Design Matters is so happy to see the issue of design and aging being explored at several leading institutions including my alma mater the University of Cincinnati. Cincinnati has been a leader in design education for decades. It is nice to see that the program is keeping up with real world issues.
http://www.uc.edu/News/NR.aspx?ID=5999
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
AIA Housing Trend Report
AIA 2009 Housing Trend Report
This housing trend and economic report from the AIA is very informative. Since I am based in New England, I can confirm that the northeast is holding its own. The one difference is that my company is very busy with the second home/vacation market with both single family and condos. It couldn't be a better time to invest in this market if you have the cash on the sidelines. Construction costs are not drastically reduced, but there is much more time being spent with the customers.
http://info.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek09/1002/1002b_housingtrends.cfm
This housing trend and economic report from the AIA is very informative. Since I am based in New England, I can confirm that the northeast is holding its own. The one difference is that my company is very busy with the second home/vacation market with both single family and condos. It couldn't be a better time to invest in this market if you have the cash on the sidelines. Construction costs are not drastically reduced, but there is much more time being spent with the customers.
http://info.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek09/1002/1002b_housingtrends.cfm
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Quiet Necessity
"Space and light and order. Those are the things that men need just as much as they need bread or a place to sleep. "
Le Corbusier
Le Corbusier
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Unpacking Japan’s Commitment to Universal Design
Unpacking Japan’s Commitment to Universal Design
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Read article from link above. Japan is the center of the universal design and aging in place movements. The photo was taken at Toto's Universal Design research center where the human functions from age 3 to 90 are studied in detail.
Families in the United States need to understand the aging issues that will directly impact lifestyle and independence in the years to come.
Remembering Charles Gwathmey
Remembering Charles Gwathmey
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Charles Gwathmey died on August 5th. Made famous through many of his projects, I especially like the addition to Frank Lloyd Wright's Guggenheim Museum. Mr. Gwathmey was business partner with Robert Siegel founding Gwathmey & Siegel Associates in 1968. They recently completed the W Hotel in Hoboken and the new Art Complex at Yale University.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
MAKE SAFE CHOICES
Shiny + Beautiful + Dangerous
Many clients want to create the most high end "look" they can afford. Every room needs a stand-out aesthetic touch. But polished stone or glazed tile flooring is never a good choice if there is any chance of the surface getting wet or forming condensation. Larger size tiles only make the floor area more slippery.
A polished marble floor is spectacular, but dangerous for young and old alike. Instead use large unglazed or rough textured flooring such as a porcelain slate or inset textured flooring with glazed flooring to minimize the ice rink danger. There is no such thing as "non-slip" flooring. Each product has a different coefficient of slip resistance. If you are looking to make safe choices, make sure you compare the coefficient ratings.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Human Centered Design
I recently spent several hours doing research at the Institute for Human Centered Design in Boston. I had heard about IHCD at a Build Boston seminar that presented the blending of the building life cycle with the human life cycle. The library (a branch of the Boston public library system) at the institute is open to anyone along with a retail shop selling items of unique design answering the call of function for all.
The institute promotes the idea of design in all things to be responsive to human diversity. The medium can be architecture, interior design, industrial design, landscape architecture, and information design. They are involved in collaborative relationships around the world.
More information is available at: www.humancentereddesign.org
Monday, July 20, 2009
MIT AgeLab
Photo / Katie Godfrey/MIT AgeLab
In the AGNES suit, engineering student Nathaniel Salazar reaches for a product on the top of a grocery shelf in the AgeLab.
MIT AgeLab has designed AGNES: Age Gain Now Empathy System. AGNES is a bodysuit that gives the wearer first hand knowledge of the ability limitations of aging. The suit simulates aging characteristics of hearing, tactile sensations, motion limitations, and other ways our abilities are affected by the aging process.Go to MIT AgeLab web site to read about other lab projects.
http://web.mit.edu/agelab/index.shtml
Saturday, June 27, 2009
High Line Park
I'm not sure I have experienced such excitement over a new public space as is being shown over the new High Line Park. Located in the meat packing district of Manhattan on an abandoned raised train track, entry is temporarily restricted to the Gansevoort Street entrance at 16th. There have been reports of having to wait in line to access the stairs up to the raised park. Due to the orientation of the entrance, the strolling takes place from south to north. I love having new destinations in New York City. Check out this blog: http://blog.thehighline.org/
Friday, May 29, 2009
STOCK UP ON INCANDESCENT BULBS
The energy efficiency of compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) over incandescent bulbs is a scientific reality. But at what cost to good design? Designers and architects have not often been sold on products that solely address function without incorporating aesthetics.
During a recent dinner at a resort restaurant, I mused over the impact CFL fixtures would have on the ambience of the restaurant. It didn't take long to decide that something, a lot of something, would be lost in the translation. A trained eye would admit that purposeful lighting is the finishing required touch on good design.
CFL fixtures that do a better job at matching incandescent lighting (with dimming capability) are in our future, but may not be here quick enough to be an option before the use of CFL's is mandated. Add incandescent bulbs to your weekly grocery list. They will be gone soon.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/30/business/energy-environment/30iht-green30.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&sq=zeller%20and%20light%20bulbs&st=cse&scp=5
During a recent dinner at a resort restaurant, I mused over the impact CFL fixtures would have on the ambience of the restaurant. It didn't take long to decide that something, a lot of something, would be lost in the translation. A trained eye would admit that purposeful lighting is the finishing required touch on good design.
CFL fixtures that do a better job at matching incandescent lighting (with dimming capability) are in our future, but may not be here quick enough to be an option before the use of CFL's is mandated. Add incandescent bulbs to your weekly grocery list. They will be gone soon.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/30/business/energy-environment/30iht-green30.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&sq=zeller%20and%20light%20bulbs&st=cse&scp=5
Saturday, May 9, 2009
COMMODITY - FIRMNESS - DELIGHT
"Good design is a Renaissance attitude that combines technology, cognitive science, human need, and beauty"
Paola Antonelli MOMA Architecture and Design Department
Renaissance is a word that reinvents itself by its very meaning, rebirth. A Renaissance is a cultural movement associated with widespread educational reform. It is often a rebellion against conventional learning of the time.
There is a revolution in the air against the attributes of the last building boom. The current economic situation has left many architects and designers reflecting on the poorly designed and built homes of recent times. The question that needs to be answered is how can we build intrinsic value in our homes? True value comes from usefulness and beauty.
Roman architect Vitruvius wrote "Ten Books on Architecture" in which he defined the essence of architecture as having three essential qualities: utilitas, firmitas, and venustas. Translated as commodity, firmness, and delight.
Commodity: Basic human shelter
Firmness: Building and engineering
Delight: Man's spiritual, psychological and aesthetic needs
By bringing the Vitruvius standard to the 21st century we can give our houses real value. But this Renaissance needs to incorporate contemporary sensitivities such as the relationship of the house location to the site, floor plans that reflect our lifestyle, style defined by the design process not history, and attention to detail that reflects the care of intentional design. The end product will reflect the way we live, and that is more valuable than the economic value that drove the disappointing structures of the late 20th century.
Paola Antonelli MOMA Architecture and Design Department
Renaissance is a word that reinvents itself by its very meaning, rebirth. A Renaissance is a cultural movement associated with widespread educational reform. It is often a rebellion against conventional learning of the time.
There is a revolution in the air against the attributes of the last building boom. The current economic situation has left many architects and designers reflecting on the poorly designed and built homes of recent times. The question that needs to be answered is how can we build intrinsic value in our homes? True value comes from usefulness and beauty.
Roman architect Vitruvius wrote "Ten Books on Architecture" in which he defined the essence of architecture as having three essential qualities: utilitas, firmitas, and venustas. Translated as commodity, firmness, and delight.
Commodity: Basic human shelter
Firmness: Building and engineering
Delight: Man's spiritual, psychological and aesthetic needs
By bringing the Vitruvius standard to the 21st century we can give our houses real value. But this Renaissance needs to incorporate contemporary sensitivities such as the relationship of the house location to the site, floor plans that reflect our lifestyle, style defined by the design process not history, and attention to detail that reflects the care of intentional design. The end product will reflect the way we live, and that is more valuable than the economic value that drove the disappointing structures of the late 20th century.
Monday, April 20, 2009
ARCHITECTURAL MODELS ON VIEW
A common memory shared by architectural and design students around the world stems from balsa wood, sharp utility blades, foam core, push pins, and all nighters. I am referring to the task of model building. One of the most unpleasant memories for me involves a fellow student slicing her leg with a sharp Exacto knife. Aside from the physical dangers, model building is a teaching instrument that quickly expands a young mind. Few have the ability visualize a 2 dimensional drawing as a 3 dimensional space. This is one of the first learned lessons in design school. It may be the ability that makes a great designer.
The opportunity to view architectural models by one of the most famous architects of our time may appeal to only a few, but those who know the magic and insight offered by such a tool will welcome the opportunity to see first hand these works of art.
Meier Model Museum Reopens to the Public
Metropolis Magazine reports,
The opportunity to view architectural models by one of the most famous architects of our time may appeal to only a few, but those who know the magic and insight offered by such a tool will welcome the opportunity to see first hand these works of art.
Meier Model Museum Reopens to the Public
Metropolis Magazine reports,
"In two weeks, Richard Meier will once again begin welcoming visitors to his Long Island City model warehouse, a 3,600-square-foot studio filled with more than a hundred architectural mock-ups...Visitation is by appointment on alternate Fridays beginning May 1; to schedule an appointment, call Richard Meier & Partners Architects at 212-967-6060."
Sunday, March 29, 2009
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
My office is located in a finished room between the garage and main house. The room is built over an inaccessible crawl space and with no access to above the ceiling. It also has wide pine flooring which has been impossible to keep in good condition due to grit coming in from the garage. There is cold air flowing into the room around the window trim and from the recessed lighting fixtures.
The energy loss from this room probably reflects the inefficiencies in my entire house and typical to most older homes. Although the goal of my project is to create a mud room area with appropriate tile flooring, I am addressing the energy efficiency issues as much as possible.
I will remove the window trim and spray foam around the edges of the window to seal from infiltrating air. I am replacing the recessed fixtures with fixtures rated for insulated ceilings that omit air flow through the fixture. While the electrician is up in the attic space, I will add another layer of batt insulation over the ceiling joists. I am not using compact fluorescents due to the fact that the fixtures are on dimmers. I will put air blocking foam inserts in all the switch and outlet boxes on the exterior walls. I would love to cut open access to the crawl space and see if the builder ever properly insulated, but it is very difficult to insulate in this type of space after the fact. So I am passing on that procedure.
As I stated, the area above the ceiling was inaccessible. In order to change the light fixtures and add insulation, I have had to cut a drywall opening in my second floor closet and through the exterior plywood sheathing to open a very small hole for the electrician to crawl through and rewire while on his stomach. Glad I am not an electrician!
For a small 12' x 16' room, this seems like a major project. But this type of project is the future. People are looking for ways to cut energy bills and to make their existing homes fit their lifestyle. Pick a room and get started.
The energy loss from this room probably reflects the inefficiencies in my entire house and typical to most older homes. Although the goal of my project is to create a mud room area with appropriate tile flooring, I am addressing the energy efficiency issues as much as possible.
I will remove the window trim and spray foam around the edges of the window to seal from infiltrating air. I am replacing the recessed fixtures with fixtures rated for insulated ceilings that omit air flow through the fixture. While the electrician is up in the attic space, I will add another layer of batt insulation over the ceiling joists. I am not using compact fluorescents due to the fact that the fixtures are on dimmers. I will put air blocking foam inserts in all the switch and outlet boxes on the exterior walls. I would love to cut open access to the crawl space and see if the builder ever properly insulated, but it is very difficult to insulate in this type of space after the fact. So I am passing on that procedure.
As I stated, the area above the ceiling was inaccessible. In order to change the light fixtures and add insulation, I have had to cut a drywall opening in my second floor closet and through the exterior plywood sheathing to open a very small hole for the electrician to crawl through and rewire while on his stomach. Glad I am not an electrician!
For a small 12' x 16' room, this seems like a major project. But this type of project is the future. People are looking for ways to cut energy bills and to make their existing homes fit their lifestyle. Pick a room and get started.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
LEED: A Healthy Discussion
A recent discussion forum brought to highlight questions about LEED commercial projects and the post occupancy evaluation determiniation of actual energy savings. When a topic is "hot" and full of momentum like the green movement, it is difficult to be a voice that goes against the tide. LEED is full of good intentions that cannot be questioned, but the cost in time and money to qualify a LEED project should rightly be justified.
Kevin Ireton, contributor 
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Is the LEED program a fraud?
March 13th, 2009 in Blogs Kevin Ireton, contributor 24 users recommend 
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DIGGThe LEED rating system is “a tragedy,” according to Henry Gifford, resulting in buildings that use more energy, not less, and “a fraud perpetrated on U.S. consumers trying their best to achieve true environmental friendliness.” Henry is a mechanical systems specialist in New York City and, apparently, a vocal critic of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. I heard him make these claims on Tuesday night as he sat next to Brendan Owens, USGBC’s vice president of technical development. The two were part of a public debate that took place in Boston at Building Energy 09, the annual conference of the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association.
The source of the debate is a study released a year ago that compared the energy performance of LEED-certified buildings with that of existing, noncertified buildings. The USGBC claims that the study shows LEED buildings to be 25% to 30% more efficient, but Henry says their methodology is flawed. According to him, the LEED buildings actually use 29% more energy than other buildings. Henry also thinks that “green” buildings ought to be certified based on their performance after a year or two of service and that the energy use for buildings ought to be available to the public on utility Web sites. You can read more about Henry’s views on his Web site and in the latest issue of Northeast Sun. Iconoclastic building scientist Joe Lstiburek has weighed in on this debate (pretty much agreeing with Henry), as has Nadav Malin of Building Green.
I should make it clear at this point that the study and the controversy surrounding LEED deal only with commercial buildings, not houses. The USGBC launched the LEED program for commercial buildings more than 10 years ago, while LEED for Homes is brand new. I hesitate to offer an opinion on all of this because I haven't read the study and don't understand the rating system like these other guys do. But I will venture to say that launching LEED and then waiting 10 years before studying the actual performance of certified buildings hardly qualifies as “leadership.” And I certainly hope that the LEED for Homes program learns from this embarrassment.
Resource: www.finehomebuilding.com
Thursday, March 5, 2009
ENERGY EFFICIENCY 101
According to Ecohome magazine, builders make five common mistakes when it comes to energy, health, and resource efficiency in home building; HVAC ducts installed in unconditioned space, tight construction without an whole house ventilation system, improper flashing and drainage planes for water management, poorly selected and installed insulation, and wasted resources.
My experience is that the client may be lacking the experience and education to take the current popular "green" ideas and apply them to their specific project and budget. Good builders will feel strongly that the envelope quality of the house is the top priority. It guarantees energy efficiency, mold and mildew minimization, indoor air quality, and minimal maintenance. Costly "green" interior finishes will mean little if your energy bills are skyrocketing or ice dams are causing interior water infiltration. In these economic times, few can afford everything on their wish list. Start with the basics.
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