Archinect - News
2024-12-24T20:01:24-05:00
https://archinect.com/news/article/150456063/som-and-neri-debut-inaugural-line-of-urban-furniture
SOM and Neri debut inaugural line of urban furniture
Niall Patrick Walsh
2024-11-29T08:45:00-05:00
>2024-12-07T12:09:35-05:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ac/acd1a9504227b28a272e11c335f140d8.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/skidmoreowingsmerrill" target="_blank">Skidmore, Owings & Merrill</a> has collaborated with Italian manufacturer Neri on a collection of outdoor <a href="https://archinect.com/news/category/82/furniture" target="_blank">furniture</a> products. Named the Nebula collection, the products are designed to fill a need for considered, versatile street furniture to populate main streets and urban corridors. The collection includes bench seating, stools, tables, and a bicycle rack.</p>
<p></p>
<p>“This is a collection born of necessity,” said Carlos Madrid III, Senior Associate Principal at SOM, about the collection. “Our firm has a long history of working at the urban scale, and we have consistently found a dearth of products in the marketplace that are flexible enough to work at the scale of the conversation, as well as the scale of the city.”</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150452363/asif-khan-homages-victorian-london-timber-laborers-with-canada-water-boardwalk
Asif Khan homages Victorian London timber laborers with Canada Water boardwalk
Josh Niland
2024-10-30T18:07:00-04:00
>2024-10-31T13:46:49-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/f5/f51a616072e8f07183bdd9cd25e354f9.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/150049152/asif-khan" target="_blank">Asif Khan</a>’s contribution to London's <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/676656/canada-water" target="_blank">Canada Water</a> master plan, a 230-foot-long boardwalk designed to homage the historic Surrey Docks' laborers and their role in Britain’s bygone timber industry heyday, has debuted in collaboration with the award-winning firm Townshend Landscape Architect.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/96/9693eecd89da018fe29b2fa04f131b94.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/96/9693eecd89da018fe29b2fa04f131b94.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: © Brendan Bell</figcaption></figure><p>Located on the rehabilitated shoreline of the River Thames in southeast London, the firms worked together with the London Wildlife Trust to deliver the project that doubles as a social hub, stepping down to the water's edge to include seating areas and an educational pond. <br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/8b/8b6eb1d4fbb44aabaa9fa8f3b7776145.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/8b/8b6eb1d4fbb44aabaa9fa8f3b7776145.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: © Brendan Bell</figcaption></figure><p>Surrounding it are a series of manmade islands and channels that attract and support avian species, conceived of as a 'mosaic' of different biodiversity enhancing natural habitats. <br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/fe/fef7287ad1d6e431fd5892e6d420255e.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/fe/fef7287ad1d6e431fd5892e6d420255e.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: © Luke Hayes</figcaption></figure><p>Inspired to design a pensive respite from the pace of the city, Khan says: "Crossing water can give us powerful sensations. This boardwalk immerses us in a few moments of colour, of nature...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150452226/farshid-moussavi-one-of-ten-appointed-to-mayor-of-london-s-new-town-architects-committee
Farshid Moussavi one of ten appointed to Mayor of London’s new Town Architects committee
Josh Niland
2024-10-29T15:53:00-04:00
>2024-10-29T15:54:04-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/43/435c72c809a8ed7b7e6d7cbdef888839.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>London Mayor <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/746233/sadiq-khan" target="_blank">Sadiq Khan</a> has announced the appointment of <a href="https://archinect.com/harvard" target="_blank">Harvard GSD</a> professor and architect <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/12149/farshid-moussavi" target="_blank">Farshid Moussavi</a> to a new two-year pilot program to improve public space and high streets in the city. </p>
<p>The Town Architects program includes ten total names and is meant to "support the creation of safe, inclusive and sustainable neighbourhoods and economic growth by ensuring that boroughs" by augmenting the planning process in unison with Chief Placeshaping Officers and Design Champions. Each architect was chosen from the existing Design Advocates pool. Joining Moussavi are Jas Bhalla, Adam Khan, Ken Okonkwo, Holly Lewis, Hilary Satchwell, Paul Monaghan, Tom Holbrook, Alice Fung, Julian Lewis.</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150451238/new-york-city-previews-initial-pedestrian-minded-future-of-fifth-redesign-proposal
New York City previews initial pedestrian-minded ‘Future of Fifth’ redesign proposal
Josh Niland
2024-10-21T18:51:00-04:00
>2024-10-22T14:32:15-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/f0/f0e2aae618394bb0a2a70d29b137261c.png?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>The full details for a proposed new pedestrian corridor along Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan designed by <a href="https://archinect.com/fieldoperations" target="_blank">Field Operations</a> have been released by the city in anticipation of the first redesign of the famous thoroughfare in its 200-year history.</p>
<p>The plan covers a swath from Central Park South to Bryant Park, expanding sidewalks in the area by 46% and reducing the number of lanes for motor vehicle traffic from five to three. </p>
<p><a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/23751963/arcadis" target="_blank">Arcadis</a> and <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/75793127/sam-schwartz-engineering" target="_blank">Sam Schwartz Engineering</a> are joining Field Operations as the co-leads of the design and study. Their work expands on the previous mayoral administration’s <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1856661/open-streets" target="_blank">Open Streets program</a>. The city says the plan is "projected to pay for itself in less than five years through increased property and sales tax revenue."<br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/0d/0d9f7b24627f4bada16e7e1c6a0e7f4e.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/0d/0d9f7b24627f4bada16e7e1c6a0e7f4e.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image courtesy of City Hall</figcaption></figure><p>Aside from the stated economic benefit the redesign is meant ultimately to solve an existing spatial imbalance, as 70% of Fifth Avenue's current daily traffic is pedestrians. <br></p>
<p>At this volume—which increases during times wh...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150449588/field-operations-completes-major-elevated-walkway-on-seattle-waterfront
Field Operations completes major elevated walkway on Seattle waterfront
Niall Patrick Walsh
2024-10-08T08:31:00-04:00
>2024-10-08T13:57:13-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/cb/cb10d06e31bfd13789460e0ef51beadb.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/7932/seattle" target="_blank">Seattle’s</a> Waterfront Park transformation took another step closer to completion last week with the opening of Overlook Walk, a new <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1970627/public-park" target="_blank">elevated park</a> for the waterfront designed by <a href="https://archinect.com/fieldoperations" target="_blank">Field Operations</a>. The new walkway creates a “new pedestrian destination and journey between the city and waterfront,” linking the historic Pike Place Market with the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150332767/lmn-architects-sweeping-seattle-aquarium-expansion-sees-significant-construction-progress" target="_blank">Seattle Aquarium</a>, Pier 62, Waterfront Park, and Elliott Bay.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d8/d8c0bd7397cbba32169bddaaa59e56dc.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d8/d8c0bd7397cbba32169bddaaa59e56dc.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image credit: Tim Rice</figcaption></figure><figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/16/169f7cb0bdfebc0c4f422415f7a90a57.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/16/169f7cb0bdfebc0c4f422415f7a90a57.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Image credit: Tim Rice</figcaption></figure></figure><p>The walkway is located in the footprint of the former Alaskan Way Viaduct, which was demolished to improve access to the waterfront. Sitting between Pike Place Market and the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150356973/lmn-architects-seattle-aquarium-expansion-receives-1m-murdock-trust-grant" target="_blank">Seattle Aquarium</a>, Overlook Walk bridges a nearly 100 vertical foot gap between the market and waterfront, featuring 360-degree views of downtown Seattle, Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains on the western horizon, and Mount Rainier to the south.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/52/52959bd35bd0dcb7e615e2e543b0300f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/52/52959bd35bd0dcb7e615e2e543b0300f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image credit: Tim Rice</figcaption></figure><figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/a4/a4ac65f0a8e4c305d9016827180fb496.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/a4/a4ac65f0a8e4c305d9016827180fb496.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Image credit: Lara Swimmer</figcaption></figure></figure><p>The design also envelops the new <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150332767/lmn-architects-sweeping-seattle-aquarium-expansion-sees-significant-construction-progress" target="_blank">Seattle Aquarium Ocea...</a></p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150448546/field-operations-announces-new-the-bentway-islands-project-in-toronto
Field Operations announces new The Bentway Islands project in Toronto
Josh Niland
2024-09-30T12:00:00-04:00
>2024-09-30T14:45:30-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d1/d1e45ebd4028541fb212c6f7f0c63a06.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/fieldoperations" target="_blank">Field Operations</a> has announced they are working with Canadian partners <a href="https://archinect.com/BrookMcIlroy" target="_blank">Brook McIlroy</a> on a new public realm rehabilitation project dubbed The Bentway Islands in Toronto. </p>
<p>The plan calls for the redevelopment of three traffic islands into a new space that totals 125,000 square feet. Design concepts for the project will be revealed next year. It will serve as the "sister site" to a previously completed Phase I development. Field Operations also recently completed the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150447701/domino-square-opens-completing-field-operations-domino-park-contribution-in-williamsburg" target="_blank">final piece</a> of the award-winning Domino Park in Williamsburg. Brooklyn.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/c7/c7eb1eb3d254d0c1095f2311e76a0054.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/c7/c7eb1eb3d254d0c1095f2311e76a0054.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image courtesy The Bentway</figcaption></figure><figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/0b/0b8ab47f556bccc1c1cf7366477c486f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/0b/0b8ab47f556bccc1c1cf7366477c486f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Phase I of The Bentway development. Image courtesy Nic Lehoux</figcaption></figure><figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/5a/5a85dd5051159a4835e243010a0b3125.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/5a/5a85dd5051159a4835e243010a0b3125.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Phase I of The Bentway development. Image courtesy Brandon Ferguson</figcaption></figure><p><br></p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150444204/new-york-city-releases-rfp-to-transform-park-avenue-into-a-verdant-public-space
New York City releases RFP to transform Park Avenue into a verdant, public space
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2024-08-30T08:00:00-04:00
>2024-08-30T13:30:22-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/99/99e55cce7009a654fc722035fd422316.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Earlier this week, the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/12384/new-york-city" target="_blank">City of New York</a> released a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/908866/rfp" target="_blank">request for proposals (RFP)</a> to <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/414913/redesign" target="_blank">redesign</a> a portion of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/200005/park-avenue" target="_blank">Park Avenue</a>, between East 46th Street and East 57th Street, by adding greenery, public seating, concessions, and safer crossings for pedestrians. </p>
<p>This section of Park Avenue sits atop the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/199992/grand-central-terminal" target="_blank">Grand Central Terminal</a> Train Shed, which is currently undergoing a major rehabilitation by the City and the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/475483/mta" target="_blank">MTA</a>. The project includes replacing the train shed roof structure and waterproofing membrane, along with enhancing Park Avenue, which will be removed and reconstructed in stages as underground work occurs. The street will be restored with an expanded median for pedestrians. Its redesign aims to enhance public space, promote <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/4450/sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainable</a> transit options, and foster community for residents and visitors. </p>
<p>The New York City Department of Transportation is seeking design services from a contractor with a background in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/73524/landscape-architecture" target="_blank">landscape architecture</a> or <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/10775/urban-design" target="_blank">urban design</a> to fill the wider median with elements,...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150437422/sn-hetta-completes-redesign-of-the-blanton-museum-of-art-grounds-with-rain-capturing-shade-structures-and-native-plants
Snøhetta completes redesign of the Blanton Museum of Art grounds with rain-capturing shade structures and native plants
Josh Niland
2024-07-17T14:31:00-04:00
>2024-07-23T01:17:54-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/2d/2d208215c78eea00548f641f6aaf270b.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/snohetta" target="_blank">Snøhetta</a> has completed work on their $35 million redesign of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1683788/blanton-museum-of-art" target="_blank">The Blanton Museum of Art </a>grounds for the <a href="https://archinect.com/utsoa" target="_blank">University of Texas at Austin</a>. </p>
<p>The debut of the New Ground Initiative comes at the end of a three-year revitalization that saw the Blanton continuously operate during construction. The 200,000-square-foot campus now has a greater permanent presence as the gateway between the university and city of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/13326/austin" target="_blank">Austin</a> thanks to public art installations and key improvements to the existing landscape design and architecture.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/6b/6b03e0d76f0442a9f7bce5d38906f1ec.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/6b/6b03e0d76f0442a9f7bce5d38906f1ec.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image courtesy Casey Dunn</figcaption></figure><p>Lead architects and UTSOA alumni <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/124520/craig-dykers" target="_blank">Craig Dykers</a>, John Newman, and <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/124521/elaine-molinar" target="_blank">Elaine Molinar</a> were able to guide the project using their student experiences, resulting in an inclusive new space.<br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b5/b5159b3663eef54b4db2f219e51cd553.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b5/b5159b3663eef54b4db2f219e51cd553.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image courtesy Casey Dunn</figcaption></figure><p>At the center of the project stands a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150351009/sn-hetta-s-blanton-new-grounds-redesign-opens-at-the-university-of-texas-at-austin" target="_blank">previously completed</a> intervention of petal-like 40-by-30-foot metallic shade structures that was designed to reconcile an open area now referred to as the Moody Patio. Besides providing protection from Texas's re...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150423682/congress-moves-closer-to-passing-law-funding-recreation-spaces-in-underserved-communities
Congress moves closer to passing law funding recreation spaces in underserved communities
Niall Patrick Walsh
2024-04-11T11:46:00-04:00
>2024-04-11T14:38:59-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/10/109eb701f7a69e023a91754e3dcb6b13.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>The <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/573111/congress" target="_blank">U.S. House of Representatives</a> has passed the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1065" target="_blank">Outdoors for All Act</a>, which seeks to address the lack of adequate recreation space in underserved communities. The bill, which is yet to pass the U.S. Senate, would establish a dedicated source of funding for the existing Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program.</p>
<p>Overseen by the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/923534/national-park-service" target="_blank">National Park Service</a>, this program funds the delivery of new parks, the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/6765/renovation" target="_blank">renovation</a> of existing recreation facilities, and the development of infrastructure to support outdoor education and public land volunteering. The program gives priority to projects in underserved communities.</p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/16/16dcd3cfc62dd75626386367e04421a2.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/16/16dcd3cfc62dd75626386367e04421a2.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Related on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/bustler/9778/asla-new-york-honors-state-s-best-landscape-architecture-at-2024-design-awards" target="_blank">ASLA New York honors state's best landscape architecture at 2024 Design Awards</a>. Image credit: Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates</figcaption></figure></figure><p>“Research confirms what our bodies and nature already understand — more time in outdoor spaces increases well-being,” said <a href="https://archinect.com/features/article/150323685/op-ed-a-unique-moment-for-landscape-architects" target="_blank">Torey Carter-Conneen</a>, CEO of the <a href="https://archinect.com/ASLA" target="_blank">American Society of Landscape Architects</a>, which has advocated for the bill...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150420507/construction-starts-on-mvrdv-s-new-berlin-mixed-use-development
Construction starts on MVRDV's new Berlin mixed-use development
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2024-03-17T08:00:00-04:00
>2024-03-18T13:51:50-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/e9/e94a1414ccc3d84cec2379f52a8c8cc5.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Construction has begun on the <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/327/mvrdv" target="_blank">MVRDV</a>-designed LXK Office and Residential Campus in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1778/berlin" target="_blank">Berlin</a>. The <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/238888/mixed-use" target="_blank">mixed-use</a> complex will add needed office and residential space to a rapidly developing part of the city.</p>
<p>The project is located in the Friedrichshain district. It spans approximately 658,751 square feet and features abundant office, commercial, and residential space. The complex consists of two L-shaped volumes, with the residential component consolidated into a single block. The corners of each volume open up to create an accessible green, public square. This divide allows the project to integrate itself sensitively into the scale of the surroundings.</p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b7/b790899adb5947c2318f19e769cc9ba4.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b7/b790899adb5947c2318f19e769cc9ba4.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Image © MVRDV</figcaption></figure></figure><p>One of the most distinguishing features of the development is its single continuous luminous band that wraps horizontally around each structure. The band unifies the fragmented structure into a single form. This component is further activated by green, accessible terraces that offer views into the surrounding city. It also hosts ...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150418356/in-an-ontario-plaza-interactive-pavements-play-music-as-if-by-magic
In an Ontario plaza, interactive pavements play music ‘as if by magic’
Niall Patrick Walsh
2024-02-28T13:28:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/49/4985db6ec5cb1c148aca3eb51e0d39a8.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/8869/montreal" target="_blank">Montreal</a>-based studio Daily tous les jours has completed a public space design in Cambridge, <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/208553/ontario" target="_blank">Ontario</a>, Canada. Titled 'River Lines,' the project saw the creation of an interactive stage in an <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/37624/public-space" target="_blank">urban plaza</a> for big impromptu musical ensembles.</p>
<p>Video credit: doublespace photography<br></p>
<p>Part of the studio’s wider Musical Pavement series, the interactive wave-patterned pavement is embedded with 62 sensing light rings that “get people moving through musical collaboration exercises.” The infrastructure is formed of twelve in-house tailored audio tiles that have no visible hardware and blend with the wider pavement pattern, meaning “<a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/8718/music" target="_blank">music</a> emanates from the ground as if by magic.”</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/07/07bae53333d7145a6ddb28e4bca7706f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/07/07bae53333d7145a6ddb28e4bca7706f.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image credit: doublespace photography</figcaption></figure><figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/67/6707427c532b646c15a67de8f2707c3b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/67/6707427c532b646c15a67de8f2707c3b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Image credit: doublespace photography</figcaption></figure></figure><p>Located on the site of a 19th-century foundry, the artwork is “a response to the historical nature of the site” and “an exemplar of how investment in the public realm is essential to reimagine and activate places and encourage collective interacti...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150413986/water-landscape-design-experts-fluidity-are-hiring-in-los-angeles
Water landscape design experts Fluidity are hiring in Los Angeles
Niall Patrick Walsh
2024-01-24T13:28:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b9/b958e9c7b1aae4bdb4404d2f90878317.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Following last week’s look at an opening for a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150410825/acclaimed-artist-doug-aitken-is-hiring-a-studio-director-in-california" target="_blank">Studio Director at Doug Aitken Workshop</a>, we are using this week’s edition of our <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1799006/interesting-jobs" target="_blank"><em>Job Highlights</em> series</a> to explore an open role on <a href="https://archinect.com/jobs" target="_blank">Archinect Jobs</a> for a <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/jobs/21281600/fluidity-design-consultants" target="_blank">Project Manager at Fluidity Design Consultants</a>.</p>
<p>The role, based in Los Angeles, calls for an individual to “coordinate and manage the firm’s relationship as the sub-consultant to the prime design lead on projects.” Among the requirements for the role are a professional degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or design management, 3-7 years of professional experience, and a history of writing and reviewing design contracts.</p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d8/d80cbfd6df356dde46e876fbc61932f4.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d8/d80cbfd6df356dde46e876fbc61932f4.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Grand Park, Los Angeles, CA by Fluidity Design Consultants. Photo: Jim Simmons.</figcaption></figure></figure><p><strong>Why the role interests us</strong></p>
<p>The open role at Fluidity offers us the opportunity to highlight a firm specializing in water feature design and engineering that has previously been featured in our editorial. In August of last year, for instance, we reported on <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150359078/sasaki-associates-will-lead-in-designing-the-largest-public-park-in-athens-greece" target="_blank">the firm’s collaboration with...</a></p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150406585/better-block-foundation-a-nonprofit-for-open-source-neighborhood-design-and-wikiblock-urbanism-is-hiring
Better Block Foundation, a nonprofit for open-source neighborhood design and ‘wikiblock’ urbanism, is hiring
Niall Patrick Walsh
2023-12-07T12:42:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/e6/e6b66f13d4b65141b3e508f6ad57091d.png?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Following last week’s look at an opening for an <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150403932/this-startup-is-hiring-an-architect-to-lower-the-entry-barrier-to-overseas-real-estate-investment" target="_blank">Architect/Designer at Build Block</a>, we are using this week’s edition of our <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1799006/interesting-jobs" target="_blank"><em>Job Highlights</em> series</a> to explore an open role on <a href="https://archinect.com/jobs" target="_blank">Archinect Jobs</a> for a <a href="https://archinect.com/betterblockfoundation/jobs" target="_blank">Landscape Designer at the Better Block Foundation</a>.</p>
<p>The role, based in Dallas, TX, “goes beyond the conventional office setting, requiring a genuine commitment to hands-on, physical work in the field,” according to the company. Among the responsibilities will be delivering site design and presentation materials, material sourcing and ordering, construction documents, and potential public speaking and development roles. “The Landscape Designer should be passionate about new urbanism and willing to swing a hammer, get paint on his/her clothing, answer volunteers’ questions, etc.,” the company adds. “This position is very hands-on.”</p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/cf/cfa120171431fc97cd1500dedb6c6b7c.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/cf/cfa120171431fc97cd1500dedb6c6b7c.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption> Before/After: Collaborative neighborhood placemaking. Image credit: The Better Block Foundation</figcaption></figure></figure><p><strong>Why the role interests us</strong></p>
<p>The role at the <a href="https://www.betterblock.org/home" target="_blank">Better Block Foundation</a> offer...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150397336/sn-hetta-s-green-mixed-use-airside-development-opens-in-hong-kong
Snøhetta's green, mixed-use AIRSIDE development opens in Hong Kong
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-11-11T11:21:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/51/510a1304faf7c8f870787df0cb7612a7.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/snohetta" target="_blank">Snøhetta</a>’s AIRSIDE, a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/30730/leed-platinum" target="_blank">LEED Platinum</a>-certified, <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/238888/mixed-use" target="_blank">mixed-use</a> development in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/37093/hong-kong" target="_blank">Hong Kong</a>, has officially opened. </p>
<p>Located at the site of the former Kai Tak Airport district, the approximately 1,912,424-square-foot project merges into the surrounding urban landscape by creating direct access between pedestrian transit areas, retail spaces, and elevated landscapes. The development comprises an approximately 699-foot-tall tower with a second tower and its base in a continuous form. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/6f/6fba1095fb2917fac7a559aa662029e1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/6f/6fba1095fb2917fac7a559aa662029e1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p></figure><p>The building mass comprises five interconnected volumes that gradually step up from the Kai Tak River, which lends the 699-foot-tall tower an inviting presence at ground level. The building’s sculpted forms create a series of human-scale urban spaces at this level, in addition to rooftop gardens. Landscaped plazas contribute to further integrating the development into the surroundings and creating an engaging pedestrian realm. <br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/78/78ac560c79f5776b224ee3a88b0d6a18.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/78/78ac560c79f5776b224ee3a88b0d6a18.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p></figure><p>An expansive elevated garden sits atop the podium containing the building’s central atr...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150384812/field-operations-will-lead-new-fifth-avenue-pedestrian-corridor-redesign-in-manhattan
Field Operations will lead new Fifth Avenue pedestrian corridor redesign in Manhattan
Josh Niland
2023-10-13T17:18:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/cf/cf7a0a47a37e648c951b9861d39e84e3.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/fieldoperations#:~:text=Field%20Operations%20is%20a%20leading,%2C%20Philadelphia%2C%20Shenzhen%20and%20London." target="_blank">Field Operations</a> has announced its participation as the design lead for a new public space and pedestrianization project that will affect a large swath of Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.</p>
<p>The new “Future of Fifth” project, announced by <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1877633/mayor-eric-adams" target="_blank">New York Mayor Eric Adams</a> this week, will permanently reimagine the area between Bryant Park and Central Park South based on an 11-block pilot that last year added $3 million in revenue to local businesses, according to a study performed by Mastercard.</p>
<p>Field Operations will be joined on the project by <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/23751963/arcadis" target="_blank">Arcadis</a>, <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/75793127/sam-schwartz-engineering" target="_blank">Sam Schwartz,</a> Public Works Partners, and a number of other design and engineering firms, seven of which are either minority- or women-owned business enterprises. It is seen as an extension of the city’s <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1856661/open-streets" target="_blank">Open Streets program</a> that was targeted at local businesses’ recoveries after the pandemic and builds on a larger $375 million investment in public space outlined in Adams’ “Working People's Agenda” from earlier this year.</p>
<p>Together, the firms wi...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150381618/la-s-destination-crenshaw-pushes-sankofa-park-opening-to-february-2024
LA's Destination Crenshaw pushes Sankofa Park opening to February 2024
Josh Niland
2023-10-05T14:47:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/0f/0f4ec907f46c2cd0d63c1e5eaaa41c25.jpeg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>This fall’s anticipated debut of the Sankofa Park component of the new <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1527510/destination-crenshaw" target="_blank">Destination Crenshaw</a> public space redesign from <a href="https://archinect.com/perkinswill" target="_blank">Perkins&Will </a>and <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/22201405/studio-mla-formerly-mia-lehrer-associates" target="_blank">Studio-MLA</a> in Los Angeles has been pushed back to February of next year, according to an announcement made Wednesday by the group managing its construction in the city's Leimert Park neighborhood. </p>
<p>The park had <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150337728/destination-crenshaw-s-sankofa-park-segment-sets-an-opening-date-for-fall-2023" target="_blank">previously received</a> $3.4 million in federal funding, which added to another $2.4 million fundraising drive initiated by actress Issa Rae and star NBA guard DeMar DeRozan. Planners have now set Sankofa Park to open on February 24th. It is part of the larger $100 million project that will transform a 1.3-mile corridor into a new arts-oriented civic space. Perkins&Will says it is “destined to be a space for celebrations, protests, and demonstrations of grief and peaceful healing.”</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/fe/fe5796eb32266e9f465679528c49050a.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/fe/fe5796eb32266e9f465679528c49050a.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Related on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150337728/destination-crenshaw-s-sankofa-park-segment-sets-an-opening-date-for-fall-2023" target="_blank">Destination Crenshaw's Sankofa Park segment sets an opening date for fall 2023</a></figcaption></figure><p>Once it is completed, Sankofa Park will include art installations f...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150361112/sn-hetta-s-charlotte-mecklenburg-library-officially-breaks-ground
Snøhetta's Charlotte Mecklenburg Library officially breaks ground
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-08-24T17:07:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/c4/c4f76046f01087e10a4c61ff8ed052ab.jpeg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/snohetta" target="_blank">Snøhetta</a>’s Charlotte Mecklenburg Library (CML) project officially <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/89650/groundbreaking" target="_blank">broke ground</a> on August 15th in North Carolina with a demolition celebration of the existing Main Library building. Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://archinect.com/clarknexsen" target="_blank">Clark Nexsen</a>, the new <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/7562/library" target="_blank">library</a> aims to become a major destination and centerpiece in Uptown Charlotte. </p>
<p>“We wanted to celebrate this demolition to mark the start of a new beginning in Uptown Charlotte,” said CML CEO Marcellus Turner. “From the café to the community living room and the technology hub to the destination reading room, the new Main Library will be an inviting place to learn, grow and engage with others in our community.”</p>
<p>The facility stands at the head of Charlotte’s public library system, which consists of 21 branch libraries that welcome 3.4 million visitors each year. It aims to transcend its use as a conventional library by also serving as a public commons. The project is supported by funding from Mecklenburg County and a major investment by the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/369485/knight-foundation" target="_blank">Knight Founda...</a></p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150360782/shma-s-rippling-landscape-adds-to-neri-hu-designed-hotel-in-zhengzhou
Shma's rippling landscape adds to Neri&Hu-designed hotel in Zhengzhou
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-08-21T15:21:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/99/9909bf124f76cade93ea2b2ce54e656f.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Bangkok-based landscape architecture firm <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/150340200/shma-company-limited" target="_blank">Shma Company Limited</a> has introduced an elegant, small-scale <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/73524/landscape-architecture" target="_blank">landscape</a> intervention in front of a <a href="https://archinect.com/neriandhu" target="_blank">Neri&Hu</a>-designed <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/3693/hotel" target="_blank">hotel</a> called Le Meridien in Zhengzhou City, China. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b3/b3b6bebdeb44426a9179f7a8999b8a57.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/b3/b3b6bebdeb44426a9179f7a8999b8a57.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: Arch-exist</figcaption></figure><p>The <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/6765/renovation" target="_blank">renovation</a> project comprises approximately 65,000 square feet of space in a densely populated area. The architects were tasked to create a hotel frontage landscape that improves the site’s overall appearance, in addition to enhancing ground parking and vehicular movement. <br></p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ed/ed80a897b79787424d86a4c1b2599e95.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ed/ed80a897b79787424d86a4c1b2599e95.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: Arch-exist</figcaption></figure><p>The project design pays tribute to Zhengzhou’s historical textile weaving industry through its sculptural landscape weaves and folds. A series of undulating lawn stripes represent silk being woven. The landscape and the existing building seamlessly integrate with each other. A water feature situated in front of the hotel’s lobby drop-off area serves as the main welcoming element.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/56/56164dfa29fe50b42f0de76a197ac98d.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/56/56164dfa29fe50b42f0de76a197ac98d.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image: Arch-exist</figcaption></figure><p>Two colors, bronze and black, were used for the finishing of the stainless st...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150359573/82-million-park-space-beneath-la-s-new-sixth-street-viaduct-has-broken-ground
$82 million park space beneath LA's new Sixth Street Viaduct has broken ground
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-08-09T08:00:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/a4/a4794f29dd37828fd8d649f1aa90ed30.jpeg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><em><p>Just over one year after the Sixth Street Viaduct replacement made its debut, Los Angeles city officials have commenced work on 12 acres of new park spaces at the foot of the $588-million bridge.</p></em><br /><br /><p>A groundbreaking ceremony was held on August 5th for the $82 million project, also known as the Sixth Street Park, Arts, and River Connectivity project (PARC). Landscape architecture firm <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/cover/150308331/hargreaves-jones-landscape-architecture-d-p-c" target="_blank">Hargreaves Jones</a> led the design. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/1d/1df5fb5a97e7466578fba7c99a16da59.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/1d/1df5fb5a97e7466578fba7c99a16da59.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Previously on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150316128/take-a-look-at-new-iwan-baan-photos-of-la-s-sixth-street-viaduct-ahead-of-its-grand-opening" target="_blank">Take a look at new Iwan Baan photos of LA's Sixth Street Viaduct ahead of its grand opening</a></figcaption></figure><p>The park, which sits beneath the recently completed <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/706424/sixth-street-viaduct" target="_blank">Sixth Street Viaduct</a>, will include seven acres of open space on the east side of the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/154329/los-angeles-river" target="_blank">Los Angeles River</a> in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/478285/boyle-heights" target="_blank">Boyle Heights</a> and five acres of space in the Arts District on the west side. </p>
<p>The Boyle Heights section will feature grass fields, picnic areas, a splash pad, event space, and sports fields and courts. The Arts District section will include a new arts plaza and river gateway, which will host spaces for performances, a café, and restrooms. Construction on PARC is expected to last around two-and-a-half years. </p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150359078/sasaki-associates-will-lead-in-designing-the-largest-public-park-in-athens-greece
Sasaki Associates will lead in designing the largest public park in Athens, Greece
Katherine Guimapang
2023-08-03T13:52:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/18/1867555f3bf9feb26f2902e5403e0131.jpeg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>The city of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/15103/athens" target="_blank">Athens</a> is preparing for a groundbreaking addition to its already historic city. Thanks to the efforts of Lamda Development, the city will welcome Ellinikon Metropolitan Park, set to not only be the largest park in Athens but also "Europe's largest coastal park."</p>
<p><em>Urban Land</em>'s Bennett Voyles <a href="https://urbanland.uli.org/public/new-space-for-an-old-city/" target="_blank">reports</a> that "after 3,400 years, Athens will soon get its first big park [...] When completed in 2030, Ellinikon Metropolitan Park will be 600 acres (243 ha), about three-fourths the size of New York City’s Central Park, an enormous addition of public green space that may prove as important to Athenians as Central Park is to New Yorkers."</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/79/790fbf11d8c3159e53ccbdb9386f86c0.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/79/790fbf11d8c3159e53ccbdb9386f86c0.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Project render of Ellinikon Metropolitan Park shows design details inspired by the Olympic venues. Image courtesy of Sasaki Associates.</figcaption></figure><p>Spearheaded by international planning and design firm <a href="https://archinect.com/sasaki" target="_blank">Sasaki Associates</a>, the site acts as another unique factor to the development, with areas of the new park being "leftover remnants" of venues from the 2002 Summer Ol...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150358649/u-n-global-chief-heat-officer-warns-of-the-acute-dangers-of-rising-temperatures-in-cities
U.N. global chief heat officer warns of the acute dangers of rising temperatures in cities
Alexander Walter
2023-07-31T15:40:00-04:00
>2023-08-01T15:25:42-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/7f/7f35e2c24949c0287715cf38e4a209af.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><em><p>Rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heat waves driven by climate change are turning many Mediterranean cities into dangerous places, especially for vulnerable groups.
“We are not focusing enough on how extreme temperatures affect urban environments,” says Eleni Myrivili, who has spent years studying this issue in her hometown of Athens, which is one of the cities hardest hit by rising temperatures.</p></em><br /><br /><p>Amid devastating wildfires and record-breaking numbers of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/690959/heat" target="_blank">heat</a>-related casualties throughout the Mediterranean region, Spanish newspaper <em>EL PAÍS</em> sits down with Eleni Myrivili, <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/2019738/chief-heat-officer" target="_blank">chief heat officer</a> of Athens (<a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150279124/athens-has-hired-a-new-chief-heat-officer-to-help-the-city-combat-climate-change" target="_blank">Europe's first such municipal appointment</a>) and also global chief heat officer to U.N. Habitat, to learn which concrete design and policy strategies can improve urban live in cities and help protect especially the most vulnerable groups. <br></p>
<p>Myrivili isn't holding back harsh criticism when she comments on an example of public urban design she deems inadequate for today's challenges — Madrid's Puerta del Sol square — saying, "Today, It is criminal to build squares without shade or cooling elements, because they create higher temperatures in the city, put people’s lives at risk and keep people away from public space."</p>
<p>Speaking also to <em>The Guardian</em> recently, Myrivili <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jul/29/un-chief-heat-officer-eleni-myrivili-interview" target="_blank">remarked</a> on the increasing challenges of heat in cities and the built environment: "People are just starting to realize th...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150355918/slas-architekci-designs-colorful-multifunctional-public-park-in-poland
SLAS architekci designs colorful multifunctional public park in Poland
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-07-07T15:06:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/f7/f7458f0fd31b65b049edef00bda05534.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/15077/poland" target="_blank">Polish</a> firm <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063493392752&ref=hl%2F" target="_blank">SLAS architekci</a> has injected an eye-catching multifunctional <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/37624/public-space" target="_blank">public space</a> into a university campus in the southern Polish city of Chorzów. Called “Activity Zone,” the project was a nominee in the 2022 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – <a href="https://bustler.net/news/tags/mies-van-der-rohe-award/10256" target="_blank">Mies van der Rohe Award</a>. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/90/9061992e0f03fcbf928851650292bbf2.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/90/9061992e0f03fcbf928851650292bbf2.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image © Michał Kopaniszyn</figcaption></figure><p>The <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/62628/parks" target="_blank">park</a> was completed in 2019 for the University of Silesia. It is located at the former site of a demolished military building where there were a number of pre-existing trees. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d1/d176f11232b89339cc108aef40e434ef.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d1/d176f11232b89339cc108aef40e434ef.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image © Michał Kopaniszyn</figcaption></figure><p>The main goal of the project was to transform this neglected, wooded area where the campus is located into a lively, leisurely location for the public to enjoy. It aimed to promote the university and establish a new <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/248077/green-spaces" target="_blank">green space</a> for the city. <br></p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/da/da5af9fd2f3578dbac3b65b7e842c4dc.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/da/da5af9fd2f3578dbac3b65b7e842c4dc.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Image © Michał Kopaniszyn</figcaption></figure></figure><figure><figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/71/7181fc99a0e22327ac257fd70214f01b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/71/7181fc99a0e22327ac257fd70214f01b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image © Michał Kopaniszyn</figcaption></figure><p>“Activity Zone” was designed as a perforated <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/9438/concrete" target="_blank">concrete</a> platform that hosts a diverse program, including a student leisure zone, children’s play devices, fitness areas, individually des...</p></figure>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150354811/los-angeles-approves-car-free-superblock-pilot-program
Los Angeles approves car-free 'superblock' pilot program
Nathaniel Bahadursingh
2023-06-26T17:57:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/69/69c5a2a53b3d831d708407c19c17c192.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><em><p>The Los Angeles City Council voted Tuesday on a motion to identify a location to implement its first Park Block -- modeled after the city of Barcelona’s Superblocks, a block grid system that restricts traffic to major roads and opens up city blocks and streets to pedestrians.</p></em><br /><br /><p>The “Park Block” motion was <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150320438/la-councilmember-introduces-plan-to-establish-barcelona-s-car-free-superblocks-in-los-angeles" target="_blank">initially introduced</a> by Los Angeles District Councilmember Kevin de León last year. The program aims to save lives lost due to poor air quality and traffic violence. As detailed in a <a href="https://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2022/22-0914_rpt_tran_6-14-23.pdf" target="_blank">report</a> by LA City Council’s Transportation Committee, the Blocks will serve to form open public space with adequate shade, outdoor recreation, greening, and stormwater capture in communities that lack parks. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/db/db9a418f269d252d18f30140f275265c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/db/db9a418f269d252d18f30140f275265c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Previously on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150320438/la-councilmember-introduces-plan-to-establish-barcelona-s-car-free-superblocks-in-los-angeles" target="_blank">LA Councilmember introduces plan to establish Barcelona's car-free 'superblocks' in Los Angeles</a></figcaption></figure><p>The program will first be implemented in León’s District 14, which includes parts of <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/535011/downtown-los-angeles" target="_blank">downtown Los Angeles</a>, Boyle Heights, and Eagle Rock. LA's Department of Transportation will choose which area will host the initial pilot, with priority given to communities that have the least access to public space, the highest health disparities, and high population densities. In addition, the Department will report back on what funding and resources are necessary to...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150345196/a-job-opportunity-at-the-city-of-tacoma-offers-insight-into-a-career-in-urban-planning
A job opportunity at the City of Tacoma offers insight into a career in urban planning
Niall Patrick Walsh
2023-04-05T16:36:00-04:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/74/74a44ecbf82f6744c0833654cdd2caf3.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Following last week’s look at an opening for the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150344400/university-of-michigan-s-taubman-college-is-searching-for-its-next-architecture-program-chair" target="_blank">Architecture Program Chair at the University of Michigan</a>, we are using this week’s edition of our <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1799006/interesting-jobs" target="_blank"><em>Job Highlights </em>series</a> to explore an open position on <a href="https://archinect.com/jobs" target="_blank">Archinect Jobs</a> for a <a href="https://archinect.com/firms/jobs/150061774/city-of-tacoma" target="_blank">Senior Planner at the City of Tacoma’s Planning and Development Services</a>.</p>
<p>The role, based in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/348177/tacoma" target="_blank">Tacoma</a>, WA with the possibility of a remote arrangement, calls for an individual who is “passionate about working with diverse community members to solve complex problems and building great communities.” The position also asks for either a bachelor’s degree in planning, architecture, urban design, or a closely allied field with four years of planning experience, or a master’s degree with two years of experience in the planning profession.</p>
<figure><figure><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/2e/2e59daebff8406e7ecab360ce5428f1b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/2e/2e59daebff8406e7ecab360ce5428f1b.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a><figcaption>Related on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150280405/researchers-call-for-dismantling-of-racist-infrastructure-to-improve-u-s-neighborhoods" target="_blank">Researchers call for dismantling of 'racist infrastructure' to improve U.S. neighborhoods</a></figcaption></figure></figure><p><strong>Why the role interests us</strong></p>
<p>The position at the City of Tacoma offers insight into the role performed by <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/14828/urban-planning" target="_blank">public planning department...</a></p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150339602/new-york-city-announces-ya-ting-liu-as-its-first-ever-chief-public-realm-officer
New York City announces Ya-Ting Liu as its first-ever chief public realm officer
Josh Niland
2023-02-17T18:11:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d4/d491e3a3f012e55652c26ba310eeaf28.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>In the interest of providing official guardianship for its vast inventory of public spaces, New York City <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1877633/mayor-eric-adams" target="_blank">Mayor Eric Adams</a> on Thursday (Feb. 16) announced former transit advocate Ya-Ting Liu will be the city's first-ever public realms officer.</p>
<p>According to the <em>New York Times</em>, her role was <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/16/nyregion/public-realm-officer-nyc.html" target="_blank">created</a> to be a kind of “central point person” for various city agencies and newfound initiatives such as the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1856661/open-streets" target="_blank">Open Streets</a> program and <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150298727/new-york-city-is-debating-a-permanent-move-to-keep-outdoor-dining-structures-in-place-despite-criticism" target="_blank">outside dining</a> in line with proposals contained in the Making New York for Everyone plan that was developed by the administration and <a href="https://edc.nyc/sites/default/files/2022-12/New-NY-Action-Plan-Making_New_York_Work_for_Everyone.pdf" target="_blank">announced</a> in late-December.</p>
<p>“Our city’s public spaces are too important to fall through the cracks of bureaucracy, and now they won’t," Adams said in a press release. "New Yorkers need to know there is one person at City Hall whose number one goal is to improve their quality of life by creating incredible, new public spaces and ensuring the ones we have are clean, equitable, and safe."</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ed/edbda0d53e1bf839bf02acd2f2386fd8.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/ed/edbda0d53e1bf839bf02acd2f2386fd8.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Earlier on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150287326/nyc-s-new-planning-director-anita-laremont-on-the-importance-of-the-public-realm" target="_blank">NYC's new planning director...</a></figcaption></figure>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150335251/heatherwick-collaborates-with-harley-davidson-for-design-of-milwaukee-community-park
Heatherwick collaborates with Harley-Davidson for design of Milwaukee community park
Niall Patrick Walsh
2023-01-11T13:48:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/e0/e01794ae0b7ba025fdfe4ee78b21a57e.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/heatherwick" target="_blank">Heatherwick Studio</a> and Harley-Davidson have unveiled details of their plan to transform part of the motorcycle manufacturer’s headquarters in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/520229/milwaukee" target="_blank">Milwaukee</a> into a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/37624/public-space" target="_blank">public park</a>. According to the design team, the largely concrete site will be converted into a “civic and soulful green gathering space that can be used by everyone, including employees and the local community.”</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/1f/1f599b2c3f7267cf67d6ad93f8ec89db.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/1f/1f599b2c3f7267cf67d6ad93f8ec89db.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image credit: Heatherwick Studio</figcaption></figure><p>The scheme will be anchored by a 272-foot-wide sunken events space named ‘The Hub.’ Formed of tiered seating and landscaped with trees and plants, the circular multi-use space will be constructed of ten types of locally sourced brick, weathered steel, and timber.<br></p>
<p>In one direction, The Hub will provide views of the original brick Harley-Davidson manufacturing buildings, while in the other, the space will provide views of a park filled with 120 native plant species and a planned market street, contemplative garden, and nature playground.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/c7/c79f0c093c66edc174534af7eb45f4c3.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/c7/c79f0c093c66edc174534af7eb45f4c3.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image credit: Heatherwick Studio</figcaption></figure><p>“Our goal is to turn ...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150335076/toronto-s-proposed-ontario-place-redevelopment-is-getting-even-more-contentious
Toronto’s proposed Ontario Place redevelopment is getting even more contentious
Josh Niland
2023-01-10T14:43:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/82/82f0d40513d2cc2211b4a6cd69425631.jpeg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>New details are emerging in the controversial plan to redevelop Toronto’s mostly decommissioned <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/2073867/ontario-place" target="_blank">Ontario Place</a> after the <a href="https://www.filminquiry.com/film-festivals-expensive-exclusive/" target="_blank">exclusive</a> Toronto International Film Festival unveiled further plans for a partnership with Therme Group, the Austrian entity behind the proposed $350 million project. </p>
<p>Local website <a href="https://www.blogto.com/city/2023/01/toronto-calling-out-tiff-group-privatizing-ontario-place/" target="_blank"><em>blogTO</em></a> has more details on the community’s negative response to the partnership, which will “promote the role of art and film in creating more human cities” through a series of talks spread over a ten-year period. </p>
<p>The online responses are only the latest thorn in the side of the provincial Ontario government and Premier Doug Ford following last summer’s <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150322168/torontonians-aren-t-happy-with-the-city-s-planned-ontario-place-overhaul" target="_blank">harsh responses</a> that eventually yielded a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150332770/toronto-reveals-still-contentious-revised-plan-for-proposed-ontario-place-redevelopment" target="_blank">revised plan</a> which reclassified a mere 12-acre segment of beachfront property for public use while retaining the original plan to have more than one-third of the site be developed privately.</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/bd/bd703feab41ea6b256e4a25800d58a95.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/bd/bd703feab41ea6b256e4a25800d58a95.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Previously on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150332770/toronto-reveals-still-contentious-revised-plan-for-proposed-ontario-place-redevelopment" target="_blank">Toronto reveals still-contentious revised plan for proposed Ontario Place redev...</a></figcaption></figure>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150333398/swa-group-to-develop-the-port-of-la-s-waterfront-connectivity-plan
SWA Group to develop the Port of LA's waterfront connectivity plan
Josh Niland
2022-12-22T12:39:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/cc/ccdee617558304053f10ac53f47ce6d7.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p><a href="https://archinect.com/swagroup" target="_blank">SWA Group</a> has announced plans to transform parts of America’s biggest container port, the <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1350622/port-of-los-angeles" target="_blank">Port of Los Angeles</a> (POLA), in a project aimed at increasing connectivity in the public access realm.<br></p>
<p>“The San Pedro Waterfront is on its way to becoming a truly world-class destination, and we believe that much of it depends on connectivity,” SWA’s Co-CEO Gerdo Aquino explained in a statement. “It will be transformative to enhance accessibility for locals and visitors alike, to create an easily navigable multi-modal waterfront.”</p>
<p>In the hopes of “aiding its evolution over the next 50 years,” Aquino’s team of engineers and other project consultants will work to activate the waterfront area while compiling a comprehensive mobility strategy that links different nodes along eight miles of potentially accessible waterfront edges and a 460-acre swath of land. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d7/d764f8f101efeee6f253eb3fb24a53df.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/d7/d764f8f101efeee6f253eb3fb24a53df.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Image courtesy SWA Group</figcaption></figure><p>The scope of the project will incorporate cruise terminals, the historic San Pedro Ferry Building, Cabrillo Marine Aqu...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150333333/want-to-help-improve-chicago-s-streetscape-here-s-your-opportunity
Want to help improve Chicago’s streetscape? Here's your opportunity!
Niall Patrick Walsh
2022-12-22T06:30:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/a1/a1b7b7f0ba4b005a02a7a0e60201f7f2.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Following last week’s look at an opening for a <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150332768/nyit-s-robotics-fabrication-laboratory-is-looking-for-a-manager-to-support-the-school-s-culture-of-experimental-making" target="_blank">Robotics Fabrication Lab Manager at the New York Institute of Technology</a>, we are using our <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/1799006/interesting-jobs" target="_blank"><em>Job Highlights </em>series</a> this week to explore an open position on <a href="https://archinect.com/jobs" target="_blank">Archinect Jobs</a> for a <a href="https://archinect.com/sitedesigngroup/jobs" target="_blank">Project Manager at site design group</a>.</p>
<p>The role, based in <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/4611/chicago/" target="_blank">Chicago</a>, calls for an individual to serve as a “municipal consultant” for the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT)’s Streetscape and Sustainable Design Program, responsible for managing streetscape design projects in collaboration with the public body. Among the qualifications requested for candidates are degrees in landscape architecture, architecture, or a related field, as well as three or more years of professional experience.
</p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/7c/7c5c7f3f2b975617dd02a05c0ce21116.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/7c/7c5c7f3f2b975617dd02a05c0ce21116.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Related on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150318760/chicago-unveils-first-city-framework-plan-in-more-than-50-years-and-seeks-public-input" target="_blank">Chicago unveils first city framework plan in more than 50 years and seeks public input</a></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Why the role interests us</strong><br></p>
<p>In recent years, our editorial has featured several instances of private design firms engaging with Departments of Transportation, and the st...</p>
https://archinect.com/news/article/150332770/toronto-reveals-still-contentious-revised-plan-for-proposed-ontario-place-redevelopment
Toronto reveals still-contentious revised plan for proposed Ontario Place redevelopment
Josh Niland
2022-12-14T12:10:00-05:00
>2024-10-25T04:07:38-04:00
<img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/04/04c39279df77d828d10a9a94da84a360.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>Revised plans for the proposed <a href="https://archinect.com/news/tag/2073867/ontario-place" target="_blank">Ontario Place</a> redevelopment in Toronto are once again drawing critical attention after being submitted to the city’s planning officials at the end of November.</p>
<p><a href="https://storeys.com/ontario-place-redevelopment-pools-budweiser-stage/" target="_blank"><em>Storeys</em></a> has the details on the updated scheme, which still calls for one-third of the 155-acre site to be privately developed — a contentious provision that has led many Torontonians to call for the plan to be <a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2022/11/28/toronto-is-urged-to-throw-out-plans-for-ontario-place-private-spa-complex.html?rf" target="_blank">rejected outright</a> in place of something more in tune with its original use as a public attraction. The revision also reclassified a 12-acre swath of beachfront land for public use in what appears as the only slight concession. </p>
<figure><p><a href="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/3f/3f5d8924d2b90bd832488b2cd14bacfb.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1028" target="_blank"><img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/3f/3f5d8924d2b90bd832488b2cd14bacfb.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=514"></a></p><figcaption>Previously on Archinect: <a href="https://archinect.com/news/article/150322168/torontonians-aren-t-happy-with-the-city-s-planned-ontario-place-overhaul" target="_blank">Torontonians aren't happy with the city's planned Ontario Place overhaul</a></figcaption></figure><p>The update also includes details for a five-level underground parking structure to be enacted between the Therme Group’s nine-story private spa and the renovated Live Nation amphitheater at the cost of over 800 trees, which is about 40% of the current iteration's total c...</p>