Noteworthy Buildings Worldwide
Traveling has not been the same this entire year, and the chances to explore cities or countries has been harder than ever. Not only have we not been able to explore our own cities, but we also have not been able to study architectural projects that have cast the awe and magnetism of its design by traveling to their destinations and exploring at your own free will. We hope that during this new lockdown, you can take the time and explore these noteworthy buildings to get you over the hump of not being able to travel, and tack them on to your bucket list of the next places to travel to once things start to normalize.
Microlibrary Warak Kayu by Shau
Image by KIE https://kiearch.com
Shau has built a library in Semarang, Indonesia as their aim to improve access to learning for those living in the country’s poorest communities by designing functional spaces using environmentally conscious design and materials. This library serves as a public reading room with a small community centre and reading spaces with functionality. Its main design elements feature a hammock-like net floor for comfortable seating, grand staircase that creates an auditorium-style seating area, a diagonal patterned brise soleil (slightly shifted diamond pattern) to naturally shade the bookshelves, and a passive shading sustainable feature to enhance energy savings.
Opus by Zaha Hadid Architects
Image by Laurian Ghinitoiu zaha-hadid.com/architecture/opus/
Zaha Hadid Architects has just completed the new ME Dubai hotel that explores both interior and exterior features founded by Zaha Hadid. It features sculptured curved balconies, and furniture features by Zaha Hadid Design which enhances the buildings occupancy for a hotel, offices, restaurants, and apartments. This is a great example of exploring a buildings mass between solid and void aspects which enhances the dramatic geometrical fluidity of changing reflections and transparency surrounding the city.
Marine Education Center at The Gulf Coast Research Laboratory by Lake Flato
Image by Lake Flato lakeflato.com/eco-conservation/marine-education-center
After Hurricane Katrina, Lake Flato was left with questions regarding weather, architecture, and what solutions could be made for future use and the impact of future natural environment strategies. This project showcases the defense design against hurricanes and the combination of biology, ecology, and construction. Their concept as Chris Snyder has said was to adapt the mantra that, “All buildings eventually end up in the ocean.” Allowing them to use locally sourced materials to reach a simplistic architectural design.
Jiunvfeng Study on Mount Tai by gad·line+ studio
Image by ZY Studio dezeen.com/2020/05/08/jiunvfeng-study-mount-tai-china-gad-line-studio/
This study is located in Daiyue District, Tai’an City, China within the five sacred mountains. The study was to offer a visitor center with sweeping views of the mountain landscape using three design elements: a stone base, a white membrane canopy, and transparent floor and ceilings focused on an architectural philosophy of ‘less is more’. The aspect of a cloud has allowed for the design to reinterpret itself within the landscape to create a relaxed atmosphere compared to the region’s contemporary temples, creating a visible illusion of lightness and structure to create a minimal contemporary aesthetic within the cultural heritage.
These are just some of the wonderful new architectural projects out in the world today. We hope this short list has enhanced your appetite for exploration once the lockdown is over.