The former animal laboratories of the Charité in Lichterfelde, also known as the Mäusebunker building, have now been placed under monument protection, saving it from the threat of demolition that has been slated since 2010. The brutalist structure was designed by architects Gerd and Magdalena Hänska and built from 1971, and put into operation in 1982. While its strong image, combined with its function as a laboratory for animal tests, resulted in the general public’s distaste for it, the Brutalist building slowly gained acceptance and even a cult status among brutalist fans.
Estonian studio OÜ Kolm Pluss Üks won the international architecture competition for the Tartu Cultural Center. Selected out of a total of 107 proposals, the winning project titled “Paabel” is set to become the cultural heart of the city center, capturing the competition's main goal and developing an outdoor space solution. Kadarik Tüür Arhitektid OÜ took the second position for their design of “Tarte Tatin”, while the third place went to Denmark-based architectural studio Atelier Lorentzen Langkilde Aps.
Designing a bathroom requires careful attention to detail to remain beautiful and organized. The amount of hygiene and health products typically stored in this environment requires functional cabinets and other strategies. Increasingly, we see the solution of using niches to create a recess in the wall. This allows optimizing the available space and, as a bonus, makes the environment more aesthetically pleasing. That's why we bring you some examples of bathroom niches and tips for their installation. In addition, we bring you other examples beyond traditional soap dishes.
Landscape architecture is having a moment. The latest proof: last week, the US Department of Homeland Security decided to accredit the field with its prestigious STEM designation. As part of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educational disciplines that fall under this category, landscape architecture students can now spend an additional 24 months seeking employment and training post-graduation in the United States after an initial period of a year granted to all graduates. The title also promises more prestige, higher entry salaries, and additional career flexibility. Torey Carter-Conneen, CEO of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), calls the development a significant advancement for 'landscape architecture education and practice, and that is great for America and the global community.'
The news corresponds to a growing emphasis on landscape architecture as a pivotal practice around the globe in recent years – one that is closely connected to notions of public health, environmental design, biophilia, sustainability, and re-wilding. It also underlines the intimate relationship between technology and the discipline. Landscape proposals increasingly rely on advanced science and technology to predict how ecological interventions might alter an existing terrain and determine what measures will yield the highest benefit for both humans and nature. The contemporary ideal of wild meadows and biodiverse forests may exist free from external influence, but the path to get there requires assistance.
Municipal Theater rebuilt after the 1870 fire. Photograph by unknown author. Source: Photographic Archive of the National Historical Museum. Image via Ediciones ARQ
This article by Germán Hidalgo Hermosilla was originally published in issue 113 of ARQ magazine. Discussing the renovations to the Santiago Municipal Theater building, from its inauguration in 1857 until nearly a century later, Germán Hidalgo recounts the forces driving change: natural disasters, stylistic debates, and urban modernization, among others. The foyer occupies a central role in this narrative as a space of presentation and representation: where the technical demands of the theater meet the aspirations of an institution, a city, and the building's successive architects.
The "Construye para Crecer" (Build to Grow) project by Susana Biondi Antunez de Mayolo and René Poggione Gonzáles (Poggione+Biondi Arquitectos) was named the winner of the XIX National Architecture Biennial of Peru 2022. The jury highlighted its "comprehensive sustainability proposal linked to efficient water management, energy, and the life cycle of the proposed materials." Remarkably, the design not only incorporates an artificial wetland to support the local ecology but is also structured to be built primarily of timber.
This would make the residential complex one of the tallest timber-built developments in South America, directly addressing material use and energy efficiency in the country. It promotes sustainable forest management while offering an environmentally conscious alternative that minimizes energy consumption and boasts a low life-cycle impact.
The work of the French-Swiss architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret is, among many other adjectives, comprehensive. Le Corbusier explored a wide range of scales in his work, from furniture design to urban planning for entire cities. His diverse portfolio also encompassed painting, varied projects, and writing books. One thing that isn't talked about as much, however, was the color theory he developed and applied to several of his architectural designs and artistic endeavors. Deeply rooted in his belief that color plays a significant role in evoking emotions and creating spatial illusions, Le Corbusier's color theory was described in his book "PolyChromie Architecturale" (polychrome architecture), published in 1931. There, he introduced his concept and a carefully curated range of colors that were intended to be used in specific architectural contexts.
Architects and builders often opt for metal panels due to their exceptional qualities: durability, affordability, and versatility. These attributes hold immense value for construction professionals, who constantly seek cost-effective solutions. Moreover, when a product seamlessly merges desired aesthetics with optimal performance, it becomes a highly sought-after choice for a diverse range of projects.
Developed by GXN for the 2023 UIA World Congress of Architects in Copenhagen, The (P)RECAST Pavilion explores the possibility of reusing precast concrete elements from existing buildings to promote circularity and reduced carbon emissions in the construction industry. The pavilion showcases salvaged concrete elements alongside 200-year-old timber beams, highlighting their aesthetic and structural value. Following the same motivation but through a different approach, MEE Studio has developed The Regenerative Cabin. Located in Copenhagen, the structure explores the applied use of regenerative biogenic materials to reduce the carbon emissions associated with the building materials.
Biophilia, or love for life and nature, inspires architects around the world to create spaces that deeply connect with natural elements. These architectural projects seek to reintroduce nature into built environments, resulting in spaces that promote well-being, health, inspiration, and even productivity. In Brazil, the possibilities are even broader, given the country's exuberant climate and the vegetation found in various biomes. In this article, we will explore seven projects from different programs that embrace this concept and allow for a symbiosis between architecture, humans, and nature.
At first, adding a mezzanine floor to a layout either seems like a complete waste of good floorspace or a clumsy attempt to squeeze two stories into one – like wearing skinny jeans after Christmas – both spaces end up feeling constricted and uncomfortable.
But whether the intermediate-level floor is achieved by addition – erecting an extra level in a high-ceilinged room, or by subtraction – removing part of the floor to connect with the one below, mezzanines are a relatively simple way to dramatically change and improve how we use and interact with our existing environments.
There is often an intricate relationship between architecture and the environment. Each part of the world has defined its own architectural techniques based on its unique climatic conditions. However, environmental concerns in the 21st century provoked new techniques, implementing solutions to preserve natural resources and provide thermal comfort. While some opted for a futuristic approach with mechanical and technologically-advanced solutions, others decided to go back in time and explore how civilizations protected their people, architecture, and environment when they had nothing else to resort to but the environment itself. In this article, we look at how Musharrabiyas found their way back into modern-day architecture as significant vernacular features.
Spring is a time for rebirth, for the shedding of old skin and fresh beginnings. Anyone who has spent the last few months hopping across the globe for in-person fairs can testify to the fact that this seasonal renewal trend did not skip the architecture and design industry. Loaded with post-pandemic energy and a desire to catch up on all that's been missed due to Covid-19, organizers, attendees and exhibitors were adamant to mix things up in 2023.
Koelnmesse was no exception. Not only did the organizers of imm cologne defy expectations by pushing the fair to a spring slot from 4 to 7 June, they also saw an opportunity to finally implement format changes that they had been contemplating well before the world shut down for the larger part of three years.
As they recognize the growing significance of innovation in today’s business landscape, architecture firms are experiencing a transformation. Companies across diverse industries have also come to appreciate the impact of design on cracking challenges, thanks to the success of design-focused startups such as Airbnb. Traditionally confined to designing physical structures, architecture firms are broadening their scope and embracing research and innovation as integral elements of their design process. With the establishment of research and innovation divisions, these firms not only enhance their own practices but also offer their expertise to address the evolving needs of our era—ranging from human and technological advancements to strategic innovation.
After a prolonged period of decline, in September of 476 AD, the Roman Empire lost authority over its vast territory and fractured into numerous successor political entities. This event marked the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Although this occurred centuries ago, its influence remains present today through numerous contributions to contemporary society. One of these architectural contributions is the public bath, of which one of the finest examples still survives: The Roman Baths in Bath, England.
Early public baths featured their own diverse architectural programs, incorporating everything from cold, warm, and hot pools to services such as shops, gyms, and libraries. Over time, public restrooms have evolved, becoming more sophisticated and compact units that integrate new materials and technologies into large-scale building programs. As part of this evolution, contemporary materials like stainless steel have been incorporated into the equipment developed by Sanilock, owing to their hygienic and low-maintenance qualities.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136177/why-is-stainless-steel-a-good-material-for-public-restroomsEnrique Tovar
Last week, the President*s Design (P*DA) Award chose 8 winning recipients for its 2023 edition. The award that honors designers making a transformative and positive impact on the lives of Singapore’s society and the broader global community recognized Henning Larsen, BIG, and the Singapore Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai.
The P*DA presented two categories: Designer of the Year and Design of the Year. Organized jointly by the DesignSingapore Council and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), the biennial award was given to two “Designer of the Year” and six “Design of the Year” recipients. Beyond the excellence of their design execution, the honorees demonstrated a genuine sense of purpose and mission that is consistent with P*DA's core values. The outstanding designs of this year tackle fundamental and systemic issues like consumerism and circularity, dementia and caregiving, climate change and sustainability, and show how Singapore is developing its best design practices that are applicable to enhancing lives worldwide.
Disguise, makeup. Expression of the subjectivity of a group, language, or sign. Historical document, emblem of fleeting fashions. A crime. Ornaments have been interpreted in different ways and are considered one of the most degenerate sins of architecture. Resisting the temptation of decoration has become a virtue, a legitimate sign of authenticity and a possible future.
From their styling of a brand-new London show apartment, it's clear that design-duo 2LG Studio has eyes on both past and future. With a mix of new design furniture, vintage pieces and unique artworks, the interior comes across as contemporary and fresh. Image Courtesy of BoConcept
Thoughtful, captivating and spectacular; today’s interior designers are boldly demonstrating how to create statements through conceptual interiors. Whether expressing reserved minimalism, flamboyant playfulness or organic naturalness, there tends to be a strong and elaborate idea behind the interior concepts being developed currently. Just take a look at the increase in and popularity of design hotels, as well as the number of distinctive and highly stylized restaurants. The impact that our physical surroundings have on us –the shapes, colors, materials and lighting– plays a central role when new hospitality and retail venues are being developed. Interior design delivers definitive experiences and so can be cleverly implemented to speak to our senses and therefore induce specific emotions and reactions.
When it comes to facades, there are numerous options to consider to define both the appearance and the message a building seeks to convey. While glazed surfaces bring sophistication and evoke corporate environments, exposed concrete offers sobriety, and wood lends warmth, few materials are as versatile for facades as HPL (high-pressure laminate). With a wide range of dimensions, colors, and textures, these panels easily adapt to different architectural styles, opening up endless creative possibilities.
Preschool is more than just a place to leave young children; it is a space that allows them to connect with their imagination and senses through the colors, textures, and layout of their environment. In Chile, many architects have committed to translating these learning opportunities into the architecture itself.
From the recently built Golondrina Preschool and Nursery in Valparaíso to the renowned Bambú Preschool in Santiago,we present a selection of outstanding projects that leverage these attributes, enabling both children and educators to engage in their activities in dynamic and creative ways.
Nadia Somekh, a guest on Betoneira, speaks about housing for all. Drawing on her extensive experience in the public sector as an architect, manager, and activist, Somekh begins the conversation by noting that while public housing policies in Brazil are not yet where they need to be, progress is being made. Her research on verticalization shows that, since 1957, zoning and urban planning regulations in São Paulo have systematically excluded low-income populations from apartments. For instance, these regulations prohibited the construction of studio apartments on Avenida Nove de Julho and Avenida Paulista.
At first glance, building a pool right beside another body of water seems a little redundant. After all, why would someone choose to swim in a pool when they have a river or ocean to enjoy? However, for people with limited mobility and younger more inexperienced swimmers, natural bodies of water can prove both daunting and dangerous. Pools not only provide a controlled, secure space for them to enjoy aquatic activities, they also provide a connection with the surrounding landscape.
The lack of safe drinking water and adequate sanitation is an issue that still affects millions of people worldwide; even in the 21st century, a large portion of the population lacks full access to these basic resources. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) show that about 3 in 10 people—equivalent to 2.1 billion people globally—do not have access to safe drinking water at home, and approximately 60% of the global population lacks access to safely managed sanitation services, including many living in urbanized areas.
