There are few concert halls across the world that can boast having an impeccable acoustic clarity, but Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, California is one of these magnificent structures. Designed by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry, this post-modern marvel attracts patrons from around the globe. Not only is the hall home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, but it is also often the venue for other functions, such as high profile speaking events. Gehry envisioned this meeting place as more of a civic center for all to enjoy, not just a concert hall.
Gehry was born in Toronto, Canada in 1929. He studied at the University of Southern California as well as . . .
Read MoreWhen Zaha Hadid Architects were chosen to design the Central Building for Leipzig’s BMW plant, it was crucial that the building successfully joined and integrated the already existing on-site production facilities. Zaha describes her project best by stating: “This building was very interesting because it was the weaving of all the flow lines from the exterior to the interior and also the weaving in of blue-collar workers and white-collar workers and management and design and production all in one space.” “We tried to build a large site as if it’s going to build over time because it is very layered, like it has an inherent archaeology.” The building acts as the main nerve center of the plant, joining together the three main production facilities. Cars move overhead, through the main building, not only above busier visitor’s heads, but also past the desks of managers, designers and specialists. The open office space designs date back to the feel of the American 1970s. It has a positive influence on workflow, teamwork and an open exchange of ideas. Therefore the building embodies what has been called a “communication knot – funneling all movement around the manufacturing complex through a space that transcends conventional white collar/blue collar special divisions.”
Read MoreWhen we talk about minimalism – what do we really mean by that? Simplicity became a way of life during the 20th century. Due to an overwhelming bombardment of colors and designs, our perception longed for simplicity.
If, for example, one were comparing a 19th century living room with a 21st century living room, we understand that all the playful attributes like storytelling clocks and bookshelves disappear within the 19:6 rectangle box called TV. The room surrounding those early TV consoles transformed into an almost sterile and flat living space, perhaps due to the hypnotic glow of the square box.
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