Architecture -Design

S.O.M. does it again

2011-11-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

Inside an urban Cathedral in Oakland California. This may or may not be germane but the access to the doors at the rear of the church is rather hidden. As I approached the back of the church to enter a Hispanic American Asked me in Spanish "where is the doors so that I can go in?"
Once inside the stunning use of wood is an experience. The use of common material (i.e. concrete) brings the design down to earth.

It is interesting that the building is on a raised platform visible from the parks turned away from the water and entering from the office buildings site of the complex. remarkable from the outside and in for the technical application of light and material.

Materialism

2011-10-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

In this age of masterful departures from the historic materials, new and innovative discussions about design are promoted through the dialogues created by the fabrication of new materials. The photo is three dimensional representation of the pixels taken from a photo of the tree canopy at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. The image has been used in copper to transform an otherwise mundane metal into a texture which arrests the eye.
It is a new avenue for designers to explore both the materials and the way traditional cladding has been used and proposed new applications and forms with these new applications. If their is anything characteristic about our current crop of new buildings it is the exploration of materiality as an expression of architecture.

Bye Mr. Jobs

2011-10-13T13:06:00.000-07:00

I took this picture while walking in the neighborhood of Mr. Jobs Home. While I was not very sure where it was located the streets are a common cross section of middle American sans Palo Alto. I was amazed at how pleasant the street were with rose bushes and flowers of every kind. The stone house of the 30's mixes with the clapboard siding of other more modest houses. Mr. Jobs actually lived in a Spanish colonial house with very simple furniture and embellishment, somewhat like a Buddhist Monk. In any event the innovator that imagined to dream has come to an untimely (56yo) end. And where will the next innovator come from? We can only hope our society is fertile enough to generate someone with as much or more immagination and stamina as Mr. Jobs. He acted like a wizard and spoke like an oracle and lived in humility. Can we not all hope for this to happen before we are overtaken by death? Rightly so our dreams if cared for and nurtured will project us and leave to others a small token of humanity for the next generation.

It is clear that the young follow what is here today, the baby boomers if you will. The creativity that each of us has and contains within ourselves is an expression of our powers to truly be. I sense it is true with technology, just as it is with building.

My backberry went to the fritz the day after Mr. Job passed away.......maybe in heaven he pulled the server on the system???

Ice Baby Ice

2011-09-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

The Apple Store near central Park in Manhattan

The New York Times Building-Italian Ice

The city of New York is making a glorious attempt to regain prominence as a center of finance and Commerce. These two examples are places from my last trip which give hope of many of the negative aspects of urbanism being converted to more responsible designs. It is with gradual efforts such as these above that designs will be a legacy for posterity and an example for those in current practice.

Oakland Curves

2011-09-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Cathedral of Light by SOM

steel sulpture by Richard Serra

The above similarity of the building and the sculpture created about the same time is remarkable. Both make a statement in the use of form and shadow.

The DeYoung in San Francisco

2011-09-01T17:33:00.000-07:00

Truly one of the memorable museums of the United States. Designed by French/Swiss Architects Herzog and de Meuron. $202 million dollars at 203,000 square feet. A wonderful setting and a wonderful environment to display and view art. The copper panels have a design taken from a digitized photograph of the surrounding tree canopy. From the tower one sees San Francisco and the Hills of the City. On a pleasant day this can be a feast for the eyes!

Albert Frey, Architect

2011-08-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

I ran across this photo of the first Aluminium House designed by Swiss Architect Albert Frey (1930). He like many architects of his time was captivated by the movement which LeCorbusier started was a proponent of the new internationalism.....................sounds like the movement to global economy? Anyhow, I was able to see the original sketch done for this building which was in pencil. I will try and post it for those interested in how designed evolved from concept to reality. The end results was remarkable. The art of transitioning from idea to structure was very close to one another in this case. Simple yet artistic, we sometimes think that the time the designer spends playing with form is irrational, yet it was a way of thinking before computer visualization became a heavy favorite to those who would remove the human imagination from the public realm.

Digital Self Portrait

2011-07-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

Which new software takes real-time sketches and uses the image to enhance the image? This software follows and articulates the intuitive decision making process. One uses mirrors to capture the viewers' likeness and chooses the most interesting and distinctive details.

New Golf Club takes shape

2011-07-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

The new club house will serve as temporary pro shop and marshal's office as well as have a small canteen until the restoration is complete. The small building on the right in the photo will be added before work begins on the historic clubhouse. the property has remained in the same propoerty since 1909!

Historic is not necessarily a ticket for development!

2011-07-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

The possibilities of developing older stock of structures is very tempting. The thinking that funds are "waiting" for someone to find a building with a a new or reusable function can lead one down a long pursuit toward hope which doesn't exist.
The building above indicates a 1909 clubhouse which was modified in the 60's and has some very interesting architectural features. I am told by architectural historians at Williamsburg that historic designations, especially around the historic triangle, are part of a fifty year sliding scale. In other words, if a building today wanted to be considered it needed to be built before the 1960's for consideration. With That being said, many buildings will only gain partial or no designation if they meet strick requirement, while other sturctures in better shape will have a much more cost effective chance of gaining funds for renovation. In any event, it may be of more worthwhile effort to pursue private funding.

In the building above many characteristics are design features which are nice but do not represent design innovations. In this particular case historic preservation may be the last course to pursue. Wonderful place and wonderful people can have high hopes that lead to good intensions.

Cranbrook Thesis Projects

2011-05-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

When I was in Boston Working on my Masters of Architecture these students were not even in college at Crandbrook in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The photos are some of the interesting projects and all created by students for their Thesis Finals. The Show ended May 8, 2011, but the work was an indication of the quality.
I was pleasantly surprised at the innovation but sorry I missed the entire show. The Third project(bottom) was floating in the reflection ponds created by Saarinen and is outside his apartment. Not a lot of curved surfaces.
Considering that the school only accepts 70 students a year, room is limited for display of projects. Most attempted interesting displays of common (i.e. pipes, wire, topography) materials. Most came in two parts bolted together, perhaps patterned on the Solar Decathlon it has to be portable?

Condominiums on the Chesapeake Bay

2011-04-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

The image here is a view looking down the "main street" of a new development in Norfolk. The vision of high density in the landscape seems to be an area of no little consternation among the locals. In this and other new developments around the country, the lack of usable land requires higher standards in this recession.

While this development is being passed among the politicians, the real issue here is if the military which has a base close by will even allow a tall building close to an ACUZ zone. The final vote comes up in March. It is a process which has taken almost five years and was reported earlier but was reduced in priority because of the recession. People want quality, "Green" buildings and they do not want to spend a lot! It is conditions like this which make our profession so volatile and require real effort to a solid design solutions.

This is one of many views of this mixed-use development . The proper mix is necessary in today's economic climate. My only question in this entire process is "Do we spend enough time with the 'mixed use ' to make it an asset to the inhabitants and the community. A community needs to blend and not send a message of exclusiveness to the entire city. In Europe people who live in apartments feel that they are part of the City, while in America we have the idea of home ownership to initiate this cause. Do we need a different idea of home ownership in these times?

Plan -Outdoor Assembly area for Lodge/church

2011-03-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Completely demountable and able to be stored this facility would be able to be transported to any location on the carriage of a semi-trailer.

The movement of the facility which sits on a lot shared by both a church and a Lodge is a attempt at resource reduction for both organizations.

Solar Harrisonburg

2011-03-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

This is an attempt at providing south facing solar collectors for hot water. This building sits on a hill on the north side of town. It is in a urban setting but has not provided a sufficient overhang and glare blocking fins for this southern climate. The interior partitions are all wood studs while the exterior walls are structural studs which use Styrofoam on the exterior and batts on the interior. The first floor sits about 30 inches below the top of the hill. The front, which is the opposite side from this view, is of conventional mortar less thin set stone. It is characteristic of builders to utilize new technology, however, without the proper direction it is moneys ill spent.

Urban Garage

2011-02-28T18:31:00.000-08:00

A six story garage in a downtown area uses minimalism to express fundamental issues of protection and fire safety. The tube like fenestration also serves to reduce the solar gain. The dual facility is linked by a fifth story walkway. One of the exterior walls is also a shear wall without major openings.

What is an architect-Education vs. Experience

2011-02-06T20:58:00.000-08:00

During recessions and slowdowns in the national or global economy the general public takes a rather critical eye as to what we do as architects. I often feel that when something gets built it is the result of many people who care nothing about architecture and more about getting something built.

Recently I made a comment regarding a renovation project which I was familiar to someone who was trained in architecture. This person was obviously educated. They were not directly involved in the construction of new buildings . Their area of expertise was as a historic researcher which was in the business of providing information to restore a building. My remark that the architect for my family home was, let say , Mr. Architect "X". Their response "yes I know who he was but all the details and research was done by Mr. Y, and while not a licensed architect was the real designer!" In other words, the architect in this persons mind was relegated to being a technician who could could only do the contract drawings and meet with the client. This conversation I am sure is repeated many times today in our country and what we have is that 70% of all buildings are done without the benefit of an architect.

Although the research and investigation of historic buildings takes talent from many specialties, it is the architect which should be the leader. Lately we have moved away from the personality of the Prima Donas. The dichotomy which I believe has never been clarified since the death of Frank L. Wright, LeCorbu, and Mies is the fact that the creativity which an architect brings to a project is a spirit. If you will "an Elan".

Even for architects it is a difficult walk to produce buildings and spaces in which the greatness of the effort is measured by future generations. We would all want our effort to be enduring. However, everyone who puts six years of schooling, three years of apprenticeship and take an exam needs and should receive the respect of the public. To diminish this effort is to let the novice do the heart surgery. I would hope the society of this country and others would be willing to recognize the unique and contributory affect of experience and education combined in a professional. I find it difficult to accept the interpretation of our profession by those that would want to diminish our creative and careful efforts to make the environment a place which design can enhance the lives of so many people.

Contemporary top

2011-01-31T18:50:00.000-08:00

Notice the changed brick work from the large masonry to the smaller stones above the small niches and window.

Sacred Spaces and Historic Places

2011-01-31T18:44:00.000-08:00

This cast bronze map is in front of the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas. It is a reproduction of how the building or "Mission" looked in 1836 while the defenders were busy with Santa Anna's Army. Interesting enough the compound was not inhabitant when the alteration occurred. And I say mission because it was never really roofed until the U.S. Army purchased and used it for storage many years after it became part of the United States. The characteristic facade was only complete above the window of the second level. The rounded portion of the parapet over the entry was added by the U.S. Army to hide the gable roof which was later added in the later years.

What makes this structure not just a building but a sacred space is the meaning it in our culture. It represents sacrifice for those who, beyond the immediate peril and their own comfort, strove for what is decent and moral. A worthwhile endeavor and something that makes this place like no other in the United States. It is not the comfort but a noble endeavor and the tribulations that ensue, which lifts a place above the confines of daily endeavors. I must admit the space is rather small for a modern church and the infirmary building which was originally two stories is now a one story space. It all seems larger than life as we walk through the spaces ,where if the walls could talk ,would say that men and women of all races did something that elevated this place to a sacred complex.

some interesting Architecture

2011-01-22T18:06:00.001-08:00

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.crazyjunkyard.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/housing-project-sweden.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.crazyjunkyard.com/%3Fs%3Dwhat%2Bwas%2Bthe%2Bbasket%2Bbuilding%2Bmade%2Bof&usg=__7T80LPL0INGK9KUdvXHeALFIaa0=&h=365&w=450&sz=40&hl=en&start=340&sig2=F6qAzpOEPleAbfwRKlMkJA&zoom=1&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=vkkmmESDwX8cLM:&tbnh=103&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dapartments%2Bin%2Btaiwan%26start%3D320%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26ndsp%3D20%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=D4w7TZOHDIGdlgfY8InKBg

Olympic Housing for Toyko

2011-01-20T07:24:00.000-08:00

An attempt to provide universal design is the theme of the next wave of multiple housing units. In this Tokyo proposal for the 2020 Olympic Bid a village is developed with renewed emphasis of the long term use of the facilities for the nearby university. Since the Brazil announcement that the games will be held "down under" the renewed interest in facilities for a new proposal has been revived. The dorm will have a "sustainable" (Green) approach and be with indigenous materials and methods. Costs for this Gold LEED project will be less than a traditional facility built with current methods and materials.

Light Rail

2011-01-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

Although the political resistance is present, the fate of the light rail system in Virginia Beach will be predicated on the grass roots movement to divest ourselves of foreign oil. We also need a safe means of conveying goods. The attempt to make each station a "gateway" will have a unique impact on the design community. Fostering a more progressive approach to the community and specific locations which it will perhaps bring creativity to the forefront of public recognition of the design profession.

SCHEMATIC FOR LIGHT RAIL - BATLTIMORE, md.

2011-01-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

The plan and end view of the light rail station is a model of the proposed connection between the station platform and the parking area along a busy highway.

different views

2010-12-25T16:59:00.000-08:00

Multi-Level Housing Units

2010-12-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

With the housing , especially single family homes, at a stalemate this present time would be a good time to explore Multiple Housing Projects and types. Specifically, the types of units which are modular could be used as multiple or single type units. The above project represents a schematic model of a multiple unit and allows for the most flexibility.

It is unfortunate that the current system of housing -banks, contracts and real estate does not permit the kind of innovation which is so desperately needed. Only through revolutionary design approaches will the most good be done.

Outdoor art Museum

2010-12-16T12:05:00.000-08:00

1st proposal

Open Air Museum

2010-12-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Teflon covered Cable stayed roof- Thin Joist carrying arches

Open air museum will serve as a covered venue for exterior artworks

Architecture -Design: The Kingsley Plantation

2010-11-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

Architecture -Design: The Kingsley Plantation

Details for small buildings

2010-11-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

roof nailing

Not much room for living in the Attic but it had a fireplace.

Hopefully we will get this finalized when the archaeologists provide a finished floor elevation! It is a difficult job putting together a building which will be visited by the public. The reconstruction of this building is more than kitchen, it must meet all modern codes and the Commonwealth of Virginia. It truly is a collaboration. Everything is a reflection of the workmen who toiled of old. Modern workers not only work to meet the coming deadline of winter but to employ the use of tools and techniques our ancestors used to build the original kitchen.

Loft window

The Armory adjacent to the kitchen which will be reconstructed in the spring

New House in North Carolina

2010-11-08T19:49:00.000-08:00

The is the site of a new house selected by the owners in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Sandy Soil and changing dune lines are part of the environment. This house will have to meet the 140 mph hurricane zone requirements and be elevated to resist the flooding which hits the area during hurricanes. It is a natural area and has access to a golf course (a man made hazard with golf balls!). Design will begin shortly.

Nationwide Plaza and assorted Seismic Buildings

2010-10-18T19:03:00.000-07:00

Nationwide Plaza

Seismic buildings for various functions: a Community for Survival

Three Project Sketches

2010-10-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

The Dreamscapes House for a Universal Design

Edwin Drive Associates sketch #2 for Renovation

The Kingsley Plantation

2010-10-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Slave Quarters-4 x7 meters Individual Houses made of the Shells and sand of Jacksonville Area. Fort Georgia Island was the home of Mr. Kingsley (white) and his wife Anna Madgigine Jai (black) from Senegal, Africa. She was the leader of about 200 slaves.

It is believed that the inhabitants of these building buried their belongings vertically below the floors. This was because of a transient occupants with some being of different family origins thrown together.

George Washington Memorial

2010-10-03T18:13:00.000-07:00

Ocean View Condos

2010-09-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is closed

2010-09-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

Because of recent security measures and threats the entire tower has been closed to visiting tourists. When I was on the Second Deck it occured to me that most of Paris is in a similar situation, that of being located on narrow streets with a majority of the population vulnerable on grade and in the subway. The need for security is now at an all time high. In our world where wars are fought as guerilla actions we are no long as s safe as we where the world was smaller. And the old secuity measures are now in a paradim shift.

Centre National D'Art et de culture George Pompideau

2010-09-20T17:24:00.000-07:00

This photo taken at edge of the sloping forecourt of the Art Museum reveals the use of space as a tool in procession. As I came into this open place it became a pilgrimage to art and established a path. The Architects Rogers and Piano used art for entertainment. Newly renovated the interior is a bit dark.

Interior partition system for Offices

2010-09-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

This partition system is made with 2 foot high partitions that can be stacked and adjusted to suit the content and area requirements. The universal joining post can be angled and locked in any position and is stable. The mechanical and electrical system can be fed and redistributed within the system. Lighting is also fed to overhang furniture and other elements to enhance the acoutscial properties of the system.

Liechtenstein

2010-09-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

The image is of the house of parliament in Liechtenstein's capital city. The structure uses simple materials to make a statement of the government. The surrounding buildings are stucco covered and rather conventional by European standards. The connection to government and residential here creates a pleasant mix of uses and still allow access.

From my sketchbook

2010-08-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

This sketch of Alden Dow's First Presbyterian church in Dearborn was the one Henry Ford attended. The back of the church backs up to the River Rouge Flood plane and River. Of course the old church has been demolished and this new structure takes its place. It is said when the river was high in the spring that Henry Ford and family would travel to church in a Ford runabout .

Mr. Dow was a follower of Frank Lloyd Wright and one can see the themes of organiz architecture as well as the innovations from the 1960's which would be part of the final design. the entire grounds and building compose is a very pleasant place. Just North of the Greenfield village and West of the Ford estate.

Mr. Dow was later called on to design a chapel and it sits behind this structure but is equally well placed and with numerous touches of organiz architecture.

Since Mr. Dow's passing his office has undergone some transitions but never has it been able to duplicate his ability to design unlike the Taliesin West facility of Frank Lloyd Wright.

I drew this about35 years ago as it had made a lasting impression on the then current design trend.

A word about the economy

2010-08-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

At the time I entered the profession it was in a recession. Being from the Motor City always provided an indication of the strength of the economy. In this last year I have witnessed a contraction in both our economy and the quality of life in the United States. While it is not so much the loss of jobs through outsourcing and attrition through a shrinking youth force, but also the direction purchases are moving in our most simple items.

Americans have always been generous with their technology and the Asian vacuum cleaner has done well by taking what the can and producing it cheap! However, if we are gong to survive we must be more innovative and willing to invest in homegrown industries, educational institutions and services. What I fear is the fact that we have gone to far to turn back. Yes, we still have plenty of natural resources, but even that is being purchased by those not in the country but from more volatile countries. Perhaps many things are simply up in the air and are indeterminate at this point of our economic lives.... to paraphrase Franklin Roosevelt "all we have to expect is the unexpected".

While many are looking for jobs and work locally, nationally we are much more at the mercy of our international brothers and sisters than we ever have been. But while we are expected to be world leaders and trendsetters or stylists we never have the blessings of the international community. We must look around us and see who are friends really are and to bond for the sake of our principles of freedom and security.

Joan of Architecture was wrong

2010-08-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

Architectural critic Phyllis Lambert indicated in the Wall Street Journal the "she praises Moshe Safdie' "fabulous" Habitat 67 apartment complex, one of Montreal's icons, but since then, she asks "Can you name anything decent he's done?" I think maybe she hasn't ventured beyond the confines of her Montreal office. One only needs to look at the Harvard Business school Chapel which quietly among the Georgian Colonial buildings on the south bank of the Charles River to see the innovated chapel pictured above. It is not a loud building but one that points in a far more important direction than either Modernism or the drab graystones of Montreal. Perhaps as a critic she should visit with a more discerning eye the more important building in the South!

Hull at Cranbrook Museum of Science

2010-08-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Inside the entry

From the entrance next to the old entry

The new addition is a welcome addition to the main building and uses many new materials and forms which were not part of the original plan of Saarinen.

New Screenwall for existing building

2010-08-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

An old bank building in the inner city decided to experiment with a facade which blocks the sun and energizes the entry at the street. The theme of the frittered glass will be a symbol that can be recognized in all areas of the city. It will provide both an iconic look and energy efficiency while still allowing the old concrete frame to remain. It applied research into the type and color of glass and required new detailing which would utilize an existing building.

The structure remains in place but all exterior cladding material was removed and a new mechanical and LED lighting system combined with transparent inner walls allowed light to filter past the exterior conference rooms into the core areas. This provided LEED points and provided a reduction in the size and location of lamps that minimized the budget for lighting to 2/3 of a standard similar office building. The entire renovation will use half the budget for cladding , lighting and finishes which would otherwise be required for a new building. Plus, the satisfaction that your are helping the environment means an owner is "laying the environmental card forward". Hats off to enlightened owners who look toward not back at technology!

Swiss Reinsurance London

2010-08-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Because of security it not possible to just walk into this building anymore. A shame, it is a triumph of architecture and a statement of technology

Banking

2010-08-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

Bird's Eye Plan

The buildings in this complex were each built in the early 1990's with only marginal attention paid to the environmentally sustainable practices which are now part of the building industry. This building addresses a number of factors. First and foremost in the design was the ability to withstand a 140 mile wind speed which is common along the coast of the Atlantic ocean in the south. Secondly, the incorporation of building a design which utilizes the environmentally friendly was an established program functions in discussions with the owner. Through simplification of the need and the ability to change corporate "lifestyle" was paramount to the design. Finally, the financial picture of the bank was realized by the need to position themselves in a location which would be central and convenient to a growing online banking population.

Entry View at south

The sketch at the entry

Musee Du Quai Branly

2010-08-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

This museum along the banks of the Seine is an ode to indigenous African , Asia Oceanic and American cultures/art. Some of the controversies which have occurred is the display of remains which were achieved but not displayed. Some African cultures are asking their return for burial.

The building is actually very small. Divided into studios for the artists, exhibit spaces and administrative/auditorium it is screened from the noisy street by a glass wall. The existing building has a "live" wall made of vegetation that grows in a frame attached to the existing building and gives the impression that it is new, but in fact, it is a reuse of an existing three story apartment building.
Jean Nouvel, the architect, has got a reputation in Paris of developing imaginative spaces from machined components. Similar to the Muse de Arabe (previous post), it combines program with a technical architecture which has partially been explored in the West.

Museum Study

2010-07-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

In this latest iteration of a new museum is a more economical approach to a old program. In this model the majority of the museum functions and storage, energy management/storage, parking and administrative functions are housed below the crown of the hill. In a move to present a recognizable presence the portion which is visible is surrounded by a channel glass box around a steel frame. It preserves the nature of the area without having to choose a new site. Elevating the geometry of this new building is juxtaposition and contra to an existing 19th century structure which is currently on the site.

Back to Basics

2010-07-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

New home for a retired Minister in Smithfield, Virginia.
This small but adequate house for a minister and his wife is on a wooded site not far from a river which enters into the Chesapeake Bay. The lot was full of trees with each tree recorded for position and size. In the location of the main house was discovered an old Model T- Ford tractor! A drainage swale needs to be relocated but otherwise the site is sheltered from the hot summer sun . The couple wanted a traditional approach to their living requirements and is a retired couple's dream. For years of hard work this couple's respite is oriented to take advantage of woods and breezes.

Three Models

2010-07-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hotel

Museum

High Rise Residential

Architect versus Technology

2010-07-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

It is a small consolation that in these trying economic times that some are flourishing and thriving in the profession. It has been easy to say that things will get better and that we will all be busy again some day as it was in the 60 and 70's.
However, one of things that particularly upsetting is the technological transformation of the name "architect". Much like the Middle Ages when 'master craftsman' became 'Master Builders' when a transformation of a word has been so maligned. Take for example of the new title found of the 'software architect' or Informational Architect, or even dropping the work digital or IT and saying someone is simply an Architect and omitting reference to someone who actually is involved Environmental issues. The confusion and subordination of the architect seems less know and consequently less used than ever before when Wright, Corbu or Saarinen were alive. I have partial documentation about this fact and it reflects that those who use digital information have a better understanding of what a "digital architect" does than a building 'architect'. People in daily use of a computer always know someone who can straighten out their hard drive but their is no "geek squad" of architects who will run to provide a fix to their dwelling or office. Perhaps that raises an import point ....in our professionalism.......do we need to be more altruistic ? Should we reduce our design profession to the basics of an uneducated world. It is hard to answer these here? We definitely have to communicate ourselves and what we do to the public, but overall we make a strong visual case for new work all over the world.

Today the reliance on digital media puts a stronger disregard for the architect as a builder and more as a digital guru who can manage and present information. The Contract document side of the business presents its own need for the architect to talk and work in the digital sphere of information. Gone are the "blue prints" and more and more it is in pdf or dwg files that cross on the Internet to secure sites that defines "the products". I often wonder if because of the relinquishing of the architects role to so many subordinate areas that at some point organized societies will simply forget they have a leader in creating and protecting the environment?

I have often heard it said that some day the use of the word "architect" will be obsolete. Perhaps, but then again, someone will have to step up to the plate with both the character and will to forge an entire new professional definition. When that happens maybe then will perhaps say, "I remember when I let my architect do this.......". Until that time it is still a profession worthy of the aspiration and future thinking , a noble and creative enterprise that supports the public good, and is a locus of information that seeks the lifting of the spirit of man.

Modernism in Europe 2010

2010-07-11T15:17:00.000-07:00

Entry to Muse du Arab, Paris

Medico Pharma, Netherlands

Museum Ludwig, Cologue, Germany by Peter Busmann and Godfried Haberer

Modern Architecture as technology

2010-07-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

This building in London , across from St. Paul's is a Visitors Center with a refreshing sense of "new" to an urban context steeped in History and memories. In discussions with Mr. Shuttleworth it would seem, like other second generation architects, the designer would not choose a style, but rather allow others to give it a name. It is iconic.

Home office of Maritime insurance London, England

2010-06-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Richard Rogers work with the Technical modern components and a good use of transparency and color. 71 Fenchchurch Street, London, England.

This neo-technical building uses the component systems which is so replete throughout Europe. Each individual component is a part of the expression. The structure and the whole are one! It did not appear vary warm, the appearance of machined parts is a bow to technology.

Back from somewhere

2010-06-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

Inside the Tate Modern, London- it still looks like a power plant but it is USED! Herzog and Meuron Museums come and go but this one is expanding.

http://channel.tate.org.uk/media/80074748001

Sugar was never this sweet!The massing model seems it was made with cubes of sugar.

If you haven seen any of Jean Nouvel's work in Paris it is a striking and educating experience in Technical items of architecture. Like Foster and others a use of steel and glass components doesn't give you the "warm and fuzzes", such as the Frank Lloyd right Falling Water or work by the California Green Brothers.

The addressing of environmental issues is handled in new and direct ways.

From the inside of the toilet room the ocular shade control is controlled by a link to the energy management system. It various the amount of visible light that reaches the interior by changing the aperture of the metal shade which has a pattern based on Islamic symbols and forms.

From the bridge to Norte Dame over the Seine 6-12-2010

People Mover in Innsbruck, Austria

2010-06-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

Inside the Congress Station on the Nordpark Cable Railway in Innsbruck, Austria

It looks like Zaha Hadid's office is at it again! I looked at the metal and glass panels which were wrapped around a steel frame and wondered exactly how they translated the working drawings into shop drawings?!
The joints of the double curved glass "shells" are contextual and have black silicone to the roof. The joints of the underside have nothing to allow ventilation to occur. The structural system is undoubtedly some kind of space frame to allow for the cantilever for this station and the other stations, which is some cases is almost 50 feet.

Architecture as Art

2010-06-25T09:55:00.000-07:00

As Foster indicated in his own words" this building was an attempt to capitalize on the movement of Libeskind's, Gehry's and others which radicalized the current trends in architecture".

It is a shame that because the need for security is paramount enjoying the interior spaces can not usually be done by the casual visitor who is most in need of examples of good design in architecture. The building form is arresting from afar, but shrouded in security because of the need to protect. What I see is that European Architects have developed a High Tech Modernism Style which has not completely been adapted by the Colonies. The newer European iconic structures seem to show great skill at detailing and execution, which in the United States is treated with size and bulk

Suiss Pavilion at the City University of Paris

2010-06-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

Previously

As it looks 6-23-2010. Even the best buildings need a little attention.

From the underside - magnifique!

From the top

Munich

2010-05-28T13:10:00.001-07:00

Coop Himelblau - what you see is what you get.

During the day it is less spectacular unless of course you are buying a Beember! On the Autobahn.....

Museum update

2010-05-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

The New Maxxi that just opened in Rome, Italy

$188,000,000 for new art museum without a major single donor and no anchor exhibit. Is this a case of "If we build it , we can fill it?"- syndrome Ms. Zaha Hadid has expressed her spirit here!

By the entrance- clear and simple - a bit to grand?

Humble and Hidden

2010-05-09T18:30:00.000-07:00

The site of the original house that was begun on the plantation site. This covered impliment storage buildng is believed to be the site of the original house on the property. Excavations by HABS reveal foundations that predate anything on the site. In 1946 the carriage house with its low ceiling was enlarged to provide a place for low profile farm implement and maintenance equipment. What one sees is what remains of thenatural crown of the hill of large trees and tall pines. It now is a place which one can view both the surrounding countryside. One can only imagine the northern troops traveling here and robbing the site of all resources which was quite common in the valley toward the end of the Civil War . It may also be a point where an army could see movement of heir opponents and friends alike.

Comparison: Morris Mansion and James Madison's House

2010-05-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

The James Madison House Basement

Plan of the Morris Mansion

The top plan is that of Montpelier in Virginia. The photos are of the the Morris House which is in various stages of decay as it awaits the mercy of a careful developer. Only time will tell if the ultimate act of restoration will occur or the wheel of progress forever erase this building from the memories of colonial times with the wreckers ball. What is interesting is that the Kitchen house shown in plan best frames the beautiful countryside. It actually is the most representative of the views for someone standing on the brow of the hill. One can see why this site was chosen as it overlooks the countryside. The last photos is the last work done in the 1970's which indicates the last stage of work ever completed....A lot of work is needed but more important is this indicative of our economic times or is it simple a trend that will continue. We are loosing valuable historic properties daily and the reference we have of our historic past takes more and more resources.

Morris Mansion in Desperate Need of Help

2010-04-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

The 1857 Historic house is in desperate need of restoration. To obtain a grant from the Williamsburg Foundation the building must be restored with equal or like material! No vinyl siding ... The two story with porticos on the south and north of the building was the additon by Col. Allen, the last resident of the buildng who died in 1974. It is a jewell of the Post Federal Style Plantation and originally had 5000 acres of land. In its current state it contains aoubt 500 acres of prime grazing land and sits on the top of a hill which commands the countryside for miles around. More photos are available on the HABS site

Solar Lighting- From Masters Seminar on Light

2010-04-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

FINAL SOLUTION 2008

RECENT APPLICATION FOR A SCHOOL IN VIRGINIA BEACH 2010

Museum Schematic

2010-04-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

A building which can fit in the hand is not as affective as one that must be viewed.
Counter to the most important visual affects that can be encountered is the use of models to determine the shape and provide a immediate answer to the idea of form. Thing in this age
require visualization before they can be funded.

Lake Tamarac Reserected

2010-03-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

Collaboration between a chiro and M.D.-The North Face

The prize for 2010

2010-03-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

Trans-gression

2010-03-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

Architects have a great deal of personalization about their work. To be able to transcend the day to day " box" is refreshing to a designer. Sometimes our ideas meet others of lesser skills and it does not always allow us to design because of circumstances and personalities. The formation of truly exciting forms requires the knowledge of those envolved to develop a plan of action. This action can lead to the ability to execute their dreams. Perhaps only a handful of my projects have that type of Chemistry. In many ways it is a difficult and sometimes labor intensive path to Good Design. Rarely does design come from a capricious interface with all parties. Great design, unlike Good design takes a lot of hard work and effort. However, it is something that posterity will look and say...."that was remarkable and was an outstanding effort!" What ever position you find yourself in, we can always start something great. Therefore, go fort and design!

East Coast Beachism

2010-03-24T11:49:00.000-07:00

Today it is the Wachovia Tower (reflected in the building glass)

Yesterday it was The Gulf building or Riverplace Tower 1967 by Welton Becket architects which I worked for in Chicago in 1965-66.

Kendrick Bangs Kellogg

2010-03-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

Organic Architecture of a FLW influenced architect. When I first saw this 1960's building I though it was done by Bruce Goff, but it is distinct. One must be truly amazed by this complicated solution to a great setting. The dinning room of the Charter Restaurant looks out toward Jaguar Stadium. Is their a future for organic architecture?

From the entrance

River view

Modernism

2010-03-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

Public building on the St. John's River in Jacksonville, Florida in front of the Florida Regional Service Center the Garage (above). Built to stimulate and encourage development along the river front. This semi-brutal river elevation has lived up to the task of anchoring development. It is now tied to a major hotel to the east.

The architect was William Morgan of Jacksonville.

Form the Front Lines of Architecture

2010-03-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

The Public Services building in Jacksonville, Florida. Modern Urbanism at its best

Then (1970)

What happened to Engaging the public..Or do they want to be engaged! Changes will always occur in our work. The above picture is what it looks like today!

Some thoughts about Project Management

2010-03-18T09:59:00.000-07:00

Getting all faiths to accept the inevitable is difficult and harder than just blind faith. Design extends and stretches our effort at discovering truth. No matter which of the circles you choose everyone must be located at some point in the center. Maybe we could focus on this for a goal?

Project Process

2010-03-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

The traditional approach vs. the Smart approach to Professional services delivery. I much prefer the Smart Design which is promoted and used by HOK(right). For small projects, however, any system must have full cooperation by the client. Also economies of scale is necessary for a building process to be successful for a small client. When the tail is to big it may wag the dog.

At least that is what my experience has indicated.

Lighting for New buildings

2010-02-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

LED Lighting is fast becoming a catchword for those wishing to introduce new technology into the interior of the building. Of course with some individual screw in bulbs costing as much as $132 each it will be important that the public realizes the costs associated with site design and orientation.

Marston Pavilion, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

2010-02-21T18:26:00.000-08:00

An example of a project which I helped begin and was the project architect/manager. If you would like to see more go to firstportfolio2007.blogpot.com

Ho rah!

The Power to be Seen.

2010-02-19T14:11:00.000-08:00

Allston Science Complex

2010-02-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

I had an opportunity because Behnisch Architects have offices in Boston,Venice, Munchen, and Stuttgart to see their exhibit at Harvard's GSD. Technology and GREEN architecture combined for an expensive ($1 billion) budget. The entire project is in danger of being stalled until Harvard's assets can claim more lucrative endowments from Wall Street and Real Estate investments. This project is located south of the B-school and Crimson Field area of Boston
Very deconstructive yet LEED mixing can be dangerous for style?

In Europe - Crematorium

2010-02-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

"You never remember who came to the funneral but you never forget who didn't" -Jim Rollins

Some powerful images of remberances. Some are blessed and some are lucky.

Capitol One Office Training Center

2010-02-14T17:18:00.001-08:00

Snowstorm

2010-02-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

Glass House

2010-02-10T13:18:00.000-08:00

Phil Johnson's House and grounds from my sketch book!

How did he get to the library in the Winter!!!!

On the Boards

2010-02-08T06:15:00.000-08:00

Conceptual model of NEW VISITOR CENTER

Base Housing for Fort Eustice, Virginia

2010-02-01T07:45:00.000-08:00

Casement Museum and Renovation

2010-01-27T10:25:00.000-08:00

This module of thee Casements at Fort Monroe will be renovated and restored. The current plan is for the Army to leave by September 2012 but it is an attempt to utilize space and preserve history. The Model is my charette response to their proposal.

LEED building on the Mong- Pittsburgh,PA

2010-01-02T20:05:00.000-08:00

One of the Corporate Headquaters is across from Downtown Pittsburgh next to Steelers Home Field. Adaptive reuse and orientation help make this a successful project.

Sketches in Space

2009-12-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

In Roman times the elevation was much less essential for the Architect. Plans and Construction details were the most clear way of conveyance of space. Has it all changed that much in 2010?

Housing

2009-12-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

With housing market so depressed it seems that individual homes, such as this, will not come to fruition soon.

NEWS FROM THE FRONT!

2009-11-30T09:06:00.000-08:00

Hall in Manheim, Germany This is Cecil Balmond,"Architecture as a punctuation of space, episodic and rhythmic"

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art in Charlotte Ready to Open

2009-11-16T08:29:00.000-08:00

minimalist expression

A new museum intended to create an art district in the heart of downtown Charlotte, North Carolina

New NASCAR Museum in Charlotte, N.C.- O.K. so I left out the most important building in Charlotte for you NASCAR Fans. It is nearing completion. PCF did a wonderful job meeting the corner and turning it into a theme--of course they know that. For $180 million maybe we could build a few new schools (oops!). It will be part of bread and circuses for this lovely southern gem of a city.

Scale model

2009-11-13T11:05:00.000-08:00

Greek

Temple of Artemis, Turkey

Solar Decathlon

2009-10-11T18:08:00.001-07:00

Virginia Tech Entry

The Spanish -tilting roof Universidad Politecnica de Madrid

The bowl-less sink

Exterior skin of German entry showing solar collector tile. 60% of the power from the buildng was self generating from solar sources.

The back side of the Calgary House. And the team winners were Team California and Team Germany.

Photos of the BAC -Tuffs University entry

I could live in this house. From remarks I overheard as I was going through this house, many people said the spacious rooms were more livable than others. Good to see this will be donated to a family on Cape Cod.

Many good ideas which will be posted in the near future.

Mycenaean to Johnson

2009-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

The photo of the Philip Johnson's Painting Museum in New Canaan, Connecticut and the Treasury of Atreus in Mycenae are very similar . As one approaches the Painting Museum the path rises and falls. However, in the Treasury of Atreus the entry is a level path.

It is the need for a processional way to the tomb of Agamemnon in 1325 B.C. inspired this structure. Although it was called the Treasury it has been know as the "Tomb of Agamemnon" as a reference is a' tholos 'or a beehive shaped chamber built into the earth and reinforced with stone and burnt clay bricks. The reference to the sacredness of art is referenced as one moves from the large funnel like entryway to the vestibule of the museum which is a very compressed space. All these forms and spaces heighten the contents of the building. The visitor to Phil Johnson's museum experiences the space for a different reason than the visitor to the Treasure of Atreus. The volumetric experiences of both are exceptional.The connections between these two structures which spans almost 3500 years is a reference to recycled architecture.

The first attempts of civilization when the groups of small villages began to emerge as a cities. What is meant by city is the creation of grouping of people in an area where some did not have to work the soil or hunt to provide food for themselves, but instead had others to provide for their needs. This led to the eventual king system , priest class and merchant class. This may be the next evolution of our buildings.

Pictures from the Beach

2009-09-26T17:14:00.000-07:00

With the intensity of fall storms and the end of hurricane season it is reasonable see how our thoughts can turn to the natural environment. For those who live in Tidewater Virginia the Ocean and Bay are the closest source of connection to the environment. In the plains of the Midwest it may be the wheat fields that stretch for miles, or in the West, mountain ranges that border the earth in all directions. And while what is not evident to the land based observer that the residents "in" the ocean are as diverse as those on land, it is true that it is a whole new world. The energy that is released during fall storms affect all those along the coast. These areas become zones of abstraction, dynamic monuments to the activity that is caused by day to day interactions between land and water. Some of my images here are the result of pondering of what happens in natural events. The result is a constant reminder to me that the forces of nature still can dominate, even when man in his intelligence and resourcefulness, tries to intervene and shape the land.

Seismic Municipal Building

2009-09-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

From a quick study to an internal investigation of the structural and mechanical system we were engaged in developing a new operations building . The Section shown here is through the North Face of the building . This particular site overlooks green spaces in an undeveloped portion of the county.

It is important in southern climates to be mindful that what is developed for us as workspace also provides some sheltering from the southern sun. Sandwiched metal panel system was an owner requirements. The interior uses courtyards to collect rainwater for the vegetation which surrounds the building as is visible to the public.

These quick studies are done with minimal information but present the owner with a very personalized view of a possible scheme. I prefer to enter the design process with pencil to "feel " the essence of the project.

Cathedrals of England

2009-09-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

The Beverley Minister

clear = Decorated 1308-1344 AD

///// = Perpendicular 1390-1420AD

black = Early English 1220-1260 AD

This illustrates the phases of construction of a building in England. Building growth is dynamic, like life itself it has a series of growth and static periods. Unlike people who transform them.

The Ideal City

2009-09-16T18:31:00.000-07:00

In the Beginning of City Building nature played a strong factor in the design for the inhabitants. Agriculture was an important role in daily existence. Today those ideas have changed. A majority of populations live and work in urban centers. Living and working is circumscribed around a radius as large as twenty five miles. However, there are some thing that still make the city successful for human inhabitants: Green spaces- the lungs of every metropolitan area which can and should be trees, mixed with water are a repose to the built environment. Adequate transportation-not just the car can be through many types and forms of transportation which allow interaction with the environment.. Bicycles and walking are a healthy thing. The most important transportation systems moves people and material. Next, Community and Cultural Centers provide a historical aversion to daily life and connection to the community. The ideal city should also be close to a body of water. Historically for transportation and sewage, it is now a psychological connection to nature and biological systems. Finally, Security - a city must be livable to travel within its borders in order to experience the many activities and people without fear. The ability to look and greet people of all types is a human social need. Face to face communication is best.

Light Rail

2009-09-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

Many of today's cities have been strangled by the lack of access to the centers of activity in the urban centers. A variety of reasons for this remain in place through antiquated social, municipal governments, and economic systems. However,Their is a tendency to think of things and place as a single layer of activities. With increased densities of populations it will necessary for more and more people to have different forms of access. For example, the NFL and NBA choose to black out certain games for those in the neighborhood during certain hours and broadcast to outside markets. The same would be beneficial for places that need to balance the economic region with those of a compatible and complimentary region to help grow those together in other sector such as finance or economic areas. By binding regions together in this way and blocking other regions it allow a more precise and concentrated targeting of important areas of concentration. An example would be linking the Agricultural with Commerce such as New York or Los Angles.

One way of dong this is to allow transportation growth to certain regions to mate with other regions in an attempt to develop patterns which would be fundamentally complimentary to both side of a "win-win" form of commuting. By leaning across municipal lines and cooperating on municipal project it can be a mutual benefit. Such is the case in the Tidewater Light Rail System which seeks to grow through a transportation project which will combine the area together in ways that can not be measure in the economic sense but in the quality of life and protection of the natural state of a beautiful area which is both diverse and strong.

Some powerful Ways to fix our cities......

2009-09-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

Two of the most problematic issues facing our cities is density and transportation. Some feel the city is not a natural system but a curse. While others think it will be the answer to the future of mankind. As people continue to live and work in urban areas the need for bigger and more diverse populations confront the inhabitants, administrators and leaders. My vision of the modern city combines layering and vertical living. While only mankind is suited to this type of living other forms of life must maintain a horizontal existence. The compartmentalization of human activity will mean that different group will need to cooperate for basic necessities in a physical and topographic form. For instance, the topography of a site can be expanded to show areas of a region. By turning these contours on end and expanding the volumes horizontally, the result is a building which layers and shelters its inhabitants. The concentric characteristics of the topography building make an abstract form in plan and in three dimension. The plan as seen on the enclosed sketch is the basic concentric form Ebeneezer Howard proposed in 1800's. The twist to this is the changes and diversity of the plan.

Ancient and modern

2009-09-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most interesting avocation of architects which allows creativity is the City. From Ancient Ur to Modern New York, the density of man has always been a love hate relationship for professionals. In the next few entries of my Blog I share some of my past research......of more than four hundred urban patterns. Prepared as an extension of my Bachelors of Urban Planning and organized further during my years of teaching at the University Level at several schools. Many books are available on the scale of buildings and their relationship to site. I will delve into the components: The Social, Site Geography, Political, Economic and Social aspects of the City.

Site 2

2009-09-06T17:25:00.000-07:00