United Nude
www.unitednude.com

It all started off with one architect's broken heart and his desire to create something meaningful from his loss.

Rem D. Koolhaas, the punky nephew of Pomo megastar Rem Koolhaas, has launched a new shoe company called United Nude. Each shoe is inspired by a mid-century modern design concept. This is reflected in every step of the design process, from conceptual charrettes through the customized packaging of each shoe.

Take for example the heel of the 'Eamz' shoe, which gives direct reference to a chair by Ray and Charles Eames. Also in the collection is the Mobius chair, whose lines are literally translated from the Barcelona Chair, designed by former Bauhaus director Mies Van Der Rohe for the International Exposition in 1929.

My personal favorite is the 'Porn' shoe. This sexy design features two independent pieces: a highly arched footbed that slides into a wide loop which provides both heel and upper support.

More pictures of the collection are posted in my photo gallery -- take a peek!