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Today's Google "doodle" depicts colourful elements key to the methods of Montessori education. The fun graphics is in commemoration of the 142nd birthday of Maria Montessori who is of course known for the philosophy of education that she pioneered.

The Montessori approach is based around learning in an environment in which a number of physical objects are situated to stimulate natural instincts and self-directed learning.

The Children's School in Stamford, Connecticut (both images) is located in Stamford, Connecticut. The design of this Montessori School for children aged 2-8 is based around the concept of a "one room schoolhouse", with each space connected to the next as well as to interior connected to the outdoors. The natural environment was also high on the agenda in the school’s construction with the building obtaining a LEED certification.

Never underestimate the impact of a child's surroundings when it comes to their education...

Let's celebrate education today... And modern architecture of course!

Images: Imagine School Design

Who says you can't wear white after Labor Day? Well, we think you can. But we also think white home decor items, simple pendant lighting, and modern furniture are stylish year-round!

1. Artcraft On the Spot Pendant Light 2. Profuse 19" Round Wall Clock 3. Zuo Wilco White Dining Table 4. Small Glacier Glass White Vase 5. Zuo Carnival White Modular Sofa

Simply put, rock your style no matter what the season!

Image: Fashion Gone Rogue

Why not hold on to Summer as long as possible and just follow it?! This portable beach house design will let you do just that!

Designed by Crosson, Clarke, Carnachan Architects, this home was made to rest within the coastal erosion zone, where all buildings must be removable. So, the "hut" is designed on two thick wooden sleds for movement.

The interiors, like the architecture, were kept simple. But no space should go without modern seating and simple home decor.

What a view! And to think, you could actually turn this home for a different view if you really wanted...

And away they go...

Images: Arch Daily

It's not always bad to be passive, especially when it comes to sustainable building. Passive Houses are starting to stack up worldwide and this means good things for widespread, dramatic impact on energy conservation.

You might be wondering what is a Passive House? Well, this level of sustainable building is a concept that represents today's highest energy standard with the promise of slashing the heating energy consumption of buildings by an amazing 90%!

"Passive" describes the system's underlying receptivity and retention capacity. A Passive House is a very well-insulated, a virtually air-tight building that is primarily heated by passive solar gain and by internal gains from people, electrical equipment, etc.

When architect couple Milena Karanesheva and Mischa Witzmann decided it was time for more space, they decided to give up city life and build a Passive House outside of the French capital. They settled on the small town of Bessancourt, about 17 miles northwest of Paris.

The bamboo that they decided to cover the house in, creates an avoidance of heat gain through shading and window orientation also helps to limit any cooling load, which is similarly minimized.

They incorporated double-flow ducts into the home’s interior, exposing them at various points. They distribute fresh air, keeping temperatures around 66 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 71 degrees in the summer, never going higher than 78. Perfect, right?

They kept the interiors simple and modern through contemporary seating and stylish, modern lighting.

It can't hurt to incorporate even some of the sustainable elements of a Passive House. Ironically, it would be a very determined and progressive step forward for any of us to take on....

Images: Dwell, Green Source

Interior design and branding are a beautiful combination that tell visual stories and create a mood. This Finnish, modern restaurant design, Sis Deli + Cafe does so with bold black and white interior design and packaging. Although this isn't a new restaurant, this sibling design team Muotohiomo, did such an amazing job that it stills seems as fresh today as it did when it opened in 2009.  

These black gingham bags make a statement all on their own, but when mixed with the white subway tiles and the black and white menu board you've got a perfected balance!  

The simplicity of the black counter grounds element into the space. Modern black barstools stand proudly in any interior. The design concept is a very simple look with special attention paid to every detail. Possibly, a modern black pendant light over the counter would have been a great accent and possibly the only thing missing. But then again, we love lighting!

What do you think? Light or No LIght?

Pinnacle Large Black Tech Lighting Mini Pendant Light

Even these black and white gingham cups are perfect. So perfect you wouldn't want to throw them away... 

From the tile, to the packaging, to the tray, to the silverware you've got yourself a beautifully designed and branded restaurant that is sure to create a lasting impression. It's thoughtful, simple, and lasting.  

And I think this says it just right, "The visual image is a kind of tripwire for the emotions." - Diane Ackerman

Images: Sis Deli + Cafe , Muotohiomo