Ive lived in Los Angeles for over 15 years. I moved here in fall 2008 to follow my dreams and attend journalism school, and like so many Angelenos, my goal has always been to turn my passions into reality (and pay the rent while doing it). Doing all this against a backdrop of breathtaking blue skies and picturesque palm trees didnt hurt either.After spending my adolescence in the San Francisco Bay Area, it feels almost heretic to call Los Angeles home, but Im not ashamed. I loudly proclaim that LA is my home. Its where my friends and I lounged on LACMAs lawn (the affectionate shorthand for Los Angeles County Museum of Art) to watch jazz in the summertime; where I learned that no matter how badly they want you to call it Crypto.com Arena, it will forever and always be the Staples Center; its where you can guarantee that no matter how your night is going, the tantalizing, comfortingly familiar scents wafting from the nearest taco stand are never too far away. Its where I internalized that you better gun it at the Beverly and La Cienega intersections unprotected left turn before the light turns red, lest your fellow road ragers erupt in a perfectly timed symphony of bleating car horns and brightly colored language. This vibrant hum was abruptly disrupted when multiple fires broke out across the Los Angeles metro area on January 7. Im now grappling with an unmistakable sense of loss, alongside so many others who havent lost everything, but are teetering on the edge of a new reality where so much has been lost all the same. After the Palisades Fire erupted, I sat in my apartment in Hollywood glued to my phone, shuffling between Instagram, various live news streams, messages with friends and family and an app called Watch Duty that has helped me stay in the know about the developing fire situation.Watch Duty is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that relies completely on volunteer dispatchers, first responders, reporters, scientists, and climate experts. Its a scrappy team, but the app was critical for me it ended up being the only place I felt I could get accurate by-the-minute fire alerts. I had never heard of the app before the fires, and neither had most of my friends and family, but its now an essential fixture on my phone. LA is prone to fire and wildfire has always existed on this landscape, but I was caught by surprise by a January wildfire that ignited outside of what we typically would consider Californias fire season. But thanks to climate change, fire seasons and the geographical distribution of fires are shifting, and in California, these changes are exacerbating the variables that feed fires: A wet winter allowed for a bumper crop of grasses and shrubs to thrive, but then an astonishingly long dry period desiccated the landscape, providing ample fuel for wildfire. And then, this years Santa Ana winds were especially fierce, driven by unprecedented heat in the Pacific Ocean.I watched with growing horror as the Watch Duty alerts poured in, each more urgent and damning than the last. The Palisades Fires acreage continued to climb steadily. Messages from my mom and brother pinged across my phones screen. Are you okay? What are you doing? Did you pack a bag just in case? Then the Eaton Fire came. The Eaton Fires devastation hits on a particularly personal level, partly because I have a number of friends and connections whose families have lost everything there, and partly because the Eaton Fire has consumed Altadena, a neighborhood east of downtown LA and one of the oldest historically Black neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Altadena is a bastion for financial mobility and generational longevity for middle-class Black and brown Angelenos, which became one of the most integrated neighborhoods in Los Angeles County after years of white flight during the 1950s. In a region where homeownership continues to be one of the most challenging yet effective methods for generating and maintaining financial security for individuals and families of color, and when you consider the fact that the homeownership gap between Black and white homeowners remains the largest it has been in over a decade, the Eaton Fires impact is staggering, to say the least. A few days later, the Sunset Fire arrived. This fire, burning just north of Sunset Boulevard in the Hollywood Hills, had begun to rapidly spread thanks to high-intensity winds that were already battering the Palisades and northeast LA. I scanned the Watch Duty map in shock as the level 2 and 3 evacuation warnings, demarcated by yellow- and red-colored zones indicating county-issued evacuation mandates, spread to my neighborhood.The colors inched closer and closer to my block. A mandatory evacuation zone was now three blocks away from my apartment. My anxiety climbed, heart racing and head pounding as my jaw clenched tightly. On Wednesday evening, I called my brother in Culver City. I think I need to leave my place, I told him. Can I come stay with you?I had thrown together clothes, electronics, toiletries and my passport in a suitcase the night before. I checked the contents of the bag before getting in my car and driving across town, stopping at a gas station on the way. A sense of panic and terror there was palpable. The air, heavy with haze and cast with a dim yet unmistakably orange tint, caused my eyes and throat to itch and burn. Fellow drivers urgently filled their gas tanks, their faces protected by n95 masks as flimsy ash particles fell across our shoulders like poisonous snowflakes. If this is the apocalypse, I thought, at least my brother is safe (for now). At least my parents are safe (for now). Ill find a way to replace my stuff if I have to.I arrived in Culver City, spent. The evening was a blur. I fell asleep on my brothers couch in a heap of exhaustion and desperation, wondering when or even if Id be able to go back home. The next morning, I again turned to the Watch App, where I tuned into a press conference featuring LA Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Crowley reported significant losses in the Palisades and Eaton fires, but also said that the Sunset fire was getting under control. I felt encouraged. Relieved. Grateful. But also: angry. Devastated. Skeptical. Optimistic. Pessimistic. Confused. Terrified. Utterly exhausted. By Thursday night, I was back in my place. It was one of the most surreal moments of my life. I fervently scrolled social media, where I encountered a disorienting expanse of different realities. Some friends were posting tearful, aching videos detailing what they had lost their home, vehicle, or family heirlooms. Some had lost everything. Others had evacuated but were back at home safely, sharing resources for evacuees from local mutual aid organizations. Some had fled farther south or east to Long Beach, San Diego or Palm Springs and were still there, unsure what their next steps may be. I was safe on my couch, but I didnt feel very safe at all. These catastrophic fires have raised questions for me about the true meaning of home. What does it actually mean to call a place home? How can we reconcile homes ability to encompass both a physical structure where we house our most precious things, as well as the grander, intangible, more esoteric essences that invariably connect us within a place regardless of its physical boundaries? Im extremely grateful to have a roof over my head and to know that my home was not lost. But thousands have not been as fortunate. I have the luxury of being unable to fully wrap my mind around what LAs homeless and housing insecure populations have had to contend with, let alone those who have lost everything but have or will have the means to rebuild. What I realized over the past week is that we all Angelenos are collectively in the process of grieving and rebuilding.Over the last week, Ive been brought to tears by the generosity, humility, and ingenuity of the community here. Ive seen people across all demographics take care of themselves and each other in stunningly kindhearted, tender ways. This has showed my a glimpse of an alternate future here: Where home is a place where mutual aid flows freely, where people work alongside each other using their strengths and talents in harmony, and where both our sorrows and triumphs are held in compassionate, gentle regard north-south and east-west rivalries be damned. I dont know what the future of Los Angeles will look like. Civic leaders, community groups, and everyday Angelenos are actively exploring these paths, right now. Im encouraged. And Ill be there too, with a street taco in hand. Youve read 1 article in the last monthHere at Vox, we're unwavering in our commitment to covering the issues that matter most to you threats to democracy, immigration, reproductive rights, the environment, and the rising polarization across this country.Our mission is to provide clear, accessible journalism that empowers you to stay informed and engaged in shaping our world. By becoming a Vox Member, you directly strengthen our ability to deliver in-depth, independent reporting that drives meaningful change.We rely on readers like you join us.Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-ChiefSee More:

If all of President Donald Trumps Day 1 executive orders on immigration and deportation go through, he will have succeeded in a radical overhaul of US law. That, however, is a mighty if.His agenda Monday was a mix of new and familiar policies: In the latter category, Trump revived a number of measures from his first administration, including forcing asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for decisions in the US immigration cases, implementing extreme vetting of immigrants coming into the US, and cracking down on sanctuary cities and states that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration agents. He also began to implement several 2024 campaign promises, including establishing a framework through which he intends to carry out mass deportations, mobilizing the military to the border, and paring back Biden-era programs that gave temporary protections to hundreds of thousands of immigrants. And he delivered on a long-standing promise to sign an executive order potentially ending birthright citizenship in the unlikely event it stands up to a court challenge. Some of these executive orders, such as the so-called Remain in Mexico policy, have already been tested in the courts during Trumps first administration or are clearly within his powers as president. That category includes rescinding his predecessors executive orders or agency policy guidance on immigration, such as a Biden directive prioritizing violent criminals and recent arrivals for immigration enforcement. Other Trump actions appear patently illegal; the ACLU and 18 state attorneys general have already challenged his order ending birthright citizenship, which legal experts have long argued is blatantly unconstitutional.The survival of other new policies, particularly around deportations, may depend on how they are implemented in practice. As new executive orders go into effect, legal advocates will be watching for the ways in which those policies could violate the constitutional rights of immigrants and existing federal immigration and national security laws.According to Doris Meissner, director of the Migration Policy Institutes immigration policy work, however, there is more sophistication, I think its fair to say, in the way that they [Trump administration officials] are going about it, compared to the hasty executive orders of Trumps first term. In short, were in for months or even years of legal wrangling and the outcomes of those fights will determine the reach of Trumps immigration overhaul.What Trumps immigration executive orders actually doTrump made immigration a centerpiece of his 2024 campaign after record-high numbers of crossings at the US-Mexico border early in the Biden administration. While border crossings came down significantly after former President Joe Biden implemented executive orders limiting access to asylum last year, Trump nevertheless signed Day 1 executive orders addressing what he described as an immigrant invasion and setting the stage for a large-scale deportation operation. Trump has sought to keep out and remove immigrants, both documented and undocumented, by multiple means:In addition to restarting the Remain in Mexico policy, he declared a national emergency at the border, blocked any noncitizens from entering on the basis that they could spread unnamed communicable diseases of public health concern, and prohibited them from claiming a right to remain in the US under its asylum laws. He ordered a rollback of Biden-era parole and Temporary Protected Status protections that allowed people from countries including Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to live and work in the US.He laid the groundwork to reestablish his policy of extreme vetting of legal immigrants from his first term, applying heightened scrutiny at the agency level to visa applications across the board. He will pause US refugee admissions for at least a 90-day period, starting on January 27. He has left open the door to future travel bans and agreements with other countries that would require asylum seekers to apply for protections there first.He cleared the way for the Defense Department to deploy the military to the southern border (though in exactly what capacity remains unclear) and ordered the construction of the border wall to restart.Trumps executive orders prioritize criminals (particularly members of drug cartels or international criminal gangs that he has now designated as foreign terrorist organizations) for deportation, but they make no promises to spare other undocumented immigrants. He is reportedly planning to order immigration raids in major cities in the early weeks of his new administration, though one such raid in Chicago may have been postponed following leaks. To achieve his promised mass deportation agenda, Trumps executive orders look to beef up immigration detention capacity, seek cooperation with local law enforcement, expand the use of fast-tracked deportations, punish sanctuary cities and states, and sanction countries that have been reluctant to accept their own citizens as deportees. Finally and perhaps most controversially, he issued an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship from February 19 onward, which would impact children born in the US to an undocumented mother or a mother in the US on a temporary visa, if their father also lacks citizenship or permanent residency status.How the courts could limit Trumps ambitions on immigrationDuring Trumps first term, the courts served as a check on his efforts to unilaterally remake the immigration system via executive order, regularly issuing nationwide blocks on his policies that often delayed if not ultimately doomed them. This time, Trumps policies are just as likely to be challenged in court. A group of former Biden-Harris officials, in collaboration with the legal organization Democracy Forward, are gearing up to file lawsuits against Trumps initial executive orders. The ACLU and other legal organizations are also beginning to inundate the new Trump administration with litigation.However, whats different about Trumps second term is the makeup of the courts. Trump appointed swaths of conservative judges to the Supreme Court and other federal appellate courts during his first term, and he may now find a more favorable legal environment to enact his immigration policies. Trump officials appear to have learned from their mistakes, experts noted, and are less likely to rush to implement splashy policies such as the travel ban on citizens of certain countries Trump pursued early in his first term without gathering the necessary justification at the agency level. I think that the time that the Trump administration had to study some of their losses could have played into how theyve framed these orders that just came out, said Kathleen Bush-Joseph, a policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan think tank focused on immigration. Theyre trying to follow past decisions and put forward things that they think can stand up In the courts. As president, Trump has significant discretion over federal immigration policy, and he already tested the limits of that authority during his first term. For instance, his Remain in Mexico policy, an amended version of his 2017 travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries, and his efforts to expand expedited removal a process by which immigrants can be deported quickly and without a hearing before an immigration judge all survived legal scrutiny the first time around and likely will again. Many of Bidens immigration policies implemented via executive order can be and indeed, already have been undone via executive order. That includes Bidens implementation of immigration enforcement priorities and the CBP One app that allowed immigrants to sign up for appointments at the border where they were processed and often allowed to cross. On Monday, immigrants saw their appointments canceled.However, there are elements of Trumps executive orders that seem clearly illegal or at least deeply questionable, according to legal experts. That includes ending birthright citizenship, which most legal experts argue would require a constitutional amendment for which there does not exist sufficient support in Congress. In another executive order, Trump also lays the groundwork to invoke the Alien Enemies Act, a 1798 law passed as part of the Alien and Sedition Acts that allows the president to detain and deport noncitizens from countries at war with the US. It was last used during World War II to detain civilians of Japanese, German, and Italian descent. Despite Trumps rhetoric about an invasion and his decision to name cartels and international criminal gangs as terrorist organizations, however, the US is not at war, and experts say Trump likely lacks legal standing to use the law to deport immigrants.Most experts believe that to invoke [the Alien Enemies Act] requires a declared war, and only Congress can declare war, said Muzaffar Chishti, a senior fellow at the Migration Policy Institute and director of the think tanks office at New York University School of Law. Whether this is a war or theres an invasion is going to be subject to litigation, and there is good law against the President on this. Some of Trumps executive orders, however, may occupy a legal gray zone until we know more about exactly how they will be implemented or how they could infringe on individual rights. That includes his deployment of the military to the southern border. There is a long precedent of the military supporting operations at the border through infrastructure and logistics, but not of US troops interacting directly with immigrants. An expanded presence on the border, particularly of active duty service members rather than National Guard troops, could violate federal law. That includes the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the use of the military to enforce federal law without the permission of Congress or the Constitution.These kinds of legal questions are likely to be resolved only after lengthy litigation, potentially delaying, if not sinking entirely, some key parts of Trumps immigration agenda. But the Trump administration also appeared on Monday more savvy about how it intends to defend the orders in court than it did in 2017 and with a more pliant court system in place, its an open question how far Trumps unilateral immigration agenda will go.Youve read 1 article in the last monthHere at Vox, we're unwavering in our commitment to covering the issues that matter most to you threats to democracy, immigration, reproductive rights, the environment, and the rising polarization across this country.Our mission is to provide clear, accessible journalism that empowers you to stay informed and engaged in shaping our world. By becoming a Vox Member, you directly strengthen our ability to deliver in-depth, independent reporting that drives meaningful change.We rely on readers like you join us.Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-ChiefSee More:

TechAetherdrift is Magic The Gathering meets Mario Kart and I can't wait to playTime to start your engines as Magic The Gathering's latest set, Aetherdrift, is powesliding into stores soon here's all you need to know about the latest setdailystarBookmarkShareTechByLloyd CoombesGaming Editor10:55, 22 JAN 2025BookmarkThe concept art for Aetherdrift looks phenomenal (Image: Florian De Gesincourt)Magic The Gathering and a death-defying race might seem like odd bedfellows, but the long-running card games new set, Aetherdrift, is very odd indeed. Magics 103rd expansion (yes, really) tells the story of the Ghirapur Grand Prix, a race that sees participants dart between three realms for the grand prize of the Aetherspark, allowing free travel between universes. Its a Mario Kart-infused set that makes little sense as a card game in concept, but Im really intrigued by what Wizards of the Coast is doing. Start Your Engines! The Ghirapur Grand Prix features racers from Avishkar and Amonkhet, with both racing for very different reasons. The former have racing teams made up of scouts, pilots and smugglers that have become folk heroes since the Phyrexian invasion a few sets ago imagine Han Solo types racing for fame, fortune, and to show everyone a good time. The Amonkhet are looking to elevate their people. Its a noble cause, after years of suffering. Both nations host the race in their plane, while the Muraganda plane is also included as a sort of wildcard. There are three realms to explore through the set (Image: Leon Tukker) This primordial realm doesnt take an active part in the race, but does have dinosaurs and other obstacles to keep racers on their toes. As ever, Wizards is committed to the core narrative conceit of the set. There are full-art land cards taken from a drivers seat perspective, while in-universe racing teams like the White and Blue Guidelight Voyagers, or the Blue and Black Speed Demons should help even newcomers build a relatively cohesive playstyle. Theres also a nifty new mechanic Start Your Engines. Pit Mechanic Expect more than just firework explosions (Image: Titus Lunter) When a player triggers the Start Your Engines keyword, their speed moves from zero to one. Dealing damage to an opponent moves the speed up by one each turn, with a max speed of four. Once you hit maximum speed, cards gain additional benefits, like triggering extra card draw or adding tokens. This even affects lands, with Muraganda Speedway tapping for double colourless mana once you hit top speed. With such a focus on vehicles, you can expect plenty of new vehicle cards, while the Saddle mechanic also returns from last years Outlaws of Thunder Junction. As for Commander decks, were getting two this time with Eternal Might and Living Energy. While the latter has a a focus on creating energy and making vehicles, Im much more excited for the former. Im always looking to play Zombie decks where I can (or at least Black decks), and I love the idea of slowly amassing an undead army before going for a big swing. Final Thoughts Ive been wrong about the longevity of Magic sets before, but my interest for Aetherdrift went from low to full-throttle (see what I did there?) over the course of my preview session. You can preorder the set on Amazon here or on ZavviStory SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.More OnMagic The Gathering

Valorant's latest patch is here, with update 10.01's patch notes including updates to Rank Shields, bug fixes for new Agent Tejo and more here's the full listTech10:49, 22 Jan 2025Tejo is getting fixes in 10.01(Image: Riot Games)Nothing stays the same for long in Valorant, and shortly after the 10.00 update that introduced new Agent Tejo, the 10.01 patch is here.While it's mostly focused around bug fixes (many of them affecting Tejo), there's also the addition of Rank Shields for competitive play in Riot Games' tactical shooter.These will help ensure players don't lose ranks for every loss, giving a little bit of protection if your team isn't quite clicking the way it should when you jump in.Here are the full notes, courtesy of Riot Games:Competitive updatesRank Shields have been added to Competitive Mode!You are granted two Rank Shields while in Tier 1 (e.g. Silver 1, Gold 1, Platinum 1) of all Ranks except Radiant.When you lose a game at 0 RR, one shield is consumed, leaving you with one shield remaining.Losing again at 0 RR consumes the second shield, leaving you with zero shields remaining.If you lose three games while at 0 RR, you demote to the lower rank (e.g. Gold 1 to Silver 3).You do not have shields in the other tiers of a Rank (e.g. There are no shields when losing at 0 RR in Gold 2).Only when you move into Tier 1 via promotion or demotion, will you replenish two shields for that tier.Winning at 0 RR and going back to 10 RR will not replenish your shields.You can see all information about Rank Shields in the Rank Details screen in the client!Tejo can rain fireBug FixesAgentsTejoFixed an issue where players who exited then re-entered Tejo's Armageddon blast zone do not count as Displaced in the Combat Report.Fixed an issue where Tejo's Guided Salvo projectile would get stuck inside the wall when cast towards a path blocked by Sage's Barrier Orb.Fixed an issue where Tejo's Stealth Drone affected by Nearsight could see Enemy Players' model outline at certain distances.Improved an issue where Tejo's Guided Salvo smoke trail VFX could clip through thin walls and structures once cast.MapsBindFixed an issue where invisible collision would sometimes impede agent utility inside one of the teleporter rooms.PC Bug FixesPremierFixed an issue where there were inconsistent font sizes on the Change Zone and the Delete Team pop-up screens in Premier.Fixed an issue where Premier matches in match history did not show a mode tooltip when you hovered over them.Fixed an issue where the ineligibility warning tooltip in the lobby was very hard to trigger.Console Bug Fixes:Competitive SystemsArticle continues belowFixed a bug where the queue timer overlaps with a portion of the Leaderboard page.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.RECOMMENDED

Switch 2 is significantly more powerful claims dev in Mario Kart breakdownAdam StarkeyPublished January 22, 2025 10:41amUpdated January 22, 2025 10:42am Mario Kart 9 looks more impressive than you might think (YouTube)A developer has explained how powerful the Nintendo Switch 2 is based on the new Mario Kart, describing one improvement as a massive deal.The reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 may have confirmed some details about the console, but were still having to rely on leaks when it comes to the systems technical capabilities.Prior to the reveal, the console was rumoured to be as powerful as a PlayStation 4, albeit with the ability to run compromised versions of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X games. Others, however, have claimed it will be more comparable to an Xbox Series S.While we still dont have any official details from Nintendo, a developer who worked on games for the original Switch has shared his insight based on the new Mario Kart footage, where he describes the console as being significantly more powerful.This comes from a video by Sungrand Studios director Jerrel Dulay, who worked on the Silver Falls game series. In the clip, he highlights various aspects of the Mario Kart footage which demonstrate the consoles capabilities.Along with more detailed textures around the track, Dulay focuses on the volumetric lighting, an advanced graphical technique to create a sense of density, such as fog or dustiness.The original Switch would struggle to run these features at a high frame rate, so their inclusion in Mario Kart 9 suggests, according to Dulay, that the Switch 2 is significantly more powerful than its predecessor.How powerful could the Nintendo Switch 2 be?Its very expensive, Dulay remarks about the lighting. That tells me that the Switch 2 is significantly more powerful because they would want these games running at 60 frames per second if youre running at 1080p.To have volumetric lighting at this resolution, at this frame rate, is insane. I hope my explanation helps you understand, this is a massive deal. The most important part of this reveal trailer to me is showing this volumetric lighting because it is a massive deal. Its what contributes to a huge amount of slowdown on games on the original Switch.The developer also highlights other features such as the improved shadow draw distance, cloth simulation on the flags around the track, and higher polygon counts on the character models, which would also be an issue on the Switch at 60 frames per second. Now with more players too YouTube)He estimates the Switch 2s RAM will be between 12-16GB, with leaks indicating it would be 12GB. Overall, Dulay is extremely excited for the system, as he believes games he previously set aside due to the Switchs limitations can now be fully realised on this new hardware.While there are some caveats around whether this footage will be reflective of the final product, its a promising indication that the Switch 2 will be a bigger technical improvement than the first impressions suggest.More TrendingWell find out more about Nintendos next console at the planned Direct presentation on April 2, 2025. A release date for the Switch 2 has yet to be announced, but you can register for a chance to play the console early at various events around the world. There might be more power than expected (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralSign up for exclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

Promenade Architecturale: How the Modernist Concept Continues to Inspire Contemporary ArchitectureSave this picture!Casa Canal / Studio MK27 - Marcio Kogan + Lair Reis Fran ParenteIn modernist architecture, promenade architecturale emerged as a key design strategy, embodying the principles of functionality, aesthetics, and integration with the urban context. Le Corbusiers iconic projects, such as Villa La Roche (1925) and Villa Savoye (1929), exemplify this idea by guiding visitors through an ascending journey that culminates in the rooftop gardena space where the building and nature seamlessly interact. A century later, this concept remains influential, continuing to shape contemporary designs that explore the relationship between movement and space in various architectural typologies, including houses, museums, libraries, and parks.Le Corbusiers focus on the relationship between time and architecture led him to create the term promenade architecturale, referring to the experience of moving through a built environment. The intention was for users to engage with architecture through a journey, offering multiple perspectives and emphasizing all architectural elements, as if following instructions to understand the work. The promenade begins at the building's entrance and unfolds as a path to be experienced by the body, gradually revealing the architectural richness of the structure. This approach fosters a dynamic and sensory spatial experience, where the full impact of the journey exceeds the sum of the individual perceptions formed by isolated elements of the building.Save this picture! Architecture is walked through, it is traversed, and it is not, as certain principles suggest, a purely graphic illusion organized around an abstract central point where man is meant to bea chimerical manequipped with a fly's eye, whose vision would be circular. Le Corbusier, 1961 Related Article The 5 Points of Modern Architecture in Contemporary Projects In practice, Villa Savoye exemplifies the application of promenade architecturale, with its central ramp symbolizing a smooth, continuous vertical transition that connects the house's three levels. This design not only reduces physical effort but also brings a sense of linearity to the journey, guiding the body along both horizontal and vertical axes. The ramp, composed of two mirrored, opposite sections, creates a cyclical movement, allowing visitors to return to the starting point at a higher level, offering fresh perspectives and viewpoints. This strategy was later expanded when Le Corbusier incorporated it into large public projects, such as the Centrosoyus Building (1936) in Moscow, which features helical ramps. In doing so, Le Corbusier reinforced his boldand at the time, controversialview: "Architecture is circulation."Save this picture!By emphasizing time and movement in architecture, Le Corbusier introduced a new perspective for the viewer, encouraging an active interaction between the individual and the space. This approach not only enhances the sensory and emotional experience but also fosters creativity, empowering users to interpret and create their own journeys within the architectural narrative.Save this picture!Nearly a century after the concepts creation, its core characteristics continue to shape projects of various scales, often under different names, but always preserving their essence. This approach serves as a fundamental compositional structure, evident in the spatial sequencing that guides the user on an engaging journey; and in the seamless integration of interior and exterior through expansive openings, terraces, and transitional areas that establish a visual and physical continuity between the built environment and the surrounding landscape; in the ramps and stairs that not only facilitate movement but also offer varied viewpoints and interactions with the space; and in the carefully orchestrated natural light, which guides movement, accentuates architectural features, and creates unique atmospheres throughout the journey.Save this picture!The connection between modern and contemporary architecture through the lens of promenade architecturale naturally invites comparisons between Villa Savoye and the classic Casa Bordeaux, completed in 1998 by Rem Koolhaas. The primary point of comparison lies in the shared focus on vertical circulation as a central design element. However, while Villa Savoye offers a continuous journey for the user, Koolhaas subverts the rational approach of modernist construction in Casa Bordeaux by introducing an elevator as a mechanized structure that defines the vertical path. This shift not only sequences perceptions but also makes the experience accessible to the owner with reduced mobility, broadening the scope of interaction with the space.Save this picture!The concept of promenade architecturale, widely used to create an architectural narrative, is also present in contemporary residential projects, such as EA Residence by Jacobsen Arquitetura. In this design, the concept creates an experience that seamlessly integrates the built and natural landscapes, guiding the user through a journey of movement. Similarly, Casa Canal by Studio MK27 - Marcio Kogan + Lair Reis revives this idea with a winding ramp that invites a three-dimensional walk, offering surprises as the user ascendsa concept that closely mirrors Villa Savoyes design.Save this picture! In this house [Villa Savoye], we have a true promenade architecturale, constantly offering varied, unexpected, and sometimes surprising aspects. It is interesting to achieve such diversity when, for instance, from the construction perspective, we have a scheme of columns and beams of absolute rigor... It is through movement... that man perceives the orders of architecture unfolding in space. Le Corbusier, 1995 Beyond residential buildings, the concept is also applied to larger cultural and educational projects. A notable example is the International Community School in Baghdad, where the primary circulation path is a promenade architecturale. This engaging route starts with an amphitheater at ground level and meanders through the schools various zones, culminating in a rooftop tennis court. Here, the promenade is not just for movement but serves as an experiential journey that activates the spaces diverse functions.Save this picture!Save this picture!In museums, the concept expands further into choreographed visits that encourage continuous movement, leading to the discovery of key architectural elements. MAXXI Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects (2009), Casa da Msica by OMA (2005), and the Soumaya Museum in Mexico City (2011) are all examples where promenade architecturale is used to guide visitors through vertical and horizontal pathways, gradually revealing the building's structure while offering new perspectives at each turn.Save this picture!Save this picture!The concept is also applied in parks and public spaces, such as the Taiyan Botanical Garden, where concentric circles create a promenade that reflects the idea of a domesticated natural landscape.Save this picture!In these diverse applications, promenade architecturale not only remains a functional principle but has adapted to the demands of sustainable and inclusive architecture. Contemporary projects use the concept to create accessible paths for all while integrating urban and natural landscapes, addressing both environmental and social concerns. As spatial experiences continue to evolve, promenade architecturale remains a crucial reference, showing how movement and perception can deepen our interaction with architecture. Even in today's context, the modernist legacy of Le Corbusier endures, adapting to the challenges and possibilities of the 21st century.Save this picture!This article is part of the ArchDaily Topics: 100 Years of Modernism. Every month we explore a topic in-depth through articles, interviews, news, and architecture projects. We invite you to learn more about our ArchDaily Topics. And, as always, at ArchDaily we welcome the contributions of our readers; if you want to submit an article or project, contact us.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorCamilla GhisleniAuthorCite: Ghisleni, Camilla. "Promenade Architecturale: How the Modernist Concept Continues to Inspire Contemporary Architecture" [Promenade Architecturale: Como o conceito moderno ainda inspira a arquitetura atual] 22 Jan 2025. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simes, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1025951/promenade-architecturale-how-the-modernist-concept-continues-to-inspire-contemporary-architecture&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Plant Basingstoke Offices and Garden Restoration / Studio Knight Stokoe + Twelve Architects + Grant Associates + Feilden Clegg Bradley StudioSave this picture! Andy StaggOffice Buildings, RefurbishmentBasingstoke, United KingdomArchitects: AreaArea of this architecture projectArea:19515 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Andy Stagg More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Renewal and revival of celebrated 1970s modernist offices and gardens unveiled at Plant Basingstoke. The retrofit and regeneration of Plant, Basingstoke, formerly known as Mountbatten House and considered one of the 15 most important listed modern buildings in Britain, has been completed. The building was originally designed in 1973 by Peter Foggo and Arup Associates Group 2 with pre-eminent garden designer, James Russell, for paper manufacturers Wiggins Teape. First christened Gateway House, the vast stepped complex comprises six levels of commercial workspace blanketed in tiered roof gardens and terraces. The gardens and buildings were both separately listed by English Heritage in 2015 for their design excellence and significance within British modernist architecture and horticulture. The plant marks a major regional asset for economic development in Hampshire, offering over 19,515 square meters of category A and B multi-let office and amenity space.Save this picture!Save this picture!Client William Laxton of Mactaggart Family & Partners was instantly drawn to the scheme on account of the original Peter Foggo design fundamentals and the abundance of terracing, making it a singularly unique building. Twelve Architects and Studio Knight Stokoe have worked closely with the client, Mactaggart Family & Partners, developer Longstock Capital, and contractor, CField Construction to complete the Grant Associates and Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios design, to deliver and reinstate the buildings' original pioneering design intent; to blend nature, wellbeing and the workplace seamlessly. In aspiring to the highest sustainability ratings across BREEAM 'Outstanding' and WELL Platinum certifications, Plant again pioneers a new commitment to the environment and occupant that sets a remarkable standard for future commercial workplace developments. Prominent architectural interventions include a redesigned and expanded building entrance and reception area, enhancing the arrival experience and establishing a stronger visual connection to the verdant refurbished gardens. Double-height spaces have been formed to create vertical connections between floors, increasing the sense of openness and drawing more natural light into the plan. A striking helical staircase marks an impressive, welcoming entrance area for building users.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!More recent suspended ceilings and finishes have been removed to reveal Plant's distinctive coffered slab structure and cruciform columns, preserving the building's unique architectural character. The original curtain wall system has been carefully refurbished, improving the building's thermal performance and ensuring its longevity. The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems have been fully upgraded to enhance operational efficiency and future-proof the building, contributing to its pending 'Outstanding' BREEAM certification. Additional new facilities, including a cafe, gym, shower and changing rooms, secure cycle storage, and a multi-purpose function space have been incorporated to meet the needs of modern tenants. A key driver of the project was to greatly improve access to the gardens and roof terraces, with new level access from all stories allowing greater use and enjoyment of the much-loved and affectionately termed 'hanging gardens of Basingstoke'. Through extensive research conducted in archives at the University of York - including Russell's handwritten planting lists - the listed landscape has been adapted to be climate resilient and importantly, regenerative. An in-depth analysis of the historic planting palettes was undertaken, replacing species poorly suited to exposed rooftop conditions, prioritizing species that are better suited to their environment, and which foster biodiversity enhancements by helping pollinators and foragers to thrive.Save this picture!Save this picture!Over 22,500 new plants have been introduced, along with 86 new trees to complement those already on the site. With no raised planters across the gardens, adapting the planting required close collaboration between the landscape architects, structural engineers, and soil specialists, ensuring even loading across the multi-level structure. The renewed planting design draws inspiration from the original design vision for the gardens; to be informal, elaborate, romantic, overflowing, and tumbling. Much of the existing hardscaping has been restored, with every original paving element across the garden levels recorded and cataloged, temporarily removed through construction, and then replaced in situ. A deteriorating pond has been replaced in the cloistered Level 2 courtyard with a sculpted contemporary water feature, honoring the original form of the pond, and helping to bring new sensory experience into the space. The revitalized gardens enhance biodiversity and create inclusive, engaging spaces for both occupants and visitors. Winding pathways and new seating areas invite exploration, offering opportunities for relaxation, socialization, and quiet reflection. A widely regarded exemplar of British modernism and commercial horticulture, Plant now begins its new life as a regional hub for growth, providing the right environment for occupants and nature to thrive. Planning approval and listed building consent was obtained by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios who subsequently monitored planning and listed building issues through construction. Twelve Architects completed stages 4-6 of the architectural design, including design variations under the approval of conditions.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Grant Associates designed the landscape to stage 4, and obtained planning approval and listed consent in 2019, before moving to a client monitoring role through construction. Studio Knight Stokoe obtained planning and listed building consent for an amended landscape scheme in 2024, based upon the principles established in the Grant Associates design, and completed the amended detailed design. Hugo Denee, co-founder of Longstock Capital said; 'The project team has captured the original spirit of Plant and delivered an outstanding refurbishment. Plant is a unique building that we are all immensely proud of, and will serve the region for many more years to come. The building is now a perfect example of what occupiers require in terms of design aesthetic, environmental credentials, and amenities and the proof is in how well it has been received by the leasing market.' Martin Knight, Director at Studio Knight Stokoe said; 'Plant in Basingstoke is redefining what a workspace can be. By reimagining this nationally significant building and its gardens, Studio Knight Stokoe has helped to create a transformational exemplar of retrofit and reuse. It's a project that respects the original design vision while meeting modern needs. Here, the connection between people and nature isn't an afterthought - it's at the core of everything. The team has used regenerative and biophilic design principles to create beautiful environments that support wellbeing, in every sense. For those who work and visit here, Plant offers a daily reminder of nature's importance in our lives.Save this picture!This project goes beyond preserving history or creating office space. It's about shaping a place that positively impacts people and the environment. It's been a pleasure to be part of the team bringing our client's vision to life.' Robert Shannon, Associate Director at Twelve Architects & Masterplanners said; 'Twelve Architects are proud to have played a pivotal role in the transformation of Plant into an incredible, forward-thinking workspace. By preserving its architectural heritage while embracing modern innovations, the team has created an exemplary development that promotes well-being and connections. It's wonderful to see how the refurbishment has enhanced natural light, and spatial flow and brought tenants closer to nature. With sustainability at its core and a pending BREEAM 'Outstanding' certification, Plant sets new standards for the future of office design. It has been a privilege to work with such an outstanding team and a client who is truly passionate about delivering remarkable buildings.' Keith French, Director at Grant Associates, said; 'Our approach in helping to bring this amazing building and series of gardens back to life, has been to honor the original vision of seamlessly blending architecture and landscape. This project provided a unique opportunity to not only preserve the legacy of Peter Foggo and James Russell but also to enhance it for future generations. By prioritizing nature, wellbeing, and sustainability, as a team we've created an environment that reflects the changing needs of the modern workplace while staying true to the building and garden's pioneering spirit.'Save this picture!Ian Taylor, Partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, said; "I am immensely proud of the role Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios has played in extending the life of this seminal building designed over 50 years ago by Peter Foggo's group 2 at Arup Associates (with whom I worked in the 1980s). The building design's prescience in creating contact with, and access to, nature within all the office spaces on all levels created a legacy that even now appears forward-thinking. Our work focused on preserving the unique character of Foggo's original design while creating a framework that balances function with environmental responsibility. Plant now stands as a benchmark for retrofitting and regeneration, a space where people and nature thrive in harmony, embodying the values we strive for in every project." Save this picture!Project gallery

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