thedude.com » Loft Life

Train Wreck in Jack London Square

thedude — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 01:41:48 +0000

There was a low-speed train accident at the train station a block from our loft last night. Luckily, there were just a few minor injuries.

It was very strange to see the two half-derailed engines.

The Lobby With Lighter Colors

thedude — Sat, 21 May 2011 02:39:05 +0000

I’ve actually started a blog for my neighbors to gather opinions about possible color schemes for our remodel. Here’s another of several examples.

After I rendered this one, I realized that there is a light leak from the right. The small amount of light leaking in from the blue sky accounts for the green tint in the shadow areas of the walls and the blue tint on the dark side of the pillars.

Oops! Still learning.

Mo’ Rendering

thedude — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:11:42 +0000

I’m having so much fun learning SketchUp and Thea Render!

Looking for excuses to create 3D objects, I decided to create a model of the public areas in our building. This could come in very handy, as we are currently working with a designer on updating the 80′s design. This is our building’s lobby with new colors applied.

Light Painting

thedude — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 20:57:47 +0000

I was motivated to take a few shots during a 6 – 1/2 hour power outage last night. I figured the unusual lighting might produce some interesting results. I brought along a flashlight so I could see where I was walking, and figured it might be fun to try and do add drama to my time-exposures by painting in a some light.

Gettin’ Better All the Time

thedude — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:04:02 +0000

Things just keep getting better and better in the Jack London District. It’s been a long time coming, but it seems almost every week, there’s a new and exciting business opening in the area. Last night we dined at a new restaurant two blocks away – Encuentro. The 100% vegetarian menu was 100% delicious. And prices are reasonable. Highly recommended.

This afternoon, a neighbor informed us of the latest addition to the ‘hood – Cerruti Cellars Tasting Room. Just three blocks away, and the wines are great. So convenient, it’s dangerous. We’re already trying to think of some excuse for having a party in the beautifully remodeled space. See you there!

Oakland Marathon!

thedude — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:06:01 +0000

For the first time in 25 years, Oakland played host to a marathon today. Six thousand People of all shapes and sizes come out to run and watch the 26 mile course on a beautiful Sunday morning. I love it. Go Oakland!

1962 – 2009

thedude — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:22:39 +0000

I attempted to recreate exactly the black and white photo, shot in 1962. I took several shots, but could not seem to find the exact spot the original was taken from, but one thing seems clear – the middle of the road has shifted somewhat to the left.

The New Bathroom

thedude — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 01:42:36 +0000

We decided we had had it with the white tile and grimy grout. We decided to go in a completely different direction. We think it was a good decision. I can’t decide what I like most, the fabulous shower or the speakers in the ceiling. :)

The mood around here is definitely up-beat. Turns out we all love the bathroom, except of course, the birds, who are totally mortified by this new dark space. Ahh… Life is good.

Roll over image, click for full-size.

Finally Finished!

thedude — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 23:43:55 +0000

We finally received the last couple bits of the kitchen remodel, so I can finally share the results. Roll over the image for a before and after view.

Roll over image, click for full-size.

Bird Fight!

thedude — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:26:40 +0000

The normal state of affairs as up to eight birds jostle for a seat on one of the two perches.