Arc-IT-Studio Jamaica

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...

Thinking about Building?

2010-09-26T08:51:00.001+09:30

Here are some answers from the Masterbuilders for some the questions that may arise when thinking of building or doing extensions...

I need to do an extension to my house, how do I go about it?

Engage the services of an architect or competent draughtsman
Get building approval from the KSAC or Parish Council.
Obtain at least two quotations from competent builders to ensure that the price to do the work is competitive.
Enter into a written contractual agreement before the commencement of any building works.
Contract documents are available at a cost from IMAJ.

Do you measure and price construction work done by a contractor for him to be paid?

No. The services of a Quantity Surveyor are recommended.

My concrete roof is leaking, how do I fix the problem?

A concrete roof slab will leak when it rains if it is not properly waterproofed.
Obtain the services of a competent roofing contractor who specializes in water proofing concrete roof slabs.

How much does it cost to build a house at today’s rate?

A budgetary cost to construct a house at today’s rate is about $4,500 to $5,000 per sq. ft.

What are the current labour rates in the construction industry?

A Construction Manual containing a list of labour rates intended to be used as a guide for the rates paid in the construction industry is available for a fee at the IMAJ.

How do you measure the floor area of a building from the drawings?

Ask the Architect / Draughtsman or Quantity Surveyor to calculate the floor area from the Plan.

How do you quantify the amount of material needed for a building?

Ask a Quantity Surveyor or competent Builder to do so.

What is the cost to prepare a set of Building drawings for approval by the KSAC or Parish Council?

This cost is usually negotiated with the Architect or Draughtsman.

How much does it cost to submit a set of Building drawings to the KSAC or Parish Council for approval?

This is determined by the KSAC or Parish Council and it is based on the floor area of the building.

More Info...

Architecture: The much needed Hospital building in Portmore and the others

2010-08-26T12:02:00.000+09:30

Portmore City the only city in Jamaica that can boast to over 270,000 residents and the population is ever growing. After officially gaining its municipality in 2003 one would believe the city has all the necessary amenities to continue in attracting more developments and investments. However the sunshine city does not have its own public hospital, which has been a major concern as it is a potentially hazardous situation for the residents.

There has been prevailing discussions over many years over the much needed hospital as the long commute to the closest ones KPH & Spanish Town is still not sufficient. These discussions have been getting the attention of the government and just when it seems construction was soon go, the plans came to a halt.

Some of the details of proposed Portmore hospital building is available for viewing from the CayJam Development Ltd the sponsors to be located in Southboro.

Now, how does the state-of-the-art architectural exterior of the proposed hospital visually compare to the existing major public hospitals in the island?

Mandeville Regional Hospital

Cornwall Regional Hospital

Kingston Public Hospital

Andrews Memorial Hospital Limited

Nuttall Memorial Hospital

Spanish Town Hospital

St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Complex

University of the West Indies Hospital

May Pen Hospital

Falmouth Hospital

By: Arc-IT-Studio,
to be updated

Modern Jamaican Architecture

2010-08-24T04:55:00.001+09:30

Modern 2 Bedroom Townhouse with a Jamaican flavour.

With the interior's easy flow with high ceilings throughout the home, the owner will feel at ease as its design allow the outside indoors with large openings and windows. Simple construction layout makes it an economic choice to building and with effective ornamentation to the design, the home will be move in ready shortly after.

More details.
..

The atmosphere around the exterior are limitless with the availability of wide range of colours to suit the owner's style without losing the original Jamaican flavour .

This spacious and luxurious design is available as a single unit or double by connection at the garage.

Just the way you'd like it.

Design by Arc-IT-Studio

'Green' buildings - Architecture student hopes to improve Jamaica's environment

2010-08-19T03:35:00.001+09:30

While none of his creations have been built yet, Sean Wright, a masters student at the University of Technology (UTech), is inspired by sustainable development and aims to build more 'green buildings' in Jamaica.

Wright, a student at the Caribbean School of Architecture, unveiled one of his designs at the Green Expo Media Launch at the Knutsford Court Hotel on Wednesday. The house that is said to be environmentally-friendly, "saves on time, is quickly erected and is labour intensive". Additionally, there is a water-catchment area and solar water heaters, which will improve self-sufficiency and energy conservation.

Read more...

He says his inspiration comes from his love for the environment. "I'm basically trying to respond to the environment to create more structures that are self-sufficient," Wright told The Gleaner.

The Green Expo is the brainchild of Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust (JCDT/Green Jamaica). It was first held in 1996 and has been held every two years since, except in 2004 when there was a break. This year, it is being held under the banner, 'Let's Take Good Care of Jamaica'.

Minister of Mining and Energy, James Robertson, in his first official speech since taking office, explained that he had turned down several invitations but could not do so for the launch of Green Expo. "I have turned down many invitations in the last four weeks and I really wanted to turn yours down also," said Robertson, as the room erupted in laughter

On a more serious note, Robertson said there were some issues with the country's energy policy. "Jamaica's energy policy requires some work. The Cabinet and the prime minister have given me six weeks to pull to together the different areas of the policy," he told his audience.

Environmental responsibilities

He added that the country needs to improve its environmental responsibilities to avoid the consequences. "If Jamaica is not seen as a green country our tourism product will suffer, so we cannot develop Jamaica unless it is along green lines." However, Robertson admitted that much has not been contributed to the Expo but explained why: "We are ashamed to say we have not been as supportive as we should have but we genuinely do not have the funding."

Several sponsors are on board for Green Expo, which will run from June 5 to 7 during World Environmental Awareness Week. Executive Director, for JCDT, Susan Otuokon, said: "All proceeds from Green Expo assist the JCDT/Green Jamaica, which is a registered charity, with our conservation and sustainable development programmes in and around the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park."

Direct News Source

WHY USE A JAMAICAN ARCHITECT?

2010-05-06T23:47:00.000+09:30

Shared:

Worth the hire? Architects say their work doubles value, saves costs

If you have long lusted after the heart-stirring designs seen in certain residential enclaves, but thought that you could never afford the fees that an architect would charge to do such distinctive work, local architects point out that their fees are easily negotiated.

"A lot of people are scared of architects. It's a cultural thing," said Christopher Whyms-Stone, president of the Jamaican Institute of Architects (JIA).

'People are intimidated'

"Some people are scared to go to the doctor and would rather go to the obeah man. It's the same principle. People are intimidated."

But, the fees charged by local architects are personally negotiated and also guided by a recommended scale from the JIA.

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

One local architect, who would rather not be named, adds that he avoids discussing percentages, as this turns off clients.

"I review the job and charge based upon the work required." The architect reveals that he has charged $700,000 - design cost alone - to redesign homes in Mona, which subsequently moved in value from $10 million to $25 million on completion of construction.

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, architects' rates are not fixed, but negotiated between architect and client.

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

The architect's work determines 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, Whyms-Stone states, provides a service which is much more than a "drawing". The service is inclusive of schematic design, design development, and advice at the construction-documentation, tender and contract-administration phases of a project.

the process

The schematic design is produced after the architect meets with the client and discusses the scope of work.

The architect then puts pen to paper, transforming the client's ideas and professional input into a product.

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

In the documentation phase, drawings are prepared for submission to the parish council for approval.

"These documents can be used anywhere in the world," Christopher Whyms-Stone says.

In the tender stage, the architect prepares a package based on architectural and engineering drawings.

With the services of quantity surveyors, a bill of quantities is done. 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, the architect and quantity surveyor choose the best offer.

In the construction-administration phase, a contract is signed to construct the building. The architect then proceeds to make sure that the building is being built to the specifications of the drawing.

Each month, with the assistance of the quantity surveyor, the architect will ensure how much work has been done and determine what is to be paid to the contractor.

Whyms-Stone points out that some clients want a schematic design only, which they take to raise funds. Others hire architects all the way up to construction.

Still others provide their own contractor and may hire their own project manager to administer the contract.

In general, professional fees amount to 10 per cent of construction costs - architects, engineers, quantity and land surveyors included.

Whyms-Stone says 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 is worth almost two times that in terms of resale value. The architect avoids overspending and balances the design to fit the budget.

See original post here:http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090607/business/business5.html

'Unregistered draughtsmen bad for business' IN JAMAICA

2010-05-06T23:44:00.000+09:30

Shared: After careful considerations...

Christopher Whyms-Stone, president of the Jamaican Institute of Architects. - File

CHRISTOPHER WHYMS-STONE, president of the Jamaica Institute of Architects (JIA), is calling on the Department of Local Government and the various parish councils across the country to stop approving plans drawn by unregistered draughtsmen.

The practice, he argued, is not only illegal, as it is in breach of the 1987 Architects Registration Act, but it also compromises and undermines the quality of the buildings and infrastructural development of the country.

But Robert Montague, state minister with responsibility for local government, is adamant that the current approval procedure carried out by the parish councils is within the ambit of the law, as there is nowhere in the act where it says parish councils are only allowed to take drawings from registered architects.

The act, which came into effect October 2005, states that no individual should carry out the practice of architecture in Jamaica unless he or she is a registered architect.

There are some 180 architects registered in Jamaica.

Whyms-Stone contends that for years, parish councils have been accepting drawings from "anybody", including unregistered untrained individuals who have no training or authority to design buildings.

experience vs qualification

"Nine out of 10 of them, maybe, have years of experience working in an architect's office drafting, or an A' level or O' level in technical drawing, but TD doesn't qualify someone to be an architect," he disclosed.

Whyms-Stone, who is a partner in a Kingston-based firm of architects, says apart from the practice being illegal, it also compromises quality, and property owners are often left with substandard buildings.

He further said the problem had become so widespread that the parish councils were passing plans with no names on them.

"There is no record of who designed it, so there is no accountability. If something goes wrong, there's nobody to call. Why do the parish councils want to take that liability when it's not theirs to take?" he questions.

The JIA head also argues that the parish councils have become extremely lax, particularly when it comes to monitoring the construction phase of a property after the approval.

"The parish councils are supposed to inspect while the houses are being built. never happens!" he says. "The monitoring is poor. look at the country. Ninety per cent of people don't submit for approval, they do as they please," he adds.

grossly misinformed

However, Montague is unwavering and argues that Whyms-Stone is grossly misinformed.

He says in considering and processing applications for building approvals, parish councils are not guided by the provisions of the Architects Registration Act, but rather, by the provisions of the Parish Councils Building Act and the Parish Building Act Regulations.

Montague said Whyms-Stone argument was erroneous. "The law clearly says that to be an architect, you must be registered with the architects registration board - full stop!" he said.

He continued: "The Parish Council Act and the Town and Planning Act authorise the parish councils to accept drawings from architects and draughtsmen, and the parish councils are proceeding accordingly.

"And until the law is changed, the parish councils will abide by the law and will continue to open up to the building public the services of draughtsmen and architects," he stated.

According to the minister, the matter was recently raised in a consultation and it was referred to the attorney general, which ruled that the parish councils were working within the provisions of the law.

properties construction

Montague also argues that the parish councils have been doing an exceptional job in monitoring the construction of properties.

"The courts are inundated with stop orders and enforcement orders from the parish councils," he says. "As a matter of fact, it has got to the point where we have just completed consultations with the Ministry of Justice to establish municipal courts so that these matters can be moved through the court system faster, instead of clogging up the RM schedule."

Montague has also raised concerns about what he says has been the JIA's attempt to reduce the earnings of the "small man."

"Ninety per cent of the applications into the parish councils are for extensions - the addition of a bathroom, bedroom or kitchen. The larger projects, the building of a plaza or a housing scheme ... the developers automatically go to an architect," he disclosed.

"Why is it that they would want to take away from a fellow Jamaican, in these harsh economic times, a little income?" he asks.

However, the JIA president says architects are willing to accept a 750-square-foot compromise, where draughtsmen are allowed to design buildings up to that size

See official post: http://mobile.jamaica-gleaner.com/20090920/lead/lead8.php

Jamaican Architects are complaining...

2010-05-06T23:37:00.002+09:30

I came across an article in the Jamaica Gleaner News paper and would like to share it.
Flouted laws said to rob architects of work
-------------------- Christopher Whyms-Stone, president of the Jamaican Institute of Architects. - File

Christopher Whyms-Stone, president of the Jamaican Institute of Architects (JIA), says demand for architects and their services would be higher if the law regarding their role in construction was upheld.
He is supported by Mark Taylor, head of the Caribbean School of Architecture, University of Technology (UTech), who points out that even though the Architects Registration Act of 19867 stipulates that drawings submitted for construction should be done by architects, the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC) and almost all parish councils are still accepting drawings from unregistered professionals.
serious implications
There are some 180 architects registered in Jamaica.
Taylor said the drawings of overseas architects tend to be accepted, especially in the hotel sector.
"There are serious implications. There are climatic differences and cultural factors, which people from overseas are not aware of," Taylor states.
Whyms-Stone and Taylor say the JIA and the Architects Registration Board (ARB) are in discussion with the attorney general in the hope of resolution before the end of this year.
Architectural drawings describe the design and construction of new buildings and the modification of existing structures for the purpose of seeking planning approval.
highly skilled draughtsman
Whyms-Stone, a partner in the Kingston-based firm Corner-stone.design Limited, says many of the draughtsman hired to do drawings by Jamaicans are highly skilled, but the architect is the professional who brings to the construction process the complete knowledge and skills set demanded in the built environment.
Locally, architects are trained by the Caribbean School of Architecture at the UTech, the only one of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean.
"The challenge since the passing of the Architects Registration Act in 1987 is that government - local and central - are not enforcing it."
Whyms-Stone says that before the Architects Registration Act, "a lot of buildings were designed by draughtsman, as in many countries in pre-modern times. This is why I say there is a great demand (for architects now). Any parish council will tell you that hundreds of applications come in."
shaped by non-professionals
He notes, however, that because the councils are not adhering to the law, even students of architecture who are not yet qualified can submit drawings.
"It is absurd," said the JIA president.
"The built environment is being shaped by non-professionals."
Taylor suggests that industries which use foreign architects work in conjunction with local architects.
"They need to go to the ARB to seek to work here. This also goes for engineering." ----------------------

See the post also at: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090607/business/business4.html

Architecture in Jamaica 1 - 10 (Accommodations)

2010-03-17T14:35:00.044+09:30

I have decide to compose a list of noticeable architectural buildings in Jamaica with a brief link to their additional data... Any other buildings of the category you believe should be included, don't hesitate to share them in the comments to be added in the list.

This list features some architecturally distinguished accommodations.

JAMAICA PALACE HOTEL

"The two storey structure of the Jamaican PAlace Hotel was hand-crafted by more than six hundred local workers and artist on the site during 1987 and 1988. The masterpiece of palladian achitecture with its countless interior ond exterior details opened its doors for business in December 1988

SEE MORE..."

JAMAICA PEGASUS HOTEL

"This revered landmark in the capital city Kingston, the "Pegasus" as it is affectionately called, rises seventeen (17) stories high in the heart of New Kingston."

SEE MORE..

THE PALMYRA RESORT & SPA.
"Skillfully designed by Miami-Based Architect, Joe Andriola of SB Architects, The Palmyra will encompass a private village built in tht grand traditionof British Colonial architecture"

Local Architect: Cosmo Whyte Architect Limited.
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THE ROYAL VILLAS, HALF MOON
"Each Royal Villa is like an exclusive hotel with five-, six- or seven- private bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, each with its own keyed entrance."

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RIU, OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA.

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HILTON KINGSTON HOTEL

"The Hilton Kingston Jamaica hotel, located in New Kingston, Jamaica. Set in 7.5 acres of landscaped tropical gardens and overlooking Emancipation Park, the hotel is near the Hip Strip"

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HAYSTACK VILLA, TRYALL, MONTEGO BAY

GRAN BAHIA PRINCIPLE, JAMAICA

THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF & SPA RESORT

Local Architect Marvin D. Goodman & Associates – Kingston, Jamaica

"This five-diamond, 480-room beachfront resort combines Jamaica’s Old World appeal with an inviting sense of Caribbean charm"

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COUPLES SWEPT AWAY

BREEZES RUNAWAY BAY RESORT & GOLF CLUB

"The minute you get here, you’ll understand exactly why they call this lush, tropical playground Runaway Bay. With quiet coves, endless beaches and shady hammocks around every corner, you’ll instantly feel like you’ve run away from all the pressures of the real world. Conveniently located just about an hour away from the city of Montego Bay, Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Golf Club is one of the world’s truly great escapes."

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