subota, 28. siječnja 2017.

Arch Daily

Arch Daily


Skandion Clinic / LINK arkitektur

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 09:00 PM PST

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

  • Architects: LINK arkitektur
  • Location: Uppsala, Sweden
  • Architects In Charge: Roger Larsson (Architecture), Klara Brunnström (Interior Architecture)
  • Other Participants: Akademiska Hus, NCC
  • Area: 14300.0 m2
  • Project Year: 2014
  • Photographs: Hundven-Clements Photography
© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

From the architect. Skandion Clinic is Scandinavia's first cancer clinic for treatment with proton therapy. A patient hotel with 86 double rooms has been constructed adjacent to the clinic. Seven counties have collaborated with Akademiska Hus to realise this unique collaborative project. LINK won a parallel assignment in 2007 with a proposal where the plot's buildable area was fully utilized and Uppsala was provided with a new signature building with a secure and high-tech interior. The clinic opened in 2015 and will treat approximately one thousand patients every year.

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

In 2007, Akademiska Hus invited LINK to participate in a parallel assignment for the Skandion Clinic in Uppsala in competition with three other architectural firms. During the competition, the programme was expanded to encompass an additional building volume, which later became a hotel. We accepted an exciting architectural challenge to integrate all the complex technical construction requirements and functions; a highly advanced radiotherapy facility, preparation rooms, offices, conference rooms, a hotel and a restaurant. Together, they had to form a pleasant, efficient and caring unit for the patients, employees and visitors. The fundamental architectural concept of the project was to succeed in merging so many different activities into a common structure.

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

A proton therapy clinic requires a high level of safety and the supplier of the radiation equipment, IBA, imposed very stringent technical requirements for the building's radiation facility, with up to 3.5 metre thick radiation-proof walls of iron ore concrete. An efficient patient flow will enable more patients to benefit from this form of treatment. There has been a strong desire to create an indoor environment that does not refer to the hospital. This has inspired us to work with natural materials as far as possible. Bright walls and glazed wood lathe panels are combined with a strong colour palette created by the artist Philippa Arrias. In combination with natural light and daylight simulation, the colours act as a source of energy for both the patients and staff. A carefully designed garden has been assigned a central position between the waiting room and the recovery room.

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

The environmentally rated hotel has 86 rooms and views out over the city. The hotel's towering volume supports the facility's identity. Its perforated sheet metal façade with window niches gives the building a human scale and a textile feel. The clinic's natural materials continue into the large, bright double rooms, through the restaurant section and onto the roof terrace with its stunning views out over the city. It is a haven for recovering patients. But it is also a welcoming venue for visitors to Uppsala.

Ground Floor Plan Ground Floor Plan
1st Floor Plan 1st Floor Plan
Section Section

As a general consultant, we have brought the project forward in detail and as a whole. In collaboration with NCC, we have developed procedures and processes to implement an advanced BIM design. The result is very well-coordinated consultancy documents and an efficient construction process with explanatory 3D images sent out to the engineers' workplace.

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

Product Description. The elevated and airy hotel building has received a delicate appearance through perforated aluminium sheets with patterns inspired by lace curtains. The more enclosed clinic portion at the entry level captures the same pattern in concrete and glass in an interplay between secluded privacy and charitable outlook.

© Hundven-Clements Photography           © Hundven-Clements Photography

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Przystanek Piekarnia Bakery / Five Cell

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 06:00 PM PST

©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski

©  Piotr Narewski ©  Piotr Narewski ©  Piotr Narewski ©  Piotr Narewski

  • Architects: Five Cell
  • Location: Warsaw, Poland
  • Architect In Charge: Maciej Kurkowski
  • Investor: Piekarnia Krzosek
  • Area: 60.0 m2
  • Project Year: 2016
  • Photographs: Piotr Narewski
©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski

From the architect. The presented sales premises of Przystanek Piekarnia bakery build upon the idea created for the entire chain in 2013 by Maciej Kurkowski, founder of Five Cell design group. 

Each of the interiors is equipped with a unique system of modules made of stained birch plywood. Depending on such parameters as location, size and height of rooms, these modules may be used to create a suspended ceiling, display racks or serve both functions at once. 

Counter Module Counter Module

One example of the modules used as a suspended openwork structure is the interior of the bakery on Chłodna Street. This structure spreads out on four different levels. Each one follows a specific distribution pattern of the plywood panels. Although this system is made up of merely 300 elements, on account of the layering and plans that overlap from the user's perspective, the ensuing effect is that of the optical lowering of the premises.

In turn, the low interior near Dąbrowskiego Street was transformed into sales premises with characteristically placed display racks. Here, the modules created a 'packaging' of sorts for the displayed products. The lighting also corresponds to the underlying motif of the whole design. Depending on the needs, the racks may be easily disassembled. 

©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski

Przystanek Piekarnia bakeries on Hoża and Mołdawska Streets are examples of combining the suspended ceiling function with product display space. Both premises have common parameters, such as high ceilings and small usable area. 

For the same reasons, the interior on Mołdawska Street is equipped with a solid form made of stained modules which serves as a multi-purpose item of furniture. It was created using 660 elements. A coffee machine, slicer and sink are placed along the work surface, while hidden units with doors are fitted underneath it. Above, space has been made for display racks for baked products. The entire plywood structure extends from the walls to the ceiling, delicately lowering it and at the same time delineating the sales area. The furniture item also includes the main lighting components of the premises. 

©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski
©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski

On account of its location and large glazed area, the interior on Marszałkowska Street required a structure that would attract passers-by. The openwork installation is composed of 350 elements combined into repetitive square modules mounted on the wall and ceiling. Here too the lighting plays a part in creating the atmosphere of the space, which is why its selection and placement are meant to match the plywood system. 

Moldawska Structure Moldawska Structure
©  Piotr Narewski © Piotr Narewski

Apart from the original system, all Przystanek Piekarnia bakeries are fitted with the same core arrangement of distressed grey plaster on walls, fragments of walls covered with black blackboard paint and oiled oak counters with fronts covered with convex tiles, with lightbulbs suspended above them.

Hoza Structure Hoza Structure
Chlodna Structure Chlodna Structure

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Bird & Bird London / MCM Architecture

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 02:00 PM PST

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

  • Architects: MCM Architecture
  • Location: London, United Kingdom
  • Area: 140000.0 ft2
  • Project Year: 2016
  • Photographs: Courtesy of MCM Architecture
Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

MCM began working with Bird & Bird in 2012 when they began developing a forward-looking property strategy for their London accommodation based on the expiry of several lease obligations in 2016. Split across three buildings, Bird & Bird wanted to consolidate into one London base and appointed MCM to undertake due-diligence to help with their building selection process. 

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

Following this initial due-diligence, Bird & Bird decided to take the whole of 12 New Fetter Lane, a 140,000 sq ft building over ground and 12 floors. MCM worked very closely with Bird & Bird to establish a robust brief that would inform the design of their new workplace. The results are an agile ready open plan work environment that also contains a variety of work settings that support collaboration and concentrated work.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

MCM consulted widely with staff and the Bird & Bird steering group to communicate the designs at the outset to ensure there was buy-in across the organisation. It was important to help reassure staff that the new office would meet their needs in terms of the technology that allowed them to move around easily and in terms of appropriate quiet space for concentrative work. 

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

A feature staircase was installed in reception to bring large numbers of visitors easily up to the seminar space and client business lounge on the 1st floor. The stair itself, designed by MCM and manufactured by EeStairs, is a focal point as you enter the building.  

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

Steven Bray, Senior Creative Advisor at EeStairs UK commented: "The Bird & Bird feature staircase is an extraordinary example of where elliptical geometry, a towering 6.2m floor height and the presence of four large landings contributed to the complexity of the design, manufacture and installation stages.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

"With the staircase making a long elliptical journey punctuated by landings, the pursuit for structural performance was a significant challenge requiring the discreet placement of 12 tonnes of mild steel and the development of an incredibly stiff inner balustrade. EeStairs' craftsmen rose to the challenges associated with forming the complex elliptical EeSoffit and steel balustrade with integrated handrail whilst the fitting team focused on ensuring that the stair was installed perfectly and prepared for the cold spray antique bronze liquid metal finish."

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

Due to the high quality of the base building, finishes were selected that respected both its design and finishes. MCM took a great deal of care to ensure that the finishes of the fit-out were of the same high standard and matched or complemented the base building.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

At the heart of the building is the 11th floor, a central hub for staff to grab a coffee or a bite to eat, and where they can hold informal meetings throughout the day in a space specifically built to enhance collaboration. The lightness and brightness of the 11th floor and the tremendous views across London from the terrace help to make it a relaxed and dynamic atmosphere for all staff.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

In the office areas, MCM have taken advantage of the excellent natural light and views by placing desks around the perimeter of the building. Opting to move in to a more open plan environment also had an impact on fit-out costs, which were substantially reduced.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

To ensure that the integrity of the design concept was maintained throughout the construction MCM worked closely and successfully with the contractor, Structuretone, under the design and build contract.  The whole team worked seamlessly together – and the result is a testament of what a fully integrated team, including client, landlord team, design team and contractor, can achieve.

Courtesy of MCM Architecture        Courtesy of MCM Architecture

Product Description. An attractive feature staircase created by international staircase specialist, EeStairs – which is finished in a liquid metal antique bronze acts as a focal point in the new office's reception, offering four landings and elliptical geometry. The grand staircase, which is over 6 metres tall in height was designed by MCM Architecture and manufactured by EeStairs as the two firms that have collaborated a number of times worked together once again.

Created from fabricated from mild steel with a plate steel inner balustrade it features an illuminated recessed handrail and EeStairs' luxurious, glossy EeSoffit finish, a cnc processed polymer soffit that is incredibly stable and durable.

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Deep³ Courtyard / SU Architects

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 12:00 PM PST

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

© ShengLiang Su © Su Architects © ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

  • Design Team: ShaoXun Guo, Shuo Li, QingYuan Yu, FangCheng Zhou
  • Structural Engineer: MingYi Zhang
© Su Architects © Su Architects

The site of project locates in the region south of Yangtze River, this region is the motherland of Chinese triditional landscape art. The Architect aims to reflect the modern construction technology and living comfort, though this project trying to discuss about how to satisfy the spiritual needs for those Chinese who still really treasured Chinese trditional Cultures of living and abandoning themselves to the nature, to be retired from the noisy world. Therefore, on the existing long and narrow site, architect purposely enlarged the longitudinal scale of circulation, scenic views and even timeline though the strategic transition and composition of spaces, in order to form a spacial pattern of wide depth spaces.The architectural archetype of this project originates from the triditional Chinese architectual pavillion element named "Ting", which normally constructed from wooden beams, this project was constructed from steel structural system, as bending structural system as wooden beams. The huge overhanging roofs extend the boundaries of architecture into the courtyard and gardens. Finally, this project delivered a consequence that a garden house with three different hierarchies of deep depth spaces, deep³ courtyard.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Preface_ Hierarchy First _ Deep¹

There was always a tradition of creating beautiful Private Gardens in regions south of the Yangtze River。The tradition was kept, only difference is that the characters of Garden masters are changed. They are not as the literati in the old times that only abandoned themselves to the Nature, but also the modern co-workers having multi-relatives with the whole society. As the clients, their requirements for gardens are not making private tour of scenic spots any more, but recover their original simplicity. So the manifesto of Deep³courtyard is giving a media for the old Chinese saying "living back into nature" to relate the reality and the idealist pursue.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Pattern_ Hierarchy Second _ Deep2

In particular site planning, the start point is not the solid spaces massing layout, but void spaces. "Void" means scenic and also functional, it could be courtyard or part of architecture. "Void" is the basic unit of site organization, different void spaces would be insert in site based on using demands, then separated the boundaries of inside and outside in every "void". Finally, we figure out four architecture units and ten small courtyard with different scales and shapes. 

© Su Architects © Su Architects

The whole architecture consists of multiple courtyards that overlaid through the longitudinal axis. There are three main layers of the courtyard spatial pattern, first layer is functionally for entry, lobby and living room. This first layer was designed for a hundred years elder for his daily living. Considering for his convenience, designer placed his living function spaces in first layer. In the meanwhile, using a continued longitudinal wall from inside till outside to separate the living-room and bedroom. In order to emphasis this separation, architectural massing also followed this variation.

In the second layer, to make the water pond as a core space, surrounding is for private living room. It is divided by a "T" shape opening from the first layer. The upper part of this opening use wooden grid hollow out to present the invisible structural beam. In this layer, a "ting"---Chinese opening pavilion is placed beside the waterscape which related the inside and outside, front and rear of the garden. In this layer, another longitudinal wall separated the private space of guest courtyard.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

The third layer is the playground and back garden for the garden master, due to the requirement from client, a small basketball play area was placed. All these tree layers, one after one, relate to each other, formed a consequence of deep spatial perception in this garden house.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Vista_ Hierarchy Third _ Deep3

There are blurry boundaries between each courtyard in this estate, but a twist movement connect them. The reflection of them are various, covered, inserted, opened or divided. In the tour of courtyards, the sight is continuing change, while every spot would show the indistinct scenes, the sights would lead the steps of exploration. The twist movement extends the spatial perception of deep on this existing rectangular site.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Housing

In a garden house estate, architecture itself is not the key point. In tradition Chinese garden, a simple architectural logic lead pieces of space placed at where it should be. Each of them was given different name based on their different functions and forms, such as ting---pavilion, tai---platform, ge---tower with terraces, xie---pavilion on terrace. All pieces used same construction system, and in proper scale of massing.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su
Floor Plan Floor Plan
© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

In Deep³ courtyards, the boundaries and layouts of architecture was identified by courtyards, the roof solution is the only question left. Chinese ancient architecture structural system had been found very clearly, as the modern post-and-lintel system, beam and columns supporting the thick roof deck system, the wall just as separation screen was not part of supporting system. 

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Architect considered the warm rainy climate in southern regions of China, people stay in exterior space even more than interior space. So the overhang roof eave became an import element, since it is a nice shelter that keeping out rain and shading of direct sunshine, but keep ventilation. We want this kind of covering could be light and invisible, so the real architectural massing hiding in courtyards through deep overhang roof.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

For distinguish covering and separation both on architectural form and construction system, the functional massing are using brick-concrete structure, roof is using steel structure. The roof consists of two shell plates joggled together to form the windows face north to increase ventilation and daylighting.

Section Section

The excellent visual effects must come from structural accuracy. In order to have the huge overhang roof looks especial lighter, we did try some special design for structure and construction, to achieve the goal with make sure not losing the effect of insulation system.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Waterscape

The area of water pond garden original was a small ground fish pond behind the existing house. After refit and enlarge, the pond already connects to the water channel on the east side. For this whole estate, only east side open to the waterscape without bounding wall. The characters of traditional Chinese garden are introversion and sealing with clear boundaries, but we want the courtyards could get interaction and breathe from the surroundings, reading the breathing rhythm sending from the waterscape, the sights, even the context.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

There is no drain down pipe from the roof which was designed on purpose, the grounding quartzite were cut with several gaps, to expose the beautiful cobblestones. The cobblestones may not scream to gather notice from visitors in the sunny day, but if you have the luck to visit this estate during a raining day, there would be an amazing image presenting for you. The rain water drain down from the drain hole set on the roof, and drop off into the gaps paved with cobblestones. This corporation of nature (both rain and gravity) and artificial design would form a raining paravent connecting the roof and ground through a beautiful and gentle way.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

Pedestrian

We already got used to the super flat and straight road, and almost forgot how up and down, fade in and out of the trail road through the hills. The pedestrian actually relate to our bodies, it is the median surface between human being and the nature that we were navigated through eyes and touched by feet. The road was created though people's walks, so we should look back to our feet, and to modify the way we are going to pass. The garden is the modified nature, there are may not the very strong boundaries from nature and artificial creation.

© Su Architects © Su Architects

Postscript

In the old times, Chinese garden houses were kind of wonderlands designed by garden masters to achieve their idealist living spaces, this is the realization of architecture from literal description and art works to be constructed. In the meanwhile, as part of modern world, we have the same questions to ask ourselves, what kind of living condition would be our wonderlands? This question is the core clue leading the whole design and building process of this project, the answer wouldn't be clarified until it be done.

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

After this project was built, once we saw a Chinese Ancient art painting named "the Dongshan Sizhu diagram", we found the resonance of design concept and practice. The living image made 700 years ago had a silent transforming influence of the practice today. The special orders, key elements, even the architectural prototype in the painting were all reflected to our work. 

© ShengLiang Su © ShengLiang Su

As moderns, when we create our garden, we could not like ancients, since all living condition and environment had changed, we know about skyscraper, we know garden villa, we know living in nature, but when we were amazed by the crush that we saw the idealist living spaces potentially in our minds which hiding in an ancient painting, we treat this as a gift trip back home.

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Hotel Mapp / JYCArchitect + DCDAssociates

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 11:00 AM PST

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO

This 21-room hotel was designed mainly for backpackers. The unusually wide street frontage of this small site allows for a broad, welcoming facade.

Axonometric Axonometric

Main lobby where a grand stairway leads to the restaurant on the second floor and to the upper guest room floors via an elevator.

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO

The mapping of a traveler's journey through a city is the main theme of the hotel. City maps are transformed into mosaic wall and ceiling murals to represent the main theme, while the other areas are kept simple. The effect is to offer travelers a bright and relaxing stopping point.

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO
Section Section
Arcade under cantilevered floor above Arcade under cantilevered floor above

An outdoor stairway also reaches the restaurant directly for non-guest customers. Typical guest room floors are from third to fifth levels and the sixth and seventh levels are stepped up to create terraces for bigger units. In the basement is a multi-functional space for meetings and lectures.

2F Restaurant interior view 2F Restaurant interior view

As a design hotel, Hotel Mapp offers a different lodging experience than that of standard business hotels and motels. It may be low-key in a way, but it is the design that makes travelers feel at ease, while enjoying the deeper meaning of coming home.

© TCJ SPACE PHOTO © TCJ SPACE PHOTO

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College Green / Murray Associates Architects

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 09:00 AM PST

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

  • Interior Designer: Kirsten Watts, LEED AP
  • Project Manager: Jamie Slotterback
  • Project Designer: Pete Colello
  • Site/Civil, Surveying Engineer & Landscape Architecture: Dennis Black Engineering, Inc.
  • Structural Engineer: Cagley & Associates
  • Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Engineer: Bruce E. Brooks and Associates
  • It/Av Consultant: Vantage Technology Consulting Group
  • Contract Manager/Construction: R.S. Mowery & Sons Inc.
© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

From the architect. The original 1923 natural limestone library borders the College Green's northern edge. Its 1960's Annex is a monolithic building framed with cast in place concrete columns that faces the science building and parking along the north edge of campus. In early 2011 infrastructure problems rendered the building uninhabitable. The unfortunate event provided an opportunity to revisit its role for the College. 

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

The Library underwent an extensive analysis of its functions, programs, facilities and anticipated essential instructional goals for the future. The library had to become a new and vibrant designation center with social convergence maximizing interaction and student activity.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

At the conclusion of our Master Planning, the College chose to extensively restore the 1923 Library. The Annex was razed to build a new 14,473 gsf Learning Commons that is respectful of the historic Academic Quad. A multipurpose student outdoor plaza with amphitheater seating extends educational and social activities. The library had become the new intellectual core and heart of campus.

Section Section
Section Section

Rather than imitating the old stylistically of form, the new structure engages the existing building by establishing a point of view that heightens the awareness of the old. The volume is simple and clean, creating a balance between the historic and contemporary spaces while additional attention was given to the scale and specialty qualities of the building.  The expansive walls of glazing and gleaming stone adhere to the rhythm and scale of the 1923 structure and provides a balance of activity yet functions as a place for learning and reflection. The new Williamson Limestone was quarried locally, resulting in zero waste to be removed from the campus. 155 tons were cut and faced at the quarry for use in hand laying stone in a matching pattern, scale and mortar profile.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

The Learning Commons floors were manipulated to get higher spaces in the Commons, achieving a voluminous aura to the addition.  The new Learning Commons' ground floor was sited 30 inches lower than the 1923 Library. This increased volume supports the public spaces for lectures and social gatherings. This design strategy aligned the first floor with the original Library. The upper floor is 24 inches higher to achieve a higher ceiling for the Art Gallery and open study areas.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

The interior finishes and lighting introduced a new color pallet consistent throughout both buildings in order to knit both into one structure. The design also allows the building to be utilized as a student touch down point. "Third Spaces" were created throughout the building for self-intellectual exploration or socialization.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

The original parking area and campus roads were removed to incorporate the new Learning Commons Plaza and Commons. New pathways now connect the Library to the other academic buildings, creating a new vibrant academic quad. The new Plaza has amphitheater seating for extended academic and social functions.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

The building is now an energetic interactive environment that supports the College's new pedagogy. Amenities include: The new Library provides a Commuter Lounge, Academic Support Center, study rooms, Smart classrooms, an art gallery, a Cafe, lounge and a community gathering/lecture area. Wilson's faculty and students are engaging with the technology and multiple learning environments in a new collaborative learning process. The students utilize the relocated Academic Support Center much more than before and the College believes it will assist with student retention rates.

© Don Pearse Photographers © Don Pearse Photographers

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LAVA Reveals Lush Alternate Scheme for Malaysian Forest City

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 08:00 AM PST

© LAVA © LAVA

LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture) has revealed their runner-up proposal in an international competition to design Forest City, a new development located on reclaimed land just off the coast of Singapore in Malaysia.

Initiated by Chinese developer Country Garden, the competition sought urban design schemes that would improve the efficiency of the land use while enhancing the quality of space and environment through the landmark of a "forest city." The competition was won by Sasaki Associates last year.

© LAVA © LAVA © LAVA © LAVA

© LAVA © LAVA

LAVA Director Chris Bosse describes his firm's concept not as an icon or a skyline, but as a true forest of public space.

"Skylines across the world look the same - usually a couple of iconic towers in the centre surrounded by lots of lesser quality buildings, which all resemble each other," explains Bosse.

"Here we have designed an inverse city skyline where the icon of the city is a public space, not an object/building. Our central space is a Rainforest Valley and demonstrates the equation: PEOPLE = CITY. From an object to a place."

© LAVA © LAVA
© LAVA © LAVA

LAVA's concept stems from the needs of the future city, defined by the firm as requiring a "'public city', a central public space surrounded by buildings; a 'layered city', where people, railways and traffic are separated with vehicles underground; a 'loop city', a closed loop system reusing it's resources and controlling the out-flow; and a 'sponge city', with recycling processes hidden underground."

© LAVA © LAVA

Buildings would be organized around a central public space, the Rainforest Valley, which is divided into five finger-shaped sections representing the five elements of Chinese Taoist cosmology (wood, fire, earth, metal and water) and LAVA's five pillars of a sustainable city (economic, environmental, social, cultural and equity).

"The valley is a layered space. In the middle a rainforest emerges and rises into the sky and is surrounded by a waterfall, which fills with water after each rainfall," explain the architects. "It's a visual reminder of the city as a three-dimensional ecosystem, a habitat, a green-layered system of networks and relationships of nature. The valley visually and physically connects the undercroft (and infrastructure) with the pedestrian level and provides light and air circulation."

© LAVA © LAVA

Buildings encircling the public center terrace down to meet the ground, featuring increasingly public layers of program as the building descends. A landmark tower would house apartments, hotels, retail and commercial areas in modular floor plans that would allow for flexible arrangements of space.

Large internal and external roof gardens would provide the vegetation for the forest, as well as help to reduce building temperatures in the hot climate. Materials for the project would be locally sourced.

© LAVA © LAVA
© LAVA © LAVA

'We were able to draw upon the research and strategies from our competition-winning entry for the design of Masdar city centre - 24/7 activation, performance and interaction," added Bosse.

 "LAVA was thrilled to win 2nd place in this competition and play our part in showcasing solutions for a world-class sustainable smart city - a role model for future city design."

See Sasaki Associates' winning scheme here, and visit the Forest City website for more information.

News via LAVA.

  • Architects: LAVA
  • Location: Forest City Country Garden 碧桂园森林城市, Forest City 1, Pulau Satu, Gelang Patah, 81550 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
  • Lava: Chris Bosse, Alexander Rieck, Tobias Wallisser
  • Client: Country Garden Group
  • Site: Total development: 20 square kilometres; site: 24 hectares
  • Photographs: LAVA

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Open House / Robert Hirschfield Architects

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 07:00 AM PST

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

  • Structural Engineer: Conisbee
  • Quantity Surveyor: Trogal Griffin Associates
  • Main Contractor: Vital Building Services
  • Designer Maker: Fowler & Co
  • Joinery: Dot Bespoke
  • Kitchen Designer: Bulthaup
  • Glazing Specialist: Culmax
© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

From the architect. An extensive redevelopment of an Edwardian semi-detached house in north London, dramatically re-ordering rooms and extending the house to the rear to meet the evolving needs of a couple and their teenage children.

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

This large period house required significant untangling from its congested internal layout in order to rationalise and re-configure its interior spaces. It also had a lack of connectedness to it's generous outdoor spaces and an under-exploited loft area.

Section Section

The original living and service areas of the house were dark, cramped and restrictive to family shared spaces. Our solution was to reconfigure the layout of each floor and expand the house to create a spacious living area to the rear of the ground floor with a large glazed structure that frames the newly landscaped garden and terrace.

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

The re-configured floors have given the family generous sized rooms with an interesting play of level changes and volumes that can now be fully shared and enjoyed. These are connected by a new helical staircase with a ribbon-like handrail that curves as it ascends in parallel with the central double-height void.

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

The new loft bedroom is the proud possessor of its own private recessed terrace that has cleverly and discretely been carved into the pitch of the roof.

The bathrooms, bedrooms and living spaces have bespoke built-in joinery, storage spaces and shelving all of which have been fully integrated into the overall concept and design.

Plans Plans

Throughout the house, the warmth and texture of the wood grain used for the staircase has been emphasised in floor finishes and worktops elsewhere.

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

Product Description. The bespoke timber staircase was designed in close collaboration with designer-maker, Fowler & Co. It was conceived as a single object stretching between the ground, first and second floors. The central form comprises a solid helical balustrade that 'hangs' down the middle of the void with the stair wrapping around it. The elegant lacquered balustrade is capped with a continuous moulded handrail, hand carved from oak to match the fluid underside that follows the curves of the staircase.

© Matt Clayton © Matt Clayton

It was made in Fowler & Co's workshop and then assembled on site, with the handrail made from pieces of laminated wood pressed into a curved mould. The underside is clad with timber with each piece acting like a propeller blade, twisting in two directions. The result is a sinuous shape that is given continuity by the use of treated hand carved oak for both the underside and the ribbon-like handrail.

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Ochoco Air Hangar / TVA Architects

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 05:00 AM PST

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

  • General Contractor: Hoffman Construction Company
  • Landscape Architect: Place Studio
  • Structural And Civil Engineer: KPFF Consulting Engineers
  • Mechanical, Electrical, And Plumbing Engineer: Glumac
  • Surveyor: WH Pacific
  • Geotechnical Engineer: Hart Crowser
© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

Located at the Hillsboro Airport, this contemporary aircraft hangar provides both administrative functions and maintenance facilities to house the owner's private fleet of planes. The facility is capable of storing three, full-size business jets and is designed to showcase the planes, which are each graphically unique. Tall glass windows provide visibility into the main hangar, as well as glimpses of the aircraft from the road beyond. Dark-grey ribbed metal and smooth white composite panels articulate the main structure with a roof form that was inspired by a jet's wing shape. The entire structure sits on an elevated stone podium, which has been planted with native grasses and deciduous trees. Secure parking just off the access drive is bordered by heavy plantings and is articulated by a bold, yellow, operable gate that glides open on a hidden track.

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut
Plan Plan
© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

The main entrance leads into a passenger waiting area where both owner and guests can comfortably relax before their flights. The interior—including furniture, artwork, and graphics—is inspired by the owner's affinity for the University of Oregon. Directly off the main lobby are private offices for pilots and open workstations for mechanics and other flight staff, furnished with custom, walnut veneer casework. A large conference room and communal kitchen have oversized steel windows, allowing visibility into the main hangar and the jets.

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

Products Description.

1. Firestone composite metal panel systems: Una-Clad Series 1200 Composite Panels.

The most prominent feature of the Ochoco Hangar is the metal paneling. The selected panel system accentuated the sleek, modern aesthetic associated with modern jets. This particular system was selected because the spline system used to mount the panels worked well with the long span spacing of the steel hangar structure. The panels could be fabricated in large rectangles, and they were able to be customized to the custom dynamic wing shape profile of the roof.

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

2. Metal Sales Manufacturing: TDR-6 Wall Panel.    

The other exterior wall panel used for the hangar is the deep rib (4 ½" rib profile) panel TDR-6 from MS. TVA wanted to get a deep shadow, crisp profile, horizontal element that could loop around the top of the building to help offset the wing-shaped roof profile from the base structure. Initial forays at looking at aluminum bars, louvers, and steel profiles proved out to be too expensive or too cumbersome for this effort. The TDR-6 presents a strong textured shadow break and greatly assists in emphasizing the roof profile.

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

3. Tennant ECO epoxy floor system.  

The owner had given a directive for the floor of the hangar to shine like glass, wear like steel, and be as forgiving as rubber. The Tennant products (ECO HTS top coat, CRU multi-purpose epoxy, CEP Primer, and RS-60 leveling compound) all delivered on that promise.  The aircraft on display in the hangar were to be shown off to their most spectacular effect, and the epoxy floor went a long way in helping showcase both the building and the planes inside.

© Charles Chestnut  © Charles Chestnut

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IKEA's Better Shelter Wins Design of the Year 2016

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 04:00 AM PST

via Better Shelter via Better Shelter

IKEA's flat-packed refugee housing solution, the "Better Shelter," has been announced as the winner of the Beazley Design of the Year 2016. Presented by the Design Museum in London, the award is given to the project that best meets the criteria of design that "promotes or delivers change," "captures the spirit of the year," "enables access," and "work that has extended design practice."

Selected as the winner of the Architecture category, the Better Shelter beat out winners from five other categories, including Digital, Fashion, Graphics, Product and Transport, to take home the top honor of Design of the Year.

"Innovative, humanitarian and implemented, Better Shelter has everything that a Beazley Design of the Year should have," said judge Dr. Jana Scholze from Kingston University.

The Better Shelter was developed as a collaborative project in 2013 by Johan Karlsson, Dennis Kanter, Christian Gustafsson, John van Leer, Tim de Haas, Nicolò Barlera, UNHCR and the IKEA Foundation. Nearly 65 million of the shelters have since been distributed worldwide.

The structures consist of a steel frame clad with insulated lightweight polymer panels, and can be assembled in under 4 hours. Due its modular nature, additional features such as a solar powered wall can also be integrated into the design. Each shelter is designed for a 3-year lifespan.

Last year's top award was given to the Human Organs-on-Chips project by Harvard's Wyss Institute, while the architecture category was won by Alejandro Aravena's UC Innovation Center.

News via the Design Museum.

Video: IKEA Foundation Design a Shelter for Refugees

Herzog & de Meuron, OMA, MAD Among 13 Shortlisted for "Design of the Year 2016"

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Beach House Chihuahua / Colle-Croce + Mariana Kusenier

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 03:00 AM PST

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

  • Architects: Colle-Croce, Mariana Kusenier
  • Location: Uruguay
  • Architect In Charge: Sebastián Colle, Rodolfo Croce, Mariana Kusenier
  • Collaborator: Lucas Bruno
  • Construction Management: Estudio Carolina Pedroni
  • Costructive Company: Ontario Dry Wall
  • Project Year: 2016
  • Photographs: Javier Agustín Rojas
© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

From the architect. The house is located in Chihuahua beach, Uruguay, on the dune that constitutes the first building line facing the ocean.

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

A structural system of columns, beams and slabs, made of reinforced concrete, places the "piano nobile" ten meters above sea level.

Axonometric Axonometric

In this way, aside from reaching the best ocean views, it warrants a continuous and dynamic balance of the dune. This situation allows the interaction of the wind with the sandbars.

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

On the support formed by the structure and service base, two compact volumes are assembled articulated by a series of expansions that function as arrivals from the dune. The envelopment is solved in Steel Frame coated in boards of lapacho in the outside and pine painted of white in the interior.

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

The main house which constitutes the major volume, it has a large living room / dinning room / kitchen expanding to a cantilevered veranda overlooking the ocean, from where you can reach broad views towards Punta Ballena and the sunset over Piriápolis, as well as, another facing north protected from the winds; this content patio works as an outdoor kitchen. Two bedrooms and bathrooms complete the program. 

First Floor Plan First Floor Plan

The second volume, of smaller dimensions, is the guest pavilion, has a living, terrace, two bedrooms and bathrooms.

© Javier Agustín Rojas © Javier Agustín Rojas

This programmatic division allow the independent use of the units.

The material expression of the set is in direct consonance with some vernacular constructions confirming the pertinence of the chosen system in relation to the requirements of the site.

Detail Detail

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10 Shortlisted Designs for London Holocaust Memorial Revealed

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 01:45 AM PST

The UK Holocaust Memorial Foundation and Malcolm Reading Consultants have revealed the designs of 10 teams shortlisted to design a new Holocaust Memorial, to be located in London's Victoria Tower Gardens next to the Houses of Parliament. After a call for expressions of interest was launched in September, 10 star-studded teams were selected in November and invited to submit their designs for an "emotionally powerful and sensitively designed memorial."

With the designs now revealed to the public, competition organizer Malcolm Reading Consultants and the government-led Memorial Foundation are now consulting with the public and are inviting people to submit feedback about the designs here. The feedback received in this consultation period "will play a crucial role in informing the jury's final decision on the memorial," they explained in a press release. Read on to see all 10 shortlisted designs.

Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates

Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants Adjaye Associates (UK) with designer Ron Arad Associates. Image © Adjaye Associates & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery

Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants Allied Works (US) with artist Robert Montgomery. Image © Allied Works Architecture & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread

Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants Caruso St John (UK) with artist Rachel Whiteread. Image © Caruso St John Architects, Marcus Taylor and Rachel Whiteread & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners

Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Diamond Schmitt Architects (CA) with landscape architect Martha Schwartz Partners. Image © Diamond Schmitt Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner

Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants Foster + Partners (UK) with artist Michal Rovner. Image © Foster + Partners and Michal Rovner & Malcolm Reading Consultants

heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design

heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants
heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants

heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants heneghan peng architects (IE) with multidisciplinary designers Bruce Mau Design. Image © LMNB & Malcolm Reading Consultants

John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group

John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants
John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants

John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants John McAslan + Partners (UK) with MASS Design Group. Image © John McAslan + Partners and MASS Design Group & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects

Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects (FI) with David Morley Architects. Image © Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and David Morley Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects

Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Studio Libeskind (US) with Haptic Architects. Image © Studio Libeskind and Haptic Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Zaha Hadid Architects (UK) with artist Anish Kapoor

Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants
Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants Anish Kapoor with Zaha Hadid Architects (UK). Image © Anish Kapoor and Zaha Hadid Architects & Malcolm Reading Consultants

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The 7th Room / Snøhetta

Posted: 27 Jan 2017 01:00 AM PST

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

From the architect. In the tall pine forest of Northern Sweden, where the tricolored tree trunks stretch up to the soaring crowns, a new addition to the renowned Treehotel has opened. Hovering ten meters above the ground within the tree canopy, the Snøhetta-designed 7th room provides its guests with a breathtaking view of the Lapland treetops and the Lule River. With focus on the surrounding nature, the design features large windows, a netted terrace suspended above the forest floor, and a tree stretching up through the cabin. The boundaries between indoors and outdoors are blurred, making the cabin part of the forest.  

Schema Schema
Schema Schema

The 7th room experience begins when approaching the cabin from the forest. Nearing the base of the tree, the view of the complete cabin gradually recedes as a sixth façade appears. This façade is the bottom of the cabin, where a 12 x 8-meter surface is covered with a large black and white print of trees reaching up into the sky. A staircase brings guests from the ground and up into the cabin, along with a small lift for transporting luggage.

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

Twelve columns carry the cabin, reducing the load borne by the trees and its impact on the surrounding forest. This gives a feeling of height and weightlessness, as well as stability. Built as a traditional Nordic cabin, the wooden façade is clad with pine boards. The surface is burnt to create a dark and maintenance free façade. The indoor flooring is made from ash wood, while birch plywood is used for the interior walls. With complementing light, wooden furniture, the interior makes up a blonde Nordic contrast to the dark exterior.

Section Section

The 55-square meter space is designed to create a place for living. With two bedrooms, a social lounge area, bathroom, and the airy terrace, the cabin accommodates up to five guests. The varying floor heights creates an efficient and playful interior design. The space is laid out on two levels with only 30 cm difference in height. The lounge area is located on the lower floor, while the bedrooms are on the upper level with the beds embedded in the floor.

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson
Site Plan Site Plan
© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

The design of the 7th room aims to bring people and nature closer together, extending the cabin's social spaces to the outside and further blending the distinction between indoor and outdoor. Entering the cabin, one arrives into the lounge area. This is thought of as a social space, and it is furnished with a central pellet stove and simple, yet characteristic furniture such as Scandia Chair by Norwegian furniture designer Hans Brattrud. A north-facing floor-to-ceiling window gives you the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis on a clear day, giving this social space the name the Northern Light lounge. A large glass door leads from the lounge area out on the netted terrace. The double-layered net spans between the two bedrooms with a pine tree peeking through in the middle. Extending the social space of the lounge, the net becomes a great opportunity for coming even closer to nature. For the brave ones, a sleeping bag is all you need to enjoy the night under the starry night sky. Guests sleeping inside can also look up at the night sky, with expansive, openable skylights in both bedrooms. The bedrooms are located on opposite sides of the cabin, facing the central tree and net, with large sliding glass doors to enter out on the net.

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

With large, generous windows in all rooms, natural light is the primary source of light in the cabin. Snøhetta has collaborated with long-established lighting company Ateljé Lyktan, designing two different custom lamps for the 7th room; a bed lamp mounted to the bedroom walls and a suspended light for the lounge area. The lamps are made from birch veneer, reflecting the light in a warm tone on the inside, while the outside is surface treated black, picking up on the contrasting characteristics of the cabin. Piano hinges make it easy to adjust the amount of light being released from the lamps. The lamps thus create a flexible solution for the large variations in daylight throughout the year in the north.

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

With its wooden characteristics and unique location in the treetops, the 7th room is a celebration of the Nordic cabin and the pine tree forest.

© Johan Jansson © Johan Jansson

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Fumihiko Maki Criticizes Indian State Government After Amaravati City Contest

Posted: 26 Jan 2017 10:00 PM PST

Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in

Last week, it was reported that Foster + Partners had been selected to design the capitol complex of Amaravati, a new capital city for the state of Andhra Pradesh in southeastern India. The commission, however, has not come without controversy. As revealed by Indian news company The Wire, the project had earlier been awarded through invited competition to Japanese firm Maki and Associates, who were later removed from the project under uncertain circumstances.

In a letter sent a few weeks ago to India's Council of Architecture, principal Fumihiko Maki has questioned the motivations of the Andhra Pradesh government committee, alleging unfair practice, lack of transparency and his firm's 'fraudulent' removal from the project.

Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in

Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in

The letter states:

We are writing to inform you, as a representative of the governing professional body for architects in India, of our recent experience as a participant in the Amaravati Capital Complex Competition. The Competition itself was organized and conducted fairly in all respects, but in our opinion (and indeed the opinion of others - see attachments from Indian media) Government actions subsequent to the Competition bear further inquiry.

The manner in which the Government treated us following this competition and subsequently appointed a different architect team should be re-examined. This inquiry is, in our opinion, in the best interests of the Indian Architecture as a profession, both for Indian architects and for the International community. The reputation of the Indian Architectural profession is at stake.

Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in

In March of last year, Maki and Associates was selected by a jury of professionals as the winners of the invited competition that also featured proposals from Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners and Vastu Shilpa Consultants / BV Doshi, and were awarded the project by the government of Andhra Pradesh. But once the designs were made public, the scheme faced harsh criticism over 'alienating' buildings and a lack of Indian-inspired architectural influence.

Despite Maki and Associates making extensive design changes to meet the new demands, the government decided to reopen the competition to several new firms, eventually removing the firm from the project.

Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in Maki and Associates' Competition-Winning Design. Via Amavarati.gov.in

Read the letter in full, which includes a full summary of events here.

Find out more about this story via The Wire, here.

News via The Wire.

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