General Projects’ Post

Sensitive Places ++ [improving communities] Cities can greatly benefit from revisiting the design elements of traditional towns, such as narrow cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and significant civic buildings, to craft memorable public spaces today. These features foster a sense of place and community, encouraging residents and visitors alike to engage with their surroundings. Additionally, integrating landscaping into urban environments creates inviting atmospheres for leisurely strolls, promoting mental well-being and a deeper connection to the city. In contrast to the often sterile and uninspired public spaces found in many modern communities, embracing these timeless design principles can lead to vibrant, lively urban areas that enhance quality of life, boost local economies, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging.

When it comes to architectural innovation and creating unique, breathtaking homes, building on a sloped site presents both challenges and opportunities that can result in remarkable dwellings that seamlessly blend with the natural landscape. https://lnkd.in/dSA4x3DP

Can we also please acknowledge that it takes women longer to go and change the code already? And until that happens, maybe just, as designers, add more stalls for women and/or gender neutral facilities? #morestallsforwomen #bathroomdesign #restroomdesign #gobeyondcode #designbetter

The vibrant urban spaces that make up The Riverfront Revitalization project in Omaha, Nebraska, have once again captured the imagination and recognition of prestigious design juries. We’re thrilled to announce that this project has recently been honored with Urban Land Institute's 2024 ULI Americas Award for Excellence and was also named the winner of the urban design category in the 2024 Fast Company Innovation by Design awards. In collaboration with OJB Landscape Architecture and many other partners, we tackled the engineering complexities of incorporating not one but three parks within downtown Omaha to improve access and connections, foster environmental connection and support economic growth. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what the award programs had to say: “Emerging as a vibrant hub of entertainment and culture, The RiverFront has catalyzed the growth of new businesses, residential properties and commercial ventures, underscoring the pivotal role of open and accessible spaces in enhancing community life.“ - Urban Land Institute, May 2024 “Part of the design savvy employed by design firms HDR and OJB in reenvisioning this 72-acre green space was solving the puzzle of parkland that nobody could figure out for decades.” - Fast Company Magazine, July 2024 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gJp78XXG #UrbanDesign #UrbanPlanning #LandscapeArchitecture #CivilEngineering #ULI #FastCompany with OJB Landscape Architecture, Metropolitan Entertainment & Convention Authority

A Big Win for a Challenging Project – Securing Listed Building Consent at Locksbrook Cemetery Lodge We’re delighted to share that we successfully designed and secured planning and listed building consent yesterday for a loft conversion at Locksbrook Cemetery Lodge, a Grade II listed building in Bath. This was no ordinary project—working within such a sensitive heritage setting required a multidisciplinary approach. Through innovative engineering solutions, architectural history expertise, and clever design, we demonstrated that the proposal would have minimal impact on the building’s historic fabric while unlocking its potential. Accurate surveys were crucial in understanding the constraints and opportunities, allowing us to craft a sympathetic yet practical solution. The result? A carefully considered design that respects the heritage significance of the lodge while meeting modern needs. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and creative problem-solving in heritage projects. A big win for a challenging site—on to the next! #HeritageArchitecture #ListedBuildingConsent #EngineeringSolutions #LoftConversion #PlanningSuccess

Should you focus on the past... or is the future what matters? As someone who works closely with construction professionals in Ohio, it's inspiring to see the incredible work being done to revitalize historic buildings and neighborhoods in downtown Cincinnati. Take the Willkommen Project in Over-the-Rhine (OTR) for example. It’s more than just a preservation effort—it’s a forward-thinking approach to combining affordability, good design, and historic renovation. By restoring 11 historic buildings and adding modern infill, Willkommen is bringing much-needed affordable housing to a historic area while maintaining its rich architectural fabric. (https://lnkd.in/gtHCnia8) Historic preservation isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about shaping a future that’s both sustainable and economically sound. Cincinnati shows how we can blend innovation, heritage, and community to create lasting progress. If you’re passionate about urban revitalization or work in construction, I’d love to connect and discuss how these projects are changing the landscape of Cincinnati! 🌍 #UrbanRevitalization #HistoricPreservation #CincinnatiConstruction #ConstructionJobs #Sustainability #BuildingTheFuture

As a Project Manger working primarily in World Heritage Sites/Listed Buildings, I'm becoming more aware about the inherent biases when buildings are out up for heritage listing. Looking back at what has gained listed status and what hasn't, there is an inherent classist bias. The UK Government talks of buildings' "importance", "significance" and "virtuosity", their "innovation", "distinction", "merit" and "rarity", and how they might "represent" or "illustrate" when selecting buildings for heritage listing. I agree with Owen when he states that this drives an entirely ideological assessment of a building's value. Look at the recent removal of the Sainsbury wing of the National Gallery in London, a wing that showed prominent postmodernist ideals, to be replaced with boring bland conformity. The way buildings are selected for Heritage Listing and the values they must meet to do so needs to be rethought. As Owen states, "in an ever more politically polarised and divided world, we urgently need more open, inclusive and progressive understandings of heritage. So, instead of the exclusive and restrictive modernist concept of heritage, how about a postmodern one that actively embraces the possibility of multiple value systems?" If this isn't changed soon, we'll be at risk of losing some amazing buildings that were built post 1980, especially those that don't fit in the classist narrative of what a visually beautiful building means.

Ever notice how certain suburban homes seem to transcend time, effortlessly blending modernity with comfort? The house in this image demonstrates exquisite use of materials. Light-colored siding and dark wooden accents create a warm yet sophisticated palette. One couple's feedback on a similar project revealed that these choices not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also necessitate low maintenance—truly merging beauty with practicality. Interestingly, the U.S. green building market is expected to be worth $99.8 billion by 2023, emphasizing eco-friendly choices. How do you see materials influencing future suburban architecture? Let's chat about it!

It’s the first #MasonryMonday of July! Can you believe how quickly 2024 is going by?! To start off the month, here’s another book recommendation: Reglazing Modernism, by Angel Ayón, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Uta Pottgiesser, and Nathaniel Richards. As many of the icons of the Modern Movement get older, the conservation of the buildings is becoming paramount in the minds of building users and professionals. One issue peculiar to the Modernist movement is the use of metal-framed single-glazed exterior enclosures, including windows, storefronts, and window walls. While the buildings may appear to be serviceable, the energy issues that arise with these enclosures can endanger them. Put simply, Modernist icons have not performed well when it comes to sustainability and user comfort. Ayón et al feature 20 case studies of buildings in the United States and Europe where either Restoration, Rehabilitation, or Replacement of the exterior glazed assemblies took place. The buildings—all of which have some sort of local historic landmark designation—were all retained and are thriving from a building performance standpoint. This is a well-written book featuring excellent, clear graphics (including 3-D sections and details), and a detailed account of what took place at each project. Full disclosure: I am a bit biased, as two projects were completed by current or previous employers. I was fortunate enough to be involved with one! #buildingpreservation #buildingenclosure #buildingrestoration #buildingconservation #conservation #facades #historicpreservation #historicrestoration #historicconservation #heritagerestoration #heritagepreservation #heritageconservation #heritagebuildings #docomomo #hallidiebuilding #sanfrancisco #newyorkcity #chicago #franklloydwright #modernarchitecture #modernmovement #modernistarchitecture #newhaven #preservation #restoration #rehabilitation #unesco

Ballymore Unveils Inclusive Playground in Malahide, Celebrating Community and Accessibility. Minister and local TD Darragh O'Brien has joined the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh, and Ballymore representatives this week to open a new playground in Malahide. Ballymore has designed the fully accessible play space to complement its newest neighbourhood at Seamount Rise. In collaboration with Fingal County Council's Parks Department, Park Hood Landscape Architecture, and local suppliers, the playground is part of Ballymore's ongoing commitment to creating inclusive and community-oriented developments. Our web article takes a closer look: https://lnkd.in/em3AgRyT