Chicago – Illinois – USA (by Clark & Kim Kays)
Grimshaw has released new images and a video of their design for the Sustainability Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. Striving to “illuminate the ingenuity and possibility of architecture as society looks to intelligent strategies for sustainable future living,” the Sustainability Pavilion joins designs from Foster + Partners and BIG to make up the three main structures on the Expo’s HOK-designed masterplan.
The pavilion design, developed with engineering consultants Buro Happold, draws inspiration from complex natural process like photosynthesis to create a dynamic structure capable of capturing energy from the sun and fresh water from humidity in the air. The striking form and innovative systems will help draw in visitors while demonstrating the capability of architecture to become self-sustaining even in extreme climates.
The pavilion will also highlight the often overlooked world of plant and animal life found in the desert environment of the UAE, illustrating the extraordinary ways that nature is capable of reacting to its setting.
Considering longevity of use as an aspect of sustainability, the pavilion is designed both to accommodate the large crowds expected at Expo 2020 and to continue in its function beyond the life of the Expo – the structure will feature flexible elements that will allow the building to reduce its resource consumption once the period of high-traffic is finished.
“As the United Arab Emirates endeavors to establish itself as a global cultural leader, it is important that the Expo be represented by design that is both functional and revelatory, utilizing technology and inventive design to deliver a distinct architectural presence driven by the message it intends to convey,” said Grimshaw in a press release.
The project will be realized with support from Grimshaw’s newest office in Dubai, opened recently to serve a number of projects in the Middle East region and beyond.
News via Grimshaw.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is pleased to announce the launch of an international open design competition for ‘The Wall’ – a structure made of a million bricks to represent answered prayer. The competition is being managed on behalf of the charity Network, The Evangelical Council for the Manchester Area Trust.
‘The Wall’ competition is a unique opportunity for talented designers to unleash their creativity to design a new dramatic and inspirational UK landmark, a significant commission of public art. The idea of a former Leicester City FC Chaplain, Richard Gamble, this structure will consist of a million bricks each representing an individual answered prayer. Potentially the size of 62 houses, it is intended to be built by the side of a motorway. In April 2016 over £47,000 was raised through crowdfunding with people from across the world getting involved in this innovative project.
“It was a real thrill for us to hit our crowdfunding target earlier in the year. That has enabled us to partner with the RIBA to run a global design competition. Now in just a matter of months we will be able to get an idea of what ‘The Wall of Answered Prayer’ will look like.” – Richard Gamble
Renato Benedetti, Benedetti Architects and RIBA Adviser said: “We are looking for very high quality, deliverable, innovative submissions which will inspire and intrigue.”
The competition is open internationally to architects, engineers, artists, sculptors, technologists and other related design professionals. Collaborations amongst these disciplines are also encouraged. The initial phase of the competition will require teams to submit designs anonymously, in digital format only. The closing date for first stage entries is Monday 7 November at 2pm.
The high profile panel of judges including: Renato Benedetti, Benedetti Architects, RIBA Adviser; Rt. Hon. Stephen Timms MP; Baronness Sal Brinton; and Pam Rhodes (Broadcaster, Writer and BBC Presenter Songs of Praise) will consider the entries and up to five concept designs will then be shortlisted to participate in the second phase.
“This project has created a lot of interest since the idea was launched earlier this year, with many people asking what might this Prayer Landmark look like. Over these coming months, we will see people around the world join the journey, submitting concept designs. I anticipate a large number of entries to keep the judges on our toes, as we carefully see the next stage of this project come alive.” – Stephen Timms MP.
Each shortlisted designer will receive an honorarium of £4,000 + VAT.
For further information about how to enter the competition please visit: http://ift.tt/2c8rBvd . For press enquiries please contact Adam May on tel: 07736 949 869 or email press@thewall.org.uk
Press Release via RIBA.
From the architect. For an architect working on their very first built project, the temptation to condense several years’ worth of education into a single is a strong one. Usually, however, such lofty desires are tempered by the realities of the budgetary, geographical and material constraints. Such was the case with Argentinean architect Rosario Talevi’s first project, a house known as Casa Abieta. There was though, an additional parameter here that isn’t something encountered but most architects during their “maiden voyage”: the client was her own mother. What is most striking about the project is the manner in which the parameters in question have not only have shaped but also enhanced the final building. The result of conditions leading to convictions, the creativity that comes from such constrictions is playfully evidence by Talevi’s house.
A project that has been on-going since 2011, Casa Abierta is located not far from La Pedrera, a seaside village in Rocha on the south east coast of Uruguay. Its location is notable in the first instance for its rugged beauty; but this wildness extends beyond the geography, characterising the historical context as well as the budget and nature of the materials and resources available for the project. The house is in the middle of land that was once envisioned as a joint entity of La Pedrera and Punta Rubia, which would form an urban beach resort. The plan, which dates from the 1930s, never materialised but the urban regulations according to which it was conceived do endure. The 34m long x 8.8m wide plot, some 2 kilometres from the nearest neighbour, adheres to these unfinished, “invisible” streets. This density-that-never-was also means that basic infrastructure concerns, such as connection to water and electricity grids – even a path leading to the plot – were absent.
The effects of these parameters are manifest in the structure not as compromises but as decisive gestures. The house is conceived as the assembly of two bodies: one that responds to the restrictions of the land and stretches along the lot’s entire 34m length. It occupies the maximum width allowed (6.8m) and is anchored on its highest point. The second body, diagonally orientated to the south, interrupts the house’s orthogonal system, in the process providing shelter against the ferocious south-easterly wind that has shaped the surrounding landscape. Resting on a wooden structure elevated 2m above the ground and standing at a maximum height of 7.5 m, Casa Abierta has access to ample views over the surrounding landscape and will continue to do so even if in the future, even if new constructions appear.
Beyond the layout of the house, the technology which addresses the infrastructural limitations is again, steeped in the language of confidence rather than compromise. With its wooden framed built from FSC-certified Pinus elliotii and Eucalyptus from Brazil (both locally available, keeping costs down) the structure is naturally eco-friendly – but to call it such is a little flattening. “Eco-adapting” or “eco-respecting” might be a more appropriate description. Water from a natural well (filtered through a three step system) is heated using solar energy and during the winter, the central chimney warms the entire house, negating the need for any additional heating system. Natural light floods in thanks to the architect’s decision to surround the staircase with enclosing walls build from translucent polycarbonate. The house’s first level sits two meters above the ground, with the living space forming one large room arranged around that chimney. The second level comprises two bedrooms plus a deck, with rooftop terrace on the level above.
Reflecting upon the timing of the project, Talevi remarks, “While designing Casa Abierta, I officially became an Architect. Being both my opera prima and a family project, building the house became an extremely personal experience. It also defied everything I had learnt during my years as a student. It was a process of trial and error that examined knowledge, beliefs and references. While questioning ideas about space, its definition and its use throughout time, I was also exploring a shared design process and the intimacy of family life.” The definition of space that characterises Casa Abierta has already found meaning for the architect, their client and observers alike: a house, a home, enduring proof of constraint as a catalyst for creativity.
The management team behind a 430-metre-long glass bridge in China say its forced closure just 13 days after opening is completely normal. (more…)
Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness in Idaho was established in August, 2015 following unanimous passage into law by Congress. This 23,916 acre wilderness features hiking, fishing and equestrian use, as well as opportunities to just “get away” and enjoy some solitude. The view from Jerry Peak alone is worth the visit. Photo by Matt Leidecker, @mypubliclands.
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They say depression is a silent killer because nobody knows when it creeps in and starts to affect you. Because of this, diagnosing the medical condition can be hard.
This, however, doesn’t mean that there’s no way for you to recognize it. Here are 15 of the most common symptoms of depression you should know.
If you get constant physical pain even when your physician claims you’re healthy, then you should pay extra attention to your health. Unexplainable physical pain is likely a result of a psyche issue.
This type of pain is usually unresponsive to pain medications. Non-pharmacological interventions aren’t likely to ease the discomfort as well. If you’re struggling with these concerns, then there’s a good chance you could be suffering from mental depression.
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Depression makes you feel sad, guilty, and worthless. These negative feelings are so intense that they can disturb your sleep, too.
In other people, this works backward. They have no strength to bear such negative emotions that they just choose to run from reality by oversleeping.
On average, an adult needs 7-8 hours of sleep every day. If you are taking less or more than the average sleeping time, it’s a good idea to ask yourself why. Not every case of insomnia or oversleeping is due to depression, but they are closely related.
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Some people binge-eat to channel their depression because they think eating more can make them happier. On the other hand, there are also people who can’t find joy and contentment in eating when they’re depressed. This leads to appetite and weight loss.
See Also: 4 Ways To Overcome Depression Naturally
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When you are depressed, you tend to get tired easily. This can happen even if you didn’t do any hard work during the entire day. Sitting in front of the TV, lying in bed, and staying at home all day can still leave you feeling too exhausted.
When you are depressed, you become either rushed or slowed down.
Some people agitate under depression because their depressive thoughts push them into a state of panic. There are people who slow down instead because they are less interested in their lives.
Even when you’re surrounded by family and friends, you can still feel depressed. That’s because you no longer feel any connection with them. You don’t trust them, so you’re reluctant to share your problems and ask for help.
When you’re depressed, you often feel unconsciously guilty because you’re not healthy enough, not strong enough, and not happy enough. You don’t want to trouble people with your condition, so you try to compensate by faking a smile and telling them that you’re okay.
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Depression can affect how you view life. Those activities that you previously enjoyed are no longer irrelevant to you. Camping, partying and reading books now seem unenjoyable for you. And the more depress you become, the less pleasure you find in doing them.
When you’re depressed, it’s easy to feel meaningless. This view can upset you in the inside, even if you don’t feel so.
The more you drown yourself with this idea, the more negative feelings you develop. These emotions can affect your relationship with other people. Although they can try their best to understand and help you, you see their efforts as worthless so you just push them aside.
When you’re depressed, you don’t feel sad or angry. Even if someone gets mad and yells at you, you don’t get upset. You feel no happiness either. When someone tries to crack a funny joke, you only laugh because it’s what’s expected of you.
You lose your emotions because you feel worthless and that you don’t matter to anyone.
When you’re depressed, your mind is full of depressive and negative ideas. This makes you unable to concentrate on certain matters, like your work, studies and other interests.
If you find difficulties concentrating at work or school, it’s a good idea to reassess your thoughts and recognize any possible causes.
Mistakes typically come with the emotion of guilt. If an error is too petty to cause harm, guilt usually dissipates easily. But, when you’re depressed, it doesn’t really matter if the mistake you’ve committed is big or small. You can carry the same intense guilt for a long time.
See Also: How To Fight Depression: The Ultimate Guide
It’s normal for people to feel empty from time to time. This happens most frequently to people who lack the time to take a break and enjoy life. However, with the right interventions, this feeling can fade away quickly.
When you’re depressed, you’ll find it hard to shake the feeling even after you’ve taken the necessary actions. You can take time off of work, go to a vacation or talk to a counselor, yet you’ll still feel the same emptiness.
People with depression often look down on themselves. They see their depression as something abnormal and disgusting. They consider their depression as a sign of weakness and they loathe themselves for that.
The level of loathing varies from person to person. Some people self-criticize every little thing they do. Some people can’t even look at themselves in the mirror. In severe cases, depressed people think that the world will be better off without them in it.
Mentally healthy people don’t normally think about death. They’re more preoccupied with living their lives and attaining their personal goals, like getting a stable job, starting a family and gaining professional success.
But, if you’re depressed, you’ll find yourself constantly thinking about dying. This is actually one of the most dangerous symptoms of depression. You’ll be obsessed with the things that can happen after your death and how you can end your life. No matter how hard you try to shake that thought, they just keep coming back to you.
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The post 15 Symptoms You Are Depressed (Even When You Think You Aren’t) appeared first on Dumb Little Man.
From the architect. VIΛ 57 West, designed by BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group for the Durst Organization, introduces a new typology to New York City: the Courtscraper. The 830 000 sq ft highrise combines the density of the American skyscraper with the communal space of the European courtyard, offering 709 residential units with a lush 22 000 sq ft garden at the heart of the building.
VIΛ occupies nearly a full city block at the corner of West 57th Street and the West Side Highway, with uninterrupted views towards the Hudson River Park and the waterfront. The Durst Organization commissioned BIG to design a building for the site in the spring of 2010, and construction commenced in 2011. The 32-story building has welcomed residents since May 2016 with the construction completing this Fall. Earlier this year, the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) named VIΛ the Best Tall Building in the Americas as part of its 2016 Tall Buildings Award.
“We are very excited about the building, and the activity has exceeded our expectations in terms of velocity and the rents. We always were thrilled with the building but even more so now.” Douglas Durst, The Durst Organization
The VIΛ Courtscraper is a hybrid between the European perimeter block and the traditional American highrise. The building peaks at 450 feet at its north-east corner, thereby maximizing the number of apartments and graciously preserving the adjacent Helena Tower’s views of the river. VIΛ’s volume changes depending on the viewer’s vantage point. From the west, it is a hyperbolic paraboloid or a warped pyramid. From the east, the Courtscraper appears to be a slender spire.
The shared green space at the heart of the block is derived from the classic Copenhagen ‘urban oasis’. The courtyard has the exact same proportions as Olmsted’s park, just 13,000 times smaller – a bonsai Central Park. In a similar accumulation of natural landscapes, the courtyard transforms from a shaded forest in the east, to a sunny meadow in the west. Designed by landscape architecture firm Starr Whitehouse, it features 80 newly planted trees and lawns, and 47 species of native plant material.
“In recent decades, some of the most interesting urban developments have come in the form of nature and public space, reinserting themselves back into the postindustrial pockets, freeing up around the city; the pedestrianization of Broadway & Times Square; the bicycle lanes, the High Line and the industrial piers turning into parks. Located at the northern tip of the Hudson River Park, VIΛ continues this process of greenification allowing open space to invade the urban fabric of the Manhattan city grid. In an unlikely fusion of what seems to be two mutually exclusive typologies – the courtyard and the skyscraper, the Courtscraper is the most recent addition to the Manhattan skyline.” Bjarke Ingels, Founding Partner, BIG.
By keeping three corners of the block low and lifting the north-east portion of the building, the courtyard opens views towards the Hudson River and brings the low western sun deep into the block. While the courtyard is a private space and a sanctuary for residents, it can still be seen from the outside, creating a visual connection to the greenery of the Hudson River Park.
The building is predominantly residential units of different sizes with cultural and commercial program at the street level and the second floor. The lower levels of VIΛ have a strong relationship to the courtyard. The lobby is connected directly to the courtyard via a grand stair which invites residents into the courtyard space. The generous amenities at VIΛ include lounges and events spaces, a golf simulator, movie screening room, a pool, a basketball court, gym and exercise studios, and game rooms for poker, ping pong, billiards and shuffle board, and are all constructed around the courtyard to create a strong physical and visual connection between the interior and exterior communal spaces.
At the upper levels, the apartments are organized on a fishbone layout, orienting the homes towards the view of the water. Large terraces are carved into the warped façade to maximize views and light into the apartments, while ensuring privacy between the residents.
The material concept for the interior design of the project is “Scandimerican”, another layer of the European-American hybridity. They blend classic modern Scandinavian material sensibility blended with local New York materials. The primary materials of the apartments are oak wood floors and cabinets, and white porcelain tiles in the bathrooms.
As an ultimate union of Scandimerican design, the event spaces feature the Via57 chair, designed in collaboration with BIG and KiBiSi for Danish heritage brand, Republic of Fritz Hansen. The design translates the distinct tetrahedronal shape of the building into a multi-functional piece of furniture, bringing a piece of the Manhattan skyline into shared spaces for VIΛ residents.
The building also features a complementing eight-story sculpture by Stephen Glassman entitled “Flows Two Ways,” anchored on the façade of the adjacent Helena tower. Once completed, the ground floor commercial space will host such public amenities as a restaurant from the Livanos Restaurant Group, a Landmark Theatres movie cinema and the first U.S. retail store for the American Kennel Club.
Sig Nordal 