration. Not sure how John’s recent experience at this fishing village on the Riviera Nayarit in Mexico will show up in a project but these video vignettes definitely inspire a smile.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWurWTcKRug

Watch more of John's videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/3rdUncleDesign.

Model: Art and soul

2010-03-30T16:23:00.001-04:00

The Art Condo Model Suite, designed by 3rd UNCLE has been featured in an article in the National Post. Lisa Van de Ven interviews Arriz Hassam to get insight on the design of the model suite. Read all about it at: http://www.nationalpost.com/homes/story.html?id=2726528

Arriz Hassam gives a talk at Sheridan College

2010-03-30T16:10:00.001-04:00

Arriz was invited to give a lecture at the Design Studio at Sheridan College this week. The subject of the talk was about the relationship between Architecture and Landscape. The talk focused on ideas about creating a sustainable designed dwelling in a natural landscape; in particular the approach to design process and methodology from concept and site surveying to the building process.

Hogs Hollow residence featured in Collections magazine

2010-03-30T15:56:00.000-04:00

Collections magazine is a quarterly real estate magazine distributed with The Globe and Mail Newspaper. This edition features an article on a private residence in Toronto designed by 3rd UNCLE design. See more images on 3rd Uncle's website

3rd Uncle featured in HGTV’s TOP TEN Houses in North America

2010-03-30T10:31:00.000-04:00

The show “HGTV’s Top Ten" showcases the pool area of a private residence as one of the Top Ten pools in North America. The interior design is designed by 3rd uncle design in collaboration with Abramson Teiger Architects from LA. The show features an interview with Arriz Hassam – principal, and commentary from critics speaking about the pool area and games room highlighted in the program.

The games room of the house also made it to the Top Ten and is featured in another episode of season 1.

This residence has also been showcased in Architectural Digest and starred in Repo Men. Here are some additional pics of the interiors (see more on 3rd UNCLE’s website).

The Spa Effect

2010-03-29T11:20:00.000-04:00

A renovation of a private residence by 3rd Uncle was recently published in the February edition of House and Home Magazine.

REPO MEN shot in private residence

2010-03-24T17:50:00.001-04:00

The 2010 film REPO MEN starring Jude Law and Forrest Whittaker was shot on location in Toronto. The design of the private residence was design collaboration of 3rd UNCLE Design and Abramson Teiger Architects from LA. Several of 3rd UNCLE's projects have been chosen as locations for TV shows and commercials.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LN3iaEf2Qg

Renovation to private residence

2010-03-12T15:23:00.000-05:00

3rd UNCLE has just completed the interior renovation of this private residence located in Forest Hill Village. The design focused on key spatial elements to achieve clean contemporary elegance with an underlying sense of ease. We are currently developing designs for the exterior of the brick town house including landscaping to be completed this spring.

Pastabilities

2010-03-12T15:18:00.000-05:00

3rd Uncle Design congratulates Pastabilites on the opening of their first location in Toronto on King Street East at Church Street. Pastabilities is a new fast food concept. Its menu is based on a selection of fresh pasta with sauces made fresh on the premises. 3rd Uncle worked closely with the owners in the development of the branding and spatial concept for this new restaurant. Plans for their next location are underway. Look out for them.

ART Condominium Sales Center

2010-03-12T11:33:00.002-05:00

The Art Condo sales centre is now open to the public. It is located on Dovercourt Road just south of Queen St West in the heart of art district of Toronto. The sales centre is a conversion of an industrial garage converted to a raw gallery space with sales offices and the model suite.

The model suite shows the smallest living space in the condo. The bedroom is located behind large sliding panels that offer privacy and diffused light. The euro size kitchen comes with a custom designed island/counter.

3rd UNCLE also designed custom furniture for the model suite including the bed with a leather headboard and flip down end tables and pull out storage below. The AV unit offers display and storage solutions and has a large sliding. The coffee table is made of solid planks of wood with a metal frame that complements the island. The bathroom includes a large mirror panel with integrated lighting and discreet medicine cabinet.

The model suite has been recently featured in the House and Home Blog. For more information on the ART condo, click here.

IDS10 and Weavers Art: Winner

2010-02-16T15:36:00.001-05:00

3rd Uncle Design is proud to be part of the Weavers Art new ERA collection. Our winning rug design was revealed at the Interior Design Show 2010 in the exhibition “A New Era: Evolution of Rug Artistry”. The limited edition 8’ x 10’ hand-woven rug was part of a silent auction, with proceeds going to RugMark and DAREarts:

RugMark (http://www.goodweave.org/) strives to “end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and to offer educational opportunities to children in South Asia”.
DAREArts (http://www.darearts.com) helps “children find positive alternatives to negative influences in their communities”.

5 Doors North

2010-02-16T15:22:00.001-05:00

Renovations at 5 Doors North, an “uptown Toronto favourite” are almost complete, just in time for Winterlicious 2010

Crystal Clear - Audi Q5

2010-02-16T15:20:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olmH0nk-lxk

3rd UNCLE designed the Audi installation at the Interior Design Show 2009 to introduce the Audi Q5 for the first time outside of the Auto Show circuit. The feature installation was located in the show’s center aisle at the end of the Crystal Clear exhibit featuring Crystallized ™ - Swarovski elements of which Audi Canada is a sponsor. IDS took place at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place in Toronto, and is Canada’s largest contemporary design event.

Introducing the Art Condo

2010-02-16T15:09:00.003-05:00

3rd uncle is designing the interiors for the new Art Condominium located around the corner from the Drake. The project launches this month.

Read about it in the Globe and Mail:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/real-estate/a-condo-for-arts-sake/article1439085/

Project Name: Art Condominiums
Developer: Triangle West Development
Location: 44 Dovercourt Road, Toronto
Architect: Oleson Worland Architects
Interior Designer: 3rd Uncle Design
Neighbourhood: Trinity Niagara, Toronto
Sales Company: MarketVision Real Estate Corporation
Website: http://www.artcondos.ca/

Caught on the Commute

2010-02-16T15:06:00.002-05:00

John Tong gets spotted on Toronto Bike Chic: http://www.torontobikechic.com/2009/10/basket-case.html

Paint it Black

2009-03-19T16:02:00.001-04:00

A preview of a renovation job we're developing in Toronto's west end.

New Project Photos: Vapour

2009-03-06T15:55:00.001-05:00

Photography by:

Jerry Abramowicz

www.jvaphoto.com

New Project Photos: Organic

2009-03-06T15:47:00.001-05:00

3rd UNCLE has designed the new Headquarters for ORGANIC in Toronto. The award winning online advertising and web based design firm relocated and expanded to occupy 3 floors on Adelaide St West in Toronto.

New Project Photos: DDB

2009-03-06T15:42:00.002-05:00

Niagra Escarpment Commission Awards Blue Mountain House

2009-02-18T15:56:00.001-05:00

3rd UNCLE is pleased to receive a Niagara Escarpment Achievement Award for the design of the Blue Mountain House.

"The residence has been carefully sited and designed to blend harmoniously into the landscape. The architectural details, building materials and colors and most importantly the low height and flat roof contribute to a built form that is embraced by the landscape...

"This development is an outstanding example of a building compatible with the open landscape character of the Escarpment in keeping with the highest expectations we might have for the development meeting the objectives of the Niagra Escarpment Planning and Development Act."

- Niagara Escarpment Commission

3rd UNCLE for Audi at IDS09

2009-02-18T15:01:00.002-05:00

3rd UNCLE is pleased to announce the design of the Audi installation at the Interior Design Show 2009. The feature installation is located in the show’s center aisle at the end of the crystalclear exhibit featuring Crystallized ™ - Swarovski elements of which Audi Canada is a sponsor. IDS takes place from February 5th to 8th at the direct energy centre, exhibition place in Toronto, and is Canada’s largest contemporary design event.

Enso

2009-02-18T14:45:00.002-05:00

3rd Uncle is pleased to have been invited by Noriko Maeda to paint three of the 22 circles by her friends, as part for the exhibition.

www.jftor.org

Architectural Digest OPEN AUDITIONS article

2009-02-18T14:16:00.001-05:00

3rd UNCLE is happy to announce the publication of the Private Residence in Architectural Digest Oct 2008 THE ARCHITECTURE ISSUE. This private residence was done in collaboration with Los Angeles architects Abramson Teiger and builder SCE construction Management in Toronto. Photography by Tom Arban.

3rd UNCLE is very pleased to announce the Hogs Hollow residence in Wish Magazine.

2009-02-18T13:57:00.001-05:00

3rd UNCLE is excited to announce the publication of Hogs Hollow private residence in the Best of the Best issue in the November 2008 issue of WISH magazine. The article titled LOVE NEST showcases 3rd UNCLEs home renovation for Asia & Andrew Anthony. This project was also featured in Toronto Life GREAT SPACE this summer.