A Palimpsestic World

1/30

Well, I’m back at the same place as last semester (PYC). I help out with the 5th and 6th graders in the after school program. I know most people pick the really little kids, but I volunteered for a few years with the after school daycare in my hometown, and found that, although cute, a lot of kids make a LOT of noise. Middle schoolers are a fun age to work with, though, and in my opinion, they’re the most important to help guide. One of my little brothers ended up having to go to an alternative high school after one year of regular high school and one year of no school because problems were not caught and corrected early enough. Elementary schoolers are generally good, and are not being confronted with enough bad things to influence them, but middle schoolers get confronted and enticed by a lot more, and, additionally, are in a really awkward age. Thus, I am pretty committed to mentoring them.

I really love PYC, and think it is a great organization, but really wish the neighborhood was a little less sketchy. I had to leave at 4:30 today because I did not want to be waiting for a bus in even remote darkness alone.

2/13

A little girl called me Rapunzel today because of my hair, which I found quite amusing. I also observed another one eating her peanut butter and jelly sandwich with her whole face (which I hear is a regular occurrence) during group snack time, and was once again grateful that I am working with slightly older children. I am really impressed with how much the kids here respect the teachers. I guess I respect the teachers here a lot, too, because of their commitment to working with children not from the best neighborhood. The program seems to be working pretty well, and seems pretty well thought out and set up.

I had to leave pretty early again today to not wait for the bus in the dark.

3/5

Someone else started volunteering at the same time as me, and it’s getting lighter, so I did not have to leave as early! Yay! I mainly watched a rehearsal for some play today, and helped keep the kids in the audience quiet. I have been involved with theater projects for a very long time, and thought that, for an elementary school production in its early stages, it was going extremely well. Also, I would like to mention how much I love the Capri Theater. There is nothing like the arts to get people so involved that they have very little time to get in too much trouble. Brilliant! Always worked for me. As a child, dancing basically was my social life. Sometime, I really would like to see a dance rehearsal here. Occasionally, I see the kids in my class practicing hip-hop moves after break, and I think seeing a class would be fun.

4/9

Because of the separate times of college spring break and elementary/middle school spring break, I haven’t volunteered in a few weeks. However, I can now stay much later, which is awesome. I helped some kids with math and spelling today. I really do not understand the "alternative" math taught to younger kids. Six different schools by 6th grade, so I had about half "alternative" math and half "traditional" math, and can honestly say that the traditional was far more valuable. Actually, I do not remember a thing of the "alternative" math that actually helped me. I had hoped that it had been phased out by now, but I guess not. In my hometown, I know that the alternative math had to start being supplemented with traditional math worksheets, and eventually was entirely eliminated. I really hope, for the sake of kids’ understanding, that it gets eliminated everywhere pretty soon.

4/16

One of the girls in the class read to me for a long time today. It’s nice getting to recall books that I read way back when. The kids here have a lot of reading time, it seems, which I am very happy about. I remember loving to read in elementary school (still do), but during middle school, high school, and college, having progressively less time to do so. It’s nice that these kids have time set aside to just read.

4/23

It was standardized testing week, so the kids were still outside unwinding when I arrived today. So, I got dragged into a game of tug of war by some kids that I think are bigger and stronger than me (no lie). It was fun, though. Then, I jumped rope with the girl who called me Rapunzel awhile back, who is ridiculously adorable. This week, another girl read to me during the reading time. It seems that the kids are getting a lot more comfortable around me, which is great. After reading, we played Brain Quest, which was fun. Some of these kids are pretty smart, I’ve got to say.

4/30

The kids must be learning about butterflies now, because there was a big discussion about some caterpillars in a dish that looked like they would be forming cocoons pretty soon. Then, they played some logic game about going four people left, three right, two more right, one left, and so on. I did not get to do much in line of helping kids today, but I think that it’s getting to that time in the year when educational games are about the only educational anything they’ll pay attention to. I don’t blame them, though. They definitely had to wait awhile for spring this year, so spring fever is totally understandable.

I have 9.5 hours right now, so I will be going back next week, and I’ll post that then if this isn’t graded yet.

Posted by cour0097 at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Oh, technology, how I love thee...right now, I am sitting in a very uncomfortable position in my room because I cannot pick up wireless in the lounge or my favorite late-night coffeeshop. However, I am also typing, rather than writing, this, and will post it for all to see online instead of handing it in. I am not sure how I feel about the ubiquity of technology. I mean, I could post something that was viewed around, and changed, the world. Conversely, I could post something read by the exact wrong person, and have some consequences I would rather not think about. This sort of double-edged sword does not just hold true for internet technologies, but also for architectural ones.

Take, for instance, the CATIA (which may or may not start with a "C") software used by Frank Gehry. It certainly has changed the sorts of architecture that can be created. Whether for better or worse, though, is questionable. His work, to me, looks more like modern art than architecture, but this perhaps is creating more fusion between the two. His museums, in particular, reflect their content much more than most buildings, which is more of an inward-facing approach than traditionally used. However, they often lose the outward-facing approach of fitting in with their context. If/when more architects begin to use this and other new technologies, I wonder what sort of architecture will emerge...perhaps all buildings will eventually look like Frank Gehry’s, and they will be in context.

Posted by cour0097 at 08:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reading 14

Nature and the Idea of a Man-Made World

Geometry

The geometry involved in architecture is very apparent in all of the illustrations in this reading. Also, the quote "to the builder, the geometry of a building is not abstract" appears. It makes sense that buildings based strongly in geometric principles might create a more cohesive building. Also, a lot of geometry is based at least somewhat on nature, so buildings based on normal geometric shapes probably blend in better with the environment.

Influence

"We shape our architecture and it in turn shapes us." This makes a lot of sense. For example, the architecture of courthouses and city halls is generally very orderly and Roman or Greek revival style, and they promote order. However, more and more art museums are beginning to have unique designs, promoting creativity and freethinking.

How have you seen architecture influence people?

What geometric patterns do you think should be used more?

Reading 16 (already did 15 in another blog)

Biomimicry

Wonder

The wonder of nature is very much showcased here. The fact that so many things that were/are considered architectural feats already are present in nature is amazing. Also, just think of how much is still out there to learn...

Learning

So much can be learned from nature. Using this knowledge in relation to architecture and design can greatly improve building techniques. Also, great examples of energy efficiency (like the termite tower example) can be found in nature.

Where in nature do you think architects should look for inspiration?

How can biomimicry improve sustainable design?

Reading 17

Nature’s Numbers

Patterns

The logic of the honeycomb pattern is described here. If one thinks about it, honeycombs really do appear a lot--honeycombs, of course, snowflakes, coin packing, etc. I think this could be used a lot more than it currently is in architecture.

Caution

It is important to use caution when deriving/analyzing patterns. If this is done incorrectly, it could probably turn out with really ugly results. I’m sure this has already been done, but I guess I have yet to see it.

Which ways could the honeycomb pattern be used in architecture?

Where have "natural patterns" been used poorly?

Reading 18

Physics, Astronomy, and Mathematics

Creativity

Creativity is very important, even when dealing with fields not thought of as creative, such as math. One that really surprised me was structural engineering. Last semester, we learned about structural engineers that are architects, which shocked me a little, because that did not immediately strike me as a very creative, design-oriented field.

Skepticism

In mathematics, skepticism is apparently almost forced on students. I think that this is also very inherent to architecture studies, but that curiosity is even more important. I guess curiosity is a lot like skepticism, but a little less cynical.

Do you think there is a difference between skepticism and curiosity?

Which fields do you think creativity is not generally thought of as important to, but could use more of it?

Reading 19

Technopoly

Neil Postman

Consequence

All new technology has consequence. Some consequences are good, and others bad. Both are equally important to consider. Take, for example, Frank Gehry’s use of CATIA (described below)...

Judgment

The pros and cons of new technology must be carefully considered before implementing it. In a lecture I went to tonight on Frank Gehry, his use of CATIA software was described. While it made some aspects of design easier, it sometimes took away the spontaneity of projects and the ability to use drawings to describe how the buildings should be constructed. Once his office learned to use the software better, though, it allowed the creation of projects that would have been extremely more difficult and expensive on paper.

How has a particular technology been used well and poorly?

What do you think of the writing invention parable at the beginning of the reading?

Reading 20

Louis Kahn

Essential Texts

God

Unlike many architectural readings that seem to have an atheistic or agnostic undertone, this one mentioned God a surprising amount. At the end, it told a story about architecture being the manifestation of God, and nature what God has created. I found this a rather interesting way of thinking about architecture, which is not commonly associated with religion today. However, looking back, a lot of the most prominent early architecture is of churches and other religious buildings. In some cases, the architect was only considered the person who drew the plans, with God being the designer.

Light

Electricity and modern lighting has reduced the practical need for natural light incorporated in design. Natural light, however, cannot only save energy, but can also create a more pleasant environment. The concept of needing a sliver of light in a dark room to see how dark it actually is gave an interesting view of perspective and phenomenology.

What connections, if any, do you make between religion and architecture?

What is an interesting architectural way to juxtapose light and dark?

Posted by cour0097 at 12:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Here are my group's cover page and inner right and left pages (we'll probably do bookmatched pages for the printed out copy). There were a few more cover versions, but I failed to save them before we did a little reworking. Mainly, it was just in different fonts, and originally, the goal7 part was part of the title instead of it's own entity.

Posted by cour0097 at 05:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Perhaps I am missing the point of this blog entirely, but the way I took it was that I was supposed to look for graphic design ideas to use in my final project/presentation. Honestly, I can’t. If I see too many other designs, I will subconsciously use them in almost exact form, thinking I created something cool and original, only to happen upon the inspiration and think, "Oh, well that’s disappointing (and possibly illegal)." I realize that knowledge can always be gained from reviewing others’ art, but I have already seen a lot of graphic design (edited my high school newspaper and yearbook), and feel competent using graphic design software in an original way. In studying others’ buildings, it would be almost impossible to recycle ideas too much if attention is paid to form, site, and program. Ideas can be adapted to new projects, but still will evolve more. Graphic design, however, could be too closely copied, and since I value my originality (and value others’ originality), I would not want to copy someone else’s work. I realize, looking at my blog, that it is not the best laid out, but that is because I do not know how to get it to look that way, despite hours and hours of searching. Graphic design software, unlike blogging software, I know how to manipulate fairly well, and would like to do using the project to inspire the design, rather than being inspired to design by design. Well, this is how I feel on the topic, and know that, despite the fact that it is 5 AM (spent a lot of time thinking about how to best say this in a non-offensive manner), this is not a cop-out. If necessary, I will re-do this blog, but I really do not think that would be overly beneficial to the final project. For someone who has never worked with this stuff before, it is a good idea, but believe me, summer yearbook camp (which is about as fun as it sounds...) and newspaper seminars give some pretty intensive training. This is not at all because I am opposed to blogging (note that I have posted many non-required blogs), but that I just do not agree with the focus of this. I suppose I have said that already, but I really do mean it to be not offensive...

Posted by cour0097 at 04:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reading 15

Search for Form

By Eliel Saarinen

Potential-All form has the potential to be beautiful. However, it often gets buried in superfluous artistic detailing. This does not mean, though, that form should follow function without adherence to art. What Saarinen says is that art and form should have meaning.

Organic Order-According to Saarinen, humans lost their connection to nature as they got higher up into the "fine arts," and that beauty and meaning only come from nature (and not in exact replication). The beauty of nature, he says, is in how things relate to each other and are proportioined. If nature and intuition are inspiration, form and function will be cohesive and beautiful.

Do you agree with Saarinen’s views on subconscious, conscious, and self-conscious art, or are these categories too mutually exclusive? Why?

Give an example of beauty in natural order, and how it can be applied to architecture.

Posted by cour0097 at 04:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reading 12

“Architecture as Space”

By Bruno Zevi

Space

“Space is the protagonist of architecture,” states Zevi.He speaks of it in terms of dimensions, particularly 3^rd and 4^th.However, he says that the number of dimensions is really infinite, which brings me to the next keyword…

Interaction

People moving about the space and seeing it from different perspectives is closer to the true essence of architecture.However, the most important is the human interaction with the architecture, separating architecture from other forms of art.

How, in your opinion, can architects better represent space in their plans?

What do you think of adapting video game software to architectural uses to show movement through spaces?(maybe this has already been done…)

Reading 13

“Nature and the idea of a man-made world”

By Norman Crowe

Nature

What is nature?I think this question is essential to the piece.I like that it gives examples of the author’s ideas, but leaves room for interpretation.

Values

The way one culture values a place can often be far different from the way another culture does.This can cause conflict in the way each culture uses the land.Before building damaging properties, I think it is important to check the cultural significance.

What planes have you created (i.e.-how do you mentally envision certain environments where you reside)?

Give a good and a bad example of man relating with nature, and explain each.

Posted by cour0097 at 10:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I think this picture says it all.

Ok, originally I did wish I would have gotten it on a clearer day, but after viewing it more, I decided that the misty bleakness adds to the intensity of the juxtaposition. How is it that two areas, so close together, can be so different? I mean, not only are the demographics of the population vastly disparate, but how about the buildings? I wonder how the built environment has affected these almost completely different populations...

Let’s start with the easy one first (a.k.a, the one where I fit)...

U of M (West Bank in particular):

demographics

• students (generally late teens to mid-twenties, if grad students are included)


• majority middle class or higher--as a whole, have at least moderate drive to do well


• some lower-income--typically above-average drive to do well


• not overly high crime rate


• on West Bank, three main groups

Business Majors-not typically well-liked by most non-business majors (I think it is because they will probably be making the most money)

Fine Arts Majors-Theater majors as a whole party a lot, when they are seen (Usually in rehearsal or going out--little sleep, I’d assume), while music majors tend to be far more quiet and reserved (I do not tend to see a lot of art or dance majors, so I cannot really comment on those)

Honor Students-some of these fit into the other categories as well, but there are basically two types--those who are in honors because they are smart and study a lot, rarely partying or procrastinating, and those who are in honors because they are smart, and because things come easily, party and procrastinate a moderate amount (procrastinate in particular). Most people do not fit completely in one or the other, but usually at least tend towards one side (and, let’s face it--demographics is a stylized form of stereotyping, anyway).

built environment

• relatively new buildings, since the West Bank is the newer part of campus
  
• pretty classy-looking (take, for example, Carlson)
  
• either brick or concrete
  
• subtle colors
  
• set up to be conducive to the arts
  
• flowers in neat, round, pots
  
• neatly encircled trees
  
• nicely clipped grass
  
• well-lit at night
  
• moderately high-density housing

Cedar-Riverside (crackstacks, in particular)

demographics

• almost solely poor immigrants


• little higher education


• very high crime rate


• the crackstacks got their name somehow...

built environment

• gaudy-colored buildings


• not well-lit


• very high-density housing


• not very nice landscaping (really not much landscaping at all)


• many older buildings


• "crackstacks" are newer--original idea was to have many different income levels, but it slowly moved to being almost all low-income, high crime housing

It hardly seems like these areas could be so close in space, but so far away in feel. I guess that goes with the whole idea of phenomena--and the built environment that supports it. The campus is designed to feel safe and foster leaning, while Cedar-Riverside, aside from having some cool music venues, has some buildings designed as afterthoughts, and some that just were not kept up the way they should be. Plus, I just do not think that the original idea of the crackstacks (I know, that is not their real name, but I bet far more people know this one), which was to have people of all income levels living in such high density can work in this society. People who have a lot of money can afford safer, nicer housing in areas with other rich people who desire safe, nice housing, so the idea that they would choose to live in basically the same conditions as the desperately poor does not seem very realistic to me. I guess this works in some European cities, but I just do not think it fits American ideals. However, if the built environment better supported safety, perhaps the richer would more voluntarily come, possibly bringing more stability (and property tax) to the area. Just a thought...

Posted by cour0097 at 08:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ok, this does not directly respond to the blog prompt, but I promise, I will get to that soon. Well, actually, I still have yet to figure out what it means, so by soon, I mean 2 1/2 days from now, when something clicks and I get it. I suppose that is the general idea, anyway.

Anyway, in reference to the actual point of this particular blog entry, check out this sweet article my parents mailed me (best check soon, because I assume that it’s not long from being filed in the Sheboygan Press archives, which yes, you have to pay to view). Refined Design I’d suggest actually reading it, but in case you’re in a rush, it’s about a home near where I grew up designed by Chicago architect Margaret McCurry. In addition to being featured in the Sheboygan Press, the house was, much more importantly, featured in Architectural Digest (which I thought I was subscribed to, but I guess either the subscription ran out, or it’s setting at my parents’ house...oops). Although the Architectural Digest website doesn’t have the article posted, for obvious reasons, it does have this excellent slideshow, which I also recommend checking out, regardless of if you are in a rush. Bentley Home-Margaret McCurry

Cool, right? I wish you could see the rest of the Sheboygan Press pictures--they’re also really cool. Speaking of which, here is how the original picture I saw looked:

A lot different in black and white! At first glance, I thought the article was a feature on some rural Wisconsin farm, and was wondering if maybe I knew the farmers and that’s why my parents sent it to me. From this angle, the house really does represent a Wisconsin farm home. You can tell that the roof is metal, which really is not all that uncommon, but what you can’t see in black and white is that the rest of the house is galvanized steel, and has extremely brightly painted trim. Also hidden in this shot is the fact that the entire house is symmetrical and V-shaped, and the cool, nautical-inspired entry. I love how this blends not only into the rural Wisconsin landscape (especially in the black and white wintery picture), but also into the essence of the lakefront, and, all the while, stays original. I really like the idea of creating a unique building while still respecting the local culture and landscape. (For example--the Frank Gehry Disney Concert Hall totally complements its area, while still being creative, while the Weismann looks pretty cool, and works alright with the river, but not really with the rest of the surrounding buildings). Here is the color picture that was in the Press:

Apparently this house is sometimes called the "Crayola House" by locals. Any guesses why? Hmm...I like it, though. Wisconsin farmhouse+beach house is cool with me. Actually, this really speaks to my personality--I love winter and snow, but also the summer beach atmosphere. Hey--this could work as a starting point for my next blog! (note to self...)

Alright, so we have successfully established that this house obviously looks cool, especially in its context, right? Right?! *threatening face* Good. But, what really sparked my interest were some of the ways that the house physically is built for it’s environment (opposition!!!). The steel outer walls help the house stand up to the wind from Lake Michigan, which can get pretty strong sometimes (Trust me--I grew up a few minutes away from the lake). Also, awning windows are used to let in light and ventilation while keeping rain out (and presumably any spray from the lake on windy days). The article never mentions sustainability, but I suspect that these help tremendously with cooling costs. Additionally, an air exchanger is in the house to help with humidity, and the concrete floors not only are easy to clean sand off of, but are heated in the winter (I’m guessing these last two are not overly environmentally friendly, but rather necessary nonetheless). Along with concrete floors, the interior has reinforced walls to display various collectibles in the couple’s possession, and also to allow the installation of handrails as they age.

This house is so well-designed that it made me extremely curious about the architect, Margaret McCurry. The architectural digest website has an article on her, which you may view here: Margaret McCurry. Since I am working on sustainability for my research project, I found this idea/quote particularly inspiring: "I’ve tried when possible to practice passive solar architecture, orienting buildings correctly and using cross ventilation to minimize energy consumption [in addition to using solar and geothermal energy with some clients]." Beyond vindicating my initial suspicion that the window placement/type was sustainable, this gives me a great foundation to work with for the project. Since my group’s main topic of sustainability has a subtopic about improving slum life, we have chosen to look at how local areas such as Cedar-Riverside and North Minneapolis can be made more sustainable, but in an affordable manner. Hello, duh! Passive sustainable design! Of course, while this can be easily implemented in new construction, it will be more expensive and harder for older homes, but I’m betting a lot of them need window replacement anyway, so why not find more sustainable ways to do that? I know that the project research still has a ways to go, but who knew a random article my parents mailed to me on a whim could be so helpful? Luck, luck, luck. :-) Anyway, if you are interested in Margaret McCurry, here is her website: More McCurry Her style is listed as "a synthesis of modern classicism and the American vernacular," so if you are at all interested in that (or just are curious what the heck it is), check out the website. I know, I know, I hyperlink too much and add too many pictures. Maybe, though, someone else is crazy/cool enough to actually look at them. If not, these blogs will at least serve as a great reference for me! Ha!

Posted by cour0097 at 02:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reading 9-The Image

Relation

A person’s image of the world is highly subjective.It depends on what the person has been exposed to, the person’s emotions, and myriad other influences.According to Boulding, image is largely based on senses.All of the things a person experiences through senses (or thought) relate to each other, and shape that person’s world paradigm.

Change

Likewise, image is very subject to change as a person experiences more and more throughout life.Boulding discussed how reading scholarly books was perpetually changing his world view.Even if he knew them not to be completely infallible in theory, they still affected him in some way.I think this is true for all media.

Reading 10-Mr. Palomar

Observation

Making observations about one’s environment is important.Also, in this piece, the way in which one observes is marked as important.In the wave scene, Mr. Palomar spent time observing only one wave, and then observing how they merged, and so on.The impossibility of only observing one wave was noted, and then attributed to the properties of waves.

Perspective

The way in which something is observed also relates to perspective.This was especially apparent in the scene where Mr. Palomar repeatedly walks past the nude sunbather.Each time, he tried to observe (or not observe) her breast in a different manner, which he related to how he could be perceived, as well as his perspective.

Posted by cour0097 at 11:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wow...what WOULD I do if I were not in architecture school? Being a Rockette first comes to mind (and yes, I did honestly give that a bit of consideration), but that aside, I think I would concentrate on experiencing as much art, architecture, and history as possible. If money is no object here, I would travel to every continent (well, almost every...something tells me that Antarctica is not the most architecturally interesting place) and go around to different works of art and architecture and historic sites, constantly carrying a sketchbook. Also, I think I would spend a lot of time sitting in outdoor spaces just people watching and trying to capture the spirit of the area through sketching it and listening to local music. Additionally, I would try to get involved in volunteer building projects everywhere I went. That way, I would not only absorb different architectural styles and draw inspiration, but learn practical building knowledge. Plus, I think that learning vernacular building and design styles would be very helpful to sustainable design, because I suspect that little huts that people have been building for centuries have got to be sustainable (I cannot picture them being very environmentally unfriendly) as well as efficient (because if people still live in them, they must meet their needs effectively).

After I finished travelling (however temporarily, because I do not believe that anyone that enjoys travel is ever really done), I would love to come back here and collaborate with people who have done the same. Where? Well, I have noticed that coffeeshops, for me and many others, tend to spur creative thought, as well as help sleep-deprived architecture students stay awake (why there is no coffeeshop in Rapson, I just do not understand...if the DENTISTY building gets one, with all the sugary drinks, I do not see why the architecture building cannot--preferably an independent shop, though). Alright, so a coffeeshop is necessary. Also necessary is studio space. During some all-nighters that I have pulled working on architecture projects in my dorm lounge, though, I have found that I like being able to go back and forth between my room and my workspace, and take a break and shower or whatever. When I heard that Architecture BA’s do not get studio space, I was actually excited, because that means I get to work in my apartment/house/wherever I live, rather than being stuck in a studio miles away. However, hauling things to and from class is almost as big a pain as hauling materials and oneself to and from studio must be. Ok, so, how what is my ideal work/study space? Well, it has/is a coffeeshop, and has workspace, living space, and classrooms close at hand. Hmm...architecture students work on mixed program designs in Design Fundamentals 1, the first required architecture class, yet nobody has thought of/done this yet?! Ok, so here is the plan (and note, I know that not everyone works and studies like I do, so I have made concessions for that)...design a building for the architecture school (I know the prompt says that I am released from the ’architecture school’ program, but rather than eliminating it, I am hypothetically altering it, because I believe that independent study is extremely valuable, but so is guided study--nobody is so perfect that he or she does not sometimes need someone to tell him or her what to do) that has the following: a bottom floor with central classrooms, one wing filled with traditional studio spaces for commuters (the nearly identical, divided, regimented looking spaces, which, for me, would not really inspire creativity) and another wing (also for commuters) that has a coffee bar and is set up in a more creative fashion--good lighting, but tables not all set up in strict patterns, many forms of seating, coffeeshop music playing (yes, that is pretty broad, but all good), and even various floor seating areas with low tables (still smooth enough to draw on) and cushions/pillows scattered about (I am much more into sitting on the floor than at tables). Also, great wireless service and many, many plugs for laptops should be available. The next floor up would be for people choosing to live at the complex. here, the wings would be filled with apartments, and the central area would be another coffeeshop setup. The third floor would have the apartment wings, but with a traditional studio space in the central area. Additional floors could be added, depending on the needs of the school. Also, running the minimum two coffeeshops could be a concern, but students would be living right in the building--poor, coffee-loving college students. Catch my drift? Good. At this point, one may begin to wonder if I think grouping architecture students together, and away from other people/things, is a good idea. The answer is no. Location is important--preferably in the city. This sort of setup in a rural area could create some horribly sheltered students. Also, this complex may sound a bit like a commune. That is also not the goal--not only would students be encouraged to interact with the rest of society, but showers would be present--many, many showers.

Here is a rough idea of what I am talking about--note, it was done in Paint, so it’s a bit rough...

Posted by cour0097 at 03:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It really amazes me how much awesome architectural stuff goes on in the Twin Cities, for lack of a more elegant way of wording that. Although I do not really associate journalism with architecture all that much, most of this I find out about through the various free local papers.

This week, I found out about an art project going up in the glass of the downtown skyways. I absolutely cannot wait to see that. Right now, the skyways are definitely useful in the Minnesota weather, and not bad looking, but not particularly amazing, either. I find the idea of adding art to them extremely exciting. Plus, just think of how many people will get to see these pieces! I love public art. Here’s an example of a screen that will be in the skyways.

Also, here is a link to the article in the Downtown Journal:

Canvassing the Skyways

Another short article (well, more like ad, but anyway...) was about a miniature golf open in the skyways. Now, golf generally doesn’t interest me at all, although I am not opposed to miniature golfing. That was not the cool part of the article however--that was the holes. Here was the winner...with a strange resemblance to, say, 3/4 of the projects displayed in Rapson.

Oh, and check this out--Habitat for Humanity ice castle...totally sweet.

Posted by cour0097 at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sometimes, it becomes necessary to just re-evaluate life.Yeah, it definitely has been one of those days.Perhaps it is because I failed to get much sleep the past few nights.Perhaps it is because I probably also failed my calc quiz (but I get two drops, and my other tests so far were fine, thank God).Or, maybe it is because my wireless was not working in my dorm, as usual, and is not working here at Espresso Exposé, either (as I am writing this, not posting it, unless I get extremely lucky).Oh, and then of course, it is still the season of commercialized love (don’t get me wrong—I think it’s great to pick a day, and in this case, a weekend, too, to show your significant other that you care—but I think it would mean a whole lot more if done just because, rather than just because every venue out there is plastered in tacky red and pink to remind you).Alright, well maybe I am just being a Scrooge about Valentine’s Day because I [still] don’t have a Valentine.Might as well be honest with myself…

Anyway, why not just be honest and simplify things a bit?Ironically, this reminds me of an architecture reading about cladding last semester.I really meant this blog for Facebook, but maybe I will put it in my required architecture one, too (p.s.-If anyone knows how to make/use templates for Movable Type, please share the knowledge…I’m currently using a kind of cool default I found, but I have a sort of sweet picture that’s already on photobucket that I want to use as a background).The author of the cladding article had a really strong view that nothing should be made to look like anything other than what it is—and if something is fake, it should be shown as such.So, stuff like those fake log cabin homes and nylons or flesh-colored tights are bad, but a houses sided with plywood, or tights with obnoxiously fake colors or patterns are good, because you know that the house is not solid wood, and the legs really are not, say, bright green.So, why am I lying to myself?

How am I lying?I act like I hate to be overstressed and overtired, and I sincerely dislike stress and lack of sleep, but, in some perverted sense, I think I actually like it.I mean, if I tried hard enough, I could avoid these situations.I could be less involved in things and start stuff sooner.I could be lazy less and start things sooner, too.That is probably why I am so pissed about the internet not working, too.I am supposed to e-mail two professors about things by tonight (no clue what time) and, obviously, that is not happening.I am also supposed to be working on papers due Monday and Tuesday.However, I need the internet for research for the first one (some of the issues we are talking about are current enough to only be online) and to tell me what to write about for the second (I know the professor told us, and I know I wrote it down, but I have no idea why I cannot find it in my notebook), because I think the info is in an e-mail or on the WebVista site.Neither one of these is obviously getting worked on right now.Since the wireless was not working in the dorm, I used that as an excuse to go here, because the wireless usually works.I say I like the atmosphere, which I do, but I really just did not want to be sitting alone in my dorm on a Friday night.My last two weekends were really good, so this one seems particularly sucky in comparison.I have a really cool lamp in my room, good music on my computer, an espresso maker/coffee syrup, and even an Ethernet cable that would get me hooked up to the internet.Yet, I am here, getting nothing done.Oh, yes, and I am also supposed to be working on a blog for architecture, of which I forgot the prompt.I (like a few others) did not write it down in class, because they always come in an e-mail, but I have yet to get that, so I cannot start.I also have calculus problems, but my book and notebook are back in my dorm, just like the Ethernet cable I will need to connect to the internet to see which problems I have to do.

I think that letting situations become overwhelming is one of the worst ideas ever.Everything has a consequence, and once they add up, it leads to trouble.Take, for example, my laundry.I kept up with it for the first two and a half weeks or so after break, until I just did not feel like doing it for a few days in a row.By then, it was already to the point where not all of it could be done in one session.So, I did half, and left the rest, which I proceeded to not do for a few more days, because I was tired and, basically, lazy.It pretty quickly got to the point where I just did not want to do it, because I knew I could not do it all at one time.Because of this, I kept putting it off, which obviously helped the situation.But, tonight I was going to go to kickboxing class and realized that all three pairs of athletic pants I have were dirty (and shorts or capri pants clearly will not work right now).Well, I washed about a third of my laundry tonight, and felt instantly better after.That got me thinking—why put things off when I feel so much better if I just do them?I have basically been lying to myself about that, too—“Oh, I’m too tired,” “Oh, I don’t really have enough time right now.”Yeah, right.

Over summer, I read Kite Runner (which, along with Khaled Hosseini’s other book, I recommend to just about anyone, unless you have an aversion to brutally honest plots), and in it, a man told his son that stealing was the greatest sin, and if you murder someone, you steal his life and his family and friends’ right to be with him, or if you lie, you steal someone’s right to the truth.

*Hmm…forgot that my internet is not working and tried to double check that…ooh, now the little icon in the corner is switching from a big, red X to some connected-looking symbols…*

Computer issues aside, this causes me to wonder how much theft I have been committing.I am robbing myself of time every time I procrastinate—sure, I am giving myself some extra time at some point, but the time it takes to complete things is usually longer at 3 AM than 4 PM or so, when I should be doing my work.When I lie to myself about my motives for things, I am robbing myself, as well as others that these thoughts get projected to, of the truth.That goes against my principles in a big way.

*Too many caffeinated drinks today…bathroom break time.Perhaps my computer will magically be online when I get back.Actually, if it just doesn’t get stolen, I’ll be happy.*

*Oh my God, the little computer elves must have come around…the wireless login URL showed up for a few seconds on the first try, and now I got as far as the login screen…it’s thinking about letting me on…*

Speaking of principles, I admire the people who almost always stick to theirs.I guess I just do what feels right at the time, and then justify it later.Oh, great, more lying.Why?Very rarely do I lie to other people, and then it is almost always to protect their feelings/beliefs (and, since this is about honesty, yes—sometimes I lie to save my ass, but that is less than 5% of the few lies I do tell people).So, why do I lie to myself so much?Time to get all philosophical…

I think that, deep down, everyone wants to think he or she is a good person.In my design class, we just talked about integrity the other day (which is what my paper is supposed to be about—this blog is getting the thoughts flowing, but it is too bad they do not relate to Monticello or the Great Wall of China), and how everyone likes to think of himself or herself as an person of full integrity, not just partial (this was then related to the integrity of historic building and landscape preservation—on paper that doesn’t look too exciting to most people, I guess, but seriously, I love it).Essentially, then, I have been lying to myself so that I can think I am a person of full integrity.Now that, my friend, is twisted.I don’t blame you if you judge, as you probably have been doing for the last two and a half pages of this.But, consider this—why do people judge others?Oh, that’s right…to elevate their own status (ooh, and that I just learned about in acting class…I really love how all of this is tying together tonight).And, what is status?Often, it is a defense mechanism.

*Hmm…now my computer got past the wireless login screen to showing “Facebook” at the top, but not the actual page.If at first, you don’t succeed...*

Wow, this blog would be equal the five double-spaced pages I need for my paper.

*Sigh*

*Still waiting on that internet*

I guess this will be a nice addition to the emo blog portion of my Facebook.I’m really not even close to emo—apparently, however, the only time I really sit down and write is if I’m contemplating things, and I usually don’t contemplate cheerful things, just enjoy them.I admit, when it was snowing and like 20 degrees the other day, I caught some snowflakes (and probably toxins) in my mouth and skipped for a bit down the Washington Avenue Bridge.Now, I’m sure I could write a long, pensive piece about that, but why would I?Enjoying it and living in the moment was so, so much better. :)

Posted by cour0097 at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wow. When I think back to this movie, that is what comes to mind first. Like so many others, I saw a lot about the levees breaking and the hurricane on the news. This, however, brought my understanding of the situation to a whole new level. Below are three things that struck me the most. I wish I had a scanner so I could put up the sketches I made of particularly potent scenes while I was watching, but I'll try my best with online photos/videos instead.

Responsibility

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about responsibility’s relationship to design. Similarly to the whole 35W collapse fiasco, the levees of New Orleans breaking causes one to wonder who is/should be responsible. First of all, the engineers who designed them should be held accountable. One cannot expect to design things so inefficiently that they break without even being tested to their full potential (the film said that Hurricane Katrina mostly missed New Orleans, and it was the water from the levees that did most of the damage). Secondly, whoever built the levees should be held equally accountable. Even a perfect design needs to be well-constructed to be effective. Likewise, something could be built completely perfectly according to the plans, but if the plans are flawed, the construction will be, too. Of course, maintenance is necessary, even on excellent structures, so whatever agency was supposed to be in charge of that is partially responsible. Also, the government in general--the mayor, governor, and the federal government--is at fault. A simulation of a high-category hurricane (Hurricane Pam) was run on the levees, and it was predicted before Hurricane Katrina that the levees would fail. Obviously, the problem was not mitigated, probably for fiscal reasons. Well, looks like that backfired, because I am sure this is a lot more expensive.

Nature

Look at this--this is a picture of Hurricane Katrina. You know what it did. I know what it did. But look at it--the picture (minus the computerized lines) is beautiful.

In the Andy Goldsworthy film, nature was portrayed as both gentle and powerful, and beautiful even in the harshest places (like when his work was making his fingers painfully bloody, but the things he created were gorgeous). All of the art was modeled after the flow and beauty of nature. I gathered that he believes nature is inherently beautiful, and he highlights that in his art, rather than trying to upstage it. Hurricane Katrina showed invincible-feeling Americans just how powerful nature is, and that the feeble structures (levees) designed to combat it were no match.

Resilience

The resilience of New Orleans amazed me as I viewed the film. The city so closely resembles the jazz funerals that go on there. Like the beginning of the funerals, with the slow procession, the city was quiet and somber for awhile after the destruction. However, "nothing cancels Mardi Gras," and the city soon started celebrating survival and its unique culture (like the fast, jazzy part of the funerals where the person’s life is celebrated). I think that the city’s musical roots are very important to its recovery. It is such a big part of the culture that it is probably the best way to bring the people together. Also, I know that Habitat for Humanity is working on a rebuilding project called "Musician’s Village," or something to that effect. I saw it on a commercial, and thought about what a good idea that was. The musical heritage comes from people gathering and Congo Square (or Park--do not remember exactly), so I think that it is a very good idea to bring musicians back together to continue the tradition. Independence is great, but synergy is even better. Living on the West Bank Arts Quarter of campus, I find the creative energy and collaborations to be amazing, and miss that when I go to other areas.

Posted by cour0097 at 01:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Recently, in the Daily, I read a column about so-called "Urban Tribes." The more I think about it, the more sense it makes in relation to my friends and I. (Ironically enough, the author of that column got the idea from an article in a different publication) However, I think the description of urban tribes is a little too generalized. While I am part of a few tight groups and can definitely recognize one as my "main tribe," many of them are linked together, and some amazing networking has occurred. So, while I realize that in large cities, people can tend towards creating small, close groups, the fact is, larger cities also offer incredible networking, and, in such large places, it is nearly impossible for a group of people to become entirely separated from others.

Here is a great example:

A close friend from my hometown also goes to the U of M (L). One of the first weekends here, L mentioned that she wanted to go clubbing. I knew some people that intending to go that night, so I suggested that we go along. At the club, L started dancing with a guy (J), who goes to Augsburg. L and J started dating shortly after (and still are going out). A week or two after they had been dating, L promised J, as well as our mutual male friend (D) that she would hang out that weekend. To eliminate the awkward situation that could occur, I came along for dinner and dancing. We introduced J and D, who then realized that they had a ton in common. Also, J needed a singer for his band, and D is an excellent singer. Now, they are in a band together. Shortly after that, J and D’s band entered a battle of the bands. After winning the battle of the bands, J had a party at his apartment with D, L, me, a female friend of his from Augsburg (M), and L’s female friend from the U of M (K). There were some other people there, of course, but anyway, J, D and I became friends with K, and L, D, and I became friends with M. A week ago, I went to a concert with K and L, as well as others, and last weekend was spend with K, L, M, and I having a girls’ night along with a few others and going to a show, and then visiting J, and Saturday, J, L, M and I all went to a party together. A few days before, I happened to hear about a show from some other people, and got J and D’s band, which was looking for shows, booked for it. (As a side note, I should mention that The Bakery Band is playing a benefit concert for Habitat for Humanity on April 4th at the Steak Knife. I feel that since this is an architecture blog, and it is an architecturally-related charity show, that this is not shameless advertising)

If you followed that all, congratulations. Anyhow, while it is possible (and amazingly fun) to have a close group of friends in a large city, some amount of networking is necessary to create such a group. Also, it is extremely beneficial for everyone if all tribal members to have outside friends and contacts. While I realize that this is not directly related to architecture, these groups really would not be created without the architecture and social movements that have created large cities. I guess this just goes to prove, once again, that architecture relates to everything.

Also, here is the link for the Daily Article--http://www.mndaily.com/articles/2008/02/08/72165447

Posted by cour0097 at 12:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Yes, dark and dangerous...Antonio Banderas? Nope. Patrick Swayze in Dirty Dancing? Not quite. George Clooney as a bad boy? Unfortunately not, and I suppose I should stop there before I start to drool all over myself. What I am referring to are certain Minneapolis poorly lit alleys and neighborhoods that breed crime.

I volunteer in North Minneapolis, and during the day, I am always on my guard, but more mildly scared to scared than really scared to terrified. However, as sunset approaches, more and more shady characters seem to enter the darkening streets. One time, the bus I take back broke down before it reached the stop where I was waiting, so I stood on a street corner for over half an hour past sunset, at which point my fright scale went through the roof. Despite what keeps being printed in the newspapers about the reasons people should move there, it is not someplace I would want to live. Several people approached me, offering me "candy," among other things, and I was even standing as close to a streetlight as I could while still being in the general bus-stop area. Not too far away, in the literally more shady areas, I saw/heard a few people yelling at each other, and kept hoping they did not resort to weapons, and saw another two men passing God knows what between them.

More recently, I read an article in the Daily about crime near campus, where it talked about more crime in poorly lit areas. This got me thinking about dark areas that I encounter. Downtown is relatively well-lit, but has its share of dark alleys that scare the crap out of me. The same goes for Dinkytown, except for a few outer blocks that have less businesses, and therefore less light. And, of course, there is Cedar-Riverside, with almost no light at night, and the North Minneapolis example, which I have already explained in as much detail as I would like to recall (I am sure there are plenty of psychological reasons to block that out...)

Why, I wonder, were so many places planned/designed in ways that created such dark, dangerous areas? At first, I was going to write this blog about eliminating alleys, but since they do serve some practical purposes (drainage, a place to put garbage, extra building exits for emergencies, etc.), I decided that eliminating alleys has limited feasibility. Since alleys cannot really be eliminated, I think efforts should be taken to make them safer. Perhaps the most obvious way involves adding light. Now, I am not talking about just a little so that there is maybe a dim yellow glow with some shadows, but at least enough so that their brightness matches the light quality of the sidewalk downtown on Hennepin or First Avenue (or really, anywhere with a lot of flashing lights and neon signs).

Yes, I know, this does not immediately sound at all cost-effective or environmentally friendly. However, enter...solar lights! When I was trying to debate how to fund this it hit me--the landscape lights at my parents’ small town/suburban home are solar powered. Of course, these are all in relatively open areas, and get a lot of light during the day. However, my guess is that solar receptors (hmm...that sounds a little space-age, so I may be using the incorrect word...) could be placed on the roofs of the buildings bordering the dark alleys, therefore getting lots of sunlight. Also, these buildings are generally tall enough that anything placed on top would not be visible from the street, and therefore not ruin the aesthetics.

Of course, there would be some start-up/installation cost, but for this, it would be wise to petition the government (local or state) to give incentives (grants, funding, tax breaks) to businesses along these alleys that install solar lighting. Also, http://energy.sourceguides.com/businesses/byGeo/US/byS/MN/byB/dist/dist.shtml has a whole list of Minnesota (mostly Twin Cities) businesses that offer solar power and lighting, as well as other environmentally friendly energy solutions, so shipping costs would be small, and money would be added to the local economy.

To me, this sounds like a winning proposition--increased safety, green energy, and a local economic boost.

Well, I did try to format this for about four hours, and at least managed to change the font. This site will become more jazzy. I promise.

Posted by cour0097 at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reading 3
Concrete
Concrete phenomena were important to this article. These phenomena, such as houses, windows, trees, bridges, and anything else tangible, collectively create a certain image in a place. This atmosphere affects how people feel in the place, which is the character, my next keyword.
Character
The character is the feeling of a place, which stems not only from the combination of concrete phenomena, but from more abstract things, as well. Light in a place is ever changing, due to the time of day, and, on a more long-term basis, things like tree growth and changes in surrounding buildings. Whereas the concrete phenomena answer the question of “what?” character answers the question of “how?”
Do you think that light has a large impact on character? Why do some places change conversely as the light changes (i.e. North Minneapolis getting scarier vs. Downtown getting more exciting)?
What concrete phenomena would you attribute to a suburb? What about to a small town? How about a downtown area? Which things are the same, and which are different?
Reading 4
Responsibility
Taking responsibility for one’s designs is debated here. A question is posed about whether or not designers should take responsibility when something goes wrong. Also, the article talks about designers starting to design with the clients/users instead of for them.
Paradigm
People’s paradigms of design are brought to light in the article. Sometimes, designs create symbols for good, like a universally recognized hospital symbol or stop sign, but other times, it I for bad, like the Nazi symbol. Also, a point was made about the way that the junk food industry positions products through design to look more appealing, and how this may be affecting obesity.
The article mentioned re-designing prisons and schools. How do you think this should be done?
In instances like the 35W bridge collapse, who do you think should be responsible—the designer, builder, government agencies responsible for upkeep, or some combination of those?
Reading 5
Evolution
This article touched on the evolution of many aspects of society. These ranged from the evolution of the workplace to the evolution of the global market, to the evolution of education. Although evolution could be bad in some ways (brutal global market and school being seen more and more as simply vocational versus vocational and enriching), it can also be seen as good (new strategies of teaching and collaboration between fields).
Communication
Collaboration among fields is becoming increasingly important. As collaboration increases, so does communication. In addition to communication among disciplines, communication between designers and the public is increasing in importance. Since design relates to almost every field, this communication is key to creating better products in all fields.
What do you think is the best way for colleges to encourage interdisciplinary interaction?
What is a good way to avoid education as being seen solely for vocational purposes?
Reading 6
Application
The application of design thinking to practice was stressed here. Architects are earning less than they could be, and not applying the creative methods used in design to the office and to practice. Learning how to apply creative thinking to all aspects of work could be very helpful.
Education
Current architecture was called into question here, because it apparently has not been adequately preparing students for practice. Many ideas for changing it were brought to light, most of which compared architecture to medicine. All of the ideas involved more real life experience, and more contact with professionals.
How could creative thinking be applied to the way an office is run?
Which way do you think is best for bringing architecture students in contact with professionals?
Reading 7
Profession
The profession of architecture was brought to light here, along with the degree program for it. A doctorate was suggested, but it was acknowledged that this had to be in more than name only. The connection and difference between the discipline and practice where also debated, and it was noted that both must intersect.
Research
The importance of research was stressed, in order to enhance both the discipline and the practice. New things must be discovered, like Le Corbusier’s five points. Additionally, they must be brought into practice, like his were. That was just one example of how research can aid practice.
Which do you think is more important—discipline or practice? Why?
How are Le Corbusier’s five points used presently?
Reading 8
Experience
This piece basically said to get real world experience to enhance education. Also, group experience is important. Listening to gossip was mentioned as well, which first surprised me, but it makes sense to learn from others’ experiences as well as one’s own.
Diversity
Doing things outside of the major is important for staying well-rounded. Reading the paper and auditing non-design classes were suggested. That way, it is easier to draw inspiration from things, as well as relate to people outside of design fields (i.e. clients).
What is a good way to expand your horizons? Why?
What outside source has inspired you? Why?

Posted by cour0097 at 01:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

With energy like this, how can one resist falling in love with Minneapolis? Coming from small-town-Kiel, I expected life here to be more exciting, but I could not have imagined the energy of the city. Like the powerful Mississippi that flows under the bridge I walk daily, the vibrancy of city life never stops, even in the near-arctic temperatures that we all have enjoyed so much this week. Every time I go to Downtown or Dinkytown at night, I am amazed by the vitality I witness. Both areas have a certain energy to them, although this varies a bit between the two.

A bit of Dinkytown history

Pure charm
Dinkytown embodies the sort of sultry ambience I would expect to emanate from a Havana casino of old. Although somewhat dark and even a bit dangerous, one cannot help but be enthralled, and maybe even addicted to the ambience. Perhaps this is due to the rich culture of the place. At Loring pasta bar, for example, one can move to the lively beat of a salsa band or enjoy a sensual tango. Although the restaurant itself has not been around very long, it still exudes the charm of the historic Dinkytown drug store that used to exist in its place. Conversely, a visit to Espresso 22 engulfs one in a completely different cultural experience, with mottled blue walls on which a variety of tribal masks hang. If one desires a taste of classic American culture, Annie’s or Al’s are perfect. Even more commercial venues offer a snippet of culture. While listening to live acoustic music at Potbelly’s, one can almost sense Bob Dylan’s presence from a bygone era. Speaking of days gone by, another strong part of Dinkytown’s essence is the feeling of change, but with the original presences remaining. Places like Annie’s, the drugstore that Loring Pasta Bar now occupies, and the iconic Varsity Theater speak of the past as well as the present. Basically, Dinkytown exemplifies a rich palimpsest, which I love so much.

The best burgers in town

The floor here even makes me want to dance—I find this particularly inspiring. It appears to be in motion even without people present.
Downtown, on the other hand, represents a different kind of motion. Instead of the smooth, sensual tango of Dinkytown, Downtown is more of a race—as fast paced as the college students dancing to fresh beats at Too Much Love on any given Saturday. The first time I walked Downtown at night, it took my breath away. All of the lights, the people, and the dancing purely enthralled me. (One must remember, I am from a town of 3,500, and the larger city that friends and I hang out in is a whopping 50,000). I never expected that such beauty could stem from flashing neon lights and drunken hipsters club- or bar-hopping. Although the venues vary, everything comes together to make it seem like one is moving at the speed of light in some crazy techno dance. Unlike Dinkytown, Downtown (or at least what I have experienced of it) focuses on the new—the new Minneapolis dance night, the newest clubs and bars, the great new band hitting the scene. Even in regards to housing, Downtown focuses on the new. The area is undergoing major revitalization, and in my opinion, it is working.

Part of the gorgeous skyline

Constantly in motion
Clearly, Minneapolis contains boundless energy, whether the energy stemming from the new and exciting or from many layers of culture and history functioning together. The ebb and flow of this energy is what keeps the city alive.

Posted by cour0097 at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)