Arc-IT-Studio Jamaica

Repost: Absent Architects Hurting Buildings...

2017-03-08T16:37:00.000+09:30

Absent Architects Hurting Buildings - UTech-Trained Professionals Failing To Find Jobs In Jamaica Despite Shortage

Gleaner Repost:
Published:Sunday | March 5, 2017 | 3:00 AMMark Titus

Less than 10 per cent of the more than 500 architects who have graduated from the Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA) at the University of Technology in the past 20 years have been able to find jobs in Jamaica.

This has forced many of the graduates to seek employment in other countries or in unrelated fields.

"We graduate 40 students at CSA and another 10 in the master's programme each year, but only an average of six get jobs locally, so our students are all over the world where there is greater regard for the role of the architect," registered architect and former UTech lecturer, Julie Sullivan Jones, told The Sunday Gleaner.

Hard To Gain Employment

"These students spend a total of 10 years to gain their master's degree in architecture, working while studying or borrowing student's loan to fund their tuition, but find it hard to gain employment in their field, so we find many of our graduates in China, Russia, Dubai and Canada ... even though there is a shortage in Jamaica," added Sullivan Jones.

She noted that Jamaica, with the only such training facility in the English-speaking Caribbean, has one of the lowest architect-to-population ratios, with 98 registered practitioners.

"There is a high demand for architects in Jamaica, but owners don't hire architects, because we are seen as slowing down the process or adding more to the cost. So they pay draftsmen to draw a building plan and it is passed by the municipal corporations, even though we have a building act that states that all building plans must be stamped and approved by a registered architect," added Sullivan Jones.

According to Sullivan Jones, who lectured at CSA for more than seven years, the reluctance to use trained professionals could be a contributing factor to a decline in standards that has resulted in some major projects suffering partial collapses in recent times.

"A draftsman can draw, but many times they don't offer the important qualities needed for Caribbean detailing and architecture," argued Sullivan Jones, who will be a keynote speaker at the inaugural staging of Build Expo in Montego Bay, St James, this summer.

Vital Role

"The architect plays a vital role in the building industry, because we are trained to see the complexities ahead of time. This process does not exclude the draftsmen to draw these plans, but the involvement of architects must be enforced. We are able to reduce operation cost by as much as 30 per cent, by placing a building on a site and using all architectural placements to save energy.

"The architect goes by the building code, placing columns where they should be, ensuring the appropriate concrete mix, because public and building safety is our priority," she said,

"The emphasis must be placed on safety ... on protecting lives, especially with the disasters we have seen in some of our hotels, we must ensure that qualified building professionals are supervising these projects," added Sullivan Jones.

According to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management 70 per cent of Jamaica's buildings are designed without professional (architects and engineers) input.

This is expected to change when a new building act, which is being prepared with support from the World Bank, replaces the current 109-year-old legislation.

Are architects worth the hire?

2014-03-02T10:54:00.001+09:30

Last Updated 2009
Reblog:

Local architects point out that their fees are easily negotiated. Fees are also guided by a recommended scale from the Jamaica Institute of Architects, notes Christopher Whayms-Stone president of Jamaica Institute of Architects and partner in the firm Corner Stone Design Limited.

In general, it is recommended that architects are paid seven per cent of the estimated construction cost.

This percentage may go up for smaller units and go down for larger construction projects. On a building costing $5 million to build, the recommended scale of fee is 7 per cent of the construction cost.

For homes in Cherry Gardens and Norbrook where $50 million is often spent on construction, design costs alone, he says, is $1.5 million. In general, rates are not fixed and negotiated between architect and client.

According to Christopher Whayms-Stone, what the architect provides on completion of his work is a quality product with good aesthetics, "proportionally, volume-metrically and functionally."

The architect's work affects ventilation and good quality lighting. Rooms should not be too small or so large that they are a waste of space.

For the average seven per cent that they will charge, the architect, Whayms-Stone states, provides a services which is much more than a "drawing". This service is inclusive of :

*Schematic design'
*Design development'
*Construction documentation phase
*Tender phase
*Contract administration phase

The schematic design is produced after the architect meets with client and discusses the scope of work. The architect then puts pen to paper and takes the clients idea and professional input and creates a product.

In the development phase, if the client is pleased after the schematic phase, the architect proceeds to detail the project and investigate use of materials, the quality of the site and the finishes required.

In the documentation phase, drawings are prepared which will be used of Parish Council approval and give to contractors for construction. These documents can be used any where in world Christopher Whayms-Stone notes.

In the tender stage the architect prepares a package based on architectural drawing and engineering drawings. With the services of quantity survey, a bill of quantities is prepared. The architect then costs everything.

The project will then be submitted to three or four building contractors who will suggest rates and prices based on what they know they can provide. At the end of process architect and quantity surveyor chooses the best offer.

In the construction administration phase, a contract is signed to construct the building and the architect then proceeds to make sure that the building is being built to the specifications of the drawing. Each month wit the assistance of the quantity surveyor he or she will ensure how much work has been done and determine what is to be paid to the contractor each month.

Christopher Whayms-Stone notes that "some clients only want you to do a schematic design to take this and raise funds. Some want the service all the way up to construction.

Still others provide their own contractor and may hire their own project manager to administer the contract. Based upon what aspect of the architects services they want, a price can be negotiated.

In general, professional fees come to ten per cent of construction costs - architects, engineers, quantity and land surveyor.

Whayms-Stone notes that the architect brings to the table efficiency, especially in the use of funds.

Having spent $10 million, he or she can give you a house which his worth almost two times that in terms of resale value. The architect avoids overspending and balances the design to fit the budget.

*Avia.Collinder@gleanerjm.com. Email Christopher Whyms-Stone at stonec@kasnet.com.

Last updated: November 03, 2009

Source:

Palladium Resort Rejects Casino Carrot - Reconsidering 800-Room Expansion

2014-01-10T08:45:00.001+09:30

The proposal as laid out by the Ministry of Finance, he said, requires investment of about US$1.2 billion, which no investor would be prepared to drop within the time frame proposed, especially since the Jamaican economy is still to prove itself under the new IMF bailout.

"We would not be able to start construction in time for 2014. We are absolutely unwilling to start construction in the middle of the season. We would have to wait until sometime in May or June in order to be ready in 2016," Kosvogiannis said.

Requests for proposal opened on June 1. The bid deadline is September 30.

US$300m plan

Grand Palladium Jamaica previously announced a US$300m plan to add another 805 rooms to an existing 1,056 at Point, Hanover, to position itself for one of the three casino licences to be issued by the Jamaican government.

Kosvogiannis had hoped to secure a casino licence prior to and as justification for adding hundreds of new rooms to Palladium's existing hotel property in Hanover.

But the proposal does not appear to fit into the guidelines developed by the Government.

The casino legislation requires construction of 1,000 rooms prior to the issue of the licence, and another 1,000 on a predetermined schedule after the licence is in hand.

"We need an amendment that will allow variations. We have offered to do a complete refurbishment of our existing rooms and add a new set over time, but the legislation calls for 2,000 new rooms," said Kosvogiannis.

"Variations or permutations of the legislation would be welcome," he said.

As specified in the RFP, the proposed resort development is expected to include a minimum of 2,000 rooms of which no less than 1,000 should be ready for occupancy prior to the start of the casino-gaming activities.

"The call for new rooms as well as the timeline linking the provision of licence to the first 1,000 new rooms is the reason why the chain will not be applying at this time. Further, the failure to state what allowance might be given for the additional 1000 rooms in terms of delivery time, is problematic," Kosvogiannis added.

The RFP states that proposals will be evaluated on the committed investments.

"All else being equal, proposers that commit to a higher development/ investment outlay before the first issuance of the casino licence, will be viewed more favourably," the document states.

The proposals will also be assessed on the distinctiveness and quality of architecture that will differentiate the IRD from other IRDs internationally.

"This includes an iconic design which considers façade and roof design, greenery provision, and treatment of building crowns."

The finance ministry requires a non-refundable bid fee of US$150,000 (J$15m) to facilitate due diligence, a cost Kosvogiannis said was prohibitive.

"The deposit, with all due respect, is excessive. If we present an RFP, due diligence is redundant. It's excessive and redundant," the hotel executive said.

He notes that construction expenses for the first 1,000 new rooms will include a payment of about US$1 million (J$100m) to the local parish council for plan approval and that the development of the rooms and casino facilities could reach US$1.2 billion.

Land surveyor Gordon Langford agrees that the IRD might run to US$1 billion in cost. But he sees the requirement for proof of land ownership as potentially more problematic.

"One thing that strikes you is they want you to prove that you own land" before the proposal is accepted, said Langford.

"It does not work like that," he said. "A casino operator will not buy land on the likelihood that maybe he might get the licence."

The RFP notes that Government, through the Urban Development Corporation, is willing to facilitate land acquisition for bidders who do not own property, but Langford said government procurement rules could derail efforts at a side deal.

"For the UDC to sell land, they have to advertise it generally. The person who wants that land has to fight with others who might want it. If is a prized piece of land it might be quite difficult. That route is fraught with problems," the land surveyor said.

Meantime, Grand Palladium's plan for the construction of new rooms won't get underway for "about a year" and could potentially be shelved.

"We are not saying that we are not building the extra rooms, but for us to be able to go forward we need guarantees. The Government has to be observant of the options which are realistic and those which are not," said Kosvogiannis.

"We are prepared to do the 1,000 rooms immediately, but we would need assurances to go forward. The Government, in its desire to attract this kind of development, may need to be lenient when it comes to the second phase. The legislation does not stipulate when the 1,000 rooms need to be finished."

Palladium has not totally given up on its casino ambitions. The hotel group has recently rebranded from Fiesta and Kosvogiannis says he is currently wrapping up assignments relating to rebranding of other properties in the group, as well as the opening of a new resort in Ibesa.

Thereafter: "The first thing on my agenda will be to restart discussions with the minister of finance (Dr Peter Phillips)," he told the Financial Gleaner.

"There should be a re-examination of the requirements especially in relation of the second 1,000 rooms. No one will present plans for immediate construction of 2,000 rooms. I don't believe those candidates are knocking on our door, and I draw examples from Harmonisation, Palmyra and our own experience," he said.

business@gleanerjm.com

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130607/business/business1.html

The Louis Berger Group Begins Work on Jamaica North-South Highway Project

2014-01-10T08:40:00.000+09:30

Published: June 10, 2013 6:02 PM

The Louis Berger Group, Inc. (Louis Berger) has started work on a new economic corridor highway project designed to improve travel and promote economic development in Jamaica.

Morristown, N.J. (PRWEB) June 10, 2013

The Louis Berger Group, Inc. (Louis Berger) has started work on a new economic corridor highway project designed to improve travel and promote economic development in Jamaica. Louis Berger is providing program and construction management for the North-South Highway project, a $740 million investment in new transportation infrastructure in Jamaica.

âWe are pleased to offer our expertise managing large construction programs to the development of a corridor that will link the north and south regions of Jamaica and improve and sustain local economies through transportation,â said Tom Lewis, Louis Berger group vice president of U.S. Operations.

The North-South Highway project includes the construction of a two-way, four-lane expressway spanning 68 kilometers that will provide the most efficient travel route between vital economic centers in the north-south regions.

Louis Bergerâs resident staff will provide quality oversight of project design, engineering and construction to ensure compliance with Jamaican regulations and international standards.
The project is anticipated to boost tourism and commercial trade by improving service level and transport ability along the corridor.

Through the duration of the project, Louis Berger will ensure the project is delivered to specifications within the project schedule and budget. Construction is expected to be completed in 2016.

About The Louis Berger Group, Inc.

The Louis Berger Group, Inc. is an internationally recognized consulting firm that provides architecture, engineering, program and construction management, disaster response/recovery, environmental planning and science and economic development services. We are a trusted partner to federal, state and local government agencies; multilateral institutions and commercial industry. To this diverse client base, we bring strategic vision and an entrepreneurial spirit, developing innovative solutions to some of the worldâs most challenging problems. With a resource base of more than 6,000 professionals and affiliate employees in more than 50 countries, we are able to respond to local conditions while providing clients with the technical resources and rapid response capabilities of a leading global organization.

For the original version on PRWeb visit:http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2013/6/prweb10818666.htm

Runway Expressions At SoHO - Lifestyle - JamaicaObserver.com

2014-01-10T08:28:00.001+09:30

Runway Expressions At SoHO - Lifestyle - JamaicaObserver.com

Runway Expressions At SoHO

Comfortable spaces in which to pause and ponder the next acquisition.

"SoHo," explains owner Michele Coulton, comfortably seated in the office of her 1,000-sq ft boutique, "is recognised as one of the top boutiques in the country, and the authority on fashion."

Indeed, the visually appealing space, where the client is an active participant in the architecture and the exhibition of merchandise, was created by one of Jamaica's top interior designers, Tanja Kay of Interiorscapes. The spacious walk-through feel, featuring built-in units on both side walls, creates a balanced atmosphere that does not encroach on the space. The runway, which dominates the centre of the space — a great spot to watch the collections on the screen — creates a clearly defined traffic flow that pulls the customer in.

The built-in displays create focal points with small vignettes and storage, an important element in the design, we glean from Kay, who did not wish to take away from limited square footage.

"To create the illusion of space," Kay explained, "we painted the ceiling and walls white... used many shades of white and played with textures of white: the slightly glossy white on the ceiling, the matte white walls, the shiny white of the built-in fixtures, the cool white 'Corian' on the sales desk, a rougher texture of matte white laminate on the runway and the reflective quality of the mirrors and brushed nickel hardware. All these elements helped to create the illusion of space."

To avoid a clinical look, Kay introduced shades of grey, which also helped to introduce focal points within the boutique, such as the dark grey main wall, which forms the backdrop to the runway and sales desk. "This is an anchor wall in the space," shared Kay. "It forms the wall for branding and a private area for the dressing rooms."

Tucked off to the side and rear of the dressing rooms is an informal sitting area, in a light shade of grey, where clients can sit and relax. This area, said Kay, "was painted a lighter shade of grey not only for its soothing value, but to convey an illusion of depth to the store".

The use of simple elements, understated displays, a colour scheme of white and grey — all enhance the effect the merchandise has on SoHo's clientele. There's a rationale behind these neutral colours: they form the backdrop to the clothing and accessories; therefore, not competing with the ever-changing colour trends of the fashion industry. Runway interior aside, Coulton and her team are as thrilled as their customers with the new endroit. "This new location — we've been here for two months — allows us to better serve our SoHo women while rebranding and putting our fresh face forward," reveals Coulton. Twenty-four-hour security, ample parking and an overall beautiful environment ensure an easy and pleasant shopping experience for customers. "We believe in our brand as we have always handpicked and perfectly packaged an assortment of pieces," explains the boutique owner. "Service is everything to us... we have managed to remain relevant due to hand-selecting each and every product in the store.

"Shopping at SoHo is like walking into the closet of your most fashionable friend with runway and contemporary lines like BCBG and Comfy USA, as well as select European pieces... we are known for our amazing accessories and handbags."

Papine Woes Due To Unqualified Decision Makers

2014-01-10T07:52:00.000+09:30

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20131123/letters/letters5.html

During this week alone, The Gleaner has taken three passes at the profession of architecture and/or the Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA) at the University of Technology. (See Tuesday, November 19 editorial 'Papine's potential going to waste'; Thursday, November 21 Letter of the Day, 'Feng shui to solve crime'; and the Financial Gleaner of November 22, Mr Aubyn Hill's 'Building blockades'.

The first two writers could have got the answers simply by calling CSA and talking to the head of school, Dr Rohan Bailey, who would have informed them that the school is involved in the neighbouring Papine community through the Faculty of the Built Environment. We have on the table proposals for the improvement of the area, for the consideration of the community and GOJ, involving local councillors and two local MPs, Messrs André Hylton and Damian Crawford, and with a local development group, PDAC (Papine Area Development Committee).

The ideas are diverse and expansive and seek to elevate the district to that of a university town linking city and countryside for the benefit of all, with wide-ranging public projects and enticing potential private-sector ones intended to significantly improve the area for the benefit of all.

Lack of support

Every year, CSA does educational studies within communities in Kingston, throughout Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, as part of our mandate (now 25 years on) to educate future architects for the Anglo-Caribbean. These often remain unknown as public- and private-sector members, though often invited, never seem to have the time to visit our exhibitions. Those who come can attest to their high standards.

A simple answer to Mr Hill's article of why we struggle with development lies in the fact that for the first time in our history, Jamaica and the English-speaking Caribbean are producing all the qualified professionals needed to carry out our built-environment deve-lopment, yet very few are employed to local government offices and agencies and fewer to the parish councils.

So we keep unqualified people making decisions and are forced to export the qualified ones to places where their skills and advice will be appreciated and remunerated. We then import professionals from overseas to carry out many of our important local projects. The politicians in both parties know this, and resist making the changes for their own ends. There is more if anyone really cares to hear.

L. MARK TAYLOR

Vice-Dean, Faculty of the Built Environment, UTech

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20131123/letters/letters5.html

Pickersgill Tells The Tale Of 'Fascinating Falmouth'

2014-01-10T07:50:00.000+09:30

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140105/arts/arts3.html

Jamaica's Fascinating Falmouth tells a story of the historic

town of Falmouth, interwoven with wealth, politics, religion and

rebellion in the fight for the emancipation of an enslaved

population. In the 21st century, the coming of mega ships

inspired a new, exciting port development and provided the

economic impetus for which the town of Falmouth had long

awaited. It was designed to reflect the rich architectural

heritage and Georgian theme of the town while providing the

modern technical services and facilities demanded by passengers.

The author, Fay Pickersgill, highlights information not widely

known about the capital of the parish of Trelawny. She takes the

reader on an interesting historical journey that goes back in

time beyond the Georgian architecture. She paints a picture of

the once-prosperous Jamaican town that played a central role in

the economy during the plantation era and the exciting social

life that attracted the gentry from far and wide.

Pickersgill, a former director of tourism and the first head of

the Tourism Action Plan, the forerunner of the Tourism Product

Development Company spent most of her childhood years living in

Trelawny with her parents. Her fascination with Falmouth

continued during her work in tourism development and, more

recently, as project manager with responsibility for

coordinating different aspects of the historic Falmouth Cruise

Port Development Project.

In the book, she traces the rapid development of Falmouth, which

was founded in 1769 during the period when sugar was king. It

was a cosmopolitan and sophisticated urban centre of activity

for the wealthy, and boasted piped water before New York City.

The author tells of the high level of economic activity

reflected in the many ships that docked at the port. Readers

also get a peek at market days when the enslaved had the

opportunity to sell their ground provisions. She suggests that

today's 'bend down' market concept grew out of the Falmouth

market days, which attracted many persons from out of town.

The author also provides interesting information on the Churches

of Falmouth and the significant contribution of the non-

conformist Churches to the struggles of enslaved persons leading

up to the abolition of slavery and Emancipation. National Hero

Sam Sharpe and abolitionist William Knibb are also featured.

highlighting notable Jamaicans

By including descriptions of major heritage attractions of the

town and highlighting some of the notable Jamaicans who claim it

as their birth parish, the author underscores the importance of

Falmouth's contribution to the island's impressive heritage.

Those acknowledged include former prime minister, the late Hugh

Lawson Shearer; Olympic legend Usain Bolt and other outstanding

sportsmen and sportswomen; the late Professor Rex Nettleford;

and renowned artist, the late Albert Huie.

She also points out that when sugar began to decline, so did the

fortunes of Falmouth, and eventually, the town sank into

economic dormancy. However, she explains that in the first

decade of the 21st century, hopes were renewed with the

upgrading and expansion of the Falmouth Port to accommodate the

arrival of the world's largest cruise ship.

The book should provide an opportunity for Jamaicans to learn

more about Falmouth and its significant role not only in the

development of Jamaica, but also within the international scope

of world economics and politics. Readers will be able to

appreciate the heritage of the town and should expect the book

to spark an interest in Jamaica's heritage tourism.

Acclaimed photographer, Ray Chen, provides exquisite photography

as well as other images from a variety of sources.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140105/arts/arts3.html

Former MP calls for education programmeto address building concerns in Falmouth - Western News - JamaicaObserver.com

2014-01-10T07:44:00.001+09:30

Former MP calls for education programme
to address building concerns in Falmouth - Western News - JamaicaObserver.com

FORMER Member of Parliament for North Trelawny Wendell "Bull Bull" Stewart has called on the Trelawny Parish Council and other stakeholders to undertake an initiative, in an effort to educate owners of buildings in Falmouth, about the stipulations laid down by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), aimed at preserving the historic town's Georgian architecture.

"The parish council needs to decipher a misunderstanding. They (residents) need to understand what they are protecting, so that they can better buy into the idea, and I think that is where the breakdown is. They (stakeholders) have not been able to win the landowners in Falmouth because it is not being sold properly," said Stewart, who is also a resident of that north coast town.

Dr Ivor Conolley (left), executive director of Falmouth Heritage Renewal (FHR), makes a presentation to former North Trelawny MP Wendell Stewart, during a Wine and Cheese mingle staged at the historic Falmouth pier by the FHR, recently.

1/1

He explained, for instance, that home owners should be informed that they are only required to maintain Georgian-styled architecture to the front of their buildings, as opposed to the false notion held by many that the entire structure should be of Georgian architecture.

"We need to tell people what we are asking them to preserve, and at times assist where possible. They (JNHT) want to preserve the external look (of the buildings) that faces the streets and so on. But what you do beyond that is basically on your own and people don't understand that," Stewart argued.

JNHT, in 1997, proclaimed sections of Falmouth a heritage district in an effort to regulate and preserve the Georgian town.

As a result, no infrastructure development, large-scale or domestic, can take place in those areas without the heritage watchdog's approval, and all development must conform to the Georgian theme.

But the preservation of the town's predominantly Georgian-styled buildings is oftentimes viewed by developers and owners of buildings alike, as a retrograde step.

Meanwhile, Dr Ivor Conolley, executive director of Falmouth Heritage Renewal and president of the Georgian Society of Jamaica, is urging residents to preserve their dwellings, arguing that the smaller buildings, especially, "should be used as a memory of the emancipated slaves who bought them."

"A lot of people say it (the buildings) reminds us of slavery and master and all of this kind of things. But a lot of these buildings weren't built by these people (slave masters), they were built by us, who when we got our freedom, what money we had, and what money we earned we take and build these small buildings," Dr Conolley said.

Both Stewart and Dr Conolley were speaking to the Jamaica Observer West during a Wine and Cheese mingle, staged at the historic Falmouth pier by the Falmouth Heritage Renewal in an effort to raise funds to assist in improving buildings in Falmouth.

The Falmouth Heritage Renewal, established 10 years ago, is funded privately.

Meanwhile, Stewart was recognised by the Falmouth Heritage Renewal for the upkeep of his family house at 22 Cornwall Street, Falmouth, bought by his parents in an auction in the early 1940s, for a £35 price tag.

KSAC demolishes building

2011-07-05T09:08:00.000+09:30

Architectural Lighting: Designing with Light and Space / Hervé Descottes with Cecilia E. Ramos

2011-06-18T10:17:00.000+09:30

Architectural Lighting: Designing with Light and Space / Hervé Descottes with Cecilia E. Ramos: "

As part of Architecture Briefs series, produced by The Foundations of Architecture, this short book on lighting gives a very good introduction into architectural lighting. The authors start by explaining the six visual principles of light; illuminance, luminance, color and temperature, height, density, and direction and distribution. After providing this foundation the authors analyze six projects that include the High Line and Guthrie Theater. The book is rounded out with pieces from Steven Holl, Sylvain Dubuisson, and James Corner. If you are interested in getting into architectural lighting this book is a good place to start.

7 Acknowledgements
8 Introduction
12 Six Visual Principles of Light
14 Illuminance
30 Luminance

40 Color and Temperature

52 Height

60 Density

70 Direction and Distribution

82 Analysis
84 High Line, New York, New York, United States

91 Newtown Creek Water Pollution Treatment Plant, Brooklyn, New York, United States

97 Jules Verne, Paris, France
102 Beige, Tokyo, Japan
106 Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, Helsinki, Finland
114 Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

120 Essays
121 A Conversation with Steven Holl
124 Sensations of Light, Sylvain Dubuisson
125 Light and Landscape, James Corner

130 Appendices
132 Lighting Fixture Layout and Illuminance Calculations
134 Appendix A: Historical Timeline of Light Sources
135 Appendix B: Recommended Illuminance
136 Appendix C: Color Temperature vs. Color Rendering Index of Light Sources
137 Appendix D: Basic Characteristics of General Light Sources
138 Appendix E: Lighting Symbol Legend

139 Glossary
142 Bibliography
143 Image Credit

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Princeton Architectural Press (May 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1568989385
ISBN-13: 978-1568989389

Architectural Lighting: Designing with Light and Space / Hervé Descottes with Cecilia E. Ramos originally appeared on ArchDaily, the most visited architecture website on 15 Jun 2011.

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Delays persist in EU accreditation for architects - Business - Jamaica Gleaner - Friday | December 10, 2010

2011-06-03T11:41:00.000+09:30

Delays persist in EU accreditation for architects - Business - Jamaica Gleaner - Friday | December 10, 2010

Jamaica Architectural Office Constructed From Shipping Container-

2011-06-03T11:35:00.000+09:30

This Jamaica office is built from a single 40GP ISBU cargo container and is the 
office of the same architects who designed and built the cargo container office.

It was designed by architects Chris Whyms-Stone and David Douglas who own 
the firm of Cornerstone Architects in Kingston, Jamaica. This is not only their 
design but also their new office. It sits on an elevation which adds even more to
 it's unique appearance.

With real estate prices soaring this was their plan dating as far back as 2002. 
They have other shipping container designs including a car dealership, however 
there is an extreme shortage of shipping containers in Jamaica. Eventhough there
is a demand and great interest in shipping container designs in Jamaica, the ISBU 
shortage has halted construction.

Architects: Cornerstone Architects
Container: JAMCOR

Read More... Cubic Inspirations 

More from the designers... http://www.cornerstonecaribbean.com/

10 Rules for Sustainable Architecture in Jamaica

2011-06-03T11:15:00.000+09:30

10 Rules for Sustainable Architecture in Jamaica Written by Damian Edmond

Architects have a large responsibility to design sustainable solutions for the built environment that are responsive to the social, economic and environmental needs of the local context and people. Buildings form a large part of the built environment and are large consumers of energy to facilitate the trade of goods and services. It is therefore important that we construct and design solutions that help to lower energy and maintenance costs while increasing the efficiency of the functions they are conceived to serve.

The Resume Is Dead, The Bio Is King

2011-06-03T03:29:00.000+09:30

The Resume Is Dead, The Bio Is King

STUDIO 4 FLATS on the Behance Network

2011-05-17T08:31:00.003+09:30

STUDIO 4 FLATS on the Behance Network

ARC-IT-STUDIO LOGO

2011-04-15T06:01:00.002+09:30

Finalize Logo Design.

Just having a bit more fun...

More Images...

New Falmouth cruise ship pier not ready

2011-03-04T07:31:00.004+09:30

New Falmouth cruise ship pier not ready

According to the redevelopment plan, the list of physical works that should have been completed by November 2010, include:

* Pedestrianisation of Water Square (creation of alternate parking);

* Landscaping and Beautification;

* Squatter Relocation;

* Sidewalk Improvement;

* Road Paving;

* Erection of Street Signage;

* Solid Waste Management;

* Zinc Fence Replacement;

* Installation of Garbage Receptacles and Bins; and

* Erection of Storyboards.

Read Further...

Beautiful Whitter Village

2011-03-04T07:26:00.002+09:30

Beautiful Whitter Village

Falmouth church gets aid from int'l tourism fund - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Wednesday | January 12, 2011

2011-03-04T07:18:00.002+09:30

Falmouth church gets aid from int'l tourism fund - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Wednesday | January 12, 2011

Jill of all trades - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Sunday | February 6, 2011

2011-03-04T07:09:00.000+09:30

Jill of all trades - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Sunday | February 6, 2011

Evolving Norman Manley Airport since the 90's

2010-12-18T11:26:00.000+09:30

The airport has undergone several refurbishment projects since 1999

Including the resurfacing of the runway (2.8km) in 2001, the reconstruction of the eight taxiways (40ac) in 2002 and the replacement of the airport apron and also the replacement of the underground fuel hydrant system (1999).

As part of the 1999 to 2003 refurbishment project substantial upgrading of the terminal building and associated facilities were carried out.

Improvements were made to the customs hall in the form of a new 70t air-handling unit, along with associated ductwork and housing. In addition there was an extension and renovation of the existing departure / transit lounge; upgrading of the departure / ticketing concourse (550m²); reconfiguration of the customs exit and ground transportation arcade; construction of remote parking facilities; and redesign and expansion of existing roads, car park and landscaped areas surrounding the terminal.

Key Players:

Sponsors:

Airport Authority of Jamaica (AAJ), Norman Manley International Airport Ltd

Lead ContractorsBoyken International Inc, Sypher Mueller, Llewelyn-Davies Joint Venture, Kier Construction Ltd, Cooper and Associates Ltd, Harold Morrison and Associates, Peter Jervis and Associates Ltd, Grace Ashley and Associates, Auto Solutions Ltd

Financing:

European Investment Bank, Caribbean Development Bank.

New terminal master plan

The project seeks to increase the airport's capacity to cater for projected air and passenger traffic to 2033. The project is part of a master plan that will be implemented in three phases (1A, 1B and 2) and will cost about $130m. By 2022 it will have involved a virtual reconstruction of the entire airport.

Construction started in June 2006. The first phase, which is supposed to make the airport an IATA category C airport, was intended to be completed by 2007 in time for the Cricket World Cup 2007. However, it opened in June 2008

Phase 1A

Phase 1A commenced planning in 2004 (ground-breaking took place in September 2006). It has been completed substantially and launched for operations in June 2008. This phase included the construction of a new terminal building at the eastern end of the present terminal.

The terminal includes a three-level departures concourse of approximately 170,000ft² (10,000m²). Integrated with the existing ticketing concourse, the concourse comprises 66 airline check-in positions with common user passenger processing system (CUPPS), self-serve check-in kiosks and extended outgoing immigration and security screening stations with space to accommodate explosives detection equipment.

Boyken International provided cost management services during the programming, planning and design phases. Sypher Mueller International is the planning consultant for the new airport and Llewelyn-Davies Joint Venture is the architect.

Portmore Country Club 11

2010-12-18T05:34:00.001+09:30

With construction to begin in September 2010 new home owners can see the fruits of their labour
come to life with these 995sq ft, 2 Bedroom 2 1/2 Bathroom Townhouses.

With the design finalized in the July of 2010 Design and Planning agency HAJL (Housing Agency of Jamaica Limited) has the development control on this project among others as their name implies.They have been producing housing options over the years to suit the countries economical state for whether lower to middle or higher income families.

The Building Team WIHCON

Practically half of the design layout of most Portmore includes joint dwellings throughout the main structure. This done mostly for the economically development and usage of available space.

The design includes a functional layout with bonus features as a back patio that will bring comfortability to the owner on relaxing day or for entertainment with the large backyard.

I hope they do plant some palm trees.
Visit the HAJL site for more info

With developments like these taking place, Will the Portmore

municipality become the 15th parish? Read further..

How do feel about the Jamaican Half way Tree Transportation Center?

2010-10-14T10:35:00.000+09:30

Half way Tree Transportation Center

The Half Way Tree Transportation Center in Kingston designed by the teams of BESIX, Kier Caribbean and Industrial JV but lead by Architect Euro Immo Star for the Jamaican client Ministry of Transport, represented by the Port Authority of Jamaica is the most public interaction
commuters have with modern sustainability building art.

The state-of-the-art Half Way Tree Transportation centre have a reliable, safe and efficient public transportation system with it's overall terrace providing a central hub for buses serving 200,000 commuters on various routes.

The 32000000 € valued transportation center project constructed within 2years between 01/07/2005 - 01/11/2007 was completed on time by Kier Construction, to the high standards expected and the full satisfaction of our Client and the commuters.

The complex to be constructed consists of a 2 level bus station (2 x 9.300 m²) and a terrace (900 m²).

The whole is covered by a steel canopy.

A small 2 storeys office building will house the station's administration.

A limited portion of the pedestrian areas is reserved for commercial use and sanitary facilities.

The structure consists of:

- a raft foundation with thickening under the columns
- reinforced concrete columns, beams and slabs
- steel structure for the roof
- aluminium roof cladding

See More from BESIX

blogged by Arc-IT-Studio

$800-m wind power plant for Munro - Western Jamaica News - Montego Bay, Negril & The West - JamaicaObserver.com

2010-10-08T01:35:00.001+09:30

MUNRO, St Elizabeth — The Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd (JPS) will commission an $800-million wind power plant in this community next Wednesday as

part of a fuel diversification effort to reduce its dependence on imported fuel.

The four turbines erected at the facility — which is located on generally steep slopes not higher that 700 meters above sea level-- will add 3 megawatts of power to the national grid.

The contract for the development of the farm was signed in December 2009, while actual construction at the site began six months later and ended last month.

Roughly 100 local direct jobs were created in the development of the farm, which was undertaken by UNISON, out of Korea.

Wind energy avoids important costs associated with conventional resources, such as:

* the country's trade deficit from important foreign oil and other fuels;

* the health and environmental costs of pollution and the cost of depleted resources.

According to the JPS, the Munro farm with its wind turbines built to withstand up to Category 5 hurricanes, will assist in the reduction of imported fuel, resulting in annual savings for the island.

" The potential also exists to develop the site as a tourist attraction, as is done in some countries," said the utility company.

See More...
$800-m wind power plant for Munro - Western Jamaica News - Montego Bay, Negril & The West - JamaicaObserver.com

The (JUTC) bus park in downtown Kingston still not open... no shelter to look forward to either

2010-10-02T20:14:00.001+09:30

Howard Campbell, Gleaner Writer

Despite missing its deadline by nearly one year, there is still no official opening date for the Jamaica Urban Transit Company's (JUTC) bus park in downtown Kingston.

However, Urban Development Corporation (UDC) Chairman Wayne Chen said when it is finally launched, he expected the facility to spell a new day for the capital's largest commercial district.

"Once we bring back some sense of order, downtown Kingston is going to be transformed in a big way. We have quite a few initiatives in the works and the bus park is one of them," Chen said.

The bus park was conceived by the Kingston City Centre Improvement Committee (KCCIC) in 2004. Three years later, the UDC was mandated to oversee construction of the $161-million complex located at Water Lane.

It was scheduled to be completed by September 2009.

On Thursday when he spoke to Automotives, Chen could not give a definitive opening date but said no stone is being left unturned to ensure the centre's success.

"It will be delivered once the physical amenities are put in place and that includes security which I can tell you is an expensive proposition," Chen disclosed...