Submitted by WA ContentsDesignart Tokyo installations explore new perspectives through art, design, craft, and technology Japan Architecture News - Dec 24, 2024 - 14:24 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Designwork Tokyo hosted one of the biggest design and art festivals in Japan, encompassing a broad range of fields like fashion, interior design, design, and art.Themed as Reframing - the Beginning of a Shift, this year's design event hosted 117 exhibitions at 96 venues presented works and content from around the world. This year's event recorded over 227,000 visitors for its 117 exhibitions.The 10-day event transformed the city of Tokyo into an art museum. Artists presented new values through reimagining conventional frameworks.The official show this year highlighted the creations of artists who, by presenting new ideals through unconventional viewpoints, are not constrained by traditional frameworks.Four artists at the vanguard of several industries, including art, design, craft, and technology, along with eighteen groups of creators, curated the "Reframing" exhibition. The exhibition was intentionally not separated by the aforementioned fields in order to prevent restricting the spectators' perspective, which gave visitors an extremely engaging experience.Space Design: HYBE Design Team In collaboration with: World Co. / Nomura Co. / Stylem Takesada Osaka / Setup / Timber Crew / MDES / Reset / K3 / Mimaki Engineering / Lintec Sign System. Image Nacasa & PartnersTo draw attention to the appealing aspects of each piece, the HYBE Design Team, under the direction of Jun Takeda, employed stands composed completely of solid recycled material called "TUTTI" for the spatial design. It seemed as though the exhibition stands were a natural extension of the artwork.They not only made it possible for guests to move freely and take in the artwork without feeling alone, but they also infused the space with vitality. Overall, the design decision demonstrated a fresh viewpoint, a new "standard," by utilizing presence and texture without the usage of expensive materials.The four curators were contemporary art curator Kodama Kanazawa for the Art, interior stylist and Space Designer Masato Kawai for Design, Yudai Tachikawa, and artistic director, social sculptor Ryuta Aoki for Craft.World Architecture Community is official media partner of Designart Tokyo 2024, and bringing you the most captivating installations from this year's festival.The fascinating power of natural materialsJoint Exhibition: Woodwork at Axis GalleryFort's new series(ODS / Oniki Design Studio). Image RYO USAMIWith the renewed interest in wood as an essential material for furniture and interior design, a dedicated exhibition was held at the Axis Gallery in Roppongi. Featured works included architect and designer Koichiro Oniki's ODS / Oniki Design Studio's new Fort series, three-dimensional assemblages using Japanese Kumiko techniques.Additionally, Takusei Kajitani presented a 10 years labor in his work Consentable, which captured and evoked the theme of "Deep dive into what I want." The Shizuoka based custom- made furniture workshop iwakagu presented wooden furniture that reflected on the nature of wood itself and reimagined the relationship between the home and woodworking. Maruhon exhibited flooring utilizing Japanese Oak wilt and custom-made furniture fabricated in a way that highlighted the natural charm of the wood, iron, and stone materials.Courtesy of StraftStraft, Exhibition "Nest" (Under 30)Under the title of Exhibition Nest, Straft, a craft unit consisting of Tamaki Ishii and Kazuma Yamagami, exhibited works using rice straw, which has long been revered as a holy material.Throughout history it has served a variety of purposes including creating roofing, walls, and daily tools, as well as being used in Shinto rituals. The exhibition explored the essence of spiritual richness needed today through a perspective that captured the importance of coexisting in harmony with nature. The works shown included impressive and powerful works of clothing and furniture.Expanding the possibilities of product design through new perspectivesSaki Takeshita, 130, AAAQ. Image Kohei YamamatoAAAQ (Under 30)AAAQ is a creative unit of product designer/producer Atsuro Miyako and UI designer So Ohta. This year, the duo presented Visible Stress, an appreciation of the texture of light.The work was created through photoelasticity, a phenomenon that vividly visualizes forces that are typically invisible to the eye. The artists conceived the piece by taking a fresh look at the materials around us and considering their latent power of beauty.Image Ryo UsamiFarm and BuildFarm and Build member Ken Sato introduced a series of furniture made from Najio Washi in his Najio Series. Najio Washi is a type of paper that has been produced in the northern part of Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture since the Edo period, known for its resistance to stains and discoloration even when placed in direct sunlight.The "Pillar Stool" (white) was made by pasting Naijo Washi with starch glue and applying a thin layer of shellac varnish using a technique called French polish to reveal the texture of the fibers and mud in the paper. The work Pedestl Table (black/left) was also presented.Farm And Build, Pulse in collaboration with. Image Ryo UsamiPulsePulse member Daiki Mitsui introduced a new type of ikkanbari (Japanese lacquered papier-mch), soga ikkanbari, which incorporates the traditional techniques of ikkanbari to give the inorganic materials of today the quality of a hand crafted product.Ikkanbari is a technique of layering Japanese paper over bamboo baskets or woven bamboo and applying persimmon tannin or lacquer to increase strength and create a form that can be used for a long time. For this series, five different materials were used to create vases.Beautiful design and art presentationImage Nacasa & PartnersKEF A Celebration of Space Immersed in Sound and LightThe British audio brand KEF came together for a collaboration with renowned designer Michael Young and Klein Dytham architecture (KDa), designer of the KEF Music Gallery in Aoyama.The exhibit included Sticklight, a vibrantly colored display and innovative design work by Michael Young from the 1990s. As well as this, KEF's LS60 Wireless speakers (also designed by Young) were featured in a striking, loud speaker-shaped space at the KEF Music Gallery. The exhibit was an impressive fusion of the three artists' creations.Image Kohei YamamatoFujifilm Design CenterA Taste of Fuji: A Journey with Fujioh SakeFujioh is an original Japanese sake brewed with high-quality spring water from the Fujifilm film factory grounds. In conjunction with the release of a new single-serving cans (a special sized 180ml sake can), an installation was held to take visitors on a journey to Mount Fuji. The production took place in the Clay Studio, a large underground space that was originally designed by all 80 of Fujifilm's in-house designers.Evolving upcyclingReusing discarded materials in a new wayCourtesy of HonokaAqua Clara Honoka Trace of Water"Aqua Clara," a leading company in the water server industry in Japan, showcased a bottle upcycling exhibition in collaboration with the design lab "Honoka" to explore the potential of bottle materials. Returnable bottles, which have absorbed significant moisture after serving their purpose, undergo processing with heat to create subtle changes in color and texture that evoke traces of water.Honoka, with its extensive experience in various processing methods and materials, harnessed the potential of polycarbonate bottle materials with their moisture-absorbing properties and strength. By developing "architectural materials" that combine aesthetics and functionality and presenting products applying these materials, they demonstrated the future potential of upcycling.Image Nacasa & PartnersHiroto Ikebe (Under 30) Cocoon AnatomyHiroto Ikebe aims to bring new perspectives and values to the diminishing practice of sericulture (silk farming). By reading and reinterpreting its existence and combining traditional techniques rooted in the land with the latest technology, he has created a new kind of garment made from the waste products of cocoons, this is "Cocoon Anatomy."Through a captivating exhibition, the importance of revitalizing and carrying on the memory of sericulture was conveyed through visualizing the relationship between materials and producers. As this relationship grows invisible due to industrialization, the artist restores understanding of the textile manufacturing process.From new products to new perspectives, interiors that enrich lifestylesBridge sofa & table / ixc. Edition. Image Nacasa & PartnersLIXIL | bathtopethinking of the earth & people, bathrooms evolveCelebrating the 100th anniversary of its water and tile business in Japan, LIXIL introduced bathtope, a bathroom space based on the concept that A new era of freedom in bathing. Equipped with a foldable fabric bathtub, the exhibit posed the question: Is it okay for the daily bathing custom loved by so many Japanese people to remain unchanged in the future?The result of the exploration posed was bathtope, a flexible bathroom space that can adapt to suit a variety of personalities and lifestyles, as well as a bathing method that can reduce environmental impact and while also providing enjoyment. bathtope is neither a shower room nor a bathroom, but rather a single space that can be freely switched between the two. The exhibition proposed a new way of thinking that embraces diversity and provides free choices according to the time of day, season, and one's mood.Image Nacasa & PartnersNomura Co., Ltd. "Being - What if furniture had a life of its own?"Nomura Co., Ltd., the team of professionals focuses on the integrated creation of spaces where people gather, including commercial facilities, hotels, workplaces, expos, and museums. The Nomura design team reimagined the relationship between people and architectural objects, creating environments that foster connection and experience. One challenge they faced was the tendency to discard perfectly usable furniture, often due to a lack of emotional connection.By cultivating long-term care and attachment, they believed there could be a shift from merely "owning and using" objects to "being with" them, establishing a deeper bond.This exhibition explored how our perception of furniture might evolve if we saw it as having a life rather than simply existing. Through a series of experimental designs, it invited society to reconsider the changing value and relationship between people and objects. This sustainable design approach was well received by visitors from outside of Japan, who requested that the exhibition be expanded to other countries.Artwork to color the spaceManami Numata sync Inc. Sky Pocket. Image Yosuke OwashiManami Numata sync Inc. Sky Pocket"sync public" which is attached to sync Inc. at their new Aoyama-dori location, held a solo exhibition of Manami Numata, a remarkable artist who has received numerous awards post graduation from the graduate school of Tokyo University of the Arts. Based in her hometown of Hagi City, she creates works while experiencing the eloquence of nature.She had added a new colorful series based on the concept of sky to her body of work, which overlaps her life and journey using maps and still life as motifs. The exhibition featured colorful works from this new series, capturing the moment when the sky is at its most beautiful transformation.Image Nacasa & PartnersLionrugs X Kaoruko Fusion of Japonism and Persian carpetsLionrugs Aoyama, A gallery store specializing in Persian carpets, exhibited the latest works created by New York based contemporary artist Kaoruko. In addition to her recent works, Persian carpets from her past works were also exhibited.The delicate colors of Kaorukos artwork beautifully decorated the interior and attracted visitors into a world where feminine Japonism met the traditional crafts of the Middle East.An exhibition that goes behind the scenes of the design processImage Kohei YamamatoBehind the scenes of Takrams product designTakram, a design innovation firm that has worked with innovators in a variety of fields, held an exhibition focusing on product design from among the many projects it has worked on. The exhibition revealed the behind-the-scenes design process along with actual products. What is the design process when seeking to create new value together with a client?The exhibition revealed the materials and prototypes from the project period, as well as the methods used to achieve high quality. Many people visited during the exhibition period, as it was a rare chance to see behind-the-scenes of the design process.Image Kohei YamamatoThe Conran Shop, 30th Anniversary Inspirations for the NextCelebrating its 30th anniversary, the Conran Shop Marunouchi store introduced a new project "Inspirations for the Next with four designers (Akihiro Kumagaya, Momoko Kudo, Shigeki Fujishiro, and Sera Yanagisawa), which aimed to create contemporary furniture by collaborating with crafts and makers unique to Japan, as well as cultures and materials rooted in Asia and Japan.In the center table of the event, various inspirations were displayed that represented cornerstones of product development, focusing on the seven functions and structures including placing, solidifying, stacking, carrying, wrapping, bending, and hanging. Items displayed included folk tools, crafts, and tools researched by the designers of the Conran Shop.Top image in the article: View of Reframing Exhibition. Image Nacasa & Partners.> via Designart Tokyo

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"World Architecture Community has opened the WA Awards 10+5+X 49th Cycle to the Voting stage to name the best projects in the Architecture, and Student categories.The Voting process for the WA Awards 49th Cycle has started today (24 December) at 10:30 am GMT +0voting stage will close on Sunday,12 January 2025 (23:59 GMT +0).Once more, we have received a wide range of innovative projects from all around the world, which were submitted from 29 countries in the Architecture, and Student categories.These countries are Turkey, United States, China, Japan, India, Iran, Vietnam, Greece, United Arab Emirates, Montenegro, Slovenia, Portugal, Taiwan, South Korea, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Canada, The Netherlands, Oman, Colombia, Indonesia, Jordan, Finland, Bangladesh, Austria, United Kingdom, Palestine, Kenya, and Egypt. A great mix and global coverage, to say the least!WA Honorary Members and previous cycles' WA Awards Winners will cast their Votes to name the first 10 winning projects in each category. The World Architecture Community Members will cast their Votes to name the next 5 winning projects.Start your Voting for the 49th Cycle of WA Awards.Center For Inclusive Growth & Competitiveness For TAPMI by Akshay Heranjal in India is competing to be the winner of WA Awards 49th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category. Image SURYAN //DANGPablo Gil's House On The Cliff in Spain, Sanjay Puri Architects' 3 projects; Earth Home in India, Wavivanta in India, Tomorrowland Sports Club in India, Yazgan Design Architecture's Ayvalk Stone House in Turkey, Architectural Studio Chado's The Hotel Complex Mvenpick in Montenegro, Mind Architects' Haegrida in South Korea, PDM Partners' 3 projects; CHILAMSAGYE in South Korea, Sunglim Mokjang in South Korea, SEONYUDOWON in South Korea are among projects competing to be the winner of the 49th Cycle.You are the jury now! Choose the best projects for the WA Awards 10+5+X 49th CycleThe first group of jury members consists of WA Honorary Members and previous winners of the WA Awards. They will select the first 10 winning projects.The second group of jury members is made up of World Architecture Community Members, who will determine the remaining 5 winning projects through their votes.The above-mentioned jury members may go ahead, and click here to Votefor their preferred projects by Sunday, 12 January 2025 (23:59 GMT +0)House On The Cliff by Pablo Gil in Spain is competing to be the winner of WA Awards 49th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category. Image Jess GranadaIn the WA Awards Submissions page, the submitted projects are listed under the Architecture page. Then submitted projects are divided into 3 sub-categories; Realised, Designed and Student in the Architecture page.WAC's Honorary Members are composed of an exclusive group of invited architects, acclaimed critics, academics and theoreticians, editors of architectural magazines, curators and other experts from architectural centers and other organizations.Nikos Fintikakis, co-founder of SYNTHESIS AND RESEARCH, acclaimed Indonesian architect Budi Sukada, who is senior lecturer at the University of Tarumanagara, artist and teacher Ruth Jacobson, Alhadeff Architects founder Giancarlo Alhadeff, WAC Professional Member Sanjay Puri, the founder of Sanjay Puri Architects, Consultant & Culture advisor, author of DFID project research 2003 Jane Samuels, Prof. Dr. engl ymen Gr, are among the WAC's Honorary Members.The Hotel Complex Mvenpick In Montenegro by Architectural Studio Chado in Montenegro is competing to be the winner of WA Awards 49th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. Image Architectural Studio Chado2 distinctive groups of WAC Members will Vote the submitted projectsWA Awards' judging is based on 2 selection processes: WAC Members' Voting and WAC's Honorary Members and earlier WA Award Winners Voting.The members mentioned above will see "the Vote" button defined for them after clicking on the World Architecture Awards 10+5+X Submissions page. Voting is realized by a mixture of WAC's Honorary Members and earlier WA Award Winners. Their Votes will determine the first 10 winning projects. The second judging is WAC Members' Voting, which is realized by the fellow community members of World Architecture Community. Their Votes will decide the next 5 awarded projects.To Vote for the projects, a WAC member must have at least 1 uploaded project that was uploaded a minimum of 1 month agoon his/her page, and the project must have been opened to the public by being approved by the World Architecture Community. WAC's Members are composed of architects, interior designers, students, and academics.Both Voting processes take place simultaneously and will be completed by Sunday, 12 January 2025 (23:59 GMT +0).Foz Housing Heritage by dEMM arquitectura in Portugal is competing to be the winner of WA Awards 49th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. Image dEMM arquitecturaNow that you know everything, you may go ahead on the Voting Page for your preferred projects bySunday, 12 January 2025 (23:59 GMT +0), and help choose the best of the 49th WA Awards 10+5+X on the World Architecture Community.The World Architecture Community organises the WA Awards 10+5+X, running typically for 3-4 cycles per year, to recognise and highlight some of the great projects of our fellow community members.The World Architecture Community plans to announce the winners in the middle of January.Let's Play! - A Journey Of Regeneration And Reconnection In Glasgow by Xinyue Geng in United Kingdom is competing to be the winner of WA Awards 49th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. Image Xinyue GengOne Cycle ends and Another begins!Now, the WA Awards 50th Cycle is open for entries in the Architecture, Interior Design and Student categories.Start your entries today.If you missed the previous cycle, you can submit your entries to the WA Awards 10+5+X 50th Cycle until 31March 2025.See all previous winners for WA Awards 10+5+X here.

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Zaha Hadid Architects has unveiled design for a new culture and art centre featuring large, wavy, and sloping roofs in Shaoxing, China.Called Zhejiang Shaoxing Shangyu District Caoe River Culture and Art Centre, the project serves as the foundation for the new cultural district in Shaoxing, China's Zhejiang province's Shangyu District.The Art and Culture Center, which has a 1,400-seat Grand Theatre, a 500-seat Black-Box Multifunctional Hall, a 2,900-square-meter Arts and Education Center, a 3,000-square-meter Conference Center, a 7,500-square-meter Heritage Museum, and a 10,000-square-meter Digital Art Gallery, will be built to accommodate regional and international opera, dance, and drama productions in addition to large-scale symphonies and musical theater.Bridge approach. Image courtesy of ZHAThe Culture and Art Center's covered courtyards, which are situated on the banks of the historic Caoe River, are an extension of the building's interior.Residents and visitors to Shaoxing can enjoy a range of natural parklands and gardens for leisure and recreation along the river thanks to these outdoor meeting areas that flow into terraced landscapes that encircle the center and connect directly to the city.Render ProloogWithin the region's vernacular architecture, the design honors the rich history and craftsmanship of glazed tiles upon pitched roofs by integrating various levels of public spaces and technical equipment to stage dance and theater acts within the center's courtyards and foyers.Informed by the region's ancient architecture, the Cultural and Art Centre creates a fresh yet recognized shape with its interconnected roof composition that flows above the eternal river sceneries.Render ProloogThe center's facades are a modern interpretation of the famous jade-green Celadon ceramics, which were made in the area about 1,200 years ago at the start of the Northern Song Dynasty.Thus, a 21st-century cultural structure with a clear link to the area's ancient past is defined by the cogent integration of traditional materials and avant-garde architecture.Courtyard view. Image AtchainThe core of ZHA's creative thinking, architectural expression, and design language is sustainability. The design's huge sloping roofs, which contain vast overhangs around the periphery of each venue in response to Shaoxing's subtropical monsoon environment, effectively shade the glass faades that open onto covered outdoor courtyards that stretch into the landscape.In order to generate self-shading zones that efficiently reduce solar heat gain within the structure and shade the outdoor courtyards during the summer, the roofs' geometries were specified by a solar study of the site during each season.Riverside. Render TegmarkPhotovoltaic panels integrated into the roof will allow the Cultural and Art Center to drastically cut down on its energy consumption from the municipal electricity grid, while the roofs' distinctive forms extend lower and farther on the center's southern faades to provide optimal protection from the stronger solar radiation.Heritage Museum. Render ZHATheatre. Render TegmarkRoofs. Render ProloogDropOff. Render ProloogRoad Approach. Render AtchainAerial masterplan. Render AtchainZaha Hadid Architects revealed design for its first project in Malaysia, the plans are developed in collaboration with JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG). In addition, the firm began construction on lemiste Passenger Terminal in Tallinn, Estonia. In addition, ZHA shared an update about the construction of West Kowloon Terminus in Hong Kong. Finally, ZHA won a competition to design Riga Ropax Terminal in Latvia.Project factsClient:Shaoxing Shangyu Urban and Rural Ecological Environmental Protection Development Co., LTDThe Consortium: Zaha Hadid Limited (trading as Zaha Hadid Architects) and Central-South Architectural Design Institute Co., LtdDesign Lead:Zaha Hadid Limited (trading as Zaha Hadid Architects)Principal Architect: Patrik SchumacherChief Architect: Paulo FloresCommercial Director: Charles WalkerProject Leaders: Yazhu Liang, Saman DadgostarCompetition Project leaders: Yazhu Liang, Jakub Klaska, Saman Dadgostar, Sven TorresFaade Lead: Edgar PayanZHA Design Team: Barbara Schickermueller, Berkin Islam, Charles Liang, Chen-Ru Sung, Fangxingchi Du, Gerhild Orthacker, Gizem Dogan, Hao Wen, Jinhee Koh, Karina Linnsen, Paul Joseph, Rishil Parikh, Stefan Manousof, Yuxuan ZhaoZHA Support Team: Tyson Hosmer, Ziming He, Baris Erdincer, Bahaa AlnassrallahLocal Design Institute, Structure, Engineering, MEP, Quantity Surveyor:Central-South Architectural Design Institute Co., Ltd (CSADI)Theatre Planning and Acoustic Consultant:ARUPTop image in the article: Elevation River Proloog.> via ZHA News

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Zaha Hadid Architects has unveiled design for a new culture and art centre featuring large, wavy, and sloping roofs in Shaoxing, China.Called Zhejiang Shaoxing Shangyu District Caoe River Culture and Art Centre, the project serves as the foundation for the new cultural district in Shaoxing, China's Zhejiang province's Shangyu District.The Art and Culture Center, which has a 1,400-seat Grand Theatre, a 500-seat Black-Box Multifunctional Hall, a 2,900-square-meter Arts and Education Center, a 3,000-square-meter Conference Center, a 7,500-square-meter Heritage Museum, and a 10,000-square-meter Digital Art Gallery, will be built to accommodate regional and international opera, dance, and drama productions in addition to large-scale symphonies and musical theater.Bridge approach. Image courtesy of ZHAThe Culture and Art Center's covered courtyards, which are situated on the banks of the historic Caoe River, are an extension of the building's interior.Residents and visitors to Shaoxing can enjoy a range of natural parklands and gardens for leisure and recreation along the river thanks to these outdoor meeting areas that flow into terraced landscapes that encircle the center and connect directly to the city.Render ProloogWithin the region's vernacular architecture, the design honors the rich history and craftsmanship of glazed tiles upon pitched roofs by integrating various levels of public spaces and technical equipment to stage dance and theater acts within the center's courtyards and foyers.Informed by the region's ancient architecture, the Cultural and Art Centre creates a fresh yet recognized shape with its interconnected roof composition that flows above the eternal river sceneries.Render ProloogThe center's facades are a modern interpretation of the famous jade-green Celadon ceramics, which were made in the area about 1,200 years ago at the start of the Northern Song Dynasty.Thus, a 21st-century cultural structure with a clear link to the area's ancient past is defined by the cogent integration of traditional materials and avant-garde architecture.Courtyard view. Image AtchainThe core of ZHA's creative thinking, architectural expression, and design language is sustainability. The design's huge sloping roofs, which contain vast overhangs around the periphery of each venue in response to Shaoxing's subtropical monsoon environment, effectively shade the glass faades that open onto covered outdoor courtyards that stretch into the landscape.In order to generate self-shading zones that efficiently reduce solar heat gain within the structure and shade the outdoor courtyards during the summer, the roofs' geometries were specified by a solar study of the site during each season.Riverside. Render TegmarkPhotovoltaic panels integrated into the roof will allow the Cultural and Art Center to drastically cut down on its energy consumption from the municipal electricity grid, while the roofs' distinctive forms extend lower and farther on the center's southern faades to provide optimal protection from the stronger solar radiation.Heritage Museum. Render ZHATheatre. Render TegmarkRoofs. Render ProloogDropOff. Render ProloogRoad Approach. Render AtchainAerial masterplan. Render AtchainZaha Hadid Architects revealed design for its first project in Malaysia, the plans are developed in collaboration with JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG). In addition, the firm began construction on lemiste Passenger Terminal in Tallinn, Estonia. In addition, ZHA shared an update about the construction of West Kowloon Terminus in Hong Kong. Finally, ZHA won a competition to design Riga Ropax Terminal in Latvia.Project factsClient:Shaoxing Shangyu Urban and Rural Ecological Environmental Protection Development Co., LTDThe Consortium: Zaha Hadid Limited (trading as Zaha Hadid Architects) and Central-South Architectural Design Institute Co., LtdDesign Lead:Zaha Hadid Limited (trading as Zaha Hadid Architects)Principal Architect: Patrik SchumacherChief Architect: Paulo FloresCommercial Director: Charles WalkerProject Leaders: Yazhu Liang, Saman DadgostarCompetition Project leaders: Yazhu Liang, Jakub Klaska, Saman Dadgostar, Sven TorresFaade Lead: Edgar PayanZHA Design Team: Barbara Schickermueller, Berkin Islam, Charles Liang, Chen-Ru Sung, Fangxingchi Du, Gerhild Orthacker, Gizem Dogan, Hao Wen, Jinhee Koh, Karina Linnsen, Paul Joseph, Rishil Parikh, Stefan Manousof, Yuxuan ZhaoZHA Support Team: Tyson Hosmer, Ziming He, Baris Erdincer, Bahaa AlnassrallahLocal Design Institute, Structure, Engineering, MEP, Quantity Surveyor:Central-South Architectural Design Institute Co., Ltd (CSADI)Theatre Planning and Acoustic Consultant:ARUPTop image in the article: Elevation River Proloog.> via ZHA News

Submitted by WA ContentsQuinzhee Architecture imagines a rustic retreat like a climbing block in Canada Canada Architecture News - Dec 20, 2024 - 14:33 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Canadian architecture practice Quinzhee Architecture has imagined a rustic retreat like a climbing block at the top of a natural climbing wall in the heart of Mount Le Maelstrom in Lac-Beauport, Canada.Named Blok, the 59-square-metre building was designed for climbers to provide an ultimate haven. This monolithic object with angular edges resembles a climbing block due to its asymmetrical shape and grey stucco materiality.The irregularly placed apertures mimic climbing grips, forming a faade that directs the sight and the ascent similarly to a climbing path.The living areas' surface area is increased by the coexistence of heated spaces and covered outdoor areas within this square layout, which also offers a natural setting.The outdoor areas, shielded from the weather and prying eyes, are initially discovered when entering through the volume's truncated corner.Climbers can practice their sport on the ground floor's walls, and a spa welcomes rest in between workouts. The terrace upstairs offers a social area for preparing and enjoying meals while taking in the scenery.There are several levels to the heated areas as well. The guestrooms on the ground level take advantage of the seclusion and closeness of the nearby woodland. The living areas upstairs enjoy natural light and unhindered views of the surroundings.Bedroom 1A big mezzanine that is situated over the kitchen may hold more visitors. Every room is covered in wood, which contrasts with the building's envelope's raw, mineral quality while establishing a pleasing visual continuity between the interior and outdoor living areas.Bedroom 2Bedroom 2Living roomKitchen and dining roomMezzanineMezzanineGround floor planMezzanine floor planSecond floor planRoof floor planThe Quinzhee company, which was established in 2013, embodies this ideal home: it is Nordic, whimsical, and environmentally conscious.By including its clients in the design process of their projects, the firm hopes to increase their understanding of architecture and the environment.Project factsProject name:BlokArchitects:Quinzhee ArchitectureArea:635pica. (59 mc.)Team project: Guillaume Fafard et Gabriel LemelinContractor:Nomad ConstructionEngineer: MA-TH Solutions dingnierieProject completion date:2024All images Adrien Williams.All drawings Quinzhee Architecture.> via Quinzhee Architecture

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Zaha Hadid Architects has revealed a construction update for its Shenzhen Institute of Financial Technology in Shenzhen, China. The installation of the sculptural faade at the Shenzhen Institute of Financial Technology has begun on site.The 199-metre tower's composition is defined by its surrounding urban environment, and it is situated on a small site.In order to maximize the quantity of direct sunlight that reaches the district's streets and public plazas, set-backs have been incorporated into the tower's volume and the annual routes of the sun's rays across the site have been recorded and modelled.Image Xue LiangThe People's Bank of China's digital and international payment networks rely heavily on the Shenzhen Institute of Financial Technology.As an incubator and assessment center for financial technologies, the institute is a vital component of Shenzhen, the city at the vanguard of China's technology innovation, and it guarantees Shenzhen's continuous success in creating new digital innovations that propel the world economy.Image AtchainThe Shenzhen Institute of Financial Technology Tower, created by Zaha Hadid Architects, will house the institute's continued growth to support China's fintech sector, which is expected to expand at a rate of over 20 per cent annually over the next ten years.The institute's training campus, technology exchange, research and development labs, data centers, and management, support, and administrative departments will all be housed in the new 46-story tower in the center of China's tech sector, which is accessible from nearby metro stations.Image Xue LiangThe composition of the 76,000 square meter tower is determined by the surrounding urban environment. It is situated on a tight site in the center of Shenzhen's Futian district, which is home to many of China's most inventive technological enterprises.To maximize the quantity of direct sunlight that reaches the district's streets, public plazas, and existing neighboring buildings, set-backs have been incorporated into the tower's volume and the annual routes of the sun's rays across the site have been studied and modelled.Image Xue LiangThese distortions within the building's volume inform the tower's faades' varied levels of transparency and color. The faades, which are made up of angled and vertical glazing mullions in black and bronze, highlight the distinctive geometries created by the formal features of the design.Image Xue LiangTo encourage interaction and collaboration, a number of internal atria connect floors. These linked atria's foliage filters air pollutants, and the rooftop garden offers a range of covered areas for gatherings, events, exhibitions, and leisure.High-performance thermal insulation and self-shading exterior fins are integrated into the tower's shell. Each faade's distinct composition to reduce solar heat gain has been guided by an extensive analysis of exposure to direct sunlight.Image Xue LiangOver the course of the day, a smart building system will be able to predict the tower's occupancy levels and user habits. This AI-powered technology integrates hybrid natural ventilation and continuously modifies the tower's services to maximize energy efficiency and occupant comfort.Recycled steel and aggregates from nearby suppliers help to lower the tower's structure's embodied carbon.Image Xue LiangImage Xue LiangImage Xue LiangImage Xue LiangImage AtchainImage AtchainImage AtchainImage AtchainImage AtchainZaha Hadid Architects revealed design for its first project in Malaysia, the plans are developed in collaboration with JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG). In addition, the firm began construction on the lemiste Passenger Terminal in Tallinn, Estonia. Moreover, the firm released an update about the construction of West Kowloon Terminus development in Hong Kong.Project factsProject name: Shenzhen Institute of Financial TechnologyArchitect:Zaha Hadid ArchitectsDesign:Patrik SchumacherZHA Project Director: Joris PauwelsZHA Project Associate: Yitzhak SamounZHA Project Leads: Ping-Hsiang Chen, Alejandro Garcia GadeaZHA Site Team:Simon Yu, Jinqi Huang, Yushan ChenZHA Project Team: Iraklis Kourounis, Biagio Amodio, Maria Vergopoulou, Sharan Sundar, Beatrice Cordella, Nessma Al Ghoussein, Cristina Barrios Cabrera, Samantha PavicZHA Competition Project Director: Joris PauwelsZHA Competition Associate:Yitzhak SamounZHA Competition Project Architect:Yazhu LiangZHA Competition Project Leads:Alejandro Garcia Gadea, Haohao ChenZHA Competition Team: Iraklis Kourounis, Maria Vergopoulou, Sharan Sundar, Saman Dadgostar, Lorena Espaillat Bencosme, Uli BlumConsultantsLocal Architect:CSWADI (SD PD Stage) / CABR (CD Stage)Structural Engineers:CSWADI (SD PD Stage) / CABR (CD Stage)Quantity Surveyor:Hua Lun Cheng Construction ConsultancyGeneral Contractor: China Construction Second Engineering BureauFaade Engineering:SPESM&E Engineering: CSWADI (SD PD Stage) / CABR (CD Stage)MEP:CSWADI (SD PD Stage) / CABR (CD Stage)Fire Engineer:Shenzhen Electronics Institute Design Consulting Co., LtdLandscape Consultant:CSWADISite Supervision: CSCCProject Management:CSCCTop image in the article Xue Liang.> via ZHA

Submitted by WA ContentsMecanoo designs Americas "only purpose-built new dance theater" in the Berkshires United States Architecture News - Dec 17, 2024 - 15:49 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Dutch architecture practice Mecanoo has unveiled design for a new theatre at at Massachusetts, which will be Americas "only purpose-built new dance theater" in the Berkshires, United States.Called Doris Duke Theatre, the new theatre is located on Jacobs Pillows beautiful destination campus in the Berkshire mountains of Massachusetts. Currently under construction at site, the new dance venue is set to open in 2025.The reimagined Doris Duke Theatre occupies the site of the former studio theater from 1990, destroyed by fire in November 2020.Aerial rendering of the Jacobs Pillow campus with the new Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and Marvel"One of the most technologically advanced dance venues"By providing a makerspace for artists looking to include robotics, extended reality, artificial intelligence, and immersive platforms into live performances, the new theater hopes to become "one of the most technologically advanced dance venues" in the world.A spatial audio system, infrared camera tracking of artists for interactive video content, and live performance interactions with recorded/projected dance content are just a few of the features that the Doris Duke Theatre will include.Rendering of the garden of the Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering Marvel; courtesy of Jacobs Pillow"At the heart of the new Doris Duke Theatre lies a celebration of movement, space, and connection. Inspired by Mecanoos core values of people, place, purpose, and poetry, the new theater captures the essence of dance, not only as an art form but as a deeply human experience intertwined with the landscape and community," said Francine Houben, Mecanoos Creative Director and Founding Partner."Rooted in the rolling hills of the Berkshires, the theater honors the rich heritage of Jacobs Pillow while pushing the frontiers of the performing arts.""The design draws on the rhythms of nature, mirroring the fluidity and grace of dancers," Houben added.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre Artist Quad. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelThe former Duke's footprint was about 8,500 square feet (790 square meters), whereas the renovated Doris Duke Theatre will be about 20,000 square feet (1,858 square meters).The building can accommodate performances, events, residencies, and more, often all at once, according to the design's versatility in terms of many uses. With a variety of seating and stage arrangements, the theater can accommodate up to 220400 people in the main performance area.Thermally treated wood, which is intended to age elegantly over time, covers the theater's mass timber construction. As the seasons change, the building's natural elements convey a tale of light and shadow, time and change, an organic record of nature's dance.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre performance space. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelIn a subtle gesture of balance between sustainability and design, rainwater is collected for later use, and the spacious veranda offers natural shade.The new Doris Duke Theatre is an enduring tribute to the force of dance, nature, and human creativity combined; it embraces the poetry of location through its form, purpose, and connection to the earth.Marvel's landscape design for the new Doris Duke Theatre, which was inspired by the area's natural beauty, blends in with its surroundings and reflects the Berkshires' rich local biodiversity. In addition to celebrating the region's Indigenous past, this design fosters a strong bond between the performing arts and the natural world.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre performance space. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelIn order to greet dancers and guests and to give areas for relaxation, practice, and celebration, the landscape design to the west of the theater forms a central quad that is framed by a sculpture known as a "scramble" formed of stone that is sourced locally.With a garden and a communal fire pit that honor the land's cultural traditions and acknowledge the original occupants who shape Jacob's Pillow and its vital identity, the landscapes created by Indigenous artists to the east showcase Indigenous knowledge.The principal architect of the project is Mecanoo, a Netherlands-based firm headed by Creative Director and Founding Partner Francine Houben.Rendering of the quad lobby at the Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelMarvel, a New York-based architecture practice, is working as the local architect and landscape architect for the project. For the project, Charcoalblue is theater and acoustics design consultant. Jeffrey Gibson, Choctaw/Cherokee, is serving as a consultant on the buildings relationship to the site and Indigenous values, a key element of the buildings design.Numerous communities and stories that have influenced and defined Jacob's Pillow will come on stage during the Doris Duke Theatre's inaugural celebration week, which will be marked by a ribbon-cutting and premiere performances on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.Mecanoo transformed and revitalized the Perth's former City Hallwith bronze and meticulously-designed details throughout the interior space. In addition, Mecanooand Meng Architects, together with Lola Landscape Architectswere selected as the winners of a highly competitive international design competition for theShenzhen Guangming Scientist Valleyin China.Top image in the article: Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre East Entrance. Rendering by Marvel; courtesy of Jacobs Pillow.All images courtesy of Mecanoo and Marvel.> via Mecanoo

Submitted by WA ContentsGiant ski resort features a 500-meter downhill slope with a pixelated multi-media faade in China China Architecture News - Dec 19, 2024 - 15:00 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Beijing and Shanghai-based architecture practice CLOU architects has designed a giant ski resort that features a 500-meter downhill slope with a pixelated multi-media faade in Wuhan, Hubei, China.Named Wuhan Ski Resort, the 178,000-square-metre structure comprises a variety of entertainment, sports, and retail facilities for groups around a central lake to form a super-large commercial complex, with architecture and facades in complementary scales of terraced three-dimensional pixels.Image Arch ExistSnow sports have gained popularity among China's younger generations as a recreational pastime thanks to the Beijing Winter Olympics, according to CLOU architects.This new kind of entertainment complex with a snow theme was created by the recently completed Wuhan Ski Resort, which combines real sports facilities with hotels, shops, theme parks, and other entertainment amenities. Professional sporting events, ski schools, and clubs are all included.Image Arch ExistWuhan Ski Resort, which is situated in the Huangpi district next to Mulan Ancient Town, is expected to become the area's new modern landmark. It consists of a large commercial complex that promotes snow sports year-round, with a central lake surrounded by a variety of entertainment, sports, and retail establishments.Wuhan Ski Resort establishes a new standard for all-inclusive entertainment with its well-balanced mix of outdoor theme park play areas, inside winter activities, and a connecting retail street.Image Arch ExistA unique super-sized complex where architecture and surfaces blend in complementary scales of terraced three-dimensional pixels, the masterplan combines carnival vibes, indoor and outdoor shopping precincts, watersports, and the abstracted vision of a mountain in an immersive experience.The complex is designed as a stage for 24-hour lakeside enjoyment. The framework of an integrative design language unifies three distinct building typologies of contrasting scale, enclosing three distinct leisure experiences.Image Arch ExistWuhan Ski Resort meets the desire for entertainment in one of China's most populated cities. Its 100-meter-high, half-kilometer-long indoor ski slope establishes a new standard for indoor winter sports. A vast outdoor carnival scene and a range of indoor and outdoor shopping options complement indoor snow fun.All of the components of a modular facade system include communal elements, which are subsequently decomposed and rearranged to produce identity in new synergies.Image Arch ExistIndoor-Outdoor urban living roomFoothills full of sports and nightlife venues spread towards the waterside, connecting plazas and retail streets with generously landscaped areas and interactive facades, below the half-kilometer long and 100-meter-high indoor ski slope with its pixelated multi-media facade.Image Arch ExistIndoor areas blend into the outdoors, revitalizing retail spaces both inside and outside with landscaping and entertainment options, and connecting to nearby transit hubs.Image Arch ExistImage Arch ExistImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioImage Shrimp StudioConcept diagramConcept diagramConcept massingConcept diagramFloor planFloor planFloor planFloor planCLOU architects completed a kindergarten with white stacked blocks that features colourful additions in their faades. In addition, architects renovated Beijing's Huijing Twin Towers with a three-dimensional and light-filled city courtyard in Beijing, China.Project factsProject name:Wuhan Ski ResortArchitects:CLOU architectsClient:Wuhan Urban Construction GroupLocation:Wuhan, Hubei, ChinaSize: 178,000m2Design Director:Jan F. ClostermannDesign team: Zhi Zhang, Sebastian Loaiza, Zihao Ding, Liang Hao, Yiqiao Zhao, Christopher Biggin, Principia Wardhani, Artur Nitribitt, Jing Shuang Zhao, Liu Liu, Yinuo Zhou, Yuan Yuan Sun, Haiwei Xie.Landscape designer:WATERLILY DESIGN STUIDIOFaade engineer:China Construction Shen Zhen Decoration Co., LTDLighting Designer: Zhe Jiang Urban Construction Planning And Design InstituteConstruction drawings: CSADITop image in the article Arch Exist.All images Arch Exist, Shrimp Studio.All drawings CLOU architects.> via CLOU architects

Submitted by WA Contentsstudio wok turns an abandoned electrical cabin into an experimental space in Italy Italy Architecture News - Dec 18, 2024 - 14:29 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Milan-based architecture practice studio wok has turned an abandoned electrical cabin into an experimental space in San Maurizio d'Opaglio, Italy.Named Quadrodesign HQ, the 300-square-metre building is situated inside the Quadro faucet company's headquarters, which is close to Lago d'Orta.After the offices and showroom were redesigned in 2022, which concentrated on the outside design and the restoration of a historic electrical cabin inside the property, relates to the second stage of a larger intervention.The client wanted to add fresh, adaptable, and lively areas to the property that could be used by Magistro's family, the owners of the company, and yet be used for commercial purposes or as an artist's residence.Three volumesthe cabin, the pergola, and the swimming poolemerge from a concrete platform that functions as a kind of public square, quietly yet flexibly delineating the space's multiple possible uses.Because of its unique design for an inhabited space, the renovated and repurposed electrical cabin provides an opportunity for spatial experimentation.The boundary between the interior and the exterior is almost blurred by a sliding door system, giving the impression that the interior is directly connected to the outside.Some technical amenities, including a restroom and a small kitchen, are located inside and can support outdoor activities. Thus, the structure turns into a tiny activator of the open spaces of the company.Two mezzanines connected by a system of metal stairs take advantage of the building's vertical dimension. A bed can be placed on the first intermediate slab, which is larger and composed of natural wood.The second one, which is already there and made of concrete, is transformed into a more intimate room that is directly exposed to the light coming in through a window close to the top.The color and material selections aim to create an environment that is absolute, neutral, and almost sacred. Flooded with light, the materials maintain their inherent texture and individuality without the need of extra colors.Perpendicular to the cabin, on the edge of the concrete plateau, the pergola is constructed using tubular profiles made of galvanized steel that are grouped in five spans with a regular pitch of 2.6 meters.A custom-made long kitchen counter, composed of stone and sheet metal, takes up the remaining two spans and is shielded by a ceiling composed of light corrugated iron panels. The first two spans can be used as a lounge or eating space.The intervention is completed and its perimeter is defined by a tiny swimming pool. Only partially buried in the ground, it appears to rise from the concrete floor as a monolithic anthracite stone volume, evoking the kitchen's volume and providing the space for a huge seat.General layoutPlanInterior plansSectionPergola detailsstudio wok added soft green tones and powder colors to the interiors of a bakery in Milan, Italy. In addition, the studio created cave-like, pinkish interiors for this restaurant in a beautiful setting of Porto Cervo, Italy.Project factsProject name:Quadrodesign HQArchitects:studio wokSize:300m2Client:Quadro srCompletion year:2024All images Marcello Mariana.All drawings studio wok.> via studio wok

Submitted by WA ContentsSelgascano and FRPO win competition for Rozafa Tower featuring a cracked colorful facadeAlbania Architecture News - Dec 17, 2024 - 13:59 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Spanish architecture practices Selgascano and FRPO have won an international competition for Rozafa Tower in Shkodr, Albania. The 39,000-square-metre tower features a cracked colorful facade oriented in three sides.With its lush surroundings and rich history, Shkodra, one of Albania's oldest and most culturally diverse cities, provides a distinctive setting. Its rich and varied history is reflected in its architecture.East viewThree programmatic blocks make up the tower's height: the first three stories are dedicated to commercial space, the next 20 floors are dedicated to residential space, and the final seven floors are used by the hotel.The city has a distinctive architectural context that includes neoclassical buildings, Ottoman and Venetian influences, and historic Roman and Illyrian defenses. In order to create an addition that enhances the urban landscape, respects the historical legacy, and advances Shkodra's modern growth, Selgascano and FRPO have always considered the new tower to be a part of this diversity.Given the tower's advantageous location, there is a chance to design an architectural landmark that will enhance the metropolitan skyline and encourage tourism and economic growth in the area. The tower's goal is undoubtedly to become a monument in the field of modern architecture, but the most crucial aspect of our work is to preserve the city's human scale. One of the most important aspects of the building's architecture is its size.South viewEven though it is a tower, careful consideration has been taken to make sure that the structure is viewed on a human scale and in harmony with its surroundsthat is, for the short-distance surroundings that the average person would encounter while walking around. The tower will be successful if the people believe it is a part of them, if they embrace it, and if it eventually becomes a part of this city.With the Albanian Alps to the northeast, the Rozafa Castle and the Drin and Buna rivers to the south, and the Skhodra Lake to the northwest, the tower's three main faces are oriented toward the most important views of the surrounding terrain in the area.The tower was designed with the intention of maximizing the breathtaking views of the surroundings. Depending on its orientation and viewsLakeview, Mountainview, or Rivervieweach lobe of the structure thus takes on a distinct personality. It is up to the residents to decide which is best for them.Facade detailIn order to visibly reduce its volume and produce a number of dynamic facades that react to the surrounding vistas, the tower's form is purposefully vibrating. By preventing the impression of a monolithic mass that might conflict with the natural and historical surroundings, this fragmentation also makes it possible for a more seamless integration with the urban scale. In addition to giving the structure a lighter appearance, the geometry's fracture permits more natural light to enter and provides views from other perspectives."This design decision addresses the need to make the building lighter and less imposing, maintaining a visual and symbolic connection with the key elements of Shkodra's landscape, but also making the building completely different depending on the moment of the day, transforming it in a timing machine," said Selgascano."The design of the tower is inspired by contemporary architectural trends, but the project also takes into consideration the invariants of architecture, such as sunlight and shadow.""The substantially triangular geometry of the plan denies the north orientation: the three facades are oriented to the east, south and west, which ensures sunlight all around the tower," the office added.Deep facades, which take advantage of the shadow to shelter the building from solar radiation in the summer and rain in the winter, are necessary due to Shkodra's warm Mediterranean environment, which is also extremely rainy. The proposal suggests a perimeter cushion of outdoor spaces on all floors rather than using the conventional curtain-wall method.Access viewThese terraces preserve the inside glass facade while increasing the use of residences and hotel rooms. Every terrace has a railing and a sizable parasol around the outside, which expands the amount of shade that can be cast inside and creates a sense of security that makes the terraces cozier. This ensures the building's optimal energy performance and the lovely views of the surroundings.The importance of colorsIn order to generate a sense of lightness and to stylize the building's mass, the tower's volume was built using a series of planes and horizontal lines in various color tones. The new skyscraper appears natural and appealing because all of the planes are coated in wood of various textures.To complete the chromatism of the facades, yellow, orange, and light green paint are applied to the parasols, railings, and slab edges.This palette of hues has been chosen to complement the city's climate and atmosphere, the surrounding scenery, and the sky.Each block is separated from the one directly above by a level of facilities. This method avoids concentrating gear on the roofs and shortens the ventilation ducts. Each program has its own elevators and vertical communications. Ducts and service rooms on every floor are part of the central core.Terrace viewThree vertical crevicesOn the ground floor, the tower's three entranceshotel, residential, and commercialare arranged neatly and distinctively. Three vertical cracks in the volume (to the north, southeast, and southwest) are created by the floor plan's lobed geometry, and they make the ideal locations for the entrances.In keeping with the present Rozafa Hotel entrance and drop-off location, the hotel's access is located beneath the northern crevice. The commercial access is situated in front of the intersection of Kol Idromeno Street and Bulevard Sknderbeu, near the base of the southeast crevice.The apartments' private residential entry is located in the most remote region of the entire urban boundary, across Vilson Street, next to the garage ramp, through the lower portion of the southwest crevice."The residential areas of the tower are designed to offer comfort, and exceptional views in all directions. The apartments vary in size and layout, adapting to different needs and lifestyles. Each residential unit is oriented to maximize natural light and panoramic views, creating living spaces connected to the environment," the studio explained."The perimeter terraces are protected by usable railings and parasols to expand the interior uses and give each home a special place to enjoy the views, the sun and the breeze. Floors, walls and ceilings are covered with wood of different shades and textures, giving the interior an exceptional warmth.""The exterior skin is completely glazed to maximize views and natural light, but at the same time is protected from the exterior by cast shadows," the office added.Rooftop poolTower top Hotel: an oasis with panoramic viewsThe hotel, which offers luxurious rooms, suites, and amenities, occupies the highest level of the tower. At the highest levels of the tower, where a number of verdant gardens provide a comprehensive view of outside areas, the hotel's floors are spaced to create a rich and varied spatial experience.There are several different types of rooms and suites with varying views and orientations spread across the hotel's levels. Terraces, balconies, and steps connect the hotel's services to the outdoor areas.With their swimming pools and lounging spots, the tower's rooftop terraces provide a one-of-a-kind experience while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views.This area is intended to serve as an urban sanctuary where residents and hotel visitors can relax and have fun. The bottom floor provides access to meeting spaces, dining options, bars, and a sophisticated lobby. A two-story block joins the tower to the existing Rozafa hotel, making it easier for visitors to enter and providing a seamless, unified area.Interior viewA commercial socle for urban lifeCommercial use is planned for the tower's bottom level, which will house stores, cafes, and other retail establishments. This business district blends harmoniously with the city, offering locals and tourists a vibrant gathering place. In contrast to the remainder of the tower, this section's facade uses a sequence of translucent glazed broken surfaces that animate urban life and create a visual interplay between the inside and external. One of the project's main components is its connection to the current Rozafa hotel.Both buildings are connected by a two-story block, which facilitates a constant flow of people and services. In addition to benefiting hotel visitors, this integration enhances the area's tourism offerings by offering a more comprehensive and alluring experience.AccessSensibilitytiredly referred to as "sustainability" these daysis a guiding concept in the tower's design. The building could employ a number of strategies to lessen its environmental impact, such as: using recyclable and locally sourced materials to reduce its carbon footprint; using renewable energy systems, like heat pumps and geothermal, to meet its energy needs; using energy-efficient lighting, natural ventilation, and water management technologies; and creating green spaces and landscaped terraces that enhance air quality and offer recreational areas.SitePlan schemeSolar diagramDiagramsAxonometric schemeGround level planCommercial level planHotel upper level planTypical housing floor panTypical housing floor panHotel pool floor planHotel Rooftop terraceHotel Rooftop roomsSectionModelSelgascano also won the first prize in an international competition to design an exhibition hall in Beijing, China. In addition, the firm and Diego Cano designed a house wrapped by recycled aluminum colourful tubes in Los Angeles hills in the United States.Project factsProject name:Rozafa TowerArchitects:Pablo Oriol, Fernando Rodrguez, Jos Selgas, Luca CanoFRPO:Adrin Snchez, Loreto MazariegosSelgascano:Paolo Tringali, Ins OlavarrietaLocation:Shkodr, AlbaniaConsultants:Mecanismo (engineering)Model:Gilberto Ruiz LopesArea: 39,000m2Date: July 2024All images Drawfield.All drawings Selgascano, FRPO.> via Selgascano

Submitted by WA ContentsDeborah Berke wins the 2025 AIA Gold Medal United States Architecture News - Dec 17, 2024 - 15:01 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Architect and academician Deborah Berke has been awarded the 2025 AIA Gold Medal by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the award honors "an individual or pair whose significant body of work has had a lasting influence on the theory and practice of architecture."Described as "a transformative figure in architecture whose career spans over four decades", Berke was praised for combining design excellence, academic leadership, and a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.Her career is an outstanding example of "innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability", starting with the establishment of Deborah Berke Partners (now TenBerke) in 1982 and culminating in her appointment as the first female dean of Yale School of Architecture.As summed up in her seminal book, Architecture of the Everyday, Berke's approach to design embraces the extraordinary within the ordinary. This philosophy is reflected in her projects, which range from small residences like East Hampton's Tiny House to iconic adaptive reuse projects like New Haven's NXTHVN, an arts incubator repurposing old factory buildings.Deborahs award-winning adaptive reuse project, the Richardson Olmsted Complex, offers a compelling example of how vast structures can be repurposed and contribute to their surrounding communities. Image Christopher Payne/EstoHer varied portfolio demonstrates how design may enhance everyday living while promoting community and care by striking a balance between contemporary aesthetics and vernacular sensitivity."Berke's commitment to sustainable design is evident in projects such as the Dickinson College High Street Residence Hall, which achieved LEED Platinum certification, and the Brown University Brook Street Residence Halls, contributing to the university's net-zero carbon goals," said the AIA in its press release."Her work not only integrates environmentally conscious strategies but also emphasizes the social dimension of sustainability, creating spaces that promote equity and inclusivity."The AIA stated that "As an educator, Berke has profoundly influenced architectural pedagogy. At Yale, she has advanced financial aid initiatives, increased accessibility, and championed interdisciplinary programs, making architecture education more inclusive.""Her tenure as dean has been recognized with the AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion, the highest honor for architectural education, reflecting her role in shaping future generations of architects," the AIA added.Deborah is known for designing flexible and welcome learning spaces like the Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia. Image Chris CooperBerke has demonstrated the ability of architecture to transform people's lives and communities throughout her career. She has left a lasting impression on the field and inspired a more inclusive and sustainable architectural future through her work, teaching, and activism, all of which highlight a deep belief in design as a tool for social good.Deborah Berke is the jury member of the Pritzker Architecture Prize, the Academic Council of the Norman Foster Institute.The 2025 Advisory Jury 2025 is composed of Anne Hicks Harney, FAIA, Chair, Long Green Specs, Manasquan, N.J., Kjell M. Anderson, FAIA, LMN Architects, Seattle, Ung-Joo Scott Lee, AIA, Morphosis Architects, New York City, Amy Slattery, AIA, Odimo, Kansas City, Mo., Megumi Tamanaha, AIA, ARO, New York City, Roderic Walton, AIA, Moody Nolan, Chicago, Korey White, AIA, DLR Group, Quincy, Ill., Taryn Williams, SGH, Washington, D.C.The AIA Gold Medal is recognized as the AIAs highest individual honor. Famous architects including Denise Scott Brown & Robert Venturi, Paul Revere Williams, Julia Morgan, Angela Brooks, and Lawrence Scarpa have all been honored with the Gold Medal, which is regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in the field of architecture.Top image: Deborah Berke Winnie Au.> via The AIA

Submitted by WA ContentsMecanoo designs Americas "only purpose-built new dance theater" at in the Berkshires United States Architecture News - Dec 17, 2024 - 15:49 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Dutch architecture practice Mecanoo has unveiled design for a new theatre at at Massachusetts, which will be Americas "only purpose-built new dance theater" at in the Berkshires, United States.Called Doris Duke Theatre, the new theatre is located on Jacobs Pillows beautiful destination campus in the Berkshire mountains of Massachusetts. Currently under construction at site, the new dance venue is set to open in 2025.The reimagined Doris Duke Theatre occupies the site of the former studio theater from 1990, destroyed by fire in November 2020.Aerial rendering of the Jacobs Pillow campus with the new Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and Marvel"One of the most technologically advanced dance venues"By providing a makerspace for artists looking to include robotics, extended reality, artificial intelligence, and immersive platforms into live performances, the new theater hopes to become "one of the most technologically advanced dance venues" in the world.A spatial audio system, infrared camera tracking of artists for interactive video content, and live performance interactions with recorded/projected dance content are just a few of the features that the Doris Duke Theatre will include.Rendering of the garden of the Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering Marvel; courtesy of Jacobs Pillow"At the heart of the new Doris Duke Theatre lies a celebration of movement, space, and connection. Inspired by Mecanoos core values of people, place, purpose, and poetry, the new theater captures the essence of dance, not only as an art form but as a deeply human experience intertwined with the landscape and community," said Francine Houben, Mecanoos Creative Director and Founding Partner."Rooted in the rolling hills of the Berkshires, the theater honors the rich heritage of Jacobs Pillow while pushing the frontiers of the performing arts.""The design draws on the rhythms of nature, mirroring the fluidity and grace of dancers," Houben added.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre Artist Quad. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelThe former Duke's footprint was about 8,500 square feet (790 square meters), whereas the renovated Doris Duke Theatre will be about 20,000 square feet (1,858 square meters).The building can accommodate performances, events, residencies, and more, often all at once, according to the design's versatility in terms of many uses. With a variety of seating and stage arrangements, the theater can accommodate up to 220400 people in the main performance area.Thermally treated wood, which is intended to age elegantly over time, covers the theater's mass timber construction. As the seasons change, the building's natural elements convey a tale of light and shadow, time and change, an organic record of nature's dance.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre performance space. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelIn a subtle gesture of balance between sustainability and design, rainwater is collected for later use, and the spacious veranda offers natural shade.The new Doris Duke Theatre is an enduring tribute to the force of dance, nature, and human creativity combined; it embraces the poetry of location through its form, purpose, and connection to the earth.Marvel's landscape design for the new Doris Duke Theatre, which was inspired by the area's natural beauty, blends in with its surroundings and reflects the Berkshires' rich local biodiversity. In addition to celebrating the region's Indigenous past, this design fosters a strong bond between the performing arts and the natural world.Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre performance space. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelIn order to greet dancers and guests and to give areas for relaxation, practice, and celebration, the landscape design to the west of the theater forms a central quad that is framed by a sculpture known as a "scramble" formed of stone that is sourced locally.With a garden and a communal fire pit that honor the land's cultural traditions and acknowledge the original occupants who shape Jacob's Pillow and its vital identity, the landscapes created by Indigenous artists to the east showcase Indigenous knowledge.The principal architect of the project is Mecanoo, a Netherlands-based firm headed by Creative Director and Founding Partner Francine Houben.Rendering of the quad lobby at the Doris Duke Theatre. Rendering courtesy of Mecanoo Architects and MarvelMarvel, a New York-based architecture practice, is working as the local architect and landscape architect for the project. For the project, Charcoalblue is theater and acoustics design consultant. Jeffrey Gibson, Choctaw/Cherokee, is serving as a consultant on the buildings relationship to the site and Indigenous values, a key element of the buildings design.Numerous communities and stories that have influenced and defined Jacob's Pillow will come on stage during the Doris Duke Theatre's inaugural celebration week, which will be marked by a ribbon-cutting and premiere performances on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. Mecanoo transformed and revitalized the Perth's former City Hallwith bronze and meticulously-designed details throughout the interior space. In addition, Mecanooand Meng Architects, together with Lola Landscape Architectswere selected as the winners of a highly competitive international design competition for the Shenzhen Guangming Scientist Valley in China.Top image in the article: Rendering of the Doris Duke Theatre East Entrance. Rendering by Marvel; courtesy of Jacobs Pillow.All images courtesy of Mecanoo and Marvel.> via Mecanoo

Submitted by WA ContentsWinners of the 2nd edition of the Young Moroccan Architecture Awards revealedMorocco Architecture News - Dec 16, 2024 - 13:59 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The Young Moroccan Architecture Awards (YMAA) celebrated the creativity of Morocco's vibrant young architectural scene by rewarding emerging talents during a memorable evening at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca.This event, held under the auspices of the Ministry of National Territorial Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and Urban Policy, underscored the significance of promoting architecture in Morocco.The Award CeremonyDuring this festive ceremony, 19 prizes and trophies were awarded to the finalist architects, highlighting the innovation and excellence of the new generation of Moroccan architects.The YMAA, organized by the Archimedia Group the leading media dedicated to architecture and construction in Africa aims to promote the emergence of Moroccan architects and the realization of their projects on a national and international scale. After the success of the first edition, this competition is experiencing renewed enthusiasm this year.The jury of this 2nd edition of theYMAA, chaired by architect Mohamed Fikri Benabdallah, perfectly illustrates the desire for transmission and generational renewal. Recognized for his insatiable commitment to young talents, he is a passionate defender of contemporary Moroccan architecture and dialogue between generations.The YMAA also aims to promote constant improvement in architectural practice by encouraging constructive and enriching exchanges between professionals. By highlighting current achievements and providing a platform dedicated to the presentation of projects, this event allows for a better understanding of the challenges and solutions specific to each context. It also helps to refine perspectives, stimulate dialogue and develop a critical eye that is essential to the evolution of architecture.The YMAA are part of a context where the practice of architecture in Morocco is oscillating in a progressive and regrettable weakening of the framework for exercising the profession. The jury, fully aware of the delicacy and harshness of this exercise, had to decide carefully. Some young architects did not try their luck this year, out of restraint or hesitation, while others, despite their participation, did not see their efforts rewarded. Competitions, by their very nature, are sensitive events: they reveal as much as they test, celebrate as much as they question. But beyond the result, the YMAA aims to be a space for dialogue and recognition, where the evaluation of projects is accompanied by a deeper reflection on the future of the profession and the challenges it faces.The Young Moroccan Architects In The SpotlightThe YMAA 2024 honored architectural excellence through 16 awards and 3 special distinctions across various categories, ranging from renovation to education, along with three prestigious distinctions: AwardsImage Amine HouariZvaco Special Prize: Villa Ribat Bioclimatic in Rabat - Anas KoubaitiImage courtesy of Mohamed Yahya El Alj, Noesis Architecture StudioHealth and well-being: The Tulip Clinic in Casablanca - Mohamed Yahya El Alj, Noesis Architecture StudioImage Omar TajmouatiEducation: The French International High School in Benguerir - Zineb AjebbarImage Medialaoui AgencyIndividual residential real estate: "Hermitage" El Menzeh resort in Rabat - Sakina Belkasmi & Ahmed Amine Khiyati, All In ConceptImage courtesy of Younes DiouriRetail and commercial architecture: Ovillage shopping in Casablanca - Younes DiouriImage Alession MeiLeisure and tourism: Socio-cultural center of Kenitra - AGA STUDIOImage Amine KasmiInterior design and decoration: School extension E1337, Khouribga - Sakina Belkasmi & Ahmed Amine Khiyati, All In ConceptImage courtesy of Rida HbibiRenovation and refurbishment: Foundouk Kabbaj in Marrakech - Rida HbibiImage Laabi RaidSingle-Family Home: Villa ID in Tangier - Younes DiouriImage Alession MeiOffice building: Headquarters of the Competition Council in Rabat - Adil Sadik et Camlia DendaneImage Al Maslil MehdiCollective housing: Zig Zag building in Casablanca - YLA STUDIOImage Mehdi MounirFirst work: Villa E/N in Marrakech - THE AKA'S - Architecture Kosmopolitan AgencyImage Mara BaronDesign Architect of the Year: M'hammad MuffakImage Youssef EchihOut of category: Luxalight stand at SIB 2022, El Jadida - Samia MoukhalidImage courtesy of Othmane BoudlalBest male PFE: "Returning the coastline" - Othmane BoudlalImage courtesy of Rim MoussaouiBest female PFE: Towards a new eco-district model adapted to the Moroccan context - Rim MoussaouiDistinctions:Image Amine HouariBuilding of the Year: Villa Ribat Bioclimatic - Anas KoubaitiImage Zakaria TaberkantAudience favorite: The Gateway to Laayoune - Yassine BenkiraneImage Zakaria El HamoudiPrize Fouad Akalay: The Delacroix Residence in Rabat - Merouane Oussama ZouaouiThe second edition of the Young Moroccan Architecture Awards is the sensitive and outstanding realization of the visionary architect and passionate advocate of Moroccan modern architecture and those who define it, Fouad Akalay, who founded the competition. The YMAA represents his dreamthat of a meaningful architecturewith tact and genius, enhancing the skill and audacity of Moroccan architects and raising Moroccan architecture's profile internationally.Founded by the late Fouad Akalay, a visionary architect and ardent defender of Moroccan contemporary architecture and those who shape it, the second edition of the Young Moroccan Architecture Awards is the sensitive and dazzling embodiment of his dream.embodies with sensitivity and brilliance its dream: that of a meaningful architecture, magnifying the talent and boldness of Moroccan architects while contributing to the prestige of Moroccan architecture on the world stage.From now on, this excellence, and generational renewal, this event will now firmly represent the legacy of his vision: to inspire future architects to innovate while honoring the most inspirational projects around the Kingdom.World Architecture Community is the official media partner of YMAA 2024. Top image in the article: Villa Ribat Bioclimatic in Rabat - Anas Koubaiti. Amine Houari.All results can be viewed at YMAA website.> via YMAA

Submitted by WA ContentsMVRDV wraps Tiffany & Co. store in hand-crafted ceramic diamonds in Stuttgart Germany Architecture News - Dec 16, 2024 - 14:36 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"MVRDV has wrapped the new Tiffany & Co. store in hand-crafted ceramic elements in the shape of diamonds in Stuttgart, Germany.Named Tiffany Faade Stuttgart, the 165-square-metre building references Tiffanys history of material innovation to create a three-dimensional, striking faade.The iridescent sparkle of these diamonds, which are invisibly set onto the glass storefront to create a "floating" illusion, is reminiscent of the Favrile Glass, which Louis Comfort Tiffany patented in 1894.In order to create a strategy for developing faades for Tiffany, the designers at MVRDV came up with a number of ideas that were influenced by the history of Tiffany & Co. and could be transformed into imaginative, exquisitely designed, striking architectural results.The Stuttgart store was created using a variety of themes, including the desire to experiment with materials and a strong sense of three-dimensionality, which were influenced by the delicate texture of Tiffany jewelry and the exquisite geometry of diamond cuts.Using specially made steel fixings, 2,829 ceramic diamonds have been mounted directly into the glass storefront of the faade. Installed on the exterior and interior of the glass, this creates the illusion that guests are in a surreal environment full of floating diamonds.These diamonds' densities are changed to provide the desired transparency and opacity; they "dissolve" around window displays and at the building's corner to let views into and out of the store.A "slip-casting" technique is used to manually cast each diamond, after which it is coated in one of nine colors that create a gradient from Tiffany's trademark robin's-egg blue to a pure white. In addition to helping Tiffany draw in customers, this color gradient makes the store blend in with the neutral hues of the Dorotheen Quartier."In our faade design for the Stuttgart store, we tried to capture the sense of wonder and enchantment that has characterised the world of Tiffany & Co. ever since its inception," said MVRDV founding partner Jacob van Rijs."Being surrounded by seemingly floating diamonds, with their shimmering iridescence, we hope will do justice to this history," Van Rijs added.Koninklijke Tichelaar, the oldest ceramics factory in the Netherlands and a master of specialty glazes, produced the diamonds. The diamonds are completed with an iridescent shine in addition to the colors that comprise the faade's gradient, creating a gentle, dynamic finish that varies according on the viewing angle, weather, and lighting conditions.In order to produce a delicate, realistic sheen, Dutch ceramic and glaze company Tichelaar and MVRDV collaborated to develop this glaze, which exploits deliberate fluctuations in mineral composition and glazing temperature over the diamond surface.The effect alludes to the iridescent, lavishly colored glass known as Favrile, which Louis Comfort Tiffany created and patented in the 1890s.Recently, MVRDV created a glittering store for Tiffany & Co, featuring a diamond-studded facade in Shanghai. In addition, the firm designed one-of-a-kind faade made up of recycled ocean plastics for the Tiffany & Co. store at Changi Airport in Singapore.Architecture practice MVRDV was established in 1993 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands by Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs, and Nathalie de Vries. MVRDV became a globally recognized firm after achieving early success with projects like the Dutch Public Broadcaster VPRO headquarters and the WoZoCo senior home complex in Amsterdam.Project factsProject name:Tiffany Faade StuttgartArchitects:MVRDVLocation: Stuttgart, GermanyYear: 2022-2024Client:Tiffany & Co.Founding Partner in charge:Jacob van RijsPartner:Fokke MoerelDesign Team: Aser Gimnez Ortega, Elien Deceuninck, Monica Di Salvo, Simone Costa, Natalia Lipczuk, Basak Gunalp, Tatiana GurduzaPartnersCeramics:Koninklijke Tichelaar MakkumContractor: SOMEC Mestieri GroupLighting:METIS LightingAll images Gionata Xerra Studio.> via MVRDV

Submitted by WA ContentsKaira Looro is seeking for innovative designs for Nursery Schools in Sub-Saharan AfricaSenegal Architecture News - Dec 16, 2024 - 06:16 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The Balouo Salo Non-Profit Organisation has launched the 2025 edition of the Kaira Looro Architecture Competition for Nursery Schools in the rural areas of southern Senegal, a country in western Sub-Saharan Africa bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Mauritania, Mali, Gambia and Guinea.The 2025 edition of the Kaira Looro Competition invites architects, students, designers, engineers, and young professionals from around the world to design an architectural model for a Nursery School in rural areas of Sub-Saharan Africa.As the organization explained, the objective is to create a safe and inclusive environment that promotes children's well-being and development.The competition will select 3 winners, 2 Honourable Mentions, 10 Special Mentions, 35 Finalists, and 4 Internship Awards. The Internship Awards will include top architectural offices: Kengo Kuma & Associates in Tokyo, Benedetta Tagliabue EMBT in Barcelona, Amanda Levete Architects in London, and SBGA | Blengini Ghirardelli in Milan.World Architecture Community is official media partner of the 2025 edition of Kaira Looro Competition and will share the winners of the competition once the competition is closed."The lack of quality educational facilities in many rural areas of Sub-Saharan Africa poses a significant barrier to children's development," said the Balouo Salo Non-Profit Organisation."Education plays a crucial role in nurturing cognitive skills, emotional growth, and social abilities, preparing them to face lifes challenges with resilience and creativity.""However, in many of these regions, children are deprived of these fundamental opportunities due to the absence of safe and stimulating environments," the organization added.Young professionals and students throughout the world will have the chance to influence the direction of education in Sub-Saharan Africa with this new initiative. In addition to being a creative challenge, this is an opportunity to help leave a legacy of sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment.Furthermore, Kaira Looro is the only competition with no profit-oriented objectives.All proceeds will entirely be donated to the humanitarian organization Balouo Salo, which is dedicated to improving access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure in these disadvantaged regions."By participating, entrants will also become witnesses to tangible change driven by solidarity," the organization continued.The 2025 edition invites participants to provide creative, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions that combine learning, interacting with others, playing, and exploring in a single area.The use of regional resources, environmentally friendly building techniques, and community involvement in the construction process should be the main goals of proposals.In addition to being a lively and friendly environment for children, the completed project should be a model of sustainable development and a point of reference for the neighborhood.Participants must also consider the challenges of building in rural areas, where the lack of skilled labor and heavy machinery can pose significant obstacles.The Nursery School should cover a maximum area of 650 square meters and include classrooms, offices, educational and play areas, a medical room, a dining hall, storage, and sanitary facilities. All this should be achieved through a unique and innovative design that represents excellence in this educational field.As per tradition, the competition also aims to launch young architectural talents into the international arena by awarding prestigious prizes and professional growth opportunities.Some of the most significant awards include: the first prize winner will receive a cash of 5,000, with an internship at Kengo Kuma & Associates (Japan), and the realization of the project as a humanitarian initiative.The Second Prize winner will receive a cash of 2,000, with an internship at one of Benedetta Tagliabue EMBT (Spain), Amanda Levete Architects (London), or SBGA Blengini Ghirardelli (Milan).The Third Prize winner will receive a cash of 1,000, with an internship at one of EMBT (Spain), ALA (London), or SBGA Blengini Ghirardelli (Milan).The competition also recognizes special and honourable mentions, as well as 35 finalists. All awarded projects will gain international visibility and be published in prestigious architectural journals and the competitions official book.The jury of Kaira Looro is made up of some of the worlds most renowned and award-winning architects worldwide, such as Kengo Kuma (Kengo Kuma & Associates), Benedetta Tagliabue (Benedetta Tagliabue EMBT Architects), Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem, Ramn (RCR Arquitectes), Mario Cucinella (Mario Cucinella Architects), David Adjaye (Adjaye Associates), Amanda Levete (Amanda Levete Architects), Manuel Aires Mateus (Aires Mateus Architects), Giancarlo Mazzanti (El Equipo Mazzanti), Agostino Ghirardelli (SBGA | Blengini Ghirardelli), Raul Pantaleo (TAM Associati), Emmanuelle Moureaux (Emmanuelle Moureaux Architecture + Design), Saad El Kabbaj, Driss Kettani, Mohamed Amine Siana.First prize winner for the Maternity Centre Facility Competition, Bao Gia Luong from Vietnam. Image Bao Gia Luong, courtesy of BalouosaloEarly registrations will open on January 10, 2025Early registrations will open on January 10 and will be made until February 28, 2025. Regular registrations will open from March 1 to April 9, 2025, while late registrations will be made from April 10 to May 15, 2025.Project submission deadline will end on June 10, 2025. Jury evaluations will take place between June 23 and June 29, 2025.The organizaton plans to announce winners on July 8, 2025.The competition guidelines can be accessed from here: EN_Kaira Looro 2025.pdf.The competition brief can be accessed from here. Registrations can be made through this page.All images Balouosalo.> via Kaira Looro Competition

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"We have listed the top 5 most viewed WA Award-winning projects in 2024 as the new year approaches. Our selection, entirely based on the number of individual page views, their page views show that our readers highly interested to those projects.The 5 projects, ranging from 46th Cycle to 48th Cycle of WA Awards 10+5+X, includes projects Korean architecture practice Mind Architects' Cafe Soom in South Korea, MAS Architecture's Draco Hotel & Suite from Vietnam, Direction Architects' House Symbiosis from Greece.While the four projects are selected from the 46th Cycle of WA Awards, and one project is selected from the 47th Cycle of WA Awards. WAC's list mostly focuses on the Realised categories, while only one project is selected from the Student category.Do you want to be on this list? We have extended the deadline for the WA Awards 49th Cycle. The WA Awards 10+5+X 49th Cycle is open for entries until Thursday, 19December, 2024 (23:59 GMT +0).Start your entries from here.Scroll down to see WAC's 5 most viewed WA Award-winning projects in 2024 (listed by the number of page views):Image Ryu JunyeolWA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle winner: Cafe Soom in South Korea by Mind ArchitectsDesigned by Mind Architects, the building has a bare concrete skin that highlights the sculptural and geometric mass that the studio produced, which is reminiscent of natural rocks. The building's outside features are closed and introverted.The courtyard on the east side of the building provides enough natural light for the inside while providing a complete view of the surroundings. The site's external and vivacious courtyard merges perfectly with the natural surroundings."It is hoped that users of Cafe Soom will pass through the desolate retaining wall like a castle wall and enjoy nature while breathing in a warm and cozy space," the office explained.Cafe Soom in South Korea by Mind Architects won the WA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category.The project received 18,080 page views at the time of this writing.Image courtesy of MAS ArchitectureWA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle winner: Draco Hotel & Suite in Vietnam byMAS ArchitectureDesigned by Vietnamese architecture firm MAS Architecture, the idea behind the project is to create an oasis in hospitality where guests are completely comfortable in both open and closed spaces. From this angle, the minimalist and consistent design is evident in every area.The Draco Hotel & Suite has a scale of 50 rooms with an absolute view to the sea together with the surrounding area. In order to optimize the landscape's area and provide the most focused view of the sea, those bedroom blocks are oriented with priority in one direction. The open-plan interior design also prioritizes aesthetic appeal and sensory pleasure. usually dismantling the traditional separation between sleeping and bathroom areas and establishing a seamless connection to increase the visual perception of space in a limited space.Draco Hotel & Suite in Vietnam by MAS Architecture won the WA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category.The project received 12,247 page views at the time of this writing.Image Studio Naaro/Marcela SpadaroWA Awards 10+5+X 47th Cycle winner: House Symbiosis in Greece byDirection ArchitectsDesigned by Greek architecture practice Direction Architects, the House SymbiosisThe facades' volumetric displacement creates cantilevers and balconies, which purposefully reduce interior visual contact and provide exclusive outdoor areas. The front inner facade's sculptural ribbon-like geometry gives the appearance that the building is moving.House Symbiosis in Greece by Direction Architects won the WA Awards 10+5+X 47th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category.The project received 6,959 page views at the time of this writing.Image courtesy of Merve rkeWA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle winner: Green Network in Turkey by Merve rkeDesigned by architecture student Merve rke, one particular focus of the Green Network project is encouraging people to live sustainably. The goal goes beyond simple urban growth; a city that thrives on sustainable green energy offers its citizens chances for social, cultural, and economic advancement. Energy is conceived as a comprehensive force that has the power to raise the city's standard of living.Bringing green energy to Basmane, zmir, Turkey, which has been identified as the crucial component for this transformation, is the starting point of this revolutionary reaction. In order to efficiently transfer green energy from passive energy systems along the train line that extends to Basmane, the Green Network project is a comprehensive infrastructure and superstructure undertaking. Green Network in Turkey by Merve rke won the WA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category.The project received 5,338 page views at the time of this writing.Image Hiroyuki OkiWA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle winner: SkyGarden House in Vietnam by Pham Huu Son ArchitectsDesigned by Vietnamese architecture studio Pham Huu Son Architects, SkyGarden House is a townhouse in Nha Trang City, located in Central Vietnam. Large glass walls create an infinite sense of openness by blending the inside with the garden outside. This improves comfort and fosters a closer bond between people and the natural world in addition to showcasing a beautiful surrounding area. In the most private region of the house, the bedroom transforms from a place to sleep to a place to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.The potential of this house design to make the living area more natural is one of the advantages of this house. Large glass panels, a skylight above the staircase, and many glass doors allow natural light to enter the space, creating an artistic panorama while also drastically lowering the need for artificial lighting during the day. SkyGarden House in Vietnam by Pham Huu Son Architects won the WA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category.The project received 3,579 page views at the time of this writing.Top image in the article: WA Awards 10+5+X 46th Cycle winner: Cafe Soom in South Korea by Mind Architects. Image Ryu Junyeol.

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The World Architecture Community has extended the entry deadline for the WA Awards 10+5+X 49th Cycle to December 19, 2024.In response to popular demand and late entries for the 49th Cycle competition, we are giving you an additional six days for you to submit your entries to our global awards program.The new WA Awards 49th Cycle deadline is Thursday,19 December 2024(23:59 GMT +0).There will be no further extensions after this deadline, making this your final opportunity to showcase your work at the prestigious WA Awards 10+5+X. The WA Awards 10+5+X is open to architects, architecture firms, interior designers, interior design firms, and students from around the globe.You can start your entry by creating an account, or if you are already a member of WAC, you can sign in to your WAC account from here and upload a project.4 easy highlights forWA Awards 10+5+XIt takes only 4 easy steps to send your entries to the WA Awards. The four steps are as follows;> Sign in to World Architecture Community,> Upload your project(s),> Edit your project(s) to see how it looks,> Participate in the WA Awards,Important reminders about the WA Awards 10+5+XThe WA Awards has two main sections for submitting your projects: Architecture and Interior Design. The Architecture category includes Realised, Designed and Student, while the Interior Design category includes Realised and Student.You can view the participation fees for the WA Awards on this page.Find out more about our visual guidance, participation procedure, selection process, eligibility rules, jury panel, and evaluation criteria on our How To Participate page.If you have further questions, you can contact the WAC editorial team at [emailprotected], and for your technical inquiries, you can reach out to [emailprotected].The top image in the poster above:Chengdu Science Fiction MuseumbyZaha Hadid Architectswon the WA Awards 48th Cycle in the Architecture/Realised category. Image Arch-Exist.WA Awards

Submitted by WA ContentsThe Never Hut by MAD embraces "the collective childhood memories of the community" in Foshan China Architecture News - Dec 13, 2024 - 14:16 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"MAD has revealed its latest installation, The Never Hut, at the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival 2024 in Yanqiao Village, Nanhai District, Foshan City, China.The design offers a space that encourages reflection and community interactions by striking a balance between cultural narratives and imaginative play.Image Tian Fangfang"This project is about capturing the freedom and wonder of childhood while providing a space for the community to gather, reflect, and imagine what lies ahead," said Ma Yansong, the founder of MAD.A beloved playground for a nearby elementary school is being transformed by the project, which takes place in the center of a historic community with more than 600 years of history. By redesigning this area, MAD honors the community's shared childhood experiences while bringing vitality and meaning to the area. The installation was inspired by Yanqiao Village's famous architecture from the Qing Dynasty, its winding river systems, and the magnificent banyan tree at its entrance.Image Zhu YumengThree "tentacles" made from local fishing nets support the eye-catching flying saucer-shaped structure known as the Never Hut, which interacts with its surroundings by reacting to the breeze to produce a dynamic interplay between motion and stillness.The Never Hut offers a round, shaded area for rest, conversation, and connection beneath its broad, vibrant eaves. It creates a lively conversation between the past and present with its bold, cheerful colors that contrast with the historic setting.Image Zhu YumengIn addition to being a functional space, the Never Hut is a creative focal point that promotes community involvement. Whether it's taking in the cool air, thinking back on the village's history, or admiring the harmony between art and nature, visitors may savor moments of everyday life."The Never Hut is a celebration of imagination and community a space where childhood memories find a new home," said Ma Yansong.Image Zhu YumengImage Zhu YumengImages Tian Fangfang, Zhu YumengImages Tian Fangfang, Zhu YumengThe acclaimed Timeless Beacon, which has been on exhibit at Taiping Market since 2022 as a component of the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival's "Art at Qiaoshan" series, is one of MAD's previous works in Nanhai District that this installation expands upon.As part of the Guangdong Nanhai Land Art Festival 2024, the Never Hut is now open to the public, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy its creative fusion of art, culture, and community.Top image in the article Zhu Yumeng.All images Tian Fangfang, Zhu Yumeng.> via MAD

Submitted by WA ContentsFrida Escobedo and The Met unveil design of a New Modern and Contemporary Art Wing United States Architecture News - Dec 13, 2024 - 14:45 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Mexican architect Frida Escobedo and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) have unveiled design of a New Modern and Contemporary Art Wing, which will house The Mets renowned collection of 20th- and 21st-century art.The Met noted that in the 154-year history of the Museum, architect Frida Escobedo is the first female architect to design a wing.In addition to providing a wing that blends in seamlessly with the rest of the museum, the Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing will expand the current gallery space by almost 50 per cent, creating over 70,000 square feet (6,503 square meters) for the exhibition of modern and contemporary art. It will also address accessibility, infrastructure, and sustainability needs throughout all floors.The Tang Wing will contribute to the Museum's rich heritage of promoting deliberate, daring, and creative design that is itself a work of art, drawing inspiration from The Met's numerous architectural styles, art holdings, and Central Park location.Exterior rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Tang Wing (view from the northwest corner)The renovated five-story wing will not rise above the original height of the 1,880 wing at the heart of the Museum complex, and it will stay inside the 123,000-square-foot (11,427-square-metre) footprint of the current structure.The 126,000-square-foot (11,705-square-metre) is anticipated to generate 4,000 union jobs during construction. The initiative aims to have 3040 per cent of business enterprises owned by women and minorities participate.Virginia and New York-based Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, executive architect Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners LLC, engineering companies Kohler Ronan and Thornton Tomasetti, and lead design architect Frida Escobedo Studio comprise the design and engineering team.The remarkable local, national, and international support for the project from both new and seasoned trustees and donors was demonstrated in May 2024 when the Museum announced a fundraising milestone of $550 million in private gifts for the wing.Rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Art from aerial view featuring the Tang Wing at the southeast cornerOur goal has been to create a building that fully meets the needs and aspirations of The Met, weaving together vital connections between the Modern and Contemporary Art galleries and other areas of the Museum and at the same time expressing the special significance of the Tang Wings place in the city," said Frida Escobedo, Founder and Principal of Frida Escobedo Studio."The wing is in New York, yet of the world; it reflects the global nature of this great collection and also draws inspiration from The Mets unique surroundings.""Such an ambition can be realized only through close and consistent collaboration. We are deeply grateful to our extraordinary partners at The Met and to all the members of the expert design team," Escobedo added.Interior rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Tang WingInspired by the famous Central Park and the 21 structures that currently comprise The Met's campus, Escobedo's design skillfully incorporates a modern aesthetic into the Museum's 154-year architectural legacy.The scaled facade, which consists of a three-story base with a recessed fourth floor and an additional setback fifth floor, is inspired by the visionary 1971 master plan by Roche Dinkeloo, which calls for a rhythm of solids and voids, as demonstrated by the use of limestone and glass in the seven buildings designed by Kevin Roche.A limestone "celosa"an architectural screen that alludes to a universal architectural language spanning several cultures and centuriesdefines Escobedo's facade, continuing that overarching ambition for the Museum. Interior rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Tang WingIts stone lattice and mineral texture will produce a delicate surface that will delicately react to the sun's movement throughout the day. In addition to the sporadic use of floor-to-ceiling glass, Escobedo's design's materiality and composition carefully combine elements of Richard Morris Hunt's and McKim, Mead, and White's Beaux Arts Fifth Avenue facade with the distinctive design features of Roche's wings.Escobedo's interior design produces dynamic exhibition areas that blend together and can display pieces of various sizes and levels of intricacy. The ceiling heights, which range from 11 (3,35 meter) to 22 (6,70 meter) feet, enable the exhibition of expansive installations that contrast with smaller areas.The overall gallery space will rise by almost half with a redesigned building architecture and programming. A 1,000-square-foot cafe will also be located on the fifth level, where guests can stop for refreshments before continuing to explore the galleries of modern and contemporary art.All year long, both indoor and outdoor areas will offer the spectacular views that both New Yorkers and tourists have grown accustomed to. The famous vistas of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline will be brought within for four-season enjoyment thanks to the wide south-facing windows in the galleries on the fourth and fifth floors.Interior rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Tang WingAdditionally, both floors will provide direct access to the city and park, resulting in an additional 18,500 square feet (1,719 square meters) of outdoor space divided among the terraces on the fourth and fifth floors.The fifth-floor Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden will relocate to the fourth-floor terrace, giving guests another opportunity to take in artwork while taking in views of Central Park and the city skyline. Space for the seasonal Cantor Roof Garden will increase from 7,500 square feet (697 square meters) to around 10,000 square feet (929 square meters) in its new location on the fourth floor. Thomas Woltz of Nelson Byrd Woltz landscaping Architects will create the landscaping for the fifth-floor outdoor space, drawing influence from Central Park's multi-layered traditions. Visitors will be able to re-establish a connection with the natural world and the metropolis beyond in this outdoor space.Exterior rendering of The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Tang Wing (view from the southwest corner)The design of the Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing was assigned to David Chipperfield Architects in 2015. Due to financial constraints and the growing expenses of the project by David Chipperfield Architects, The Met announced in 2017 that it had put a seven-year halt to renovations. In 2022, Mexican architect Frida Escobedo was announced as the designer of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's new the Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing in New York.The Oscar L. Tang and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang Wing is scheduled to open in 2030.All renderings Filippo Bolognese, courtesy of Frida Escobedo Studio.> via The Met

Six Columns By 31/44 Architects Wins RIBA House Of The Year 2024html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"A functional and discrete family home by 31/44 Architects has been awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2024.Named Six Columns, the family home, designed by Will Burges, Director of 31/44 Architects, was created for him, his spouse, and their two kids, ingeniously occupies a small urban plot in the lush suburbs of Crystal Palace, South London, United Kingdom.This prestigious annual award, presented by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), crowns the best example of UK one-off house design. Video by RIBAThe family will keep making changes to the building both inside and out as they live there, enabling it to adapt to their changing needs over time.The two-story, four-bedroom home, which takes its name from the six columns that support the building's main structure, mimics the size and materials of nearby terrace houses while maintaining a unique style that alludes to the designer's wide range of architectural influences, including the Case Study houses in California and the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe.The interior design maximizes the wedge-shaped site, resulting in a practical family house that is easily adaptable to changing needs. The main hub that connects the many areas of the house is the entry hall.A bright and spacious kitchen diner on the left combines contemporary features, including full-height sliding windows and crisp white granite worktops, with a decidedly rustic look, best represented by oiled, unpainted pine cabinets and drawers.Modular living replaces the open-plan design to the right of the entrance, with smaller spaces that put privacy and storage first.Thick, exposed pine walls that serve as shelving units and a Wunderkammer (or cabinet of oddities) to display the family's collections and recollections are the defining feature of the living area. The space may be opened up by a sliding door to the kitchen in the summer, but it is intended to feel cozy in the winter.Apart from the independent bedroom suite on the ground level, there are two further bedrooms on the second floor and a fourth bedroom in the attic, which is tucked away in a raised roof box.The layering and "covering-up" of modern construction are purposefully challenged by the use of self-finished materials throughout. In addition to providing a natural warmth, exposed painted brickwork and easily adjustable spruce pine planks for joinery and fittings allow for future adjustments.A low-maintenance, west-facing rainwater garden that directs water from all the roofs that cascade out of a massive spout and into a steel tank to prevent overflow and encourage reuse is one of the house's three distinct outdoor garden areas.The home features three distinct garden areas outside, one of which is a low-maintenance, west-facing rainwater garden that directs water from all the roofs into a steel tank via a massive spout to encourage reuse and prevent overflow."Six Columns is a beautifully crafted family home that cleverly incorporates Brutalist references and creative flourishes while retaining a strong sense of suburban belonging," said RIBA President Muyiwa Oki."It shows what can be achieved when working with even the tightest of suburban sites, and its flexible, unfinished aesthetic offers a solution to futureproofed design: this is a home that can evolve with its occupants changing needs overtime.""The generosity of space belies the limitations of this small garden plot. As we look for creative and practical solutions to the housing crisis, Six Columns offers a blueprint for bespoke urban infill development," Oki added."What makes a great home? Building your own home is a hugely intensive endeavour; if you are lucky enough to do it at all, you will probably only ever do it once in your life. One-off houses are as unique and varied as we are as individuals, so often producing them needs a closer understanding between the client and architect," said Je Ahn, 2024 RIBA House of the Year Award Chair."This philosophy of the home as a lifelong process might be a tricky concept in this fast-paced contractual world, however, Six Columns demonstrates an important message that we should all remember; your home is not a static slice of time, but continuously evolves with you," Ahn added.Six Columns was selected from a shortlist of Eavesdrop, Sussex, byTom Dowdall Architects, Farmworkers House, Cornwall, byHugh Strange Architects, Peckham House, London, by Surman Weston, The Hall, Kent, by TaylorHare Architects, Plas Hendy Stable Block, Monmouthshire, byStudio Brassica Architects.Last year, Green House by Hayhurst & Co was awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2023. In addition, the Red House by David Kohn of Architects was awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2022.Established in 2013, the RIBA House of the Year award recognizes the best new home or home addition created by a UK architect.All images Building Narratives, and video by RIBA.> via RIBA

Canopy House By Studio MK27 Barely Touches The Ground Amidst Brazilian Tropical Foresthtml PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Brazilian architecture firm Studio MK27 has designed a house that barely touches the ground with its layered concept amidst Brazilian tropical forest.Named Canopy House, the 785-square-metre house's location has been carefully considered to respect the strict building footprint and not damage the local environment.According to Studio MK27, the site was challenging to design and build this house because of its steep slopes in the middle of a tropical forest. Located in Guaruj, Brazil, views, feasibility, and access points needed to be carefully balanced.The home barely touches the earth since the white prism is supported by a series of stilts. The terrace and bedrooms are connected by the main entrance, which is reached via a spiral staircase.It is a radical experience of the weather, winds, smells, and light of the jungle; it leaves no interior alternative for connecting areas.Overlooking the canopies is a raised platform over the prism. Within the platform's boundaries, an extremely light framework encloses the living space using sliding glass panels.A continuous and powerful sense of immersion in the Atlantic Forest is produced by the incredibly delicate transition between indoor and outdoor areas.With native contemporary style, traditional craftsmanship, and unique work in every texture and object, the interior design independently explores Brazilian culture. Canopy House is an ode to Brazil's breathtaking landscapes and boundless cultural diversity.The interior is painted with a distinctive pattern that varies throughout the day thanks to the shadows generated by the cobog, which was created especially for this home.This effect gives the symphony of materials a layer of texture. Israel Piaava's pendants, side tables, and even an entire wall are made of straw.Cobog refers to a hollow element, typically made of clay or cement, that is used to complete walls and fences, allowing for increased ventilation and light within a property.Numerous carpets, hammocks, and couches, like Sergio Rodrigues' Vivi, showcase the variety of textiles.Pedro Petry's coffee table, Jos Bezerra's sculpture, and the sliding mashrabiyas panels all showcase wood's adaptability. The allegro finale, which completes the composition, is finally performed by concrete walls.Studio MK27 completed a hotel complex that features earth-toned color palette and soft textures disappearing in the sand in Maldives. In addition, the firm designed a narrow wooden house that touches the ground of a valley with minimum footprint on the valley of Catuaba, Brazil.Founded by architect Marcio Kogan in the late 1970s, Studio MK27 is a global collaboration with 56 members and collaborators in the chaotic metropolis of So Paulo.Project factsProject name: Canopy HouseArchitecture: Studio MK27Completion:July, 2023Site area:1,932mBuilt area:785m2Architect:Marcio KoganCo-architect:Regiane Leo e Marcio TanakaInterior design:Diana RadomyslerInteriors co-autor:Gustavo RamosProject team:Julia Jobim, Oswaldo PessanoCommunications team:Carlos Costa, Nathalia Lima, Tamara LichtensteinAll images Fernando Guerra/FG+SG Architectural Photography.> via Studio MK27

The One-Meter-Deep Cafe Invites Customers With Its Patina Color On Its Facade In Kyotohtml PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"G Architects Studio, a Japanese architecture practice, has built a one-meter-deep cafe in Kyoto, Japan, featuring a patina-colored facade that attracts customers from afar.Named Suetomi AoQ Cafe Stand, the 10-square-metre cafe stand is part of AoQ, a new brand established by Suetomi, the renowned confectionery shop in Kyoto.Takeout counterThe coffee stand is situated on the ground floor of a two-story wooden building at an intersection encircled by hotels and office buildings on Karasuma-dori street, which goes from the Kyoto train station.The coffee stand is so small and modest that it is nearly invisible on the crowded street, with a depth of barely one meter. Its shallow depth allowed for a quick decision to be made regarding the floor plan.Main elevationAlong the street in front, the kitchen and the resting area were set placed side by side. Despite the fact that the floor plan was chosen almost instinctively, much consideration was given to the elevations, as G Architects Studio explained.Despite the stand's exterior and interior features, the vertical side was selected for study, and efforts were made to chemically slow down the aging process of the copper.View looking back over the main streetThe wall was taped with copper foil that had been oxidized using chemicals and soy sauce. In addition to giving it a rusty patina color reminiscent of "Suetomi blue," which has been Suetomi's corporate color for the past 70 years, this was done to create a front that would look appropriate for Suetomi's, a long-standing candy store in Kyoto.Main elevation"Suetomi's flagship store is located just three minutes away on foot, so the desire was for the whole stand to function as a signboard, 1 meter thick, with the color, leading customers to the main store from the busy street," said G Architects Studio."The patina color was used in two areas: the eye-catching side facing the intersection, as well as in the resting area. Cityscape regulations control the use of facade colors except for natural materials.""The use of the colors was permitted by the local government as it was not painted, but rather was created by the oxidation of the copper," the studio added.View looking back over the main streetBoth ammonium chloride and soy sauce were applied in sufficient amounts that led the copper to corrode rapidly, producing the patina color, and slowly, producing the reddish brown color.In the absence of these materials, the copper would have taken roughly three months to become this reddish brown and ten years to turn patina if it had merely been exposed to wind and rain.View from streetWhen the cafe is closed, a roll screen constructed of mesh sheet that was initially used for a temporary scaffold during building construction covers the resting area.It looks like a bamboo blind that was once used by Japanese noble homes and allows customers to see through to the wall's patina color when it is lit at night. It serves as both a billboard for the store and a "street lamp" for onlookers.View from main streetView from streetRest spaceRest spaceView from streetBench and small Japanese gardenDetail of rest spaceClosingNight scene of elevationDetail of wall panel (gradation)The goal of Ryohei Tanaka / G Architects Studio in their design approach is to establish a new harmony between the past and the present, moving beyond mere nostalgia. Japan, their home country, has a rich history.However, similar to some other Asian nations, parts of the city center feature modern, characterless buildings, leading to a decline in the overall cityscape quality.Project factsProject name:Suetomi AoQ Cafe StandLocation:Map pointer 316-2 Tamatsushimach, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8427, JapanDesign:Ryohei Tanaka | G Architects StudioClient:SuetomiFloor area:10.17m2Completion:2022Architect:Ryohei Tanaka/ G Architects StudioArt direction:Issay Kitagawa / GRAPH Co. LtdConstruction:Takanori Yoshida/ YOSHIDA INTERIOR CO., LTDGarden:Shota Ogino/ Ogino Landscape DesignFabric:Makino Horiguchi/ fab-Lighting:Mariko Hayashi/ ModuleX Inc.All images Daisuke Shima.> via G Architects Studio

WAC's Top 10 Architecture Books Of 2024html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"In our third annual review of 2024, we have selected the best architecture books published on WAC Books for our readers. As part of our annual tradition at WAC, we select books that explore a wide range of topics.This year's selections feature a groundbreaking vision of the future of AI, a comprehensive monograph exploring the work of photographer Hlne Binet, a series of carefully chosen case studies on schools as regenerative spaces, and innovative concepts for the future of energy in architecture and design. Additionally, there are captivating dreamscapes and interiors created with the help of AI.American art and architecture critic Aaron Betsky's The Monster Leviathan: Anarchitecture, Zupagrafika's Kiosk: The Last Modernist Booths Across Central and Eastern Europe, Marc Treib's Noguchi's Gardens, Landscapes As Sculpture, gestalten and Sam Lubell's American Icons: The Architecture Of The United States: Visions And Defiance are among WAC's most captivating books of 2024.Explore our extensive archive of WAC Books and choose your favorite book below to enhance your bookshelf (in no particular order):Image courtesy of Amazon1. Transform! Designing the Future of Energy byMateo Kries (Editor),Jochen Eisenbrand (Editor),Daniel Barber (Contributor),Donatella Germanese (Contributor),Carola Hein (Contributor),Stephan Rammler (Contributor),Catharine Rossi (Contributor)Energy is one of the biggest problems of our day and it is directly related to architecture and design. It is not just a physical asset but also an ethical and political value that must be considered.Published by Vitra Design Museum, from the perspective of design, the 195-page book examines the current, drastic changes in the energy sector, from products that capture renewable energy to solar house and wind turbine designs, and from intelligent mobility ideas to future visions of self-sufficient communities. It highlights the world's energy needs and poses important questions, such as how design may help us use renewable energy sources more effectively and use less energy overall.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon2. AI Sapien: Variations On Architecture And The Future by Robert Cha (Author)Author Robert Cha has documented a set of 128 unique AI-generated artworks, as well as thought-provoking conversations and moving poems produced in partnership with AI, set to Bach's Goldberg Variations.Published by ORO Editions, the 192-page book investigates the future of architecture and its connection to these ontologically enigmatic technologies that are starting to mimic sentient through this mixed-media approach. This book offers new insights into the mysterious "Black Box" of AI and presents a future in which habitat and AI are inexorably interwoven.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon3. Hlne Binet (Architectural Photographers) byMarco Iuliano (Author), Martino Stierli (Author)Hlne Binet is one of the most important photographers of the 20th century. The book is the full monograph of Hlne Binet's work, which includes two in-depth analytical essays. Binet has photographed both modern and old architecture over the course of forty years.The 160-page book was published by Lund Humphries. According to Marco Iuliano, Hlne Binet's family history includes her early "discovery" of architectural photographer Lucien Herv, her upbringing in the Italian fishing village of Sperlonga and Rome, her partnerships with Daniel Libeskind and John Hejduk, and her introduction to Zaha Hadid at the Architectural Association (AA) in London. The essay delves into Binet's method, archive, and attitude to photography.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon4. Creating the Regenerative School by by Alan Ford (Author), Kate Mraw (Author), Betsy del Monte (Author)With designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing learning spaces but also embrace restorative principles, the Regenerative School book profile highlights case studies from around the globe that demonstrate best practices in developing healthy, climate-appropriate learning environments for early learners through high school, improving the lives of the occupants, the environment, and the community in which they live.Published by ORO Editions, eight pages of content, including numerous photos, plans, diagrams, and over 1,000 words of text that highlights the distinctive solutions, are included in each project profile. Five criteria were used to analyze case studies: Strategies for Net-Zero Energy and Carbon Features of Regenerative, Healthful Buildings Post-occupancy data; Occupant satisfaction; Evidence-based informed design.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.p.232 Carlos Baon Blazquez, Living in a Dream, gestalten 2024, courtesy of gestalten5. Living In A Dream: Dreamscapes, Imagined Architecture, And Interiors bygestalten (Editor)This collection is presented as a powerful celebration of the transformational power of design and unbounded imagination. The 265-page book was published by gestalten.Living in a Dream is an amazing collection of interior and architectural marvels. Every page of this carefully chosen compilation reveals a new area of creative innovation, inviting readers to explore the halls of boundless imagination. The book goes beyond accepted bounds, providing an insight into the thoughts of creative visionaries who have dared to think outside the box.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon6. The Monster Leviathan: Anarchitecture by Aaron Betsky (Author)American art and architecture critic Aaron Betsky explores an architecture through twentieth- and early twenty-first-century texts, art, and design in The Monster Leviathan. He contends that these fleeting evocations are actual suggestions in and of themselves. They are scenes that are either imaginative enough to open our eyes or realistic enough to convince us that they exist; they are neither functioning models nor ideas for new forms.The 464-page book was published by The MIT Press.Students and architecture enthusiasts, as well as people who aspire to build a better, more sustainable, and socially just future, can envision that such alternate worlds are achievable with the help of the Monster Leviathan. An architecture already existing and does not exist at all, as Betsky so eloquently states. All we need to do is locate the myth of building.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon7. Noguchi's Gardens, Landscapes As Sculpture by Marc Treib (Author)Noguchi considered landscape design to be a formal and spatial art, and he was successful in creating a number of noteworthy locations from his early environmental initiatives to his later mature works.Renowned landscape historian Marc Treib details and evaluates projects ranging from his early unfinished plans for playgrounds and monuments to a sizable park in Sapporo, Japan, whose construction was only finished after his death, in this thorough and beautifully illustrated analysis of Noguchi's gardens.The 304-page book was published by ORO Editions.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon8. Cities Of Repetition: Hong Kong's Private Housing Estates by Christian J. Lange (Author), Jason F. Carlow (Author)The greatest housing complexes in Hong Kong constructed by private developers between the late 1960s and the early 2000s are thoroughly documented and analyzed graphically by the Cities of Repetition book.The ultra-dense, mass-produced, highly repetitive constructed surroundings that hundreds of thousands of people in Hong Kong live in are depicted and contrasted in the original drawings and diagrams. In addition to showing the vast scope of the city's housing complexes, drawings, diagrams, and photographs also highlight the hundreds of identically designed housing units and their minor variations.The 144-page book was published by ORO Editions.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon9. American Icons: The Architecture of the United States: Visions and Defiance byAmerican Icons is a tribute to the country's architectural wonders, ranging from skyscrapers to residences, from airports to museums, and more. It includes amazing pieces by well-known architects John Lautner, Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies van der Rohe, and many more.Published by gestalten, the 288-page American Icons reveals the tales of some of the greatest architects of the 20th century that shape the American skylines through meticulous, expertly shot photographs and engrossing readings by Sam Lubell, writer for The New York Times.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon10. Kiosk: The Last Modernist Booths Across Central and Eastern Europe by Zupagrafika (Author)This 208-page photobook offers unrivalled documentation of the final modernist kiosks that witnessed the socio-political upheaval of Central and Eastern Europe in the late 20th century, with over 150 kiosks from Belgrade to Berlin and from Ljubljana to Warsaw. Some have been abandoned or have gradually disappeared from the urban scene, while others have been rebuilt or are still in use.Martyna Sobecka and David Navarro, the founders of Zupagrafika, took the pictures in this one-of-a-kind collection during the past ten years. Architectural historian Anna Cymer's introduction and urban explorer Maciej Czarnecki's foreword provide important insights into the history of these movable buildings.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.

Submitted by WA ContentsPantone chooses Mocha Mousse as Pantone's Color of the Year 2025 Germany Architecture News - Dec 10, 2024 - 13:30 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The leading color authority, Pantone, has selected Mocha Mousse as the color of 2025, describing it as an "evocative soft brown that transports our senses into pleasure and deliciousness."The Pantone Colour Institute described that a warm, rich brown hue, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, evokes comfort with its suggestion of delectable cacao, chocolate, and coffee."Underpinned by our desire for every day pleasures, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director Pantone Color Institute."Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic""Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.""Infused with subtle elegance and earthy refinement, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse presents a discrete and tasteful touch of glamour. A flavorful brown shade, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse envelopes us with its sensorial warmth," Eiseman explained.A trend to bring ourselves closer to nature is gaining momentum. Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, which is distinguished by its organic composition, respects and values the nourishment of our natural surroundings.Genuinely authentic, Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse strikes a balance between the enduring beauty of artistic expression and the demands of contemporary."The everlasting search for harmony filters through into every aspect of our lives including our relationships, the work we do, our social connections and the natural environment that surrounds us. Harmony brings feelings of contentment, inspiring a positive state of inner peace, calm, and balance as well as being tuned in with the world around us. Harmony embraces a culture of connection and unity as well as the synthesis of our mental, spiritual and physical well-being," added Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute."With that in mind, for Pantone Color of the Year 2025 we look to a color that reaches into our desire for comfort and wellness, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others," Pressman continued.For the first time, Pantone will use the hue in events and experiences throughout the globe to commemorate the 26th anniversary of Pantone hue of the Year.In order to make the Pantone Color of Year 2025 available to everyone, Pantone will share public areas and color events from New York, London, Shanghai, and Mumbai.Pantone gives manufacturers and marketers the global language of color so they can make color-critical decisions at every step of the process.Using cutting-edge X-Rite technology to achieve color consistency across a variety of materials and finishes for graphics, fashion, and product design, Pantone products and services are used by over 10 million designers and producers worldwide to help define, communicate, and control color from inspiration to realization. In 2021, Pantone selected "Ultimate Gray" and "Illuminating" for color of the year 2021.All images courtesy of Pantone.> via Pantone

Submitted by WA ContentsWhispering Curves House features a curved faade, giving a hug to nature in BangaloreIndia Architecture News - Dec 10, 2024 - 14:44 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Indian architecture practice Suva Architects has completed a house that features a curved faade to "give a bear hug to nature" in Bangalore, India.Named Whispering Curves House the 510-square-metre house is situated on a north facing site in Indiranagar, Bangalore.This house is characterized by a contemporary architectural language, but it also strikes a delicate balance by using classic and tried-and-true architectural principles.The project plot is 40 feet (12 meters) by 60 feet (18 meters), and the curved facade embraces nature. It was created for a famous plastic surgeon, Dr. Anand K., his wife, Mrs. Uma Anand, and his family.The goal was to create a minimalist home with colors that would always radiate good vibes. This brief was an excellent starting point.When designing this house, we made sure that every room was flooded with natural light and had a high rate of fresh air exchange. The studio's ultimate goal was to create a home that this lovely family could call "home."With this, we are delighted to present Suva Architects, a design firm that designs with love, care, and enthusiasm. The studio takes a broad approach and design facilities that are prepared for the future."The light is what guides you home, the warmth is what keeps you there," Ellie Rodriguez.DiagramDiagramGround floor plan1st floor plan2nd floor plan3rd floor planSectionDaughter roomDaughter room2nd daughter room3rd floor planBedroomProject factsProject name: Whispering CurvesArchitecture firm:Suva ArchitectsPrincipal architect:Ar. Suresh B MistryProject location: Bangalore, Karnataka, IndiaBuilt area:5500sqftSite area:2400sqftDesign team:Ar. Suresh B MistryInterior design:Suva ArchitectsDesign year:2022Completion year:2024Landscape:3-Fold DesignStructural engineer: S & S Associates Consulting EngineersEnvironmental & MEP engineering:SECA Consultants (Electrical) Excel Design Associate (Plumbing)Construction:Mr. SudhakarSupervision:Architect and the ClientClient:Dr Anand K, Mrs Uma AnandAll images Ekansh Goel.All drawings Suva Architects.> via Suva Architects

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"In our third annual review of 2024, we have selected the best architecture books published on WAC Books for our readers. As part of our annual tradition at WAC, we select books that explore a wide range of topics.This year's selections feature a groundbreaking vision of the future of AI, a comprehensive monograph exploring the work of photographer Hlne Binet, a series of carefully chosen case studies on schools as regenerative spaces, and innovative concepts for the future of energy in architecture and design. Additionally, there are captivating dreamscapes and interiors created with the help of AI.American art and architecture critic Aaron Betsky's The Monster Leviathan: Anarchitecture, Zupagrafika's Kiosk: The Last Modernist Booths Across Central and Eastern Europe,Marc Treib's Noguchi's Gardens, Landscapes As Sculpture, gestalten and Sam Lubell's American Icons: The Architecture Of The United States: Visions And Defiance are among WAC's most captivating books of 2024.Explore our extensive archive of WAC Books and choose your favorite book below to enhance your bookshelf (in no particular order):Image courtesy of Amazon1. Transform! Designing the Future of Energy byMateo Kries (Editor),Jochen Eisenbrand (Editor),Daniel Barber (Contributor),Donatella Germanese (Contributor),Carola Hein (Contributor),Stephan Rammler (Contributor),Catharine Rossi (Contributor)Energy is one of the biggest problems of our day and it is directly related to architecture and design. It is not just a physical asset but also an ethical and political value that must be considered..Published by Vitra Design Museum, from the perspective of design, the 195-page book examines the current, drastic changes in the energy sector, from products that capture renewable energy to solar house and wind turbine designs, and from intelligent mobility ideas to future visions of self-sufficient communities. It highlights the world's energy needs and poses important questions, such as how design may help us use renewable energy sources more effectively and use less energy overall.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon2. AI Sapien: Variations On Architecture And The Future by Robert Cha (Author)Author Robert Cha has documented a set of 128 unique AI-generated artworks, as well as thought-provoking conversations and moving poems produced in partnership with AI, set to Bach's Goldberg Variations.Published by ORO Editions, the 192-page book investigates the future of architecture and its connection to these ontologically enigmatic technologies that are starting to mimic sentient through this mixed-media approach. This book offers new insights into the mysterious "Black Box" of AI and presents a future in which habitat and AI are inexorably interwoven.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon3. Hlne Binet (Architectural Photographers) byMarco Iuliano (Author), Martino Stierli (Author)Hlne Binet is one of the most important photographers of the 20th century. The book is the full monograph of Hlne Binet's work, which includes two in-depth analytical essays. Binet has photographed both modern and old architecture over the course of forty years.The 160-page book was published by Lund Humphries. According to Marco Iuliano, Hlne Binet's family history includes her early "discovery" of architectural photographer Lucien Herv, her upbringing in the Italian fishing village of Sperlonga and Rome, her partnerships with Daniel Libeskind and John Hejduk, and her introduction to Zaha Hadid at the Architectural Association (AA) in London. The essay delves into Binet's method, archive, and attitude to photography.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon4. Creating the Regenerative School by by Alan Ford (Author),Kate Mraw (Author),Betsy del Monte (Author)With designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing learning spaces but also embrace restorative principles, the Regenerative School book profile highlights case studies from around the globe that demonstrate best practices in developing healthy, climate-appropriate learning environments for early learners through high school, improving the lives of the occupants, the environment, and the community in which they live.Published by ORO Editions, eight pages of content, including numerous photos, plans, diagrams, and over 1,000 words of text that highlights the distinctive solutions, are included in each project profile. Five criteria were used to analyze case studies: Strategies for Net-Zero Energy and Carbon Features of Regenerative, Healthful Buildings Post-occupancy data; Occupant satisfaction; Evidence-based informed design.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.p.232 Carlos Baon Blazquez, Living in a Dream, gestalten 2024, courtesy of gestalten5. Living In A Dream: Dreamscapes, Imagined Architecture, And Interiors bygestalten (Editor)This collection is presented as a powerful celebration of the transformational power of design and unbounded imagination. The 265-page book was published by gestalten.Living in a Dream is an amazing collection of interior and architectural marvels. Every page of this carefully chosen compilation reveals a new area of creative innovation, inviting readers to explore the halls of boundless imagination. The book goes beyond accepted bounds, providing an insight into the thoughts of creative visionaries who have dared to think outside the box.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon6. The Monster Leviathan: Anarchitecture by Aaron Betsky (Author)American art and architecture critic Aaron Betsky explores an architecture through twentieth- and early twenty-first-century texts, art, and design in The Monster Leviathan. He contends that these fleeting evocations are actual suggestions in and of themselves. They are scenes that are either imaginative enough to open our eyes or realistic enough to convince us that they exist; they are neither functioning models nor ideas for new forms.The 464-page book was published by The MIT Press.Students and architecture enthusiasts, as well as people who aspire to build a better, more sustainable, and socially just future, can envision that such alternate worlds are achievable with the help of the Monster Leviathan. An architecture already existing and does not exist at all, as Betsky so eloquently states. All we need to do is locate the myth of building.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon7. Noguchi's Gardens, Landscapes As Sculpture by Marc Treib (Author)Noguchi considered landscape design to be a formal and spatial art, and he was successful in creating a number of noteworthy locations from his early environmental initiatives to his later mature works.Renowned landscape historian Marc Treib details and evaluates projects ranging from his early unfinished plans for playgrounds and monuments to a sizable park in Sapporo, Japan, whose construction was only finished after his death, in this thorough and beautifully illustrated analysis of Noguchi's gardens.The 304-page book was published by ORO Editions.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon8. Cities Of Repetition: Hong Kong's Private Housing Estates by Christian J. Lange (Author),Jason F. Carlow (Author)The greatest housing complexes in Hong Kong constructed by private developers between the late 1960s and the early 2000s are thoroughly documented and analyzed graphically by the Cities of Repetition book.The ultra-dense, mass-produced, highly repetitive constructed surroundings that hundreds of thousands of people in Hong Kong live in are depicted and contrasted in the original drawings and diagrams. In addition to showing the vast scope of the city's housing complexes, drawings, diagrams, and photographs also highlight the hundreds of identically designed housing units and their minor variations.The 144-page book was published by ORO Editions.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon9. American Icons: The Architecture of the United States: Visions and Defiance byAmerican Icons is a tribute to the country's architectural wonders, ranging from skyscrapers to residences, from airports to museums, and more. It includes amazing pieces by well-known architects John Lautner, Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies van der Rohe, and many more.Published by gestalten, the 288-page American Icons reveals the tales of some of the greatest architects of the 20th century that shape the American skylines through meticulous, expertly shot photographs and engrossing readings by Sam Lubell, writer for The New York Times.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.Image courtesy of Amazon10. Kiosk: The Last Modernist Booths Across Central and Eastern Europe by Zupagrafika (Author)This 208-page photobook offers unrivalled documentation of the final modernist kiosks that witnessed the socio-political upheaval of Central and Eastern Europe in the late 20th century, with over 150 kiosks from Belgrade to Berlin and from Ljubljana to Warsaw. Some have been abandoned or have gradually disappeared from the urban scene, while others have been rebuilt or are still in use.Martyna Sobecka and David Navarro, the founders of Zupagrafika, took the pictures in this one-of-a-kind collection during the past ten years. Architectural historian Anna Cymer's introduction and urban explorer Maciej Czarnecki's foreword provide important insights into the history of these movable buildings.Read more and purchase the book on WAC Books.

Submitted by WA ContentsAMT 2025 Architectural Material Technologies Commons ConferenceUnited States Architecture News - Dec 07, 2024 - 13:37 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The Architectural Material Technologies Commons conference aims to revolutionize our approach to material responsibility in architecture and design. By focusing on novel, regenerative, resilient, indigenous, and traditional materials, AMT2025 seeks to foster sustainable practices that respect our environment, honor cultural heritage, and empower practitioners through the democratization of knowledge and skills.The concept of the Commons, both historical and digital, forms the foundation of our conference. We draw inspiration from the modern Digital Commons, defined as information and knowledge resources that are collectively created and owned or shared between or among a community and that tend to be non-exclusive, that is, be (generally freely) available to third parties. Thus, they are oriented to favor use and reuse, rather than to exchange as a commodity. (Fuster Morell, M. (2010))AMT2025 embodies this spirit by offering free admission, emphasizing our commitment to the open dissemination of regenerative and sustainable materials, practices, designs, and ideas. We believe in the power of shared knowledge, from vernacular construction techniques to cutting-edge innovations, to drive positive change in our built environment.AMT2025 will explore a wide range of key focus areas that are crucial to the future of sustainable architecture. Well delve into novel and regenerative materials in sustainable design, while also examining the role of indigenous, traditional, and vernacular materials in contemporary architecture. The conference will highlight resilient architectural practices that embrace regenerative techniques and showcase ways to integrate contemporary tools and technologies with traditional materials and methods. A significant emphasis will be placed on the open-source sharing of vernacular knowledge and construction skills, as well as the importance of preserving and transmitting generational craft knowledge. Well also investigate symbiotic relationships for accessible, low-cost housing solutions, explore the concept of urban commons and their role in shaping our built environment, and discuss models of self-governance and cooperation in small-scale architectural ecosystems. Through these diverse topics, AMT2025 aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in creating a more sustainable and equitable architectural future.Join us for three days of keynotes, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. Connect with experts from academia, industry, and local communities to explore innovative approaches to material responsibility that contribute to a regenerative, equitable, and resilient built environment.AMT2025 invites architects, designers, researchers, craftspeople, students, and community members to participate in this vital conversation. Together, well examine how collaborative, commons-based approaches can create more responsible and accessible architecture, from reimagining traditional materials with modern technologies to developing ultra-low-cost housing solutions using readily available materials.By fostering a community of practice that values both innovation and tradition, AMT2025 aims to catalyze a movement towards more sustainable, equitable, and culturally rich architectural practices. Join us in Columbus, Indiana, as we work collectively to shape the future of our built environment.Key topicsNovel and regenerative materials in sustainable designTraditional and vernacular materials in contemporary architectureResilient architectural practices embracing regenerative techniquesIntegrating contemporary tools and technologies with traditional materials and methodsExpanded List of TopicsDecentralized and off-grid architectural solutionsSelf-sufficient building designs for remote locationsMicro-grid systems and renewable energy integration in architectureWater and waste management solutions for off-grid structuresCase studies of successful off-grid communities and their architectural approachesOpen-source sharing of vernacular knowledgeDocumenting and digitizing traditional building techniquesPlatforms for disseminating indigenous architectural knowledgeIntegrating vernacular wisdom with modern sustainable practicesThe role of mentorship and apprenticeship in preserving architectural craftsResilient design strategies for climate change adaptationArchitectural responses to extreme weather eventsPassive design techniques for energy efficiency in varying climatesWater-conscious architecture and rainwater harvesting systemsGreen infrastructure integration in building designTechnology and traditional materials: bridging the gapDigital fabrication techniques applied to natural materialsAI and machine learning in optimizing vernacular design principlesRobotics and automation in traditional construction methodsVirtual and augmented reality tools for preserving and teaching craft skillsLow-cost housing solutions using sustainable materialsAffordable eco-housing designs for urban and rural environmentsRepurposing readily available materials for emergency sheltersCommunity-driven construction projects using local resourcesScalable modular housing systems with minimal environmental impactBiophilic design and human-nature connectionsIncorporating living materials in architectural designStrategies for enhancing biodiversity in built environmentsTherapeutic landscapes and healing architecture using natural materialsBiomaterials and their impact on indoor environmental qualityInnovative materials and sustainable design approachesNovel bio-based and regenerative materials in architectureAdvancements in recycled and upcycled building materialsBiomimicry in architectural design and material selectionZero-waste design strategies and circular economy principles in constructionWe acknowledge and honor the Indigenous communities native to this region, and recognize that Indiana University Bloomington is built on Indigenous homelands and resources. We recognize the Myaamiaki (Miami), Lnape (Delaware), Bodwwadmik (Potawatomi), and Saawanwa (Shawnee) people as past, present, and future caretakers of this land.Event factsEvent name: Architectural Material Technologies CommonsOrganizer: Indiana UniversityDate: 27-29 March, 2025Location: The Republic Building, Columbus, IndianaRegister to the event from here.Top image courtesy of Architectural Material Technologies Commons.> via Architectural Material Technologies Commonsarchitecture event

Submitted by WA ContentsWater is ComingDenmark Architecture News - Dec 07, 2024 - 13:55 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Poles are melting, groundwater is rising, and torrential rain is flooding roads and houses. Its no longer a question of if, but when the water is coming and we must adapt to it. Danish Architecture Center (DAC) is addressing this new reality with the Water is Coming exhibition, opening on October 7, 2024. In a sensuous and poetic exhibition universe, the exhibition explores the relationship between water, people and nature in a rapidly changing world where, despite the seemingly bleak outlook, there is also hope and opportunity.Water is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Rising sea levels and more frequent cloudbursts demand radical change in urban design and organization. Cities like Copenhagen, Venice and Jakarta are already dealing with the inevitable question: How can we adapt to the water instead of fighting it?In the Water is Coming exhibition, DAC is seeking to create a deeper understanding of our dependence on water and the challenges it poses to our cities. The exhibition also presents different solutions for how we can live with water in the future. Senior curator Pernille Stockmarr explains:Were at a crossroads. Water is both a life-giving resource and a threat to our way of life. At the exhibition, we want to show that our ability to integrate and manage water will shape the future of cities and the lives of many people. We can adapt, but we have to think differently, work together, and take our outset in nature. This will yield radical solutions, and they can very well be extremely attractive.Adapting Our Cities to a World with More WaterThe exhibition presents a wide range of solutions from both Denmark and abroad that show how we can adapt to rising water levels. Concrete projects explore topics such as biodiversity, urban development, and innovative waterfront housing. There are also models and projections illustrating how scientists, architects, landscape architects and urban planners can work together to protect cities and create recreational spaces for both people and nature.The projects include Copenhagen Islands by the landscape architects at Schnherr, which shows a vision for the future Copenhagen in which new urban spaces emerge naturally from the citys original landscape and the natural flow of water. The current climate resilient neighborhood project in sterbro, created by SLA, THIRD NATURE and LYTT Architecture is transforming an entire neighborhood into a water-management oasis with rainwater collection and green urban spaces. And Enghaveparken in Copenhagen demonstrates how urban spaces can collect large amounts of rainwater and act as recreational areas.On a larger scale, the exhibition presents the Lynetteholm project as an example of combined urban development and storm surge protection, and Niederhafen in Hamburg, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, shows how river promenades can protect against storm surges while creating open, social urban spaces.The exhibition also presents short films showing how Danes are already living with water as a central part of their everyday lives. The projects show how climate adaptation can be approached in many different ways from local initiatives to large infrastructure projects, and from nature-based solutions to technical constructions. However, the solutions often point in different, and sometimes contradictory directions, and some has also sparked public debate. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on these perspectives and form their own opinions to promote a valuable dialog about future climate adaptation.Sensory Installations Visitors enter a sensuous scenography of blue-green textiles that float from the ceiling like waves. The Water Drops installation is a sensuous experience of the coming of rainfall. The textile installation Sky & Sea invites visitors to look up and observe the organic waves and beautiful colors. Visitors to the exhibition can also try their hand at several computer games and navigate fictional future universes characterized by rising waters.There are also contributions from the Danish Pavilion at the International Architecture Exhibition La Biennale di Venezia 2023, including the scenographic installation Mermaid Bay, created by Christian Friedlnder as part of the Coastal Imaginaries exhibition, curated by Josefine Michau. Visitors meet a dramatic staging of a future coastal landscape, partially engulfed by the sea. Through a sensuous scenography of light and sound, the fragility of the coastal landscape and the harsh realities of climate change are depicted in a magnificent diorama. The installation conveys a deeper understanding of nature-based design in wetlands.With Water is Coming, DAC wants to inspire visitors to reflect on the role of water in the future and actively join the debate about how we can live with, protect and preserve this essential resource for future generations.The Water is Coming exhibition has been developed by Danish Architecture Center.Exhibition factsExhibition title: Water is comingOrganizer: Danish Architecture CenterLocation: Bryghuspladsen 10, Copenhagen, DenmarkDates: October 7, 2024 March 23, 2025Top image courtesy of Danish Architecture Center.> via Danish Architecture Center

Submitted by Palak ShahWindows to Learning: Shaping Urban Educational Spaces Through Design United States Architecture News - Dec 08, 2024 - 01:59 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"A novel study by the California Energy Commission unveiled a compelling link between classroom windows and student achievement. The research revealed that an ample and pleasant view out of a window, which includes vegetation or human activity and objects in the far distance, supports better outcomes of student learning." This insight underscores the profound impact of thoughtful architectural design on educational environments, paving the way for innovative approaches to learning spaces.In an era where educational facilities must transcend more than mere house classrooms, it's all too common for architecture and infrastructure to lack meaningful dialogue with their surroundings. However, innovative strategies that convey a distinct spatial identity while echoing an institution's mission can seamlessly integrate buildings into the existing urban fabric.The new addition to the Berkeley Chess Schoolby Rangr Studioexemplifies a similar approach. Since its modest beginnings as an after-school program in 1981, Berkeley Chess School (BCS) has blossomed into a thriving institution, nurturing 7,000 children annually across the Bay Area. BCS empowers youth through chess, a game renowned for fostering critical thinking and predicting success in STEM subjects. Over four decades, the school has not only produced three grandmasters but also maintained free access for underprivileged communities, showcasing an unwavering commitment to social equity.Image Matthew Millman, Courtesy: Rangr StudioImage Matthew Millman, Courtesy: Rangr StudioRangr Studio's addition to the BCS building is designed to enhance functionality while transforming the Schools architectural identity. The centerpiecean innovative chessboard facade crafted from ordinary tinted and translucent glass panesstrikes a delicate balance between aesthetic appeal and budget constraints. This articulate design solution creates a striking visual representation of the school's mission, reinforcing its dedication to social equity through education.Image Matthew Millman, Courtesy: Rangr StudioThrough modest yet impactful elevational gestures, the school has metamorphosed into a landmark that celebrates education, creativity, and community engagement. The renewed identity not only reflects BCS's core values but also serves as a powerful spatial narrative, seamlessly integrating the institution into its urban context. This design transcends mere enhancement of the school's visibility within the urban landscape; it transforms the facade into a powerful architectural statement. The chessboard window evolves beyond a simple visual element, becoming an integral spatial component that boldly communicates the building's purpose.Site PlanDrawing Courtesy: Rangr StudioGround Floor PlanDrawing Courtesy: Rangr StudioUpper Floor PlanDrawing Courtesy: Rangr StudioThe entrance, strategically positioned alongside the facade and behind the chessboard window, offers a truly symbolic experience. As visitors, students, and teachers cross this threshold, they metaphorically and physically step into the world of chess, reinforcing the school's identity and mission with every passage.Isometric ViewDrawing Courtesy: Rangr StudioAs we cast our gaze toward the future of urban design, such innovative yet understated approaches to spatial narratives will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in crafting vibrant, identity-rich cityscapes that both inspire and educate. The Berkeley Chess Schools new addition underscores the power of thoughtful design in creating spaces that not only house learning but actively contribute to it.Project FactsDesign Team: Jasmit Singh Rangr, Zachary Whiteman, Kevin HanStructural Engineer: ZFA Structural EngineersContractor: Michael James ConstructionLocation: Berkeley, CaliforniaSize: 1,200sf (111.5 sq m)Completion: June 2024Photography: Matthew Millman.Top image Matthew Millman, Courtesy: Rangr Studio.> via

Submitted by WA ContentsVenice Architecture Biennale 2025Italy Architecture News - Dec 07, 2024 - 14:15 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"The Venice Architecture Biennale is a global exhibition of architecture from various nations, held in Venice, Italy, every two years.The 19th International Architecture Exhibition will take place from 10 May to 23 November 2025 at the Giardini, the Arsenale and various venues in Venice, Italy.Titled Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective, the exhibition is curated by architect and engineer Carlo Ratti.He is currently holding teaching positions at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and at the Politecnico di Milano. Ratti is the director of the Senseable City Lab at the MIT and a founding partner of the architecture and innovation office CRA-Carlo Ratti Associatibased in Torino, New York City, and London.Top image: Giardini venue. Image Andrea Avezzu, courtesy La Biennale di Venezia.> via Venice Architecture Biennale

Submitted by WA ContentsBiennale Gherdina 2026Italy Architecture News - Dec 07, 2024 - 14:31 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Biennale Gherdina is an art and architecture event located in the unique setting of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites in Italy.Celebrating its 10th edition, the event will take place in Ortisei Urtiji St. Ulrich and the surrounding areas of Val Gardena, Italy, from 29 May to 13 September 2026.The event, currently, announced the appointment of Samuel Leuenberger as the Curator of its 10th edition. Samuel Leuenberger is the founder and director of SALTS, a non-profit exhibition space in Birsfelden and Bennwil, Switzerland, which aims to promote interdisciplinary exchange and dialogue with emerging artists.Through new commissions and an exhibition programme based on environmental projects and public programming, the biennial has organically grown from one edition to the next, gathering the international art world in the locality, whilst maintaining a strong connection to the cultural, historical and linguistic roots of the Alpine region.Top image: Velasco Vitali, ARIA, 2014, courtesy of Biennale Gherdina.> via Biennale Gherdina

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Berlin-based architecture practice Kr Architecture has unveiled design for a place of worship and cultural center in the town of Nots, Togo. This project represents the studios first project in Togo.Called Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews (CCSE), the 7,000-square-metre project center, commissioned by the Kothor Foundation, houses a sanctuary, temples, an open-air amphitheatre, a reception area, exhibition halls, an auditorium, restaurants, and a reconstruction of the ancient royal palace of the Ew Kingdom.The masterplan proposed by Kr Architecture is structured around the remains of the great Agbogbo wall and the Agbogbodzi Sanctuary.Aerial view rendering, looking eastThe design aims to promote the heritage of the Ew people in the town of Nots, in Togo. Red laterite brick is the main building material utilized since it is readily available locally, durable, and climate-appropriate.The program at the facility will provide new perspectives into the Ew people's history, customs, and ancestral rites. The Agbogbodzi Sanctuary, which celebrates their primary deity, and the remains of the ancient Agbogbo walla holy enclosure whose construction was crucial to the Ew people's exodusform the foundation of Kr Architecture's concept.Aerial view rendering, looking northThe Agbogbodzi Sanctuary, linked to the open-air amphitheatre, embraces the heart of traditional festival celebrations. Exhibition spaces and a recreation of the historic Ew Royal Palace make up the museum. This special area devoted to history and the preservation of Ew knowledge acts as a display for both modern work and the history of the Ew people.K.S.The wall was built as a defensive barrier against the possibility of enslavement by neighboring tribes and as a way to confine the king's subjects. Its origins are in disagreement. Caf renderingA tower with a spiral shape that represents an upward connection connects the divinity to the sky and ancestors at the location devoted to this sacred presence. On either side of the wall, the different components of the design are arranged in a series of low-rise, flowing buildings that wind through the environment, interspersed with patios that have vegetation to provide natural ventilation.Located roughly 80 kilometers north of Lom, the capital of Togo, Nots was established in the seventeenth century by the Ew people. It was the birthplace of the Ew people prior to their migration from Nots to Benin, Ghana, and other parts of Togo.Since 1956, Ew pilgrims have gathered at Nots during the first week of September to commemorate the Agbogbozan festival, which honors their ancestors' exile and fosters camaraderie.Salon d'Art rendering view from corridorIn addition to exhibiting modern artwork, the Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews' exhibition rooms are devoted to preserving Ew knowledge and historical artifacts.These hallways have filtered, ambient lighting thanks to a system of natural light shafts installed in the ceiling. The site's main entry is marked by an evocative gateway that was inspired by the Ew stool, a regal chair that represents power.Salon d'Art rendering view into courtyard"I am very happy to contribute to this important project, and to be able to support this initiative of giving a space to express and preserve identity," said Francis Kr."It is a joy to see how ideas and techniques embedded within my work have now become 'salonfhig' and widely accepted by people building on the continent.""The centre will demonstrate how architecture can be a catalyst for communities to celebrate their cultures," Francis Kr added.Sanctuary rendering exterior view"If we value our traditions and reconnect to our roots for a better tomorrow for our communities, Africa will gain much and the world will be better off. We believe that to honor our traditions is to place the light of the past into the hands of the present in order to illuminate the future," said Kokou Djifanou Kothor, Kothor Foundation.Small Temple renderingStatue renderingTicket Store rendering exterior viewTicket Store rendering interior viewAxonometry of the entire complexMasterplanSection of the MuseumSection of the SanctuaryConstruction started in October of 2024, with the project completing in February of 2026.Other projects by Kr Architecture currently underway in West Africa are the Benin National Assembly, the Goethe Institute in Dakar, and a mausoleum for Thomas Sankara in Ouagadougou, Burkina Fasos capital.Project factsProject name: Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews (CCSE)Location:Nots, TogoType of Project:Private Place of Worship and Cultural CenterSize:7,000m2Design:20222024Construction:2024ongoingStatus:Under constructionArchitect:Dibdo FrancisKr,KrArchitectureDesign Team:Jaime Herraiz Martnez,Andrea Maretto, La SodangbeEngineering Team:Nataniel Sawadogo, Jean Sawadogo, MoseKrArchitectureSARL (Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso)Contributors:Jeanne Autran-Edorh, Philippe Chaze, Yonas Tukuabo, Leonne Voegelin, Sika AzamatiProject Management:Jaime Herraiz, Nataniel Sawadogo, Alimadjai BoukariCollaborators:APAVE BCT(Burkina Faso), Ingenovatech (Burkina Faso)Client:Fondation Kothor / LA GMA SATop image in the article Big Temple rendering.All images & drawings Kr Architecture.> via Kr Architecture

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Berlin-based architecture practice Kr Architecture has unveiled design for a place of worship and cultural center in the town of Nots, Togo. This project represents the studios first project in Togo.Called Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews (CCSE), the 7,000-square-metre project center, commissioned by the Kothor Foundation, houses a sanctuary, temples, an open-air amphitheatre, a reception area, exhibition halls, an auditorium, restaurants, and a reconstruction of the ancient royal palace of the Ew Kingdom.The masterplan proposed by Kr Architecture is structured around the remains of the great Agbogbo wall and the Agbogbodzi Sanctuary.Aerial view rendering, looking eastThe design aims to promote the heritage of the Ew people in the town of Nots, in Togo. Red laterite brick is the main building material utilized since it is readily available locally, durable, and climate-appropriate.The program at the facility will provide new perspectives into the Ew people's history, customs, and ancestral rites. The Agbogbodzi Sanctuary, which celebrates their primary deity, and the remains of the ancient Agbogbo walla holy enclosure whose construction was crucial to the Ew people's exodusform the foundation of Kr Architecture's concept.Aerial view rendering, looking northThe Agbogbodzi Sanctuary, linked to the open-air amphitheatre, embraces the heart of traditional festival celebrations. Exhibition spaces and a recreation of the historic Ew Royal Palace make up the museum. This special area devoted to history and the preservation of Ew knowledge acts as a display for both modern work and the history of the Ew people.K.S.The wall was built as a defensive barrier against the possibility of enslavement by neighboring tribes and as a way to confine the king's subjects. Its origins are in disagreement. Caf renderingA tower with a spiral shape that represents an upward connection connects the divinity to the sky and ancestors at the location devoted to this sacred presence. On either side of the wall, the different components of the design are arranged in a series of low-rise, flowing buildings that wind through the environment, interspersed with patios that have vegetation to provide natural ventilation.Located roughly 80 kilometers north of Lom, the capital of Togo, Nots was established in the seventeenth century by the Ew people. It was the birthplace of the Ew people prior to their migration from Nots to Benin, Ghana, and other parts of Togo.Since 1956, Ew pilgrims have gathered at Nots during the first week of September to commemorate the Agbogbozan festival, which honors their ancestors' exile and fosters camaraderie.Salon d'Art rendering view from corridorIn addition to exhibiting modern artwork, the Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews' exhibition rooms are devoted to preserving Ew knowledge and historical artifacts.These hallways have filtered, ambient lighting thanks to a system of natural light shafts installed in the ceiling. The site's main entry is marked by an evocative gateway that was inspired by the Ew stool, a regal chair that represents power.Salon d'Art rendering view into courtyard"I am very happy to contribute to this important project, and to be able to support this initiative of giving a space to express and preserve identity," said Francis Kr."It is a joy to see how ideas and techniques embedded within my work have now become 'salonfhig' and widely accepted by people building on the continent.""The centre will demonstrate how architecture can be a catalyst for communities to celebrate their cultures," Francis Kr added.Sanctuary rendering exterior view"If we value our traditions and reconnect to our roots for a better tomorrow for our communities, Africa will gain much and the world will be better off. We believe that to honor our traditions is to place the light of the past into the hands of the present in order to illuminate the future," said Kokou Djifanou Kothor, Kothor Foundation.Small Temple renderingStatue renderingTicket Store rendering exterior viewTicket Store rendering interior viewAxonometry of the entire complexMasterplanSection of the MuseumSection of the SanctuaryConstruction started in October of 2024, with the project completing in February of 2026.Other projects by Kr Architecture currently underway in West Africa are the Benin National Assembly, the Goethe Institute in Dakar, and a mausoleum for Thomas Sankara in Ouagadougou, Burkina Fasos capital.Project factsProject name: Centre des Cultures et Spiritualits Ews (CCSE)Location:Nots, TogoType of Project:Private Place of Worship and Cultural CenterSize:7,000m2Design:20222024Construction:2024ongoingStatus:Under constructionArchitect:Dibdo FrancisKr,KrArchitectureDesign Team:Jaime Herraiz Martnez,Andrea Maretto, La SodangbeEngineering Team:Nataniel Sawadogo, Jean Sawadogo, MoseKrArchitectureSARL (Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso)Contributors:Jeanne Autran-Edorh, Philippe Chaze, Yonas Tukuabo, Leonne Voegelin, Sika AzamatiProject Management:Jaime Herraiz, Nataniel Sawadogo, Alimadjai BoukariCollaborators:APAVE BCT(Burkina Faso), Ingenovatech (Burkina Faso)Client:Fondation Kothor / LA GMA SATop image in the article Big Temple rendering.All images & drawings Kr Architecture.> via Kr Architecture

Submitted by WA ContentsSix Columns by 31/44 Architects wins RIBA House of the Year 2024United Kingdom Architecture News - Dec 05, 2024 - 12:38 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"A functional and discrete family home by 31/44 Architects has been awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2024.Named Six Columns, the family home, designed by Will Burges, Director of 31/44 Architects, was created for him, his spouse, and their two kids, ingeniously occupies a small urban plot in the lush suburbs of Crystal Palace, South London, United Kingdom.This prestigious annual award, presented by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), crowns the best example of UK one-off house design. Video by RIBAThe family will keep making changes to the building both inside and out as they live there, enabling it to adapt to their changing needs over time.The two-story, four-bedroom home, which takes its name from the six columns that support the building's main structure, mimics the size and materials of nearby terrace houses while maintaining a unique style that alludes to the designer's wide range of architectural influences, including the Case Study houses in California and the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe.The interior design maximizes the wedge-shaped site, resulting in a practical family house that is easily adaptable to changing needs. The main hub that connects the many areas of the house is the entry hall.A bright and spacious kitchen diner on the left combines contemporary features, including full-height sliding windows and crisp white granite worktops, with a decidedly rustic look, best represented by oiled, unpainted pine cabinets and drawers.Modular living replaces the open-plan design to the right of the entrance, with smaller spaces that put privacy and storage first.Thick, exposed pine walls that serve as shelving units and a Wunderkammer (or cabinet of oddities) to display the family's collections and recollections are the defining feature of the living area. The space may be opened up by a sliding door to the kitchen in the summer, but it is intended to feel cozy in the winter.Apart from the independent bedroom suite on the ground level, there are two further bedrooms on the second floor and a fourth bedroom in the attic, which is tucked away in a raised roof box.The layering and "covering-up" of modern construction are purposefully challenged by the use of self-finished materials throughout. In addition to providing a natural warmth, exposed painted brickwork and easily adjustable spruce pine planks for joinery and fittings allow for future adjustments.A low-maintenance, west-facing rainwater garden that directs water from all the roofs that cascade out of a massive spout and into a steel tank to prevent overflow and encourage reuse is one of the house's three distinct outdoor garden areas.The home features three distinct garden areas outside, one of which is a low-maintenance, west-facing rainwater garden that directs water from all the roofs into a steel tank via a massive spout to encourage reuse and prevent overflow."Six Columns is a beautifully crafted family home that cleverly incorporates Brutalist references and creative flourishes while retaining a strong sense of suburban belonging," said RIBA President Muyiwa Oki."It shows what can be achieved when working with even the tightest of suburban sites, and its flexible, unfinished aesthetic offers a solution to futureproofed design: this is a home that can evolve with its occupants changing needs overtime.""The generosity of space belies the limitations of this small garden plot. As we look for creative and practical solutions to the housing crisis, Six Columns offers a blueprint for bespoke urban infill development," Oki added."What makes a great home? Building your own home is a hugely intensive endeavour; if you are lucky enough to do it at all, you will probably only ever do it once in your life. One-off houses are as unique and varied as we are as individuals, so often producing them needs a closer understanding between the client and architect," said Je Ahn, 2024 RIBA House of the Year Award Chair."This philosophy of the home as a lifelong process might be a tricky concept in this fast-paced contractual world, however, Six Columns demonstrates an important message that we should all remember; your home is not a static slice of time, but continuously evolves with you," Ahn added.Six Columns was selected from a shortlist of Eavesdrop, Sussex, byTom Dowdall Architects, Farmworkers House, Cornwall, byHugh Strange Architects, Peckham House, London, by Surman Weston, The Hall, Kent, by TaylorHare Architects, Plas Hendy Stable Block, Monmouthshire, byStudio Brassica Architects.Last year, Green House by Hayhurst & Co was awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2023. In addition, the Red House by David Kohn of Architects was awarded the RIBA House of the Year 2022.Established in 2013, the RIBA House of the Year award recognizes the best new home or home addition created by a UK architect.All images Building Narratives, and video by RIBA.> via RIBA

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"As the new year approaches, we are beginning our annual reviews for 2024. In this piece, we reveal the most-read and interesting architecture news of 2024.As we conclude another year, the most-read stories from the World Architecture Community highlight challenging and speculative architecture projects and news, including Adjaye Associates' dot.ateliers community and art space in Accra, Zaha Hadid Architects' West Kowloon Terminus development in Hong Kong, Tremend Architecture Studio's organic tree-likeMetropolitan Stationin Poland, andMVRDV's NIO flagship building in Amsterdam.Read the top 10 architecture news of 2024 (listed by the number of views):Adjaye Associates dot.ateliers' community and art space in Accra. Image Adjaye Associatesdot.ateliers community and art space by Adjaye Associates in AccraAt the top of the list in architecture news, Adjaye Associates' new project, a community and art space in Accra heads our list. The project was created for dot.ateliers to provide a community-focused, environmentally conscious building that offers a spacious area for artistic creations.The 560-square-meter structure, called dot.ateliers, was designed for Amoako Boafo, the artist and founder of the dot.ateliers, to give the local artists a fresh space to express their creativity. Its unique sawtooth roof form and double-layered rammed earth walls represent the neighborhood's profoundly contextualized identity. At the time of this writing, the story received over 26,933 views.Read more about the community and art space in Accra.Image MG; The constantly evolving material industry is focusing on alternative materials to combat industrial impactNavigating The Future: In Exploration Of AlternativesThe second architecture news discussed the material industry, alternative materials, and decarbonization from an innovative perspective, penned by former WAC Country Reporter Megha Balooni.The article focuses on transforming the materials industry, a major contributor to environmental degradation. Material Industry: Statistics, Building Materials and the Climate: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Alternative Materials, Examples of Alternative Materials are a few sub-titles of the article.At the time of this writing, the story received over 11,719 views.Read more about navigating the future: in exploration of alternatives.Klein Blue Hills and White Cliff by Wutopia Lab. Image CreatAR ImagesKlein Blue Hills and White Cliff in Shanghai by Wutopia LabAccording to our third row, the Klein Blue Hills and White Cliff project, designed by Wutopia Lab, attracted the most attention from our readers. Chinese architectural practice In Pudong, Shanghai, China, Wutopia Lab transformed a duty room and a roofed stockyard into a wave-shaped community center.The 330-square-meter complex, which is a mixed-use building with two shelter-like buildings with wave-shaped roofs, is called Klein Blue Hills and White Cliff. The white structure, which is a curtain wall made of translucent PVC fabric, is located in the front of the courtyard, while the undulating blue metallic building is located at the back.At the time of this writing, the story received over 8,501 views.Read more about the Klein Blue Hills and White Cliff project.West Kowloon Terminus in Hong Kong by Zaha Hadid Architects. Image Hayes DavidsonWest Kowloon Terminus in Hong Kong by Zaha Hadid ArchitectsOur fourth row includes a construction update on the West Kowloon Terminus development in Hong Kong, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. According to Zaha Hadid Architects, construction has advanced to the roof level of the new 3.2 million square foot complex situated over Hong Kong's High Speed Rail West Kowloon Terminus.In addition to the station and its rooftop park, the Zaha Hadid Architects design incorporates the finest levels of civic, office, and retail areas. The design calls for two pairs of connected office towers at the site's northern and southern ends, complemented with plazas and garden terraces totaling about 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters). The buildings' lower five levels have atriums with places to eat and shop.At the time of this writing, the story received over 6,973 views.Read more about the West Kowloon Terminus development by ZHA.Yokosuka Museum of Art, 2006, Yokosuka, Japan. Image courtesy of Tomio Ohashi10 Notable Projects Of The 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize-Winner Riken YamamotoThe fifth place hits the 10 significant projects of the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize-Winner Riken Yamamoto. On Tuesday, March 5, Riken Yamamoto, a Japanese architect and social activist, was announced as the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize winner. Yamamoto was named the 53rd Laureate of the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize. Our article looks at the architect's wide range of structures in Japan, the People's Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, and Switzerland, including private homes, public housing, elementary schools, universities, civic spaces, and city planning.At the time of this writing, the story received over 6,642 views.Read more about the 10 significant projects of Riken Yamamoto.Mdia Library Charles Ngre, Grasse/Grassa, France by Beaudouin Architectes; Ivry Serres Architecture. Image Fernando Guerra40 Shortlisted Projects for the EU Mies Van Der Rohe Award 2024In our sixth row, the news about the 40 shortlisted projects that compete in the 2024 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture Mies van der Rohe Award topped the headlines.The works on the shortlist were dispersed among 20 countries and 38 European cities in 33 regions. A jury consisting of seven membersFrdric Druot, Martin Braathen, Pippo Ciorra, Tinatin Gurgenidze, Adriana Krnov, Sala Makumbundu, and Hrvoje Njiricselected the forty shortlisted pieces.At the time of this writing, the story received over 5,516 views.Read more about the 40 shortlisted projects for the EU Mies Van Der Rohe Award 2024.An example virtual scene assembled from premium 3D assets. Assets could be licensed, contingent to use-ap- proval from the creators and owners. Image Zaha Hadid ArchitectsThe Treasury platform by Treasury Spatial Data, and Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)In July, Treasury Spatial Data, a design technology business based in San Francisco, and Treasury's founding partner, Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), have introduced the Treasury digital spatial asset platform. A variety of innovative and technological solutions are available on the Treasury platform to find and acquire superior spatial assets.Promoting a creative community and conversations around the importance of 3D assets and spatial design in the age of the spatial internet is one of the foundational principles. Fingerprinting-based digital asset security for the metaverse and spatial computing is one of the platform's primary features. At the time of this writing, the story received over 5,048 views.Read more about the Treasury platform by Treasury Spatial Data, and Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA).NIO House Amsterdam by MVRDV. Image Ossip van DuivenbodeNIO House Amsterdam by MVRDVOne of the most widely read architecture news stories of 2024 features the NIO House Amsterdam, designed by MVRDV. This project revitalized a 19th-century listed building for the electric car manufacturer NIO, showcasing vibrant colors and a rooftop pavilion atop the structure.The 2,700-square-meter structure, known as NIO House Amsterdam, has a car showroom, a caf, an office, a children's play area, a gallery, event spaces, and a lounge. The seven-story structure, which was first constructed in the late 19th century on Amsterdam's Keizersgracht, was created for the European headquarters of the electric vehicle manufacturer NIO.At the time of this writing, the story received over 4,872 views.Read more about NIO House Amsterdam by MVRDV.Metropolitan Station in Poland by Tremend Architecture Studio. Image Rafal ChojnackiMetropolitan Station in Poland by Tremend Architecture StudioEarlier this year, in the Polish capital of the Lublin Voivodeship, an integrated transit center with a linear canopy supported up by organic tree-like columns was created by the Polish architectural firm Tremend Architecture Studio.The station, called Metropolitan Station, is situated in the heart of the city and, along with its supporting infrastructure, serves as a major transportation hub that connects the urban, regional, and national transportation networks. It was designed to be a landmark in the city.At the time of this writing, the story received over 4,692 views.Read more about Metropolitan Station in Poland by Tremend Architecture Studio.o Mu Museum and Temple by ARB Architects. Image Triu ChinARB Architects Founder Nguyn H won the 2024 Moira Gemmill Prize For Emerging ArchitectureARB Architects was at the center of several architecture news on WAC in 2024. In March, at the 2024 W Awards, formerly the Women in Architecture Awards, Nguyn H, founder of the Vietnamese architecture firm ARB Architects, received the Moira Gemmill Prize for Emerging Architecture. The judges praised the architect for her o Mu Museum and Temple, dedicated to the folk religion of o Mu. The project includes brick towers built along a brick wall in a lychee orchard, as well as the conversion of a former weekend home into a temple."Nguyn H sees what isnt visible and finds a project that isnt a project. The architecture preserves important practices of craftsmanship, achieved through resilience and persistence; you can feel the hours of work. It is work for that specific place," said the judges.At the time of this writing, the story received over 4,686 views.Read more about the Nguyn H and 2024 Moira Gemmill Prize For Emerging Architecture.Top image in the article: Metropolitan Station in Poland by Tremend Architecture Studio. Image Alek Malachowski.

Submitted by WA ContentsALQST's new report exposes disturbing facts regarding Neom construction site Saudi Arabia Architecture News - Dec 04, 2024 - 13:22 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Independent human rights organization ALQST has released a new report that reveals disturbing facts about the Neom construction site in Saudi Arabia.The 8-page report, titled Neom: A human rights and environmental impact assessment, highlights the risk of widespread labor rights abuses, particularly emphasized by the recent failures related to a worker's death at a Neom construction site, and the severe impact on the environment.The recent report follows a groundbreaking study titled The Dark Side of Neom, published last year by ALQST. It detailed serious abuses concerning the forced displacement and prosecution of the regions longstanding inhabitants, the Huwaitat tribe.ALQST highlights that this briefing emphasizes more serious moral challenges and reputational risks for potential partners and investors in the project."Neom is creating an aura of Saudi modernity and globalism""Already, Neoms development has led to forced evictions and brutal repression of local inhabitants. Construction will likely be carried out by hundreds of thousands of migrant workers with few rights and little freedom," said ALQST.ALQST believes that the Neom project is aimed at consolidating the personal authority of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and providing false legitimacy to his authoritarian rule."And even before the projects realisation, Neom is creating an aura of Saudi modernity and globalism that is being used to consolidate the personal authority of its author, Mohammed bin Salman, and lend a spurious legitimacy to his repressive one-man rule," stated in the report by ALQST."Current proposals, if brought to fruition, will create a dystopian urban environment and ecological catastrophe.""ALQST has produced this business briefing, based on both first-hand and open-source information, to fact-check the claims being made for Neom, highlight its human rights and environmental impact, and point out the political and reputational risks for those involved or considering involvement in this mega-enterprise," said ALQST.The $500 billion Neom mega project is currently under construction in the Tabuk Province of northwestern Saudi Arabia. The site, near the Red Sea, will have borders of Egypt, Israel, and Jordan. Neom is a key project in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans Vision 2030 economic plan and is one of five host cities in Saudi Arabias bid for the 2034 World Cup.At its core is a futuristic linear city called The Line, which was initially designed to be 170 kilometers long but has been reported to be significantly scaled down. The city is planned to be 200 meters wide.Human rights concerns regarding NeomThe organization emphasizes that the project operates independently of any public participation or consultation initiatives and is a state-supported, top-down initiative.Additionally, the ALQST report indicates that a significant portion of the kingdom's wealth has been diverted into a "video game-inspired vanity project" rather than being invested in essential improvements to infrastructure, such as housing, education, and healthcare in existing Saudi towns and cities."It is important to point out that Neom is a state-sponsored, top-down project completely detached from any popular demand for such a development, or any public participation in the decision-making, or any attempt at public consultation on the plans," ALQST explained."Vast amounts of the kingdoms wealth are being poured into what some regard as a videogames-inspired vanity project at the expense of more prosaic but much-needed improvements to infrastructure such as housing, education and healthcare in existing Saudi towns and cities," it added.The Line project in Saudi ArabiaConstruction workers in Saudi Arabias construction industry typically endure poor working conditionsThe report also addresses the poor working conditions and deprivation of basic rights of migrant workers."The construction of Neom will require hundreds of thousands of migrant workers (as well as white-collar expatriates)," stated in the report."Saudi Arabias kafala (sponsorship) system regulates all foreign residents legal and employment status in the country, but particularly affects low-paid workers recruited from some of the worlds poorest countries.""The kafala system restricts migrant workers freedom of movement by requiring them to obtain an exit permit to leave the country and, in most cases, their employers approval to change jobs.""Their legal status in Saudi Arabia is tied to their kafeel (sponsor), leaving them vulnerable to abuses such as non-payment of wages or retention of their passports by employers," the report added."Construction workers in Saudi Arabias construction industry typically endure poor working conditions, working long hours in the countrys harsh climate and often suffering from heat stress and other health problems.""There have also been several reports of wages going unpaid for months on end," the report stressed.The Line project in Saudi ArabiaThe reports unveils "the first death of a migrant worker" on a Neom siteThe report also details the death of Abdul Wali Skandar Khan, a 25-year-old Pakistani civil engineer and father of two who died after a guardrail collapsed at a Neom construction site on December 28, 2023. the ALQST explains, it is "the first death of a migrant worker on a Neom site.""Abdul Wali Skandar Khan, a 25-yearold Pakistani civil engineer and father of two, died on 28 December 2023 while working on a Neom construction site after a guardrail collapsed. He was employed by China Comservice, via a subcontractor, Falcon Group," the report explained."Despite the seriousness of the incident, neither the companies nor the Saudi authorities carried out a proper investigation or organised repatriation of his body.""His brother Meer Wali Khan, a dual British-Pakistani citizen, had to travel to Saudi Arabia in January 2024 to retrieve Abdul Walis body at his own expense.""China Comservices response has also been inadequate in other regards, with promises of compensation and access to CCTV footage remaining unfulfilled, leaving Abdul Walis family with neither clarity nor justice."It added that "the company deposited a small portion of the promised compensation in the Pakistani embassys account, without the familys agreement, and nearly a year later they are still fighting to access it. Meer Wali is now seeking further support from NGOs and exploring legal avenues to ensure accountability for his brothers death, and to alleviate the plight of other migrant workers.""The companies and Saudi authorities have treated my brother with callous disregard. At every stage since his death, they have failed to act sufficiently, causing me and my family even more pain and hardship," said Meer Wali Khan, the brother of Abdul Wali Skandar Khan."As such, our quest for answers and justice continues, for Abdul Wali and others who have suffered a similar fate," Khan added.The environmental impact of NeomThe report looks at the details of the environmental impact of Neom under the three sub-titles: Endangering biodiversity and the ecosystem, A vastly energy-intensive venture, and Neom and greenwashing."Neom is symptomatic of a wider effort by the Saudi authorities to greenwash their environmental impact, as evidenced by their discourse concerning the climate crisis at COPs 26 and 28," stated the report."The projects reliance on unproven technologies and techno-optimism, a form of climate delay, casts doubt on the genuineness of the authorities whole green narrative.""Their declared ambition to build the green megacity of the future is clearly at odds with the kingdoms broader policy direction, such as its vow to increase fossil fuel extraction," it said.Given these serious concerns, the final section of the report emphasizes that all businesses involved in Neom, or those considering participation, have a responsibility to avoid complicity in human rights violations and to take steps to prevent any negative impacts."Neoms development relies heavily on international investment and partnerships, making foreign businesses some of the best-placed actors with real power to challenge Saudi Arabias authorities," said ALQSTs Executive Director Julia Legner."We urge them to look closely at the evidence, and take the appropriate action," Legner.In 2022, three men were sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia for resisting "displacements" in Neom project site by Saudi Arabias Specialised Criminal Court (SCC), as reported by ALQST.The Neom mega project includes the design of the linear skyscraper, The Line, a-200 meters wide, 170-kilometers-long structure will be 500 meters tall above sea level, which is expected to provide home 9 million residents.All images courtesy of Neom.> via ALQST

Submitted by WA ContentsCarmen Maurice Architecture wraps an old renovated mill with a wine storehouse in SarzeauFrance Architecture News - Dec 04, 2024 - 15:20 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"French architecture firm Carmen Maurice Architecture has wrapped an old renovated mill with a wine storehouse in Sarzeau.The 696-square-metre project includes the renovation of an old mill and construction of wine-making buildings with a shed, and a cellar in Sarzeau, France.Carmen Maurice Architecture completed the wine cellar for the Vignoble de Rhuys at 23 rue des Trois Moulins in Poulhors, Sarzeau, France. It is a modern building that is literally entrenched in its location and offers a gastronomic and sensory renaissance.Following a 70-year hiatus, the municipality and the Parc Naturel Rgional du Golfe du Morbihan (Gulf of Morbihan Regional Nature Park) in Sarzeau, on the Rhuys peninsula, have decided to resume wine production, which had been thriving for centuries until the 1950s.After choosing three grape varietiesChardonnay, Chenin, and Cabernet FrancGuy Hagnier and Marie Devigne, who were chosen after a call for applications from winegrowers, arrived at the Moulin de Poulhors in 2020.The town hall selected the location, and the couple is planting 25,000 vines there.Although the mill was already there, a polished and hospitable wine cellar was required, one that also had to tell the location's modern history.Drawing from a common wine-making vision, architect Carmen Maurice did a wonderful job of creating an architectural language that elevates the place's essence.The structure is small and encircles the refurbished mill. From harvesting in the north to distribution in the south, the winemaking process is optimized by its flexible layout. This design ensures adequate thermal inertia while enabling the press to operate by gravity.As guests approach the main entrance from the south or from the northwest hiking trails, the building's mystical sense of immanence is accentuated by the lime plaster, which was created by a heritage artisan.Because of its surprising flexibility, this material has made it possible to create living walls that, like wine, fluctuate in appearance depending on the light and weather and convey their "terroir."Its surface conveys the feeling of being close to the water because it is composed of a special plaster mixture that contains local sands.The wine cellar, a haven of silence and maturation, is also a place for sharing and tasting. The project reflects these two aspects, blending private and public spaces. To the east, a built enclosure blends modestly into the landscape, housing the work of the winemakers.To the west, the walls of the cellar open generously to the surroundings, offering an unobstructed view of the two neighboring mills.The spaces for sharing, tasting, and museography highlight the evolution of winemaking practices and invite visitors to discover the history of the vineyards in Sarzeau.In 2022, the first crop produced around 6,500 bottles with the stamp "dantelezh," Breton for lace. or architectural delicacy.Site plan-1 level planGround floor planAxonometric planSectionEast faadeGround floor planLongitudinal sectionSouth faadeWest faadeProject factsArchitect:Carmen Maurice ArchitectureLocation: Sarzeau, Morbihan, FranceClient:Commune de SarzeauCompletion year: May 2024Project coordination (OPC):Armor EconomieFluid systems, thermal, electricity:Become56Winemaking process:Alienor IngnierieStructure: Bretagne IngnierieRoads and utilities (VRD): Nicolas AssocisAir quality: Laboratoire VectoeurFloor area: 496.27 m2 + 200 m2 for the shed and cellarAll images Guillaume Amat.All drawings Carmen Maurice Architecture.> via Carmen Maurice Architecture

Submitted by WA ContentsRadical social housing by Peris + Toral Arquitectes wins RIBA International Prize 2024Spain Architecture News - Dec 04, 2024 - 06:21 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"A radical social housing in Barcelona by Peris + Toral Arquitectes has been named as the winner of the 2024 RIBA International Prize, prestigious bi-annual prize recognises the worlds best new architecture.Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing in Cornell, an 85-unit timber-framed social housing project was created by Peris + Toral Arquitectes, a Barcelona-based architecture studio formed by Marta Peris and Jos Toral. The RIBA International Prize by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) recognizes "a building that demonstrates visionary thinking, originality, excellence of execution, and makes a distinct contribution to its users, surrounding environment and communities.""A kind of transformational spirit"RIBA President Muyiwa Oki praised the project for providing "a kind of transformational spirit that is both aspirational and demonstrates genuine change."The goal of the cutting-edge housing project Modulus Matrix is to revolutionize home architecture and construction. The six-story building, which houses 85 dwellings, was constructed in Cornell, close to Barcelona, Spain, in response to a request from the public organization IMPSOL (the Metropolitan Institute of Land Development and Property Management). The Modulus Matrix concept uses Japanese homes and interiors as a starting point for a modular system of rooms of precisely the same size.This idea was inspired by architect Marta Peris's research into the films of Japanese director Yasujir Ozu, whose works explore family, marriage, and the relationships between generations.Image Iigo Bujedo AguirreThe structure is made up of a matrix of rooms arranged around a central communal courtyard, with four circulation cores at each corner. It is based on a 3.6 meter by 3.6 meter tatami mat module and is connected via an enfilade rather than a hallway.There are 18 apartments on each level of the 85 residences, which are divided into four groups. Since the core is surrounded by four or five residences, each has dual orientation and cross ventilation. Depending on whether they are two- or three-bedroom apartments, there are either five or six modules. What distinguishes this construction from more traditional dwellings is the "looseness-of-fit", according to RIBA. With no hierarchy between the living, dining, and sleeping areas, the architect refers to this design as "a democratic house" because of its grid-like arrangement, which facilitates simple movement and interaction.Since each room's purpose can be readily altered, the structure offers flexibility and adaptability throughout time as well as the capacity to accommodate new and culturally distinct living arrangements outside of the conventional nuclear family.Additionally, it makes the kitchen the focal point of the house, which the architects say challenges gender norms by highlighting domestic work.The building's ultimate shape is determined by this design approach, which centers the "room" module rather than the "dwelling." With continuous private balconies encircling the building's exterior and galleried access to the higher stories overlooking the center courtyard, the building's focal point serves as a social hub. A complex framework for living is created by the uniform dimensional module, excellent detailing, and the lack of welded joints, among other well chosen characteristics. Smart solutions like Barcelona shutters, which offer isolation and shade, and basic mesh screens were used to solve issues like acoustic insulation between neighbors. "Peris + Toral Arquitectes inspiring housing project in Spain embodies the kind of transformational spirit that is both aspirational and demonstrates genuine change," said RIBA President Muyiwa Oki."By embracing flexibility and longevity through long life, loose fit architecture, it is a radical approach to social housing that creates a place designed for people to adapt and inhabit in the long term.""This visionary scheme allows for new and future ideas of what constitutes a family, and should be seen as blueprint for delivering sustainable, quality housing around the world at scale," he added."It is a strong example of the ways in which architects can create new and implementable solutions to the common challenge of creating housing for all," Oki continued.Using a mass timber structure, the project achieves minimal carbon dioxide emissions, and the modular approach minimizes environmental effect and drastically cuts down on construction time.The implementation of comparable projects where housing needs are greatest is made possible by the combination of low-impact and time-efficient construction."Winning the RIBA International Prize is a recognition of many years focused on housing that provides new ways of living. We are very proud of the positive feedback from residents of Modulus Matrix," said Marta Peris and Jose Toral, co-founders of Peris + Toral Arquitectes."Some were unsure about features like entering through a terrace, having an open kitchen at the centre of the home, and equal-sized rooms without corridors, but their perspectives changed after living in the space.""Now they feel this way of living better adapts to their needs. Their first-hand experiences provide valuable insights into how housing around the world can evolve," Peris and Toral added.The project is similar to other IMPSOL programs in the region in that it uses land donated by local governments for projects that combine private and public "socially innovative" housing in financially independent developments. More than 5,000 dwellings have been delivered by IMPSOL overall. Spain's largest timber-framed project, Modulus Matrix, was finished in 2021. Lu Wenyu, a co-founder of Amateur Architecture Studio, chaired the RIBA International Prize Grand Jury, which was also composed of Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator, Department of Architecture and Design, and Director, Research and Development, The Museum of Modern Art, and Tosin Oshinowo, Founder and Principal of Oshinowo Studio and Curator of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial 2023.Site plan"A housing project that is adaptive, inclusive and sustainable""Through this innovative approach to social housing, Peris + Toral Arquitectes has responded to the shifting demands of societal groupings by crafting a housing project that is adaptive, inclusive and sustainable," said Lu Wenyu, chair of the RIBA International Prize Grand Jury."Not defined by stereotypes or fixed assumptions of what constitutes family, the intelligent organization of space encourages lively interaction and connection within the community, ensuring that the architecture functions on different scales from the discrete dwelling to the collective space.""This building has set a precedent for future developments in Barcelona and beyond and is a worthy winner of the RIBA International Prize 2024," Wenyu added.Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing was selected from a shortlist of the Jacoby Studios, Paderborn, Germany, by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing in Cornell, Barcelona, Spain, by Peris + Toral Arquitectes, and Lianzhou Museum of Photography, Lianzhou, China, by O-office Architects. Previous winners of the RIBA International Prize include the Friendship Hospital in Bangladesh, designed by Khashef Chowdury/URBANA, Brazilian architects Aleph Zero and Rosenbaum's Children Village in northern Brazil, Grafton Architects' The Universidad de Ingeniera y Tecnologa (UTEC) in Lima.All images Jos Heviaunless otherwise stated.All drawings Peris + Toral Arquitectes.> via RIBA

Submitted by WA ContentsRadical social housing by Peris + Toral Arquitectes wins RIBA International Prize 2024Spain Architecture News - Dec 04, 2024 - 06:21 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"A radical social housing in Barcelona by Peris + Toral Arquitectes has been named as the winner of the 2024 RIBA International Prize, prestigious bi-annual prize recognises the worlds best new architecture.Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing in Cornell, an 85-unit timber-framed social housing project was created by Peris + Toral Arquitectes, a Barcelona-based architecture studio formed by Marta Peris and Jos Toral. The RIBA International Prize by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) recognizes "a building that demonstrates visionary thinking, originality, excellence of execution, and makes a distinct contribution to its users, surrounding environment and communities.""A kind of transformational spirit"RIBA President Muyiwa Oki praised the project for providing "a kind of transformational spirit that is both aspirational and demonstrates genuine change."The goal of the cutting-edge housing project Modulus Matrix is to revolutionize home architecture and construction. The six-story building, which houses 85 dwellings, was constructed in Cornell, close to Barcelona, Spain, in response to a request from the public organization IMPSOL (the Metropolitan Institute of Land Development and Property Management). The Modulus Matrix concept uses Japanese homes and interiors as a starting point for a modular system of rooms of precisely the same size.This idea was inspired by architect Marta Peris's research into the films of Japanese director Yasujir Ozu, whose works explore family, marriage, and the relationships between generations.Image Iigo Bujedo AguirreThe structure is made up of a matrix of rooms arranged around a central communal courtyard, with four circulation cores at each corner. It is based on a 3.6 meter by 3.6 meter tatami mat module and is connected via an enfilade rather than a hallway.There are 18 apartments on each level of the 85 residences, which are divided into four groups. Since the core is surrounded by four or five residences, each has dual orientation and cross ventilation. Depending on whether they are two- or three-bedroom apartments, there are either five or six modules. What distinguishes this construction from more traditional dwellings is the "looseness-of-fit", according to RIBA. With no hierarchy between the living, dining, and sleeping areas, the architect refers to this design as "a democratic house" because of its grid-like arrangement, which facilitates simple movement and interaction.Since each room's purpose can be readily altered, the structure offers flexibility and adaptability throughout time as well as the capacity to accommodate new and culturally distinct living arrangements outside of the conventional nuclear family.Additionally, it makes the kitchen the focal point of the house, which the architects say challenges gender norms by highlighting domestic work.The building's ultimate shape is determined by this design approach, which centers the "room" module rather than the "dwelling." With continuous private balconies encircling the building's exterior and galleried access to the higher stories overlooking the center courtyard, the building's focal point serves as a social hub. A complex framework for living is created by the uniform dimensional module, excellent detailing, and the lack of welded joints, among other well chosen characteristics. Smart solutions like Barcelona shutters, which offer isolation and shade, and basic mesh screens were used to solve issues like acoustic insulation between neighbors. "Peris + Toral Arquitectes inspiring housing project in Spain embodies the kind of transformational spirit that is both aspirational and demonstrates genuine change," said RIBA President Muyiwa Oki."By embracing flexibility and longevity through long life, loose fit architecture, it is a radical approach to social housing that creates a place designed for people to adapt and inhabit in the long term.""This visionary scheme allows for new and future ideas of what constitutes a family, and should be seen as blueprint for delivering sustainable, quality housing around the world at scale," he added."It is a strong example of the ways in which architects can create new and implementable solutions to the common challenge of creating housing for all," Oki continued.Using a mass timber structure, the project achieves minimal carbon dioxide emissions, and the modular approach minimizes environmental effect and drastically cuts down on construction time.The implementation of comparable projects where housing needs are greatest is made possible by the combination of low-impact and time-efficient construction."Winning the RIBA International Prize is a recognition of many years focused on housing that provides new ways of living. We are very proud of the positive feedback from residents of Modulus Matrix," said Marta Peris and Jose Toral, co-founders of Peris + Toral Arquitectes."Some were unsure about features like entering through a terrace, having an open kitchen at the centre of the home, and equal-sized rooms without corridors, but their perspectives changed after living in the space.""Now they feel this way of living better adapts to their needs. Their first-hand experiences provide valuable insights into how housing around the world can evolve," Peris and Toral added.The project is similar to other IMPSOL programs in the region in that it uses land donated by local governments for projects that combine private and public "socially innovative" housing in financially independent developments. More than 5,000 dwellings have been delivered by IMPSOL overall. Spain's largest timber-framed project, Modulus Matrix, was finished in 2021. Lu Wenyu, a co-founder of Amateur Architecture Studio, chaired the RIBA International Prize Grand Jury, which was also composed of Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator, Department of Architecture and Design, and Director, Research and Development, The Museum of Modern Art, and Tosin Oshinowo, Founder and Principal of Oshinowo Studio and Curator of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial 2023.Site plan"A housing project that is adaptive, inclusive and sustainable""Through this innovative approach to social housing, Peris + Toral Arquitectes has responded to the shifting demands of societal groupings by crafting a housing project that is adaptive, inclusive and sustainable," said Lu Wenyu, chair of the RIBA International Prize Grand Jury."Not defined by stereotypes or fixed assumptions of what constitutes family, the intelligent organization of space encourages lively interaction and connection within the community, ensuring that the architecture functions on different scales from the discrete dwelling to the collective space.""This building has set a precedent for future developments in Barcelona and beyond and is a worthy winner of the RIBA International Prize 2024," Wenyu added.Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing was selected from a shortlist of the Jacoby Studios, Paderborn, Germany, by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing in Cornell, Barcelona, Spain, by Peris + Toral Arquitectes, and Lianzhou Museum of Photography, Lianzhou, China, by O-office Architects. Previous winners of the RIBA International Prize include the Friendship Hospital in Bangladesh, designed by Khashef Chowdury/URBANA, Brazilian architects Aleph Zero and Rosenbaum's Children Village in northern Brazil, Grafton Architects' The Universidad de Ingeniera y Tecnologa (UTEC) in Lima.All images Jos Heviaunless otherwise stated.All drawings Peris + Toral Arquitectes.> via RIBA

Submitted by WA ContentsRammed earth guesthouse by PPAA blends Mexican and Danish influences in Todos SantosMexico Architecture News - Dec 03, 2024 - 13:49 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Mexico City-based studio PPAA has revealed a new guesthouse that blends Mexican and Danish design traditions in a bold and rich atmosphere in Todos Santos, Mexico.Named Vipp Todos Santos, the 350-square-meter development was developed for Vipp, a Danish, 3rd generation family-owned company founded by metalsmith Holger Nielsen in the small town of Randers, Denmark in 1939.Vipp Todos Santos represents Vipps tenth guesthouse venture and its first outside Europe, opening a decade after the launch of the first guesthouse, the Vipp Shelter at Sweden's Lake Immeln.This architectural treasure, created by famed architect Pablo Prez Palacios and his Mexico City-based studio, PPAA, is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and dusty roads peppered with tall cacti. The guesthouse is a glamorous fusion of Scandinavian coolness and Mexican warmth. A main house, two connected guesthouses, a covered patio, a rooftop pool, and terraces are all features of the five-bedroom development.The design is distinguished by a dynamic interplay of carefully positioned volumes and exterior stairways that thoughtfully respond to the site's contours, paying homage to the area and its indoor/outdoor living culture.The rammed earth structure of Vipp Todos Santos was created using locally available natural materials and traditional building methods, making it ideal for the region's climate.The interior is kept cool during the day and naturally insulated at night thanks to the substantial, compressed earth walls. These robust walls, in their unaltered state, form the building's exterior and interior.The peacefulness of the outdoors is brought into the living area by the large windows that frame expansive views of the ocean and the nearby Cardones."Todos Santos has a very unique blend of topographies, history and influences. We wanted to respect these traditions while creating our own architectural language - one that merges harmoniously with the surrounding landscape," said Architect Pablo Prez Palacios.While the covered terrace is the home's social hub and a year-round, day-to-night gathering place, the circular rooftop pool acts as a celestial oasis, providing guests with expansive views of the sky and ocean.Sofie Christensen Egelund, Vipp's third-generation co-owner based in the United States, and longtime Vipp partner Julie Cloos Mlsgaard, an interior designer based in Copenhagen, collaborated closely with Prez Palacios on the interiors."Our diverse portfolio of guesthouses has allowed us to bring our passion for design to life through wide ranging architecture and interiors," said Sofie Christensen Egelund, 3rd generation Vipp-owner."Over the years, we have grown from a small company with just one design, the bin my grandfather created in 1939, to develop a global following for our furniture and kitchens - all made with the same integrity and longevity as our very first product," Egelund added.Its calm areas, which feature a blend of natural hues and textures, were designed to promote peace by incorporating unique furniture and design elements that respect regional weaving and craft methods as well as artwork, textiles, and ceramics from the region.Every component of the house has been chosen to blend in with the earth, concrete, and wood that make up the minimalist material palette. Window shutters made from the branches of the nearby Palo de Arco tree give the structure a handmade touch and create dynamic shadows that change throughout the day.Vipp's new V3 kitchen, made of anodized aluminum, is a feature of the open-plan living area. The sleek stainless-steel countertop and extruded fronts of the sculptured silhouette give the warm rammed earth walls flair and contrast.Vipp furniture, lighting, bathroom fixtures, and outdoor collections are carefully positioned throughout the house to complement the kitchen."Vipp has been a perfect partner for this project - A study in contrasts, Vipp Todos Santos embodies a dialogue between Mexican and Danish design traditions," said Prez Palacios.Vipp releases a limited-edition Swivel chair made especially for the Vipp Todos Santos guesthouse in Mexico in a vibrant jacquard fabric by Pierre Frey to commemorate the guesthouse's opening.The chair's industrial aluminum frame is brilliantly contrasted with its graphic bayadere stripes, which were chosen for their vivid colors and rich textures that evoke the lively spirit of Mexico.Prez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados (PPAA), recently, completed a sleek residence with earthy lines and pastel tones in Valle de Bravo, Mexico. In addition, PPAA designed a low-cost rural housing prototype in Hidalgo, Mexico.Prez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados was established in 2018 by Pablo Prez Palacios. The studio is an independent architecture office that works on projects involving interior design, planning, architecture, and art.All images Anders Hviid-Haglund.> via Vipp