Moscow School of Management Skolkovo

Wouldn't you love to attend a school this stunning? From  designer David Adkaye, the Moscow School of Management is clad herringbone patchwork glass and  colored panels.  View more images and read about the intricate details at Dezeen.

The Russian Vodka Room

I simply couldn't turn down an invite to the Russian Vodka Room. The dimly lit dining space survives on regulars and youngish couples warm with affection. To boot, the bar is decent sized with sunken back tables behind curtains- all serenaded by a piano player that occasionally sets his head down to rest.

Large vats of in-house flavored vodka are served in 2 ounce pours for $6. I chose the dill & garlic, my company, the horseradish. Sipped on the rocks, both were gorgeous enough to request a second. To be honest, I haven't been able to shake my affection for the venue. I'm planning to return soon- maybe tomorrow. Perhaps I'll sample the eats at some point as well.

image: via

spotlight: Lise Sarfati

As featured in New York magazine, French artist Lise Sarfati's work has been compiled in to a photographic book: depicting Russia, post communism. Without any voyeurism, Sarfati unveils a culture through colors which communicate an industrial dream era. Consider the second photo from the top: two homosexual boys coming of age at the same time as their homeland. Within the deep gloom, Sarfati's photos embrace this transitional period following the collapse of communism. Much of her subject matter leans to the traditional Russian country homes- in contrast with Soviet-era construction and disaffected youth.