featherandmint

[featherandmint]

And for those wondering how Times Square has transformed over the years . . . 

[featherandmint]

In this beautifully shot short film by the guys at stereoscreen the rhythm of New York City has been remixed, audibly and visually, by capturing the eclectic syncopation of culture and fashion that make New York City a global city. When visiting however, we'd highly recommend staying in the neighborhoods where you're least likely to come across a huge neon McDonald's sign. They'll provide the kind of contrast you need to truly appreciate New York in all its flavors. 

[featherandmint]

Give the gift of Local.

Adrian and I have been discussing a lot about what the content of the Feather & Mint blog should be about. At the end of the day, we want this to be the platform through which our members and the general community can gain some insight into our thought process. As designers, maybe even specifically as architects and landscape architects, we can’t help but think about Feather & Mint in terms of a larger picture concerning the future of cities and travel. Much of our work together and individually throughout the years has been rooted in an obsession with what makes places special. With the emergence of the “sharing economy” and in particular, the service provided by Airbnb, we felt that there was a great opportunity to make a difference by connecting local mission-driven businesses with the travel industry. We feel it is incredibly important to highlight the unbelievable work being done by passionate entrepreneurs in diverse experiential categories, from delicious and down-right inventive chocolates and treats to fragrant organic soaps that carry with them a story of love and reverence.

What we loved of the Airbnb experience is that at the heart of it, one person is sharing something of themselves with an another. Whether its a simple recommendation to visit a hidden gem of a restaurant, a detailed description of how their house “really” works, or a special treat procured from a fantastic new bakery. These affinities are currently shared in different ways and what Feather & Mint does is simplify the process by packaging everything a host needs to communicate a great experience to their guest in the form of a welcome kit. By becoming a member, you’d never have to worry about printing out your own neighborhood guide or worry about forgetting to pick up shampoo and soap from the store -- we’d supply all of that and more.

All that being said, fair warning. We’re also big nerds who can easily geek out to our various interests whether they be experimental camera techniques in cinematography, developments in 3D printing, or waxing poetic on french philosophers. We hope you’ll indulge us and our thoughts as we continue to craft a trully special experience between travelers, hosts, and the passionate entrepreneurs who are driving their local economies forward.

--  George

@georgevaldes