Nettleton 198 | SAOTA

I’m excited to introduce a fresh Architecture section to the blog as, wait for it… fun fact… I actually have a Bachelor’s in Architecture from the University of Minnesota (Go Gophers!). So architecture, and design in general, is still a strong inspiration to me, and many, to think creatively. Architecture is continually cited by many musicians (Kanye West comes to mind… remember his blog?) as an influence in their art; in a lot of subtle ways, architecture is an influence in the website you see before you, Gowhere Hip Hop. I’m excited to spotlight some new and existing projects across the world – some all-time and future *Tibs Favs. (so to speak, hah!) that catch my eye. Hope you enjoy.

For starters, I’m spotlighting a new, 6-bedroom house in Cape Town, South Africa titled ‘Nettleton 198’ – designed by one of my favorite firms SAOTA (I’ve blogged about them on my personal tumblr page a couple times). As you can browse in the slideshow above, there are some gorgeous views and the overall design adapts to the existing site so the user can experience the natural features from within the house. In general, I love the incorporation of water, open views, wide and large glass windows… Nettleton has it all. And most definitely, this gorgeous structure is on the short list of my ‘Tibs’ Future Places to Live In’ text file, hah. More info and pics via ArchDaily.

Lollapalooza 2012 Interviews

What an awesome weekend Lollapalooza was this year. Chicago was filled with entertainment from morning to night. This year, Govia and I got to cover the festival and the after parties. Not only did we listen to your favorite songs from your favorite artists, but we got to talk to a few of them. Check out this Lollapalooza recap that was put together for all of you who couldn’t attend or just want to relive the experience. The interviews include artists who took over the Perry Stage such as Bassnectar, Paper Diamond, Zedd, DJ Zebo, and Zeds Dead who talk about what it takes to become an artist and the use of all the production these days. Also, Black Sabbath‘s keyboardist Adam Wakeman talks to us about the few shows this year with Ozzy Osbourne. This recap also includes many more performances at Lollapalooza such as The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino, Red Hot Chili Peppers and more from after parties at the Hard Rock Hotel. Enjoy!

Interviews & Filmed by: Samantha Lebbos & Govia

Chief Production Editor: Jessica Nowak

Miguel Interview with Gowhere Hip Hop @ Lolla

What a great way to launch Lollapalooza weekend by interviewing Miguel. I was so excited watching him perform at the Hard Rock Hotel for the Soul Sounds Pre-Lolla Kickoff Party. Not only did we get to watch him perform live (“All I Want Is You” & “Quickie” seen above), we got to talk to him on the red carpet. Watch and get the inside scoop on his new album and why he is releasing two EPs of songs from the album before releasing Kaleidoscope Dream in full on October 2. You’d be surprised by his answer. He also tells us what is the one food he can’t live without. Enjoy!

 Interview by: Samantha Lebbos

Filmed by: Sgt. Tibs

Edited by: Jessica Nowak

TopShop Chicago Opening

UK based store TopShop is set to open its doors at 10:30 AM Thursday, September 8th at 830 North Michigan Avenue here in Chicago. Prior to opening, the trendy British brand has creatively sparked hype in Chicago fashionistas. They have had a secret store concept space for months, featuring pieces by a few elite designers, hand-picked by the team for sale to the public at 900 North Michigan, space #519. TopShop’s fashion truck has been hitting the streets, handing out Union Jack scarves, and just yesterday: free totes with gift cards worth up to $100.

Designers Simone Rocha and Michael van der Ham collaborated on pieces arriving in Chicago today. It is rumored that Rihanna will design a line for TopShop; she has worked with the brand last year styling 5 lucky ladies at the Oxford Circus store in London. This years Autumn/Winter 11/12 collection seems to be right out of Cruella De Vil’s closet featuring an array of dalmation themed garments from shrugs, jackets, dresses, to the model’s hair and makeup.

During Lollapalooza they threw a star-studded after party featuring performances by Tinie Tempah, DJ Kid Colour, and DJ Moneypenny. No doubt their opening event Thursday night during Fashion’s Night Out, will draw crowds especially with rumored guests Prince and Janet Jackson, and tentatively performing is Kanye West, shutting down Michigan Ave. The British company definitely knows how to make their mark in the Windy City; they aren’t just selling clothes but an experience with the brand and I can not wait to see what comes next from TopShop!