Hawkins\Brown’s Post

I recently visited the Victoria and Albert Museum for 'Tropical Modernism - Architecture and Independence'. The exhibition focuses on the decolonisation of British territories, particularly in terms of a kind of 'handover' of responsibilities in the built environment - impacting on architecture and sustainability in these hot countries leaving British rule. This called to mind some Passivhaus concepts and even the controversial and complex Future Homes Standards that have kept builders on their toes since 2016, promising all new builds to be up to 80% more energy-efficient by 2025. It's interesting to see that a few of the tried and true methods on show are being revived, despite most of the practices being abandoned decades ago. With global temperatures on a rapid rise, will we see more of these old zero carbon practices being tweaked for modern use or are we approaching a 'too hot to handle' scenario? #builtEnvironment #architecture #exhibition

In this post, we delve into a detailed architectural analysis of the Eiffel Tower, exploring insights into its iconic design and rich history. Discover the unique structural elements and historical context that have made the Eiffel Tower a timeless symbol of innovation. #EiffelTower #Architecture #History

Reviving Art in Architecture: A Look at France's '1% for Art' Policy This Policy is intended to bring new life into architecture by integrating art seamlessly into public spaces. This innovative approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of buildings but also fosters cultural growth and appreciation. By allocating this small percentage of construction budgets to art installations, France has set a precedent for other countries to prioritize art in urban development. This strategy promotes creativity, stimulates local economies, and enriches the daily lives of residents and visitors alike. Of course... some applications are better than others. #artintegration #culturaldevelopment #art #architecture #investing #lifestyle #220dots

The McCourt School of Public Policy by Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) at Georgetown exemplifies sustainable innovation, targeting LEED Platinum. The design features reclaimed materials, brise-soleil for thermal efficiency, and Maya Lin’s site-specific installations, integrating art, nature, and functionality. A "traveling staircase" fosters community, blending academic spaces with D.C.'s policymaking heart. https://buff.ly/3DDJMJv #SustainableDesign #LEEDPlatinum #ArtInArchitecture

Why Demolish When You Can Reimagine? Adaptive reuse is a sustainable alternative to demolition that transforms aging structures into functional, modern spaces while retaining their character. Drawbacks in Demolition; Produces massive amounts of waste. Erases cultural and architectural history. Requires more energy for new construction. Rewards in Adaptive Reuse; Protects the environment by reducing waste. Offers creative freedom to blend old and new. Preserves a sense of place and community identity. Image:- The Tate Modern in London which is a stunning example of adaptive reuse. A former power station turned into an iconic art museum! #Sustainability #Architecture #AdaptiveReuse #CircularDesign

#Europan #E17 Winner in Le Palais (FR) -- DÉFENDONS LES PALANTINS -- by AS: Marine Gate (FR), Yann Houllard (FR) – architect urbanist CO: Fanny Picourlat (FR) – hyrdrologist "Le Palais is a small port town, "laboratory for global issues". The problem could be defined : How can the reintroduction of living things in an urban context contribute to the development of a resilient territory adapted to the challenges of the 21st century? Our project is contributing to the development of architecture, urban planning by trying not to do more, but rather to do things differently." #europan17 #livingcities2 #architecturecompetition #urbanplanning #urbanism #landscape #competition #architecturaldrawings #archilovers #axonometrics #lepalais #france

This adaptive reuse project reimagines a historic structure into a bold art museum, where the preserved base honors its heritage, and the dynamic upper facade symbolizes artistic expression and innovation. How can parametric design redefine adaptive reuse in architecture? #AdaptiveReuse #ArtMuseum #ParametricDesign #Architecture

How did the built environment come into being? Along with the emergence of civilisation, I realised that architecture has always been a part of our history; not plain shelter, not protection against the natural forces but the art of architecture. Our nomadic lifestyle was replicated in the Inuit's makeshift dwellings, crafted from natural elements, and the Mongolian yurts' tent-like structures. Architecture encouraged permanent settlements in Çatalhöyük, Turkey where interconnected mud brick housing promoted community living. With religion, architecture was indelibly shaped to accommodate spiritual evolution and the Hagia Sophia, initially built as a cathedral transformed into a mosque and later converted to a museum symbolises the religious influence on architecture. The Industrial Revolution reshaped rapid construction techniques for mass production. The Crystal Palace in London featured a cast iron and plate glass structure utilising modular design. The invention of the elevator made way for vertical expansion with The Equitable Life Building in New York City being the spatial experiment. In the present-day scenario, how can we carry this history forward not just as case studies but to inform modern-day architecture? #historyofarchitecture #lessonsfromhistory #worldarchitecture #monumentalarchitecture #architecture #design #ArchitectureAndDesign

🏙️ #TimeCapsuleThursday: St. Louis’ Modern Marvels and Architectural Evolution 🏙️ St. Louis has embraced modernity while maintaining its rich architectural heritage. The Gateway Arch, an iconic symbol of the city, is just one example of how engineering innovation has shaped the skyline. As modern structures rise alongside preserved historic buildings, St. Louis proves that a city can honor its past while leading in design and technology. Today, new projects focus on sustainability, engineering advancements, and the future of urban development, ensuring that St. Louis remains at the forefront of architectural innovation. #EngineersClubStLouis #GatewayArch #ModernArchitecture #UrbanDevelopment #EngineeringInnovation #FutureOfStLouis

#Europan #E17 Special Mention in Larvik (NO) -- Topography of life -- by AS: Gustavo Figueira Serrano (ES), Álvaro Itarte Perez (ES), Javier Pombar Guillan (ES), Diego Diaz Mosqueira (ES) – architects CO: Alba Álvarez Vazquez (ES), Jimena Gonzalez Verdia (ES) – architects "Our project primarily addresses the challenge of integrating architecture harmoniously within various milieus, focusing on ecological and social sustainability. This aligns with the theme "Living Cities – Imagining architecture taking care of the milieus" by prioritizing designs that are not only environmentally friendly but also enhance social interactions and community well-being. We believe our project contributes to ecological and social evolution by implementing green spaces, sustainable materials, and designs that encourage community engagement, thus fostering a balance between built environments and natural ecosystems." #europan17 #livingcities2 #architecturecompetition #urbanplanning #urbanism #landscape #competition #architecturaldrawings #archilovers #axonometrics #larvik #norge