Search

The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C. has undergone a renovation and expansion project to improve accessibility and enhance its role as a cultural institution. The historic library, designed by Paul Cret and completed in 1932, has been transformed by KieranTimberlake, with the addition of a below-grade space that includes a new entrance, exhibition halls, a learning lab, and offices. The project involved excavating thousands of cubic yards of earth and coordinating closely with contractors to ensure the preservation of the building's original elevations. The renovation also included interior enhancements such as the addition of a café in the Great Hall and the installation of compact shelving in the stacks. The project, which cost $54.5 million, offers a model for other institutions seeking to expand while working within the limitations of historic buildings. [Extracted from the article]

A pair of steel-clad apartment buildings have been constructed next to an adapted historic waterworks in Winnipeg's Exchange District. The original pumping station, built in 1906, was closed in 1986 and faced multiple failed attempts at revival. However, the architecture firm 5468796 Architecture successfully integrated an office, restaurant, and housing units into the existing building, while also adding two five-story housing blocks. The design emphasizes externalized circulatory corridors and incorporates thoughtful material choices and spatial solutions. The project preserves the heritage of the original building while creating a modern and vibrant addition to the cityscape. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the design and construction of 8 Bishopsgate, a 50-story tower in London. The tower was carefully designed to comply with planning regulations and protect views of important landmarks, such as St Paul's Cathedral. It features a stepped profile with stacked boxes and a taut glass envelope, creating a sleek and inviting interior. The tower also includes amenities such as outdoor terraces, a restaurant, and a viewing gallery. Sustainability was a priority in the design, with features such as on-floor air-handling units and a double-skin facade. The tower's construction utilized a steel frame, reinforced-concrete cores, and a lean foundation design to reduce the use of materials and minimize environmental impact. Overall, 8 Bishopsgate is a high-quality and environmentally conscious addition to London's skyline. [Extracted from the article]

Mork-Ulnes Architects has designed an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Marin County, California, that serves as a temporary home for a family of three while their main house undergoes renovation. The ADU is located on a hillside and has a limited footprint of just over 300 square feet. To maximize space, the architects used a "Swiss Army knife" approach, incorporating a movable kitchen island, a Murphy bed, and a flexible living space. The interior is clad in unvarnished ply boards, and the shower room utilizes its surroundings to visually elongate the limited volume. The design of the ADU is a response to the increasing demand for ADUs in California as a solution to the housing shortage. [Extracted from the article]

Stanzin Chozang, an architect from Ladakh's Leh, has been working to bring professional expertise to the region's traditional building practices. In the past, Ladakhis have built their own homes using local materials such as stone, mud, and grass. Chozang believes that these age-old tactics provide better thermal comfort compared to modern materials like concrete. He incorporates natural materials into his designs, such as using a waterproofing solution mixed with Multani mitti, a mineral-rich topsoil, instead of paint. Chozang's work combines contemporary design with sustainable and cost-effective solutions. [Extracted from the article]

In 1962, ENR Editor-in-Chief Waldo G. Bowman attended the 29th Executive Meeting of the International Commission on Large Dams in Moscow as part of the U.S. delegation. After three days of commission sessions, the delegates embarked on a two-week tour of dams sponsored by the Soviet Ministry of Power Station Construction. Bowman's report highlighted the use of precast concrete in Soviet construction projects and noted the competence of Soviet engineers in low-head, big river dams and hydro plants. However, he expressed puzzlement at their confidence in high concrete or rockfill dams, as they had little experience with them. The report also mentioned the extensive use of precast concrete in the Soviet housing program and the significant presence of women in the Soviet construction labor force. [Extracted from the article]