December 16, 2015

"Frost Flowers" Form an Ethereal Meadow of Ice Crystals Around Japan's Lake Akan

When the weather dips below -15C (5F), a beautiful natural phenomenon can occur, producing a fractal flourish of ice known as “frost flowers.” These delicate blooms are made entirely of ice crystals that grow in patches around three to four centimeters in diameter. They are specific to thin lake ice in calm weather conditions, and they form in a branching, tree-like pattern that mimics a rose or petal.

Read Article



December 11, 2015

Contemporary Round Homes Designed to Withstand Over 1,500 Lbs. of Snow

Russian company Skydome has created a series of dwellings that revolve around a contemporary rounded structure. Now under development in the Moscow region, these wooden two-story half-spheres feature a spacious, modern interior with an open floor plan. Best of all, they are relatively inexpensive to build—especially when compared to the price of a studio apartment in Moscow.

Read Article


December 11, 2015

Designer Turns Salvaged Wood Fragments into Gorgeous Handmade Jewelry

Melbourne-based designer Britta Boeckmann has a talent for creating absolutely gorgeous, handmade jewelry. Transforming wood and resin into a diverse array of eye-catching pendants and rings, the artist sells her stunning accessories through her Etsy shop, BoldB. All pieces are decidedly understated, with a simplistic quality that accentuates the natural characteristics of the materials she works with.

Read Article