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Architecture School

spencer — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:28:12 +0000

So I just got done watching the first episode of Sundance Channel’s Architecture School. I have to say, for the first reality TV depiction of the world of architecture education, and especially the Tulane variety, it is starting out as a decent representation. They managed to capture the ever condescending tone that most professors use towards their students as well as the tensions between rich and poor, black and white, and Tulane and the city; issues that have always inhabited New Orleans even before Katrina. I have to say, one of the things that is severely missing is the sense of height and lack of air conditioning in the architecture building – Richardson Memorial Hall, and the oppressive humidity that I am sure is plaguing these students in the field. With it being the first 2 weeks of the semester, it has to either be august or January and it doesn’t really look like they are dressed for January in New Orleans. C’mon Sundance Channel, where are my sweaty dehydrated daiquiri sipping architecture students? Let me also add, that it is totally surreal to watch not only people that you know but buildings that used to be central to your [...]

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Architecture School

Article: Bahrain World Trade Center Activates Wind Turbines

spencer — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 03:06:35 +0000

Inhabitat posted an article today about the Bahrain World Trade Center turning on its 3 very large turbines. It has been reported that these turbines can generate 10 - 15% of the buildings power needs. In the US - LEED requires a 20% alternative energy power generation on the building premises (solar, wind, geothermal, etc) to get one credit. For an oil nation this is a huge step - even if it may be a publicity stunt. Though I still have to wonder, three gigantic blades spinning in open air have got to be very dangerous for the surrounding birds. Unless of course these are the slow turbines.

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Article: Bahrain World Trade Center Activates Wind Turbines

Article: This Diamond Isn’t a Gem

spencer — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 05:30:20 +0000

The Washington Post ran an article critiquing the National's Stadium on the Anacostia Waterfront. (Click here for the article). The author's main thesis is that while the new stadium functions much better than RFK, it is lacking in charm and thoughtful design. I personally feel that Mr. Kennicott is both on track and off base at the same time. What he maligns is one of my greatest issues with American contemporary architecture, engineered buildings. The majority of our construction today are buildings meant to function as "machines for living," they are tweaked and altered to arrive at the lowest cost most program efficient yet bland and boring structures; wouldn't Le Corbusier and Walter Gropius be so proud?

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Article: This Diamond Isn’t a Gem