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A permanent sunshade will be attached to London's "Walkie-Talkie" skyscraper to prevent reflected sunlight from damaging nearby properties. Developer Land Securities has received planning permission for the "brise soleil" solution after the glare from the building melted parked vehicles and damaged shops in the City of London. Discover how this innovative solution will solve the solar glare issue and protect the surrounding area.
Urban design is a field that combines architecture, landscape architecture, and city planning to create beautiful and functional environments in urban areas. It's a career that is all about improving the quality of life for city dwellers by designing spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. As an urban designer, you'll be responsible for creating public spaces such as parks, plazas, and streetscapes. You'll be involved in designing buildings and infrastructure, such as bridges, tunnels, and highways. You'll also work with local governments and community groups to ensure that your designs meet the needs of the people who will use them. One of the most exciting aspects of urban design is the opportunity to create spaces that are truly unique and inspiring. For example, you might design a park that incorporates elements of the local culture, or create a public art installation that reflects the history of the area. These projects can have a real impact on the community, and can be incredibly rewarding to work on. As an urban designer, you'll typically work in a team environment, collaborating with architects, engineers, and city planners. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area, such as transportation planning, historic preservation, or sustainable design. To become an urban designer, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or urban planning. Popular undergraduate programs include the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA), and Bachelor of Urban Planning (BUP). In addition to formal education, there are a number of personal attributes that can be helpful in a career in urban design. These include creativity, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team environment. Job prospects for urban designers are generally strong, with employment opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include the City of New York Department of City Planning, the London-based firm Foster + Partners, and the San Francisco-based firm Gensler. In the longer term, the outlook for urban designers is positive, as cities around the world continue to grow and evolve. As an urban designer, you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of our cities, creating spaces that are not only beautiful, but also functional and sustainable. If you're passionate about design, and want to make a real difference in the world, a career in urban design could be the perfect choice for you.
Are you curious about how technology is shaping the future of our cities? This book by an internationally renowned architect and urban planner explores the major technological forces driving urban change. Discover how digital systems are transforming urban life and explore new visions for tomorrow's city. With a front-row seat to experimentation and implementation of urban initiatives, the authors call for a new approach to envisioning cities: futurecraft, a symbiotic development of urban ideas by designers and the public. Join the conversation and shape the most desirable future for our cities. Recommended for urban planners, architects, designers, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and urban life. This book explores the major technological forces driving the future of cities, providing new visions for tomorrow's city. With a front-row seat to experimentation and implementation of urban initiatives, the authors call for a new approach to envisioning cities: futurecraft, a symbiotic development of urban ideas by designers and the public. This book may also be relevant to those studying fields such as urban studies, engineering, and computer science, as well as anyone interested in shaping the future of our cities.
Architecture is more than just designing buildings, it's about creating spaces that inspire, evoke emotion and are functional. It's a field that blends creativity, innovation and technical skills to create structures that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Architects are responsible for designing everything from homes to skyscrapers, and their work can be seen all around us. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the towering Burj Khalifa in Dubai, architects have left their mark on the world. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in sustainable architecture, with many architects incorporating environmentally friendly design principles into their work. This has led to some incredible innovations, such as buildings that generate their own energy, and structures that are made entirely from recycled materials. Studying architecture at undergraduate level will give you a strong foundation in the principles of design, construction and engineering. You will learn how to use a range of software programs to create 2D and 3D designs, as well as how to read and interpret architectural plans. As you progress through your studies, you will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as urban planning, sustainable design or historic preservation. You may even have the chance to study abroad, gaining valuable experience and exposure to different architectural styles and techniques. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of careers in the architecture industry. You could work for a large architecture firm, designing structures for clients around the world. Alternatively, you could work in the public sector, designing public spaces such as parks or government buildings. Some of the most notable employers in the industry include Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, and Gensler. These firms are known for their innovative designs and commitment to sustainable architecture. To succeed in the field of architecture, you will need to be creative, detail-oriented and have strong technical skills. You should also have a passion for design and a desire to create structures that are not only beautiful but also functional and sustainable. In summary, studying architecture at undergraduate level is an exciting and rewarding experience that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of careers in the architecture industry. Whether you want to design skyscrapers or public spaces, this field of study offers endless opportunities for creativity and innovation.
Are you interested in shaping the built environment of cities and towns to improve the quality of life for their inhabitants? Do you want to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable spaces that promote health, equity, and social interaction? If so, then urban design may be the perfect field of study for you. Urban design is an interdisciplinary field that combines architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, engineering, and social sciences to create well-designed and well-managed urban spaces. Urban designers are involved in every aspect of city design, from street layouts to building facades, public spaces, and transportation systems. They work to make cities more livable, attractive, and sustainable. Some of the most interesting and meaningful aspects of urban design include creating green spaces, promoting public transportation, and fostering community engagement. For example, the High Line in New York City is a prime example of how urban designers can transform an abandoned railway into a vibrant public park that provides both recreational space and a connection between different neighborhoods. Urban design is also a field that is constantly evolving, with new research, innovations, and academic discourse emerging all the time. Recent developments include smart city technology, which uses data and technology to improve city infrastructure and services, as well as innovative urban planning strategies that promote sustainability and resilience. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in subjects such as urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, and engineering. These courses will provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices of urban design, and may include studio classes where students can work on real-world projects. There are many potential areas of further specialization in urban design, including transportation planning, housing, public space design, and community development. For example, you might specialize in designing public transportation systems like the BRT system in Bogota, Colombia, or in creating mixed-use developments like Battery Park City in New York City. Urban design is a field with a wide range of potential career paths, including urban planner, landscape architect, city designer, transportation planner, and housing developer. Some of the key industries for prospective future employment include government agencies, non-profit organizations, real estate development companies, and architecture and engineering firms. Notable employers in this field include firms like Gensler, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), and the City of Copenhagen. To succeed in urban design, it is helpful to have strong design skills, an interest in public policy and urban issues, and the ability to think creatively and collaboratively. You should also have strong communication skills, as urban design often involves working with a variety of stakeholders and communicating complex design ideas to the public.
The story of London's first subway system is a testament to the power of human innovation and perseverance. Despite facing skepticism and ridicule, the Metropolitan Railway was successfully built using the "cut and cover" technique, which involved digging a trench, constructing a tunnel out of brick archways, and refilling the hole. This simple system proved to be disruptive and required the demolition of buildings above the tunnels, but it ultimately helped to reduce the terrible congestion on the roads, making London a more prosperous city. The success of the Metropolitan Railway also paved the way for the development of new technologies, such as the Greathead Shield, which allowed for the construction of deeper underground tunnels that didn't disturb the surface. Learning about the history of transportation and infrastructure can inspire us to think creatively about solving modern-day problems and can help us appreciate the ingenuity of those who came before us.
Neri Oxman is a groundbreaking designer and architect who has been pushing the boundaries of interdisciplinary design for over a decade. As a leader in the field, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of how design can be used to solve complex problems at the intersection of science, engineering, and art. Interdisciplinary design is a field that seeks to bring together different disciplines in order to tackle complex problems and find innovative solutions. This approach is important because it allows us to take a holistic and integrated approach to design, rather than relying solely on one discipline. For example, Neri Oxman's work often involves collaboration between architects, engineers, materials scientists, and computer scientists to create structures and products that are not only beautiful and functional but also sustainable. One of Neri Oxman's most well-known projects is the Silk Pavilion, a structure made entirely of silkworms. The silkworms spun the silk around a steel frame, creating a structure that was both aesthetically stunning and environmentally friendly. This project highlights the importance of interdisciplinary design, as it involves the integration of biology, engineering, and architecture to create a new type of structure. Another example of Neri Oxman's interdisciplinary approach is her work on the Mediated Matter Group at MIT, where she is a Professor of Media Arts and Sciences. This group brings together researchers from diverse backgrounds to work on projects that explore the intersection of digital design, manufacturing, and the natural world. One of their projects, for example, involves using 3D printing technology to print structures made of natural materials, such as wood and mycelium (the vegetative part of mushrooms). Neri Oxman's contributions to interdisciplinary design have been recognized by leading academics in the field. For example, Walter Berry, Dean of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, has said that "Neri Oxman is a visionary who is pushing the boundaries of design in new and exciting ways."
Accessibility is a critical component of urban planning and architecture. It is about designing cities and buildings in a way that enables everyone, regardless of their physical or mental ability, to fully participate in society. In recent years, accessibility has become increasingly important, with a growing recognition of the need to build inclusive communities. According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people, or 15% of the world's population, experience some form of disability. In the United States, 1 in 4 adults have a disability. This underscores the importance of designing cities that are accessible to all. Urban planners and architects are leading the way in this effort. By incorporating accessibility into their designs, they are transforming cities into spaces that are more inclusive and equitable. For example, the High Line in New York City, a park built on a former elevated railway, is fully accessible, providing an accessible route through the city that was previously lacking. Some specific concepts that are important to consider in accessibility include universal design, wayfinding, and the built environment. Universal design is the practice of designing products and spaces that can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities. Wayfinding is the practice of creating visual cues that help people navigate through a space. The built environment refers to the physical elements that make up a space, including buildings, streets, and sidewalks. Academics are also contributing to the field of accessibility. One such academic is Edward Steinfeld, who is the founder and director of the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDEA) at the University at Buffalo. Steinfeld has been a pioneer in the field of universal design, and has contributed to the development of guidelines for accessible design. Accessibility is an important topic that affects everyone, and there is no shortage of ways to explore it further. By delving deeper into this field, you can gain a better understanding of the challenges that people with disabilities face, and contribute to creating a more inclusive society.
Are you fascinated by the movement of people and goods across cities and countries? Do you want to play a vital role in shaping the future of transportation? Then studying Transportation Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Transportation Planning is a field of study that involves designing and implementing transportation systems that are efficient, safe, and sustainable. It incorporates elements of civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental science to create transportation systems that meet the needs of society. One of the most appealing aspects of Transportation Planning is its real-life applications. For example, transportation planners may design new bike lanes to encourage more people to cycle to work, or they may develop a new public transit system to reduce traffic congestion in a city. These solutions can have a significant impact on people's daily lives, making Transportation Planning a meaningful and rewarding field of study. In recent years, there has been a surge in research and innovation in Transportation Planning. From the rise of autonomous vehicles to the use of big data to optimize transportation systems, there are many exciting developments happening in the field. Well-known academic figures like Susan Shaheen and Robert Cervero have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring new generations of students to pursue careers in Transportation Planning. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in subjects like transportation modeling, traffic engineering, and sustainable transportation. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like public transportation, freight transportation, or transportation safety. Real-life examples of Transportation Planning in action include the development of bike-sharing programs in cities like Paris and New York, and the creation of high-speed rail systems in countries like Japan and China. Upon graduation, Transportation Planning majors can pursue a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors. They may work for government agencies like the Department of Transportation or private consulting firms like AECOM or Arup. Potential roles include transportation planner, traffic engineer, or sustainability consultant. Notable employers in the field include the World Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union. To succeed in Transportation Planning, students should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in urban planning and environmental sustainability. A background in math and science can also be helpful, as many Transportation Planning courses involve quantitative analysis. With the right skills and passion, students can make a real difference in the world of transportation and help shape the future of our cities and communities.
We extract 100 billion tonnes of raw materials annually, destroying two-thirds of Mount Everest each year. But what if we could reuse the materials we've already extracted instead of gouging the planet for more? Architects and builders are leading the way in "mining the Anthropocene" by using waste construction materials to create sustainable buildings. From Rotterdam's Villa Welpeloo to the Brighton Waste House, learn how these innovative designs are changing the way we think about waste. Discover how architects like Duncan Baker-Brown are teaching the next generation to design for deconstruction and create a circular economy.
Most people think of cities as environmental disasters, but David Owen's "Green Metropolis" challenges this notion. Owen argues that densely populated urban centers, like Manhattan, are actually more environmentally sustainable than sprawling suburbs. Residents of these cities consume less oil, electricity, and water, and discard less trash. They also rely heavily on public transit and walking. Owen's book presents a compelling case for rethinking our ideas about the relationship between cities and the environment. Recommended for environmentalists, urban planners, and anyone interested in sustainability, "Green Metropolis" offers a fresh perspective on the role of cities in combating climate change. The book challenges the conventional wisdom that suburbs are greener than cities, and argues that compact urban centers are actually more environmentally sustainable. The topics discussed in the book have relevance to a wide range of fields, including architecture, engineering, public policy, and transportation planning. Anyone interested in the future of our planet and the role of cities in shaping that future will find "Green Metropolis" to be a thought-provoking and informative read.
Are you fascinated by buildings and structures? Do you enjoy solving complex problems and creating solutions that are both functional and beautiful? If so, a career in Structural Engineering might be just the path for you! Structural Engineers are responsible for designing and analyzing structures such as buildings, bridges, and towers. They work with architects and construction teams to ensure that the structure is safe, stable, and able to withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to work on some of the most iconic structures in the world. From the Burj Khalifa in Dubai to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Structural Engineers have played a crucial role in bringing these structures to life. Typical duties of a Structural Engineer include analyzing blueprints and construction plans, conducting site inspections, and using computer software to create 3D models of structures. There are also many areas of specialization within the field, such as seismic design, wind engineering, and structural dynamics. To become a Structural Engineer, you will typically need a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs include Structural Engineering, Architectural Engineering, and Civil Engineering. Many universities also offer Master's and PhD programs for those who wish to specialize further. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Structural Engineering include strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team. You should also have excellent communication skills, as you will be working closely with architects, construction teams, and other professionals. Job prospects for Structural Engineers are strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth rate over the next decade. There are also many attractive potential employers in both the public and private sectors. For example, you could work for a government agency such as the Department of Transportation, or for a private engineering firm such as Arup or WSP. In summary, a career in Structural Engineering offers the opportunity to work on some of the most exciting and challenging projects in the world. With strong job prospects, a variety of specializations, and the chance to make a real difference in the world, this field is a fantastic choice for anyone with a passion for engineering and design.
Discover the controversial and thought-provoking ideas of architect and urban theoretician, Leon Krier, in his book "The Architecture of Community". With fresh insights and practical design guidelines, Krier updates his thinking on creating sustainable, humane, and attractive villages, towns, and cities. Delve into Krier's theories on classical and vernacular urbanism and architecture, and explore his built and unbuilt projects, including the renowned Poundbury in England. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in designing livable communities that meet contemporary needs. Recommended for architects, city planners, and academics, as well as anyone interested in sustainable and livable communities, "The Architecture of Community" provides practical design guidelines and fresh insights on creating attractive and humane villages, towns, and cities. With a focus on classical and vernacular urbanism and architecture, this book is relevant to those studying or working in fields such as architecture, urban planning, environmental studies, and sustainability. It is also a valuable resource for those interested in exploring innovative and practical solutions to the challenges facing our communities today.
Do you love the idea of designing and building transportation systems that improve people's lives? If so, you might be interested in a career in transportation engineering. This exciting field is all about creating efficient and sustainable transportation solutions that keep people and goods moving safely and smoothly. As a transportation engineer, you'll work on a wide range of projects, from designing highways and bridges to planning public transit systems and bike lanes. You'll use your expertise in math, physics, and engineering to develop innovative solutions that make transportation more accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly. One of the most appealing aspects of transportation engineering is the opportunity to work on projects that have a real impact on people's lives. For example, you might design a new highway that reduces traffic congestion and makes commuting faster and safer for thousands of drivers. Or you might help plan a new public transit system that provides affordable and reliable transportation for people who don't have access to a car. Some of the typical duties of a transportation engineer include conducting research and analysis to identify transportation needs and problems, developing and evaluating design options, preparing cost estimates and project schedules, and working with other engineers, architects, and planners to coordinate projects. There are many different areas of specialization within transportation engineering, including traffic engineering, urban planning, and environmental engineering. Depending on your interests and career goals, you might choose to focus on one of these areas or work across multiple disciplines. To become a transportation engineer, you'll typically need to earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs for aspiring transportation engineers include civil engineering, transportation engineering, and urban planning. In addition to technical skills and knowledge, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful for success in transportation engineering. These include strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a passion for making a positive impact on people's lives. Job prospects for transportation engineers are strong and expected to grow in the coming years, particularly in the areas of sustainable transportation and infrastructure development. Some notable employers of transportation engineers include government agencies like the Federal Highway Administration and private companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering. So if you're interested in a career that combines technical expertise with real-world impact, transportation engineering might be the perfect fit for you. With a wide range of exciting projects and opportunities for growth, this field offers endless possibilities for those who are passionate about creating a better world through transportation.
Have you ever wondered how suspension bridges hold up under the weight of traffic or how dams can withstand the force of thousands of gallons of water? J.E. Gordon's Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down is an accessible and witty explanation of the basic forces that hold together the essential things of our world. From buildings and bodies to flying aircraft and eggshells, this book will ease your anxiety and answer your questions. Recommended for architects, engineers, and anyone interested in the foundations of our everyday lives, Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down by J.E. Gordon offers a clear and cogent explanation of the concepts of stress, shear, torsion, fracture, and compression. Whether you're building a house, a sailboat, or a catapult, this book is a handy tool for understanding the mechanics of joinery, floors, ceilings, hulls, masts, and flying buttresses. With its encyclopedic range of reference and witty insights, this book is also a fascinating read for those interested in the marvels of technology that shape our world.
Roofscapes, a startup founded by three MIT architecture students, is using timber structures to turn the pitched roofs of Paris into accessible green spaces. These green spaces provide a way to grow local food, anchor biodiversity, reduce building temperatures, improve air quality, increase water retention, and give residents a new way to escape the dense urban clusters of modern times. Roofscapes is about helping build up climate resilience for the future while improving the quality of life in cities now.
Urban rejuvenation refers to the process of revitalizing declining or run-down urban areas, often through physical, economic, and social improvements. In recent years, cities around the world have been facing a range of challenges, such as population growth, urbanization, and environmental degradation, making urban rejuvenation an increasingly important topic of study. Leading academics in the field of urban rejuvenation, such as Richard Florida and Jane Jacobs, have made significant contributions to our understanding of the factors that contribute to the success of urban rejuvenation projects. For example, Florida's theory of the "creative class" highlights the role of talented and creative individuals in driving economic growth and revitalization in cities, while Jacobs' ideas about the importance of vibrant and diverse street life and mixed-use developments have influenced urban design and planning practices. Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, over half of the world's population now lives in cities? This means that the success of urban rejuvenation projects is becoming increasingly important for the well-being of millions of people. In addition, a recent study by the Urban Land Institute found that in the United States alone, over $150 billion has been invested in urban revitalization projects in the past decade. There are many exciting and innovative approaches to urban rejuvenation, ranging from community-led initiatives to large-scale government projects. For example, the High Line in New York City, a former elevated railway that was transformed into a public park, has become a popular destination and a symbol of urban renewal. In Detroit, the Greening of Detroit organization is working to create green spaces and promote sustainable agriculture in the city, with the goal of improving the health and well-being of residents.
Peter Calthorpe's "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" is a visionary work that challenges us to rethink our approach to urban planning. Rather than focusing solely on individual cities, Calthorpe argues for a regional approach that combines green technology and land use transformation to achieve a low carbon economy. With stunning graphics and real-world examples, Calthorpe shows how this integrated approach can lead to not only reduced carbon emissions but also critical lifestyle benefits. This book is a call to action for anyone interested in shaping the future of our cities and our planet. Recommended for urban planners, architects, environmentalists, policymakers, and anyone interested in sustainable development, "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" offers a comprehensive and innovative approach to addressing climate change at the regional scale. Drawing on thirty years of experience, Peter Calthorpe synthesizes cutting-edge green technology and land use transformation into a compelling vision for a low carbon economy. This book is particularly relevant for those interested in transit-oriented design, regional planning, and sustainable community development. With its stunning graphics and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to shape the future of our cities and our planet.
Are you fascinated by the way vehicles move around cities and countries? Do you wonder how transportation systems are designed to ensure the smooth flow of people and goods? If you answered yes to these questions, then you might want to consider studying Transportation Engineering. Transportation Engineering is a field of study that combines elements of civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental science to design and maintain transportation systems. This includes roads, highways, airports, railways, and public transportation systems. Transportation engineers work to ensure that these systems are safe, efficient, and sustainable. One of the most interesting aspects of Transportation Engineering is the role it plays in shaping our daily lives. For example, transportation engineers design traffic signals to reduce congestion, plan bike lanes to encourage active transportation, and create public transportation networks to improve accessibility. They also work to reduce the environmental impact of transportation systems by developing sustainable transportation options. Recent research in Transportation Engineering has focused on innovative technologies such as autonomous vehicles, electric cars, and smart transportation systems. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize the way we move around our cities and countries. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in transportation planning, traffic engineering, and transportation systems analysis. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as airport design, railway engineering, or sustainable transportation. After completing their studies, graduates of Transportation Engineering can pursue careers in a variety of industries, including transportation planning, traffic engineering, and public transportation management. Some notable employers include the Department of Transportation, engineering consulting firms, and transportation technology companies. To succeed in this field, students should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in urban planning and environmental sustainability. They should also have a solid foundation in mathematics and physics. If you are passionate about designing transportation systems that improve people's lives and want to make a positive impact on the world, then Transportation Engineering might be the perfect field of study for you.
Did you know that new buildings alone are responsible for 5% of the world's annual greenhouse gas emissions? Learn how cities are beginning to recycle building materials and plan for disassembly to create greener, more flexible structures. Explore the creation of new tools, marketplaces, and incentives needed to make this a reality. Discover how architects are designing buildings with exposed wood and steel aesthetics that need few outside resources to sustain their construction industries. Join the movement towards a new way to think about ownership and our place in the built environment.
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