The Philadelphia Water Department has announced the publication of Philadelphia’s Green Streets Design Manual! Streets account for 38% of Philadelphia’s impervious surfaces, and are the…
To get cyclists off the pavement, build better bike lanes
From the point of view of the citizen, wilderness, however beautifully it is ordered in an ecological sense, represents a chaotic and destructive force. It is the job of the city to organize and channel the forces of nature into patterns that support the art of living together. NEWS: The Biophilic Cities Project at the University of Virginia School of Architecture is a multiyear initiative engaging cities across the globe. From Oct. 17 to 20, 2013, it hosted the launch of a “Biophilic Cities Peer Network” to advance the theory and practice of planning for cities that contain abundant nature. Biophilic cities care about, seek to protect, restore and grow nature, and strive to foster deep connections and daily contact with the natural world, said Tim Beatly, Teresa Heinz Professor of Sustainable Communities, chair of the Department of Urban and Environmental Planning and a self-described “biophilic urbanist.” Professor Beatly is seen here in a natural setting. Courtesy of UVAToday When asked “What is a biophilic city?” Tim Beatly, Professor of Sustainable Communities at the University of Virginia’s School of Architecture and a founder of the Biophilic Cities Project responds that “perhaps the simplest answer is that it is a city that puts nature first in its design, planning and management: it recognizes the essential need for human contact with nature as well as the many environmental and economic values provided by nature and natural systems." Urbanismo prides itself on putting the city itself first when it comes to design, planning and management, but we understand about the innate human requirements that are met by parks, gardens, and forests. We have written previously on Richmond’s “great, wet, Central Park.” And we have charted, in Tyler Potterfield’s Nonesuch Place: A History of the Richmond Landscape, the growth of a city-wide park system. Richmond’s “urban forest” sprang directly from municipal determination to make the benefits of public landscapes and street foliage available to the citizens from the earliest days. Residents of the town and city of Richmond have enjoyed open access to natural settings for recreation and work since its founding in the 1730s. William Byrd’s original plat provided common land along the river and Shockoe Creek for activities like walking, fishing, and washing laundry. Richmonders later set aside public squares, planted trees, and made both private and public gardens in which they strolled, to played, and found a respite from the heat and summer sun. Mostly, however, they attempted, in an inevitably flawed way, to provide an approximation of “the good life” for themselves. Over time, the settlement at the falls of the James developed markets, court and education systems, extensive parks, and a great tradition of public and private architecture. The perennial city as the site of civil life materialized, in spite of inherent challenges, along the unpredictable, untamable James River. The hopeful arguments underlying the marketing of Biophilia as a new kind of urbanism are based in a popular idea-- that there is a deep psychological connection between humans and natural processes-- posited by biologist and naturalist E.O. Wilson. The Biophilic Cities Project merges this idea with a utilitarian goal of increasing contentment and productivity and an up-to-date foreboding about the future. According to Tim Beatly, Biophilic cities may be “partly defined by the qualities and biodiversity present and designed into urban life, but also the many activities and lifestyle choices and patterns, the many opportunities residents have to learn about and be engaged directly in nature, and the local institutions and commitments expressed, for instance, in local government budgets and policies.” The Biophilic Cities vision, as articulated on the official website, consists of a series of concepts grounded in the Green and Sustainability movements. Many of these appear to be self-evident, even banal. Residents of Biophilic cities “feel a deep affinity with the unique flora, fauna and fungi found there.” People “are happier, more relaxed, and more productive, in the presence of nature.” Not only is it true that a “near-constant ability to see and experience nature is an important antidote to the stresses of modern life,” but the experience of nature in the city may “supply the essential background and building blocks for creativity, imagination, and artistic expression.” Biophilic architects assert with confidence that "the benefits of natural daylight and ventilation have been proven to improve productivity and reduce sick days in office workers." The project anticipates that things may turn unpleasant in the coming years, perhaps as resources grow scarce. Biophilic gardens and natural features will, however, “help to make cities and urban residents more resilient in the face of a host of likely pressures and shocks” to come in the future. The project to build a Biophilic City may seem, at first, like an attempt to recover some of the architectural and social features that have gone missing from urban landscapes over the past fifty years. A loss of intensity in public life can be seen to have a close relationship with ongoing developments in technology. These included mass transit systems, which, by the 1890s, enabled workers to live outside the city center in new streetcar suburbs. The changes were extended by newer transformative technologies like the automobile and air conditioning. Over time, the schools, commercial centers, office buildings, and manufactories that were not relocated to the outskirts of the city were sealed off from direct exposure to natural forces. The public square, once the focus of political, commercial, and social interaction, has been depopulated. New building materials and technologies have made possible the nearly complete industrialization of the architectural and building professions, even as much of the population has moved into the “leafy” suburbs. In fact, the move to semi-forested suburbs like those around most American cities may represent Wilson’s biophilic urge at its peak. It is possible that the Biophilic movement will even lead us toward a merging of suburb and city center-- a hybridizing process which we might be tempted to call “surbanism.” The Biophilic use of the word nature seems to us to suffer from a lack of clarity. There are several definitions of nature that range from “everything there is and how it works” to “everything there is except man and all his works.” The second definition sets the city apart from natural things, giving it a license to control and exploit the world. Bringing nature into the city would then be introducing a kind of anti-matter into the streets and squares of the city, unable to engage with the civilization they channel and support. On the other hand, if the city is itself natural, the nonhuman elements of nature that are incorporated into the urban fabric would “naturally” participate in the city’s project of perfecting the life of its inhabitants. In other words, trees and water and animals, including wildlife, would take their place in the urban order, along with public art, rotary clubs, civic buildings, squares, and streets. From the point of view of the citizen, wilderness, however beautifully it is ordered in an ecological sense, represents a chaotic and destructive force. It is the job of the city to organize and channel the forces of nature into patterns that support the art of living together. For instance, we are sure that urban parks, in order to be useful and used, are best planned as responses to essentially urban activities. Stephanie Pincetl, Director of the California Center for Sustainable Communities, which studies the “urban metabolism” of “human created ecosystem[s]” like Los Angeles, is onto something when she says: Nature surrounds us everywhere in the city, we live in the midst of it all the time, but are not even aware of it. Buildings are made from concrete, made with aggregate and water. Roads are asphalt, from fossil fuel. The resources that we build with and make all our daily items with are sourced from nature. When we begin to be more aware of that, it helps us understand the fundamental materiality of cities and how much they are made from nature, far flung, perhaps, and remanufactured, but nature nonetheless. That kind of awareness can better inform our decisions about building materials, their energy intensivity -- or how much energy is embedded in the things we make -- and how the built environment is both the product of transformed nature and then transforms nature where we build. As we have written elsewhere, “nature includes not only the natural objects around us, such as plants, animals and rocks, but the system of principles by which things can be explained according to reason and which were true prior to their discovery. More importantly, nature provides the mark against which rational judgment is made possible, the moral order which allows us to state confidently that democracy is the best form of government because it has as its goal the good of every citizen, and the goal of all our efforts as human beings.” Any failure in our relationship with the natural world is a failure, not of access, but of imagination. City dwellers will recognize that Richmond’s problems do not stem at all from lack of access to the river. We already drink from it, drive over it, and keep its powerful image in our imaginations, where rivers and other similarly potent forces of nature do their most effective work. In fact, the heart of the city is most certainly not the James River: real wilderness has only a small place in the city’s necessary order. Our life as citizens- practicing politics- the great art of living together- is at the heart of the city. Neglecting our urban life and its finely crafted architectural setting, we have somehow abandoned a shared understanding of what it takes to build and maintain a good city. Our sidewalks have been depopulated, the prosperity that serves the civic good has fled, and our schools seem unable to fully reform themselves. Richmond’s fragile urban connective tissues should be of more immediate interest. In the end, we devoutly disagree with the goals of the Biophilic Cities Project, simply because the project fails to engage with the most pressing questions posed by our city(s). Its set of proposals, presented as an alternative to traditional urbanism, constitutes an end-run around the existential crisis which afflicts the city.
Europan 13 was another success with a plethora of winning proposals for sites all around the European continent. ...
Urban Planning/ Architecture Portfolio
For one dreary rainy afternoon this past July, an underpass of Ottawa’s Queensway was overtaken by acoustic guitars and hot pink shag carpets. With bicycles and runners, and the rumble of the O-Train and highway as a backdrop, passersby were invited to play a song on the guitar or lounge on the carpeted concrete slopesContinue reading "Design Citizens: professional-grassroots urban tactics"
Add a modern feel to your space with this globe floor lamp featuring an oversized frosted shade that creates a unique lighting display. Available exclusively at Urban Outfitters. Features - Modern floor lamp from UO Home - Unique lighting to illuminate your space - Plug in - Requires one E26 Type A 60W LED Bulb - not included - Versatile - doubles as a globe table lamp - Compact fluorescent compatible - UO exclusive Content + Care - 90% Acrylic, 10% other - Wipe clean - Imported - Made in compliance with US electrical standards. To use this item outside of the US, pair with an outlet adapter and voltage converter made specifically for use in your location. Size Small - Wattage/Voltage: 60W/120V - Overall dimensions: 15.4"dia x 15.4"h - Base dimensions: 6.7"dia x 0.2"h - Shade dimensions: 15.6"dia x 15.2"h - Cord length: 7 ft - Weight: 4.4 lbs - Shipping package dimensions: 18.9"l x 18.9"w x 18.5"h - Shipping package weight: 11.2 lbs Large - Wattage/Voltage: 60W/120V - Overall dimensions: 19.5"dia x 19.3"h - Base dimensions: 8.6"dia x 0.2"h - Shade dimensions: 19.9"dia x 19.1"h - Cord length: 12 ft - Weight: 7.3 lbs - Shipping package dimensions: 21.5"l x 21.5"w x 21.7"h - Shipping package weight: 16.9 lbs
The given task for this Landscape Studio Project was to take a specific area and further develop it…
Les plus belles têtes de lit bohèmes pour une chambre esprit boho : tête de lit bohème chic, à fabriquer, en rotin, pas chère et DIY...
Hand drawn city map of Raalte (called after some Dutch town). The city is situated on two rivers, on of them being an affluent, ending in the other. It's drawn as a city as it could have grown in multiple centuries: city center, former bastions, station close to the river side, apparment buildings from the 70s and newer neighbourhoods surrounding the city. In a word: a very European city. Why it is called Raalte? Well, I just like place names ending on -e and after having made up twenty of them, I started to run out of own names, so started using real place names. 2011.
Copenhagenize.com - Building Better Bicycle Cultures
The 2015 winners span 150 recipients across 90 categories, including offices, religious buildings and sports arenas.
evolveEA helped Larimer & Homewood design Ecodistrict plans that incorporate energy independence, net zero water use, and localized food economies.
Projekt mariny w Rewie to praca dyplomowa Konstancji Olszewskiej, absolwentki Wydziału Architektury Politechniki Gdańskiej. Brawo!
¿Buscas una cocina de estilo tradicional sin renunciar a lo moderno? Esta cocina ofrece eso mismo, y queda muy bien si vives en la ciudad. Obtén más información.
pet gear with attitude! Vintage 12 oz Canvas Messenger Bag offers classic styling and functionality and features 3 inner compartments great for storage of books or gear, 1 outer compartment w/ snaps and a fully adjustable shoulder strap. Size: One Size 15"W x 11"H x 4"D. Strap is approx 40" from end to end when fully extended Design size 4.21"(w) x 4.80"(h) ***Colors of thread in embroidery design, along with material the design is one, may very slightly due to computer screen color variations and possible changes in dye lots. The design image is from the manufacturer and they may use a different thread brand than I, thus the colors may vary slightly. If you want to customize any part of the design (such as changing colors within the design, send me a message with your customization request BEFORE placing your order to see if I can accommodate and you see if extra charges apply! Design image courtesy of urbanthreads.com *****TO ADD A NAME TO YOUR PURCHASE, PLEASE ALSO PURCHASE THIS LISTING***** http://etsy.me/2iqWLl9 *****TO ADD A SAYING OR QUOTE TO YOUR PURCHASE, PLEASE ALSO PURCHASE THIS LISTING***** http://etsy.me/2isnAFz
Pracownia arch_it zdoby...
Held in 1933 on a ship in the Mediterranian, the fourth CIAM congress and Le Corbusier's subsequent Athens Charter (La Charte d'Athenes) are widely...
Building or moving into a brand new home is an exciting time, and there are so many advantages over an older home. But unless you're lucky enough to have had it architecturally designed, a new house can sometimes feel a little plain, lacking in charm, or, dare I say, soulless. At our recent
About The Artwork Abstract, expressive, impulsive and intuitive painting. Original Created:2021 Subjects:Abstract Materials:Canvas Styles:AbstractAbstract ExpressionismFine ArtStreet Art Mediums:AcrylicAirbrushPaper Details & Dimensions Painting:Acrylic on Canvas Original:One-of-a-kind Artwork Size:34.8 W x 45.7 H x 0.8 D in Frame:Not Framed Ready to Hang:Not applicable Packaging:Ships in a Crate Shipping & Returns Delivery Time:Typically 5-7 business days for domestic shipments, 10-14 business days for international shipments. Handling:Ships in a wooden crate for additional protection of heavy or oversized artworks. Artists are responsible for packaging and adhering to Saatchi Art’s packaging guidelines. Ships From:France. Have additional questions? Please visit our help section or contact us.
Vintage-inspired details and inviting materials combine to create this standout vanity two-piece vanity set, including a table and stool that fit together just right. A caged rattan vanity table forms a round frame equipped with a storage compartment built into the tabletop surface and topped with a hinge-open round mirror to catch the perfect view while you’re getting ready for the day. Vanity stool features a padded, upholstered construction with caged rattan detailing arching around the back of the cylindrical design. Available exclusively at Urban Outfitters. Features - Boho vanity set from UO Home - Two-piece vanity and stool set in natural rattan - Rattan vanity table & vanity stool - Rounded silhouette that fits together perfectly - Storage-ready tabletop with rounded mirror - Custom furniture piece will be made to order just for you - Some assembly required - UO exclusive Content + Care - Some assembly required – instructions and hardware included - Includes vanity and stool - Rattan, mirror, fabric - Spot clean - Imported Size Vanity - Dimensions: 29.75"dia x 35.25"h - Leg height: 35.25" - Clearance: 23"h - Weight limit: 130 lbs - Weight: 55.4 lbs Stool - Dimensions: 24"l x 20.5"w x 30.25"h - Seat dimensions: 21.25"l x 19.75"w - Seat height: 18.5"h Shipping - Shipping package dimensions: 32.68"l x 32.68"w x 37.4"h - Shipping package weight: 69.3 lbs
An ombre of painterly stitches forms this happy amphibian, embroidered on a canvas messenger bag. Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag offers classic styling and functionality and features 3 inner compartments great for storage of books or gear, 1 outer compartment w/ snaps and a fully adjustable shoulder strap. Size: One Size 15"W x 11"H x 4"D. Design size: 4.84"(w) x 5.87"(h) Strap is approx 40" from end to end when fully extended ***Colors of thread in embroidery design, along with material the design is one, may very slightly due to computer screen color variations and possible changes in dye lots. The design image is from the manufacturer and they may use a different thread brand than I, thus the colors may vary slightly. If you want to customize any part of the design (such as changing colors within the design, send me a message with your customization request BEFORE placing your order to see if I can accommodate and you see if extra charges apply! Design image courtesy of urbanthreads.com *****TO ADD A NAME TO YOUR PURCHASE, PLEASE ALSO PURCHASE THIS LISTING***** http://etsy.me/2iqWLl9 *****TO ADD A SAYING OR QUOTE TO YOUR PURCHASE, PLEASE ALSO PURCHASE THIS LISTING***** http://etsy.me/2isnAFz
Image 7 of 34 from gallery of Itatiba Residence / RoccoVidal P+W. Photograph by Tuca Reinés
The London Underground is a place with its own unique atmosphere where a medley of physical and cultural characteristics interact. Through the process of exploring visual patterns of light, colour, and shape, a tapestry of harmonious form becomes visible. In an attempt to capture the diversity of this fleeting moment of cultural juxtapositions and physical attributes of this distinctive sub-world, the nature of the Underground and the colourful character of this space emerges. Oil on Linen Materials used: Oil on Linen Tags:#woman #city #london #underground #train tracks #central london #muslim prayer #commuting #tube map of london
Kildegården is a pioneering example of holistic architecture, where building and landscape are seamlessly woven into one coherent solution. The former barracks area in the centre of the Danish city of Roskilde has been transformed into a coherent urban space that offers new possibilities for the existing cultural and leisure environment with sensitivity to the […]
Explore luvs2click's 2271 photos on Flickr!
Collapsible storage crate in a versatile design that stacks neatly and comes in a color-pop finish that sets your space apart. With a retro look we love, featuring geometric cutouts, it’s perfect for storing art supplies, desk essentials, snacks, fruit and so much more! Features - Essential favorite from UO Home - Organize everything with this stackable crate - Easily folds down when not in use - UO exclusive Content + Care - Plastic - Wipe clean - Imported Size - Dimensions: 11.42"l x 8.39"w x 4.84"h - Weight limit: 6.61 lbs - Weight: 0.53 lbs - Shipping package dimensions: 11.42"l x 8.39"w x 1.38"h - Shipping package weight: 0.53 lbs
Image 2 of 15 from gallery of Urban Park of Palouriotissa Third Prize Winning Proposal / Groundlab + Clara Oloriz. Terraces axonometric diagram © Groundlab
