Because the rebuilding of cities is so important, the effort to do so, if that effort is based on recognizable principles, deserves recognition as something special. If by giving these principles a different name, they can bring together urbanists with different views about, for instance, building new towns, then simply for political reasons it’s worth doing.
Cities are worthy of their own movement.
Popularity: 31% [?]
A working-class neighborhood became a bohemian theme park, which in turn became a fantasyland for luxury-condo developers. Now, littered with half-built shells of a vanished boom, Williamsburg is looking like something else entirely: Miami.
Popularity: 16% [?]
Architecture can be tough on second bananas. A case in point: Edward H. Bennett, the co-author with the legendary Daniel Burnham of the Plan of Chicago, the tome of soaring prose, dazzling renderings and profound influence whose 100th anniversary will be celebrated Saturday.
Popularity: 22% [?]
Existence is the ultimate proof of the possible. Every time a bold new project is tried, and works, we advance our sense of the achievable. Given how much transformation we need in order to meet the challenges we face, we need many more attempts at innovation, and we’re not getting them. The achievable is not advancing quickly enough.
Popularity: 26% [?]
As the population rises, underused and empty spaces are going to fill in. How well the transition works depends on shifts in demographics and infrastructure, as well as architecture. A studio of UCLA architecture students were asked to plot that transition. But before they could be architects, they had to be planners.
Popularity: 41% [?]
The competition is dedicated to (re) think the basics physical and social structures of the cities on the contemporary scenario. Re-Inventcities asked to be understood as an urban-theoretical project seeking to promote the discussion about contemporary landscape of the city taking into account the values of sustainability on large urban agglomerations.
Popularity: 31% [?]
Even people who believe that the royal family should be seen and not heard have to admit that when it comes to contemporary architecture, Prince Charles has a robust talent for imaginative insults. Prince Charles is accused by his critics of abusing his power and influence.
Popularity: 13% [?]
Most “green building” solutions are actually obvious: extremely good insulation, smart ways to use natural ventilation, and, perhaps, ways to reduce water use or recycle water. If you want to get fancy with it, throw in a solar panel or two; add on a couple of smart energy meters.
But what’s next? What’s the future of green, after we address those basics outlined above?
The architect Michael Pawlyn has created some of the world’s most intriguing answers.
Popularity: 32% [?]
The buildings will be the latest word in energy efficiency: 60% of all waste will be recycled, and the settlement will be laid out in such a way as to encourage walking and discourage driving. But this is not the latest experiment in European green living. This is a ground-breaking mega development in China that could serve as a model for eco cities across the developing world, say to its backers.
Popularity: 13% [?]
During the academic year 2008—2009, the College of Design at the University of Kentucky conducted a year-long research and design study of the Shippingport area in Louisville. The Shippingport area, located just west of downtown Louisville, has significant waterfront and extensive infrastructure and enormous potential for future development. Development has been limited, however, because the entire area is cut off from the rest of the city by the freeway. In fall 2008, students analyzed and made strategic design proposals for the Shippingport area intended to stimulate economic development and bring much-needed jobs. Proposals included a complex of business incubators and needed vocational schools, including a culinary school with a restaurant; a centralized hospitality complex; a network of pocket parks that connect to the existing Olmstead Park system; and a new Green Ford Motor Company Campus where a new line of hybrid and electric products would be designed, developed and built.
Popularity: 35% [?]