Macro Testaccio + Big Bambú

Big Bambú week one of installation.

Before leaving Rome, sadly I did not get to see this final installation in person, but I did wander into the open gates at the Macro Testaccio in early November when the Doug + Mike Starn structure was under construction.  As this video unveils, the American architects, in collaboration with Enel for the sixth edition of Enel Contemporanea (and the 50th anniversary of the Enel company), a program whereby hosting international artists to focus on the concept of Energy, have realized a giant bamboo installation specifically for the city of Rome.  Benvenuti a Big Bambú.     

As per Starn Studio:

"This incarnation of Big Bambú eventually rising to 80 to 100' high (25 to 33 meters), is currently being permanently installed at the Macro Museum in the Testaccio district, becoming a symbol [of] the burgeoning neighbourhood and of the museum located within the former stockyards of Rome. The crew is comprised of 15 US based and 10 Italian rock climbers; there is an elevated performance space stage within, and seating for about 50 people. A double helix stair and labyrinth paths take the visitor up over 50' high to two 'living rooms',  and will allow 80 to 120 visitors at a time to wander freely."

Big Bambú view from Macro rooftop. 

Macro Testaccio 

Starn Studio 

 

I {heart} Hedgehogs

Hedgehog ornament from Terrain

The story goes that one day while my husband was still living in Milan, he happened to be driving through his apartment complex when he saw something on the asphalt.  It was a round obstacle of sorts.  He got out of the car to inspect, only to discover the little ball was a little riccio (hedgehog).  The petite quills were stiff as he had created his perfect protection of survival.  My husband gently picked up the little guy and placed him in the nearest garden.  I, however, have never had the delight to see -- or touch -- a riccio in person, but I immediately fell in love with this animal upon hearing the story.  For some reason this small, innocent creature has captured me, and I am constantly delighted when I find well designed objects that harken both the hedgehog and his natural surroundings.

Amanda Seyfried in Vanity Fair photo shoot

Hedgehog wrapping paper from Paper Source

Rainforest Chandelier from Currey & Company

Fungo stools designed by Paola Navone for Riva 1920

Ceramic Hedgehog from Jonathan Adler

Carolina Herrera RTW SS 2013

Carolina Herrera RTW SS 2013

Treetop Chandelier from Currey & Company

Small Riccio and Big Riccio from Trudi

Petrified Wood Stool 16x11x16h from The Philips Collection

Preserved Moss Spheres from Restoration Hardware

Teak Console from The Philips Collection

Birch Wood Pot with Zinc Lining from Terrain

Amanda Seyfried in Vanity Fair photo shoot

Measuring Hedgies from Anthropologie

Mushroom Stool 15x15x18h from The Philips Collection

Azobe Salvaged Wood & Rope Planters from Restoration Hardware

Wild Oak floor lamp from Anthropologie

Carolina Herrera RTW SS 2013

Forest Grey Mosaic design by SICIS

Glowing Hedgehog table lamp from Anthropologie