We’ve been looking forward to the release of this publication since the announcement from powerHouse earlier this year. Carl Aubock’s first American book on his life’s work will be released in a couple of weeks. To celebrate the launch, Mondo Cane will host a reception next Thursday, November 8th. As a dealer of many of Aubock’s rare designs, owner Patrick Parrish appropriately consulted on the title. You’ll be able to purchase the book a few days before its official release date at the reception.

Jean-Philippe Delhomme’s illustrations are instantly recognizable. His spindly colorful characters are synonymous with Glenn O’ Brien’s “The Style Guy” columns on GQ and with his alter ego “The Unknown Hipster.” His adventures are well documented on his blog by the same name, from bowling with Tom Sachs to his wanderings in Bushwick. Descriptively recounted, Delhomme is an insider with an outsider’s perspective, his experiences are to be envied. Since 2009, The Unknown Hipster has made his way to whatever important art or fashion events have taken place as well as reflecting on the quieter moments of his life. A new book will compile the best stories from the blog from a new imprint called August Editions started by Dung Ngo, the senior editor of architecture and design publications at Rizzoli. To celebrate the launch of the book a reception will be held next Thursday at Bookmarc with a second event at Colette on December 15.

House Industries is no stranger to Japan. In the past, they’ve worked with Herman Miller’s Tokyo shop to design a limited edition run of customized LTRs and with French luxury label Hermès to design a window display to promote their fine leather saddles. House now returns to Japan just in time for Tokyo Design Week. They will be taking part in a number of openings, lectures, and events. Starting off with a window display they created for Isetan featuring Baccarat Crystal. Then an unveiling of their collaboration with Hasami Ceramics. The collection will make its debut at Isetan’s Shinjuku store. Then to top it off, House has been invited by Muji to celebrate the one year anniversary of Found Muji. Exclusive House products will be offered as well as a silk screen workshop. The man himself behind the foundry, Andy Cruz will be giving a lecture at Found Muji on November 1st.

Product designers Chen Chen and Kai Williams have devised an ingenious way to kick it off the launch of their online shop. For thirty days the duo will be selling an edition of primitively designed and constructed knives and tools. Dubbed the Shank Shack–a new shank will be unveiled daily for thirty days. They’re on the ninth day today. The shanks are purely an exploration of form and scale, say the designers. It’s up to you to interpret them the way you want. Treat them as art, daily instruments or protection for when you find yourself in harms way.

If you’re a long time reader of The Scout, you’re familiar with our love affair with the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. Not only is it an ideal escape from the city but it also consists of some of the most talented artisans in the state. That’s why when Hudson Made unveiled itself over the summer we were intrigued by its development. They released their line of Fancy Black Soaps made in the Castskills as their initial offering but always had plans to feature other artisans from the region. Last week saw the opening of their online store featuring products for the home and office as well as vintage finds from their travels to flea markets. Hudson Made offers products from the region and beyond that share a philosophy that is rooted in craftsmanship and character. Cutting board oils from Blackcreek Mercantile & Trading Co., wooden spoons from Jonathan Simons, Sara Barner leather goods, and pottery and stoneware from dbO Home are but a few items in their catalog. We’re seeing more and more of these independent online retailers that specialize in small and carefully produced products with an attention to the artisans and we couldn’t be more happier about that.

In a densely populated environment such as New York City, it’s a pleasure to see valuable real estate turn into public spaces. The opening of the High Line and the revitalization of Brooklyn’s waterfronts is a testament to how important these parks are to the enjoyment of the residents and visitors of the city. New Yorkers will have another public space to look forward to when the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park will open to the public. Situated on a triangular plot of land at the tip of Roosevelt Island the memorial was designed by the late great architect, Louis Kahn. The park is reminiscent of Kahn’s design of the Salk Institute in San Diego. The use of concrete coupled with the clean lines provide a dramatic one-point perspective into the East River and opens the space up to sweeping views of the Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn skyline. A lucky few will be able to see the park this Friday during a sold out event for Archtober. The rest of us will be have to wait until it opens next Wednesday, October 24th.