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Links for 2012-05-24 [del.icio.us]

2012-05-25T00:00:00-07:00

REX architecture: project R6 - yongsan international business district
fantastic diagrams.

Building the Future: Top Degree Programs in Sustainable Architecture and Design

2012-05-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

guest post by Lauren Bailey

The term "sustainability" has become something of a buzzword in recent years. Sustainability, as an environmental issue, means that we as a society find ways to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. As issues of climate change and global waste become more and more pertinent within our society, ecological sustainability has become a priority throughout the world. Institutions of higher learning have always been the main platform for forward-thinking and passionate individuals to create new methods and techniques for improving the way in which we live. It is through education and academia that a truly sustainable future can be harvested—new programs in sustainability are cropping up within numerous schools throughout the United States. These three universities in the US provide some of the best and most unique architecture and design programs available.

Boston Architectural College- The Sustainable Design Institute
With every course focused on sustainable design, Boston Architectural College (BAC) is a wonderful choice for students devoted to sustainability and awareness. Offering courses in Sustainable Design, Sustainable Community Planning and Design, Sustainable Residential Design, and Sustainable Building Design, BAC provides a fairly diverse array of programs. The college contains a School of Architecture, School of Interior Design, School of Landscape Architecture, and a School of Design Studies. With both distance and online education opportunities, SAC provides for a more flexible educational option than many other design and architectural programs.

One interesting and unique thing that Boston Architectural College offers is its Summer Academy for high school design exploration. This program encourages high school age students to engage in a four-week design studio. Students will "build fundamental architectural design skills through hands-on projects" and will have the opportunity to collaborate with studio leaders and fellows students to address design problems including structure, form, sustainability, beauty, and utility. This program is a wonderful way for school aged students to approach concept of sustainability in a more practical and approachable manner.

University California Berkeley- Environmental Design
UC Berkeley is known for its academics in many different departments and areas. The school's College of Environmental Design (CED) is no exception. Founded in 1959, the CED has emphasized environmental design as an ethical practice, co-produced through dynamic engagements with diverse communities, workers, businesses, and policy-makers. This approach to sustainable design is an important one. By placing the responsibility not solely on the architect, designer, builder, etc., we have a better chance of really addressing issues of sustainability in urban planning and development. UC Berkeley was one of the first institutions to conceptualize environmental design as something that is inseparable from its social, political- economic, and cultural contexts. This realization and practice is essential.

UC Berkeley's Department of City and Regional Planning provides a wonderful example of combining both the social and design elements of sustainable design into one degree program. This department offers degrees such as a Bachelor's in Urban Studies, a Master's of City Planning, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in City and Regional Planning. These programs are spread throughout the areas of Architecture, International and Area Studies, Public Health, Landscape Architecture, and Transportation Engineering. Truly an interdisciplinary program, this department offers a variety of options for individuals interested in city planning, architecture, sustainability, and sociology.

University of Oregon- Department of Architecture
It's not much of a surprise that this Pacific Northwest University holds some of the top spots for sustainable degree programs across the board. The UO Department of Architecture holds two locations in both Eugene and Portland, providing a diverse environment for study with both a big-time city and a small town structure. The department offers a few degree options including, Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Architecture in Portland. The architecture program that is specifically interested in urban issues in Portland provides a unique learning experience for students. This program focuses on the influence of urban design and planning on building design, using Portland itself as a living laboratory for urban architecture. Students can also gain experience from UO's International Programs in Architecture. Providing a "deep understanding of how the design of buildings interacts with the physical and cultural contexts of human traditions, landscapes, settlements, cities, and suburbs," students can study abroad to explore architecture. These programs abroad offer degree requirements at the intermediate level design studios in Rome, Italy, Copenhagen, and Vancouver. There is also a program in Landscape architecture offered in Kyoto, Japan.

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By-line:
This guest post is contributed by Lauren Bailey, who regularly writes for online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email: blauren99 @gmail.com.

Slideshow: Knoll Ridge Cafe - designed by Harris Butt Architecture

2012-05-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

View more presentations from Photographer Simon Devitt

Knoll Ridge Café
Whakapapa Ski Field, Mt Ruapehu

With the destruction of the original Knoll Ridge Chalet in February 2009, an ambitious design/construction programme was initiated to create temporary replacement facilities (café, toilets) for the 2009 winter season followed by the design and construction of a new café for the 2010 winter season. The simple lean-too structure of the temporary café building tested the construction process and the selection of materials facilitating the adoption of a similar methodology and material selection for the new café.

The new café is located approximately 50m down the mountain from the original café site, with the main café floor at approximately 2010m ASL. The eastern face of the building is located on the edge of the drop off to the Te Heuheu Valley. The north face looks back down the mountain whilst to the west is the chair lift and ski area. The new building accommodates café seating for approximately 400 people with servery, kitchen and support facilities all on one level. At this same level, a deck area for approximately 200 people is provided. The main public toilet area, staff facilities and storage are on the level below with separate access from the outside as well connection to the café via an internal stair.

A major consideration in the design of the building was the issue of the remote location. The building was to be constructed during the summer with limited access – all materials had to either be delivered by helicopter or on the near by chair lift – no road access. Alternatively, materials could be delivered over snow in the preceding winter season. The entire building, from foundation beams/floor panels to roof sections and windows was broken down into a modular panelized system, which allowed for delivery, placement and erection by helicopter and on site plant.

The form of the building reflects the strong geological features of the mountain. The “gull wing” roof was to appear to “cradle” the mountains peak. On a practical level is used to manage the snow. The building is designed to cover with up 3.0m of snow. Timber has been used extensively inside and out to create the warm “feeling” of the “traditional” mountain chalet without adopting the traditional form. The glass exterior (particularly to the east wall) is the other feature of the building – allowing full exposure to the magnificence view to the Pinnacle Ridge.

GRANT HARRIS
ARCHITECT B.Arch (hons) ANZIA
| e. granth@hbarchitecture.co.nz
| Harris Butt Architecture Ltd |
| w. www.hbarchitecture.co.nz

Photography by Simon Devitt

Architectural Photography from New Zealand by Simon Devitt

2012-05-18T23:38:00.001-07:00

I've recently been in conversation with an architectural photographer from New Zealand who is partnering with Talkitect.com to bring us images of some of the incredible architecture being created on the island nation. Starting tomorrow Simon Devitt will be sending along slideshows of some of the projects he has recently photographed. The concept for his photography series is to showcase a new project every few weeks. We will curate the projects to bring some of the most creative project and beautiful designs that New Zealand has to offer. I look forward to our collaboration.

More about Simon and his Photography:Auckland Photographer Simon Devitt brings a unique view to photography of Architecture. While this genre appears quite specific, it offers me the broadest possible view on the world; landscapes, the built environment and people are all treated with the same democratic eye. I have not trained in architecture, and I taught myself photography. I capture what I see not only as 'an outsider looking in' but as an outsider 'exposing' beauty in situations where inherent beauty might be present but not articulated as a dramatic moment, or series of dramatic moments. Translating reality to two dimensions produces a medium of pure perception. Beauty to me is infinite in its complexities and exquisite in its simplicity. Two of the complexities I love are decisive moments and decay. Decay to me offers the most compelling aspect of beauty; time has to have played out, a space has to have been lived in, or used to a degree that the original intention of the design becomes a part of the person or people, and vice versa. Mostly the appetite in the magazine world is for newness and a fresh perspective on design, which reveals other aspects of beauty. I'd love to revisit some of these places in ten years to see how they look.

Invest. Engage. Inspire | McGregor Community Centre Lounge

2012-05-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Invest. Engage. Inspire
This project was part of the City of Toronto’s commitment to investing in 13 priority neighborhoods over a 4-year period to fund new youth-focused recreational facilities. Located in downtown Toronto, the McGregor Community Centre Lounge creates a new street façade that extends out toward Lawrence Ave.E. The new Lounge includes meeting space, computer areas, an office, kitchen, ample storage and an outdoor courtyard.

Bold Design Infuses Lounge with Color and Light

Bortolotto’s bold design for this project was conceived of a horizontal split box. The lower portion is comprised of solid brick and block allowing for visual privacy and a safe and secure environment on the inside as the users had requested. The upper portion is made of glass panels that create a lantern allowing natural light to spill into the space. The glass panels in various colors wrap the upper portion of the addition toward the main entry to the building resulting in an energetic focal point of the community centre.

Meet. Learn. Play

McGregor Community Centre Lounge was the result of an intensive public consultation process, that engaged the local community and gave youth the opportunity to experience first-hand about the design and construction industry. The final result is a bright, open, lofty gathering space. Designed to be a safe, secure and inspiring meeting place, this Lounge has fast become a city jewel and community landmark where youth, seniors and families meet, play and learn.

Video: A light Haven by Brullon-Trolio-Marinot Architects

2012-05-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Untitled from light haven on Vimeo.

“A Light Haven” - by Brullon-Trolio-Marinot architects

In between two strata. Under the railroad, in levitation above the street, A Light Haven takes place in an urban cavity, affirming an identity based on duality, and synergy with the place’s architecture. Natural fiber against industrial steel, lightness against heaviness, curves against straight lines, light against darkness, and weightlessness against gravity: A Light Haven finds its own identity through the contrasts. The project unrolls a network of ropes on the whole area. While the original deepness of the space is kept, a path emerges, making the place special. Above, underneath, through the enveloping forms, the visitor perceives the space in its entirety. He walks around and gets information behind the frail fiber cocoons and, at last, penetrates the intimacy of the exhibited works of art. The structure’s lightness and its slow beat contrasts with the urban activity around. Materiality, light, sound: all the elements play a part. A Light Haven quivers with the breeze; the light intensity is synchronized with the sound of the wind rustling through the ropes, providing a soothing distraction from the urban noise. Like the High Line, A Light Haven offers, in its own way, an alternative to the urban environment. The counterparts form a unity in their duality, eventually constituting one single architecture."

Simple Design Elegance - Blümen

2012-05-14T17:41:00.001-07:00

by Pierce Atkinson,

I recently visited my Nations Capital, to catchup with an old friend. Ottawa, Ontario is an amazing city with much to offer and great developments. It is the second largest city in the Province of Ontario and the fourth largest city in the country, and boasts some of the most iconic architecture of Canada. Although the government buildings attract most of the tourism and high profile architecture, it is the smaller scale design that caught my eye.

While visiting my friend she introduced me to a great little gem in the Hintonburg neighbourhood of Ottawa, Blümen Studio. Blümen became a reality a little over a year for owners Kat and Nathan. I got in touch with Kat to ask a few questions about the space and how it evolved into an amazing Floral Design boutique and Café.

When she first took over the space Kat explained that it was originally an old fashioned variety store with minimal updates having been done over the years. Today she has transformed the boutique into a 21st century variety store; "...we still offer a whole variety of things just with a little twist." says Kat.

The renovations took ten weeks with no hired help. "...it was a lot of work. This place was run down BAD." reflects Kat. As mentioned, no designers or contractors were hired for the job leaving Kat to conceptualize all design elements and layouts herself. Her partner Nathan helped with all the labour and detailing, the space reflects what a great team they make; "Nathan is gold. He asks me what I want, I tell him, and he gets on it and does it and here we have the finished product."

Kat used very simple and elegant materials throughout the space. Her work area is made up of simple stainless steel counter tops freestanding in the middle of the room. White walls and white subway tiles on the café counter contrast beautifully with the reclaimed wood flooring - my favourite part of the space. The rough wood has been maintained, complete with glue from the previous flooring in the old variety store, and offers a beautiful aged warmth. Kat and Nathan finished it nicely leaving the floor as is and just sealing it with a high gloss varnish. "We like to recycle and make old new again. Make it look fab but keep it simple. Thats the key, SIMPLE." Kat says of the space. The lines, materials and vintage furniture Kat has placed in the store all tie in together so well, making the space incredibly inviting and captivating.

When asked where she came up with the concept for the space Kat explained that her mother owned several flower stores in Germany after the wall came down. "This idea has always been on my mind. I grew up in the flower industry, I grew up practically surrounded by flowers. A florist for almost 18 years myself, I always knew it has to be a flower store cafe and here we are. I love it."

I look forward to visiting Kat and Nathan at Blümen Studio in the future to see what other exciting finds they've brought in. I strongly recommend dropping in to see the space and the unique and tasty treats Kat has to offer along with her stunning floral compositions.

Video: Ma Yansong from MAD

2012-05-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Chinese architect Ma Yansong from MAD architects at the Universidad Europea de Madrid-Architecture School. Studio Banana TV had the pleasure of interviewing him. Interview realised with the sponsorship of the European University of Madrid.

Beijing-born architect Ma Yansong is recognized as an important voice in a new generation of architects. Since the founding of MAD in 2004, his works in architecture and art have been widely published and exhibited. He graduated from the Beijing Institute of Civil Engineering and Architecture. Ma attended Yale University after receiving the American Institute of Architects Scholarship for Advanced Architecture Research in 2001 and holds a masters degree in Architecture from Yale. He has since taught architecture at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing.

Ma Yansong was awarded the 2006 Architecture League Young Architects Award. In 2008 he was selected as one of the twenty most influential Young Architects today by ICON magazine and Fast Company named him one of the ten most creative people in architecture in 2009. In 2010 he became the first architect from China to receive a RIBA fellowship.
Created by Studio Banana TV

Links for 2012-05-05 [del.icio.us]

2012-05-06T00:00:00-07:00

Book Sculptures
really amazing art made from books
House in Megurohoncho / TORAFU ARCHITECTS
really amazing staircase dubbed as "large furniture"

Links for 2012-04-30 [del.icio.us]

2012-05-01T00:00:00-07:00

House NA / Sou Fujimoto Architects
crazy house. I think I would like living there but the privacy issue will definitely take some getting used to.

Links for 2012-04-29 [del.icio.us]

2012-04-30T00:00:00-07:00

Capilla del Retiro / Undurraga Devés Arquitectos
the interior space is fantastic
Anne Lindberg Transforming Space with Thread
incredible art
Beaumaris Dental / Demaine Partnership
just really nice
Rifugio Monte Penna / Lucio Serpagli
love it
Kantana Institute / Bangkok Project Company
love the creative use of brick

Links for 2012-04-28 [del.icio.us]

2012-04-29T00:00:00-07:00

A Bathroom Situated Atop a 15-Story Elevator Shaft
im not sure i would be able to go in this bathroom over a 15 story elevator shaft
Gravity-Defying Land Art by Cornelia Konrads
these are incredible. i want to make land art
More Than Luck On Our Side : Architects Sketch Up for I Love Architecture
i love architecture - architeture for humanity
NaCl House / David Jameson Architect
i like this. clean and white. like an abstract sculpture
Writing About Architecture / Alexandra Lange
i cant wait to get a copy of this book

Montreal Quartier des Spectacles

2012-04-26T20:41:00.003-07:00

text and images by Pierce Atkinson

While living in Montreal for the last 6 years, I have seen a lot of change and development. Among all of it, "Le Quartier des Spectacles" is a new development that I love! After having opened it's second phase in 2010, the area is currently being used as an outdoor art gallery, a festival venue and a promenade for locals and visitors in the summer months.

The project broke ground in 2008 as part of the city's attempt to bring life back to an area of Montreal that was beginning to be forgotten. The neighbourhood is home to Montreal's Contemporary Art Museum and is surrounded by "Theatre Maisonneuve" and "Salle Wilfred-Pelletier". With such great 'bones' already, the city found it necessary to revive this area of the city with a fresh look and a versatile remodel.

1. The first part of the project added was "Place des Festivals". The public square underwent some serious construction from it's original use as a parking lot and side street. The excavation of 50,000 tonnes of earth was a must to form a gradual slope down to Rue Jeanne-Mance, softening the look and accessibility of the area. Once the parking lot was removed and leveled an underground service room was added for the maintenance of fountains scattered throughout the square. The reconfiguration not only allows but encourages bike use and walking paths. Rue Jeanne-Mance was re-worked from five lanes to three lanes and a new no street parking rule was implemented, eliminating congestion and encouraging pedestrians and bikers. On top of these large scaled reconfigurations "Le Quartier des Spectacles" added what they call two 'Living Showcases' to the 6,141 m² public square. The "Living Showcases" are one story structures located on the sidewalk extension of Rue Jeanne-Mance. These structures are now home to two restaurants in the square. The glass and aluminum used blend with the neighbourhood to make it clear they are part of "Le Quartier des Spectacles". Profits from the rental of the spaces are then put back into cultural events held at the "Place des Festivals"

2. The second part of the project added was "Le Parterre" and the "Promenade des Artistes". A continuation of the "Place des Festivals", "Le Parterre" opened in May of 2010 and is a 3,455 m² extension of the public square mentioned above. Though smaller, the area acts as a second stage during festivals and concerts. The construction involved some major reconfiguration of a main street, de Maisonneuve, and redirecting other smaller streets. Eleven event kiosks were built along both "Le Parterre" and "Promenade des Artistes". These kiosks are convenient removable 9m x 3m x 3m structures equipped with water, electricity and multumedia services. They allow organizers to set up informations, sales and service booths quickly and effeciently. These kiosks can also be used as a showcase for short term or long term artwork. Again the white aluminum and concrete used for these structures repeat throughout the neighbourhood making it clear that these are part of "Le Quartier des Spectacles".

This neighbourhood is fairly active year round but definitely comes alive in the summer. We have amazing Jazz festivals and great Film Festivals held at these venues each year. This was definitely a must in terms of revitilizing the neighbourhood.

Ref: Ville de Montreal - Quartier des Spectacle

Links for 2012-04-19 [del.icio.us]

2012-04-20T00:00:00-07:00

Stickwork / Patrick Dougherty
This is amazing
Huis Van Droo / Johan De Wachter Architects
simple form with fantastic materials and details. This is what Architecture is all about.
Ciale / Vicente Núñez Arquitectos
i like how those pods slip into that main hall.
China Yard Sales Office / Zephyr Architects
this looks a bit like a Louis Kahn inspired design. Definitely traces of the Unitarian Church he designed.

Links for 2012-04-11 [del.icio.us]

2012-04-12T00:00:00-07:00

One desk chair—hold the formaldehyde
lets demand more info one what is in the materials we use

Ten Unusual Architectural Hotels

2012-04-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

By Lia Schopmeyer

It’s that time of year again, when wedding invitations start arriving at your door, the announcement of dream summer weddings from all your friends (or so it seems) proving that love and happiness is surely plentiful in this world. But for anyone that’s still single, the constant reminders of true love can be exasperating. Time for a holiday? I think so. But why not try something a bit different?

While we often focus on the attraction, activities and foreign customs that come with a traditional holiday there are others out there, myself included, looking for accommodation with a culture of its very own. So, for the like-minded, I’ve tracked down the very best quirky, unusual and downright weird lodgings from across the world. Incredible architecture, clever design, and fun environments will keep you entertained.

10. The Grand Sultanate of Abalì - Palermo, Italy

If you want to experience the mysterious Arabian Nights but also like to tuck in to your prawn linguini, then this hotel is the right place for you. Situated in the beautiful Italian city of Palermo, it’s easy to forget that continental Europe sits right outside. The hotel’s interior design delves into the deepest depths of the Prince of Persia experience, even including a personal Jacuzzi if you choose the Sultan Suite. Colorful and bright, just like a holiday should be.

9. EcoCamp - Patagonia, Chile

Nature lover? Eco-conscious? If the carbon emissions from your flight are weighing heavily on your ethical shoulders, why not make it up by staying in this ultra-cool EcoCamp? Using only 100% renewable resources to power this camp, it stands as a reminder of the nomads who travelled the country and built their shelters using only organic material they found in the surroundings.

8. Jumbo Stay - Stockholm, Sweden

Plane spotters and those more interested in the journey than the goal, this is for you. Why even leave the plane when you can sleep, dine and shower in it? This vintage Jumbo jet has been transformed to welcome not airheads but aerodynamic enthusiasts. These days this plane stays stationary in Stockholm, Sweden and is quite the gimmicky retreat. Unless you suffer from severe cabin fever, this hotel is an experience with more choice than just the chicken or the fish.

7. Les Alicourts Resort Tree Houses - Loire Resort, France

No tree house of horrors here - this romantic retreat is situated in the heart of the beautiful Loire Valley, France. The already picturesque location is transformed by a colony of tree houses that will definitely remind you of the Swiss Family Robinson and their handy monkey butlers.

6. Euro Space Center - Luxemburg, Belgium

Now this is definitely one for the family. While the other retreats focus on tranquility and resting, this space centre accommodation is for people who have their head in the clouds, or stratosphere, perhaps. Futuristic creativity seems to have run out when it comes to the bedrooms, however – they’re much more hostel-esque than five stars, but then this stay is not about lying in bed. Packed with activities, it’s a much more educational getaway than your favorite cartoon character-themed amusement park, which often ends up as a fairy tale rip-off.

5. Dog Bark Park - Idaho, USA

That’s right, no need to rub your eyes in disbelief - this is a Trojan Dog. It may look like a surrender gift from your enemies but really it houses people who have paid to stay inside a dog. Not your usual kennel, this charming little B+B in Cottonwood has only two connected rooms available for overnight guests. For the owners, it’s more about the artwork – they use chainsaws to create canine and other animal carvings which they display and sell in Dog Bark Park. If you were to say they are barking mad, you’d be right. The toilet is housed inside a giant fire hydrant. However, it’s safe to say that for once you will be able to enjoy your stay in the dog house.

4. Kokopelli’s Cave - New Mexico, USA

Let your primitive caveman and woman instincts out in this remarkable, rocky reservoir. Embedded in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico, USA you’ll find spacious rooms within. Under the hot south-western sun this cool, carved out cave will provide a welcome chill for visitors. The rooms are worked into the 65 million year old sandstone and offer you an amazing view over the Four Corners area.

3. Hôtel de Glace - Quebec, Canada

From sunny New Mexico to the bitter cold icy palace of the Hôtel de Glace - this is not your usual icebox hotel. This one is rebuilt every year with fresh ice and snow which takes about 5 weeks to complete. It is renowned for its artistic and stunning display of frozen water, and certainly not to be mistaken for a series of extravagant conservatories.

2. Jules Undersea Lodge – Florida, USA

This most unusual hotel is probably one of the many discarded business ideas of Jules Verne but it has since become reality under the name Jules Undersea Lodge. Originally built as a research facility in the 1970s it now offers nautical accommodation for people who want to sleep with the fishes. This unusual lodge is situated just off the coast of Florida in Key Largo and is definitely not for the claustrophobic.

1. Kasbah du Toubkal – Imil, Morocco

This breath taking hotel is placed on top of the highest mountain in North Africa - Morocco to be exact, and is not too far away from the markets of Marrakesh. This retreat is not Vertigo friendly but does offer you an outstanding view of the tranquil surroundings. For visitors who want to enjoy the sight but don’t want to stay overnight, this resort can be booked to visit from mere hours to a week.

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So there we have it, the 10 quirkiest accommodations from across the globe. But will it be enough to make you ditch that bucket and spade?

All Photos courtesy of Unusual Hotels of the World

Everything You Need to Know About LEED

2012-03-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Just a couple weeks ago I took and passed the LEED Green Associate exam. In honor of that, here is an info graphic highlighting some of the facts, figures, and accomplishments of the LEED system.

We want to thank our friends at http://www.turtlemat.co.uk/ who provided this great graphic.

Paris: The Inspiration for New York’s High Line Park

2012-03-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

by Kevin Young

The High Line Park in New York City, designed by James Corner Field Operations, project lead, with Diller Scofidio + Renfro and Piet Oudolf, is considered to be a remarkable and amazing modern urban park, which is heralded as being an incredible way to reinvent an elevated freight railroad spur. However, the High Line Park is not as original as many people think. The Promenade Plantée in Paris, France runs for 2.8 miles – 1.8 miles longer than High Line Park – elevated above the streets of Paris, and has been a vital pedestrian greenway through the city for nearly 20 years. It too renovated an old elevated rail line and turned it into a pedestrian escape from the hustle of the city.

The elevated Viaduct des Arts was originally a railway until 1969, and was later brought back to life in 1986 as a renovation project. The top was transformed into a park, much like High Line Park in New York, and the arcades beneath the viaduct were transformed into spaces for art galleries and artisan workshops, forming an active street façade at ground level. Its services are two fold – providing a place for people to walk or run, and enjoy the park setting removed from traffic, while also providing many amazing shops, galleries, and even some cafes, forming an active edge along the street below.

It is a gorgeous experience from above and below, and is the essential green belt in Paris. Often overlooked, it is one of the first elevated parks ever built, and is certainly the first one that was converted from an old rail line. It has an interesting way of connecting to the history of Paris by utilizing an old structure and giving it a fresh look, feel, and use.

Arguably, Paris’ Promenade Plantée is more successful than High Line Park as it engages the city on more than one level. Be that as it may, High Line Park is equally as important to the urban landscape of New York as a green belt that has lead to an explosion of real estate developments in the surrounding neighborhoods, and acting as a catalyst for similar developments across the United States. Both can be used as case studies to show that inspiring, innovative, parks and public spaces an integral part of redeveloping overlooked infrastructure in our urban environments.

Conspicuous Consumption: The “Prius Effect” for Solar Panels

2012-03-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

by Kevin Young

Economists have a term relating to the purchase of sustainable technologies and environmentally sensitive vehicles. It’s called “conspicuous consumption.” Defining this in laymans terms, it means to display one’s wealth or worth to others through their material goods – think of royalty flaunting fine garments, or a banker driving a Ferrari. People invest in these things not because they are necessarily better in quality or more reliable, but rather for the purpose of displaying one’s wealth to others.

What does this have to do with environmental technologies? Well, through several recent studies, it has been revealed that amidst the recent concern for the environment and mitigating the effects of global climate change, consumers are more willing to invest in cars and technologies to showcase that they are being environmentally sensitive. Think of it as the “Prius Effect.” The Prius is the clearest example of this phenomenon – multiple studies have shown that there are other cars that are equal in sustainable benchmarks, such as the Toyota Camry Hybrid, but still the Prius claims approximately half of the hybrid car market. The Prius out sells all of the other cars for one primary reason – it looks like a hybrid car.

Solar panels are an even more fascinating issue. Solar panels have been a large part of the California market, and a recent study was conducted in the San Diego area on the application and use of these solar panels. Two interesting things were discovered. One, large portions of California where sales of solar panels were high are not ideal for the use of solar panels. Furthermore, sunnier areas of California, in communities that are not as concerned about the environment have drastically fewer solar panels on residential rooftops. Second, there were several cases in which solar panels were actually placed on the wrong side of the house, not as a simple mistake but rather because homeowners wanted to display their solar panels to the street. It is fascinating that people care more about the image of being sustainable than making any lifestyle changes to actually be more environmentally conscious.

On one hand, it’s very discouraging to know that a technology is being misused. Yet seen in another light, this has interesting implications moving forward. If the environmentally conscious consumer wishes to display their “green-ness,” what if there was a way to design and group appropriate technologies so that they are made more visible? What if sustainable technologies were integrated into the design and became completely revealed for all to see? What if we celebrated these technologies rather than trying to hide them within our traditional design language? This way, a homeowner could proudly show their latest sustainable gadgetry, and gain the maximum amount of benefit from it, both economically and environmentally. It would be fascinating to see how talented designers can come up with creative solutions that push this idea further.

Video: Great Spaces - LOT-EK x Van Alen Books - "Packs a Colorful Punch"

2012-03-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is the last episode of Great Spaces for the first season. They made some wonderful short films about some fantastic architecture. I look forward to seeing how the show grows into its second full season.

Competition Winners of the [Amsterdam] Iconic Pedestrian Bridge

2012-03-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

1st Place:

2nd Place:

3rd Place:

Honorable Mentions:

There are some interesting ideas are presented here. I am also particularly fascinated with seeing the graphic presentations for these competition entries. It great to see how different people stress renderings vs cad drawings vs. sketches. I also find that the presentations with more white space and less saturated renderings are much more visually stimulating.

The competition was hosted by [AC-CA] Architectural Competition www.ac-ca.org.
They are currently hosting a new competition: [BUENOS AIRES] New Contemporary Art Museum

Hope for a Young Designer

2012-03-06T18:50:00.000-08:00

by Pierce Atkinson

It's been a year and a half now that I've graduated from the Interior Design program at Dawson College here in Montreal, Quebec Canada. To say I'm passionate about design is an understatement. My friends are always teasing me because no matter where we are I'm constantly taking pictures or feeling things, always interested in how things are made and what they are made of. Design is a huge part of my life, I try to take in everything around me for inspiration; from traveling, to fashion and even food.

In the year and a half that I've been living here school-free I've applied to many jobs, though sparse I still searched them out. Most job postings came up asking for at least 5 years experience or more, which was intimidating for a recent graduate. I found it difficult to gain the requested experience as no one was willing to take a chance on me. It was then that I decided to change my approach, and have begun networking day and night over these past few months. I've met some incredible people who are both fascinating and very helpful in offering advice for a struggling design graduate like myself.

I've asked a few of my friends with whom I graduated how they obtained their current jobs in design and if they struggled with finding a position. Natasha, a junior designer at a local firm explains "I job-shadowed at the firm when I was in my last year at Dawson. Being one of the few that had a passion for traditional residential design in our year, the teachers decided to pair me with this firm. It was the right fit and allowed me to absorb what the design world is like outside of school." We were all very fortunate to have had a job shadowing program at our school, it offered great networking and a real take on what design is like outside of school. I would recommend to students that don't have a job shadowing program to start networking and maybe start one for your school. If not try and shadow with a local architect or designer, they always appreciate free help and its a great learning experience.

Natasha elaborates on how it wasn't what she was expecting once she started working in the field: "At the beginning I felt thrown into the job. It's difficult coming straight out of school and being only 20 years old at the time, expected to know everything. I was fortunate to have a wonderful project manager who was there to answer any questions and concerns I had. He was my mentor throughout the process." Though some students come out of school feeling overly confident while the material is still fresh, a mentor is essential in this business. "School taught me a lot, yet I still feel that the best experience you can have is 'real life world experiences.' A text book can only teach you so much. You need real situations to learn the do's and don'ts of design" explains Natasha.

As is true for many jobs, first impressions are everything and it always helps to know someone. I've recently been given some great advice and was told to start attending as many local design events as I could. I looked into the School of Architecture at McGill University, which has some very interesting lectures coming up that I cannot wait to attend. These kinds of events will attract all kinds of designers, architects and students alike - all great people to talk to and one never knows what might come of it. When asked about what advice she'd give to recent graduates Natasha advises: "The interior design world is so small, so make a good impression! Good word goes a long way." She recounts that someone referred her to her current position and helped her get the job, she also adds; "DO NOT over sell yourself. They [students] must not forget that they are now starting at the bottom. Don't over step your boundaries and always be willing to learn. Absorb as much as possible and keep an open mind."

I have yet to find a mentor but strongly believe I am on the right path, networking is half the battle and opens up many opportunities that may or may not be posted to the public. I've already looked into and applied to some great internships that otherwise would not have been brought to my attention had I not met people and networked. To those struggling graduates out there I say not to worry, you're not alone, and to devote some time into the research of all things design in your area.

Happenings of an Architecture Blog

2012-03-04T12:35:00.003-08:00

Things have been slow on Talkitect.com recently. It is an unfortunate side effect of being overly busy in other parts of my life. I recently purchased a new house and have been working hard at renovating it - new hardwood floors are in, painting has commenced, I'm considering bathroom redesign options like double sink bathroom vanities. I'm learning how to drywall next weekend and closing up a door. Soon I'll be taking down a wall between the kitchen and living room. This summer I'll start replacing the windows, replacing the hot water heater and improving the insulation. My dad helped rewire some of the light fixtures and switches. I will start posting some images of the progress here soon. I also joined the marketing team at Opsis Architecture and have been swamped working on proposals and their new website and social media campaigns. However, I am hoping things will begin to change soon. There are a couple of exciting things that will hopefully get Talkitect up and running again with more frequent posts. I am happy to introduce a couple of new contributors to the blog. You should soon start seeing posts from Kevin Young, Amanda Ingmire, Pierce Atkinson and Nigel Fenton. You can visit the about page for a short profile of some of our new contributors.

I am also working hard at finding sponsors and other revenue streams to keep the blog going and eventually allow me to pay for the content the new contributors create. This has been a slow process but hopefully our advertising revenue will start growing soon. I recently joined a blog advertising site - blogads - that works at connecting bloggers with prospective advertisers. I am hoping they will help me find relevant companies that would like to advertise on talkitect. For more information about the company click here: making money blogging

The Cost of Housing

2012-02-19T22:17:00.000-08:00

We have a housing crisis in the US that has been in the spotlight since the recession hit a few years ago. It seems that we overbuilt, people overextended, and banks preyed off the situation making record profits only to come crashing down and dragging the country's economy with it. However, often we fail to realize that globally there is a different sort of housing crisis, as in there isn't enough affordable housing to offer shelter to the world's exploding population. This info graphic highlights some of the statistics related to housing issues around the globe.

This graphic was sponsored by our friends at www.cobaeurope.com

Slideshow: ARCAM Architectuurcentrum - Amsterdam, The Netherlands - by René van Zuuk Architekten

2012-02-06T09:00:00.001-08:00

A nice little building perched on the waterfront. It's curvaceous form is eye catching, and the backside offers excellent views over the harbor. Unfortunately it is overshadowed by its neighbor, NEMO a garish Renzo Piano designed Science Center.

Video: New Museum - "Going Gaga with SANAA" - Great Spaces

2012-01-30T17:40:00.001-08:00

Great Spaces has come out with a new video highlighting the architecture of the New Museum in New York city, designed by the Pritzker Prize winning firm Sanaa. It is a fantastic design comprised of playfully stacked boxes. The simple forms are wrapped in perforated metal screens that give the building texture and complexity. I wouldn't draw comparisons between it and the pop star Lady Gaga, but that is exactly what Great Spaces has done in their video.

Slideshow: Art Gallery of Ontario - Toronto, Canada - designed by Frank Gehry

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

Here are a few quick snapshots of the Art Gallery of Ontario designed by Frank Gehry. It's a rather nice building despite the gray photographs, at least from the exterior. I like the relatively simple - for Frank Gehry at least - curving Facade. It relates well to the street and the public areas work well with the pedestrian flow of the neighborhood. I wish I had more time to explore the museum itself. Right around the corner is Will Alsop's Ontario College of Art and Design - a big box hanging over a historic building on crayon colored stilts. ALso a nice piece of architecture.

Floating Parks Hold Big Potential for Cities Near Water

2012-01-24T20:55:00.000-08:00

Written by Bradley Bailyn from Okeanos Aquaskaping

Pick any random city on planet earth, and take a look at it on Google Maps. Odds are, that city will be near the ocean, next to a lake, or have a river running through it. There are exceptions, of course. Las Vegas is out in the middle of the desert, and Atlanta doesn’t have much water around it.

There’s a very sensible reason for this trend. Most cities began in a time before cars and planes, so people needed water to get around. Bodies of water are economically useful and beautiful to look at, but by and large most city folk don’t really interact with rivers all that much.

In fact, the city where I live, Pittsburgh, is a great example. Three rivers intersect pretty much smack-dab in the middle of the city. While the rivers offer a peaceful view in a busy city, the rivers can really be rather annoying because of the traffic bottlenecks they create.

By and large, river and lake real estate is vastly underutilized. They provide a pretty view, sure, but you’ll almost never see a Pittsburgher splashing about in the Ohio River.

That’s why the floating park designs in Budapest and the French city ofBoudreaux are so brilliant. Each of these cities has created a barge to act a sort of floating park, complete with a lounging area and swimming pool. These barges provide locals a way to interact with the rivers that are simultaneously so familiar and so alien.

Most people won’t go swimming in city rivers because they’re perceived as dirty and they can be somewhat difficult to access. You’ll rarely see people swimming across city rivers, but those same people will happily take a dip in a swimming pool that’s floating on the river. Maybe it’s just a hygiene issue, but the filtered pools on these barges seem to make all the difference for locals who want to go for a swim.

One of the best features about these barges is that architects can create massive parks without acquiring enormous stretches of land. In cities where vacant real estate is precious, moving to the water is one of the wisest and cheapest options available.

Hopefully, this barge idea will spread to other cities and we will see more mobile floating parks spring up in major metropolises.

Slideshow: Alvar Aalto Studio - Helsinki, Finland - Designed by Alvar Aalto

2012-01-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Again, it is the introduction of natural light which captures the essence of Aalto as one of the most respected architects of the 20th century. Visiting his studio gave some insight into his design process and showed small elements that he explored in some of his larger projects to such fanfare.

Slideshow: 10 Am Kupfergraben - Berlin, Germany - Designed by David Chipperfield

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite buildings in Berlin, this small gallery sits unassumingly across the river from Museum Island. It is beautifully proportioned and although contemporary, it fits wonderfully into its historic context. It will be great to see it hen Chipperfield's new museum opens directly across the river.

Slideshow: Alvar Aalto House - Helsinki, Finland - designed by Alvar Aalto

2012-01-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

A fantastic, modest modern house. Simple materials, natural light and a nice connection between the interior and exterior make this house stand out as a superb example of Aalto's architecture.

Slideshow: Angkor Wat

2012-01-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing places I've visited, Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples are some of the best architectural relics in the world. The grandeur of these ancient buildings are a fitting way to usher in the new year.