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Sunday, September 5, 2010

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Shaped like a big mound, Drake's Cavern is home to the species of reptiles called Drake. They have evolved from previous large reptiles into a small deadly version no more than 9 feet tall, highly efficient for it's way of living.

Their large claws and horns not only show that they're dangerous but also enables them to easily overpower their prey. Built like a T-Rex, their are able to move quickly on ground. But not even flying creatures are safe as Drake's wings allow them to fly around easily leaving their legs free and usable as a weapon.

It is difficult to defeat this creature as not only is is well adapted, they would also always be close to their group and be able to call for help quickly is in trouble.

Drakes are carnivores and tend to prey on smaller creatures like elks but when hunting in a group, are able to overcome even rhinos. These creatures enjoy a challenge and will sometimes even attack a crocodile to prove their dominance.

Due to their nature and aggressiveness, they live by themselves in their own cavern generally located close to mountains and large plains abundant with animals. Though this may be so, other neighbouring animals have found that it is possible to live close to these drakes. As they are territorial, Drake’s would defend their territory and fend off invaders, protecting their area as well as helping other creatures that live within their area.

In general, drakes do not attack other creatures that do not pose a threat to them unless when they are hunting for food. Even then, the closest creatures living next to them would tend to be quite safe.

The cavern is designed in a way that easily allows Drakes to come and go from it. They are also able to relax on a small platform overlooking a small pond. The two upper entrances allow them to quickly take flight should the situation present itself.

Though it is a cavern, these two entrances also allows light to enter and keeps the cavern from going too damp as there's a small pool on the bottom floor. Though water isn't their element, they enjoy sitting around in cool water during the day when it's hot or after a meal. The hard surface of the cavern is ideal for their as it is cool and also comfortable to their tough skin.

The entrances to the caves also allows sound to exit the cave. Drakes can scare away creatures that may be snooping close to their home by ‘roar-ing’ in their cave. The shape of the cave amplifies the volume and this then frightens other creatures to back off.

Within their own group, Drakes have a leader which basically requires him to organize the hunting party and lead the group should there be trouble about. The leader is respected by the others and has his own territory within the cavern.

His job to maintain organization within the group is simple as drakes tend not to be hot headed and understand one another well. This keeps them together and does not allow them to get picked off by their enemies.

Their cavern is easily accessible but who would enter their lair?

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Architect - Roy Mason

Roy Mason
29th June 1938 - 19th May 1996
Yale University School of Architecture - Masters

Works
Xanadu (1979-1983)
Star Castle
Experimental School built from insulation in Virginia
Mushroom House in Bethesda
Exhibits for the Capital Children's Museum

Roy Mason was the architecture editor of THE FUTURIST where he was part of the group that founded the world Future Society. He was also the first Executive Director of the Home Automation Association.
He was deeply interested about future architecture and thus produced a series of articles of the future. To raise awareness, he had produced a 'stunning slide show', winning a wide spread applause which was later produced in quantity and distributed. His film entitled "Toward the Future" was used by educators to teach the study of the future.

Though his heart was in innovative ideas and futuristic architecture, he earned his living by designing traditional-style homes. In the 1970s and 1980s, he built a variety of futuristic homes and other buildings using low cost materials and alternative energy sources.
He also invented architronics which was demonstrated in the Xanadu homes.

"He inspired us all with his enthusiasm and creative genius. We shall sorely miss him."

- Edward Cornish
THE FUTURIST Society President

Xanadu: The Retro Foam House of the Future

Xanadu Foam House, Cyriaque Lamar

Xanadu was first designed by Bob Masters and Roy Mason which started in Dells, Wisconsin. The home was run by electronic servants, commodore computer systems managed everything. This building attracted 1000 travelers a day maximum. However people became disinterested and it was closed due to the lack of interest. Eventually mold began to deteriorate the Xanadu home's structure and was then torn down in the 90s.

Xanadu Foam House, Cyriaque Lamar

What interests me in this architecture is the form of it. The shapes used are organic and can be easily linked to nature. Though it looks simple and natural, it was quite high-tech in the sense that it was entirely run was electronics. The exterior is plain but does not reveal the shape of the interior. Inside, it is filled nature's colours and forms of plants. Much more sophiscated than the exterior.

Star Castle, 1983

Star Castle, Ed Roman

Located in New Fairfield, Connecticut, Star Castle was built in 1983 by Roy Mason. Its form is similar to that of the Xanadu homes. But what interest me most about this is the location.

Star Castle, Ed Roman

From this view, it is as if the building is on a rocky hill. Everything is natural except the building. This gives it a sense of identity and thus stands out in its environment.