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
Friday, May 29, 2009
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."
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