Architecture
All Congnac is Brandy, but all Brandy is not Cognac. When learning to drink with an old friend this was the first lesson that I learned. The term architect is regulated, you have to pass a series of tests to earn a piece of paper which certifies that you are indeed an architect. Simply being an architect does not make one capable of producing architecture. There is a difference between creating a building and architecture, unfortunately buildings are far more prevalent in the United States. Architecture is a fine Cognac and only the most sensitive of palettes can taste the difference.
The REAL Answers to Questions About NCARB Fees Increase
In the spirit of one of my favorite Cincinnati radio personalities Earl Pitts: “Ya’ know what makes me sick? You know what makes me so angry?” Mostly the lack of integrity of every corporation in the United States. I am not talking about BP, which is equally disgusting, but today is NCARB’s day to shine. I, like many of my fellow architects found my self in complete shock when I read the latest newsletter released by NCARB: NCARB’s e-Connection -July 2010: Answers to Questions About NCARB Fees. I am hosting a PDF version of the article on my site, because as I have discussed in previous articles, NCARB has a habit of quietly changing information. The questions and answers should not concern you, because they are as scripted as any interview you might find on a daytime television talk show. In nearly every case fees have doubled! But WHY? … continue reading The REAL Answers to Questions About NCARB Fees Increase
AIA YAF Temporary/Permanent Relief Housing Competition Results
Have you seen the results of the Temporary/Permanent Relief Housing Competition? It is an ‘ideas competition’ sponsored by the AIA and Young Architect’s Forum. This competition serves as a reminder that the architecture competition system, or lack thereof, in the United States is flawed, and that it is in desperate need of regulation. Before you accuse me of having a vested interest, let me clarify that I have no horse in this race. I am not associated with this competition or any other competition. So, to clarify, I did not register for, nor did I submit a project to be judged in this competition. A few days ago I received a copy of the winning entries, and I was disgusted with what I saw, as it only confirmed the reasons for which I did not enter the competition and everything that I know to be wrong with the way architectural competitions are run in the United States. … continue reading AIA YAF Temporary/Permanent Relief Housing Competition Results
1111 Lincoln Road by Herzog & de Meuron: The Beauty of Parking
1111 Lincoln Road is part of an addition and upgrade to the existing SunTrust office building, which is a Brutalist concrete relic designed by Adolfo Albaisa that was constructed in the 1960s. At first glance, 1111 Lincoln Road looks like a new museum or a swanky new condo building just beginning construction, but in reality the structure is nearly complete. 1111 Lincoln Road is more than a parking garage, it is a building that serves as a continuation of the street with parking, retail, restaurants, event space and residential components scattered throughout the structure. … continue reading 1111 Lincoln Road by Herzog & de Meuron: The Beauty of Parking
