Turning Torso

'Turning Torso' Malmo, Sweden

A magnificent piece of architecture by Santiago Calatrava. Reaches a height of 190 metres (623 feet). Won the 2005 emporis skyscraper of the year award. One of my faves.

Genesis

*Note

Being my first sketchup, this is merely some ideas put to paper. The real work lies in the structural realm, which, until I recieve more schooling on the issue, my posts and creative updates will not reflect.

I am in the beginning process of defining my architectural style - there are a few elements and ideas that I did incorporate into this sketch: I have set a high priority on energy efficience, as have most all architects these days. In order to preserve energy costs and usage, I have placed large glass panes on the would-be North and South facing walls, allowing natural light to illuminate the space during regular business hours. However, to reduce heat produced by the magnifying effect of glass, I have slanted the walls to provide more soft light rather that recieving the direct rays of the sun. The East and West walls, which include the front elevation, will have limited window space and will be placed higher on the facade so as to protect the occupants from the direct rays of the sun. I hope for this to reduce the need for A/C during the hot summer months. This also creates a unique facade that is simultaneously practical. I also wanted to give the interior of the space a grand feel, so I created high ceilings, peaked by a main hallway that gives way to other office spaces. This hallway will recieve limited and yet generous amounts of light from the ceiling window panes, making the building feel more in tune with its natural setting. With that same goal in mind, I have carved out the larger side of the building to allow for a garden area that will provide relaxation and rejuvination for the occupants.

Bending The Lines

Kazuyo Sejima has done an awesome job here breaking the rules of straight lines and walls to create a space that provides comfortable living in the midst of cluttered Yokohama, Japan. This article is found in the June 2009 issue of Metropolis. I love the idea of sacrificing a bit of square footage for the better of the community that will occupy this apartment building. It allows the occupants to escape the busy world around them and come to a place of rest where the only thing outside their window is not the air ducts of the next door apartment building. Instead these residences supply a series of terraces and gardens interwoven into a non-traditional layout that bends the lines to promote community and comfortable living.

A Starting Point

At this point I am not completely sure what my aspirations are for this blog. I hope to keep a record of my journey into the field of architecture and design, while hopefully gaining feedback from peers and everyday people who will hopefully one day inhabit my designs. I also wish to share in my inspiration and growing knowledge in the field. Posting will undoubtedly be sporatic and sometimes rare, but I hope any followers will come to enjoy and appreciate this journal. Thanks for checking it out!