Issue no. 45 | July 2008 kamra tal - periti

Newspaper Post In every issue 4 Editorial 5 KTP News 6 People & Projects 8 Consultation Process 9 ACE Conference PRACTICE 10 EU Desk 11 SACES 12 Universal Home 14 Architectural Memorabilia 16 MEPA Reform 17 Basil Spence FEATURE 18 Ex Rediffusion House 19 UMAR 20 Real Estate / Tall Buildings 21 EFAP / ECCE 22 UIA 18 23 AN08 / T4A 24 Heritage CURRENT 25 Reviews 26 International Events

10 22 24 "Success will depend on our ability to strike an effective partnership between politics and architecture." Lawrence Gonzi July 2008 See page 19 3 12 contents THE PROFESSIONAL CENTRE SLIEMA ROAD GZIRA GZR 06 - MALTA TEL./FAX. (+356) 2131 4265 EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.ktpmalta.com MEETINGS WITH MEPA this directive before 28 December 2009. The Ministry of KAMRA TO BE INVOLVED IN DISCUSSION A meeting was held between the KTP Council and the Finance, Economy and Investment is leading this trans- REGARDING COURSE STRUCTURE Chairman (then Andrew Calleja), members of the MEPA position process together with the other relevant line Newly-appointed Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and To support members of the profession in achieving excellence in their Board and the Chairpersons of the DCCs on the 08 April Ministries who form a Working Group specifically set up Civil Engineering, Prof Alex Torpiano responded to the practice of architecture and engineering in the interest of the community 2008. This meeting followed a series of letters between in April 2007 for the purpose. The KTP is one of the stake- KTP’s request for a meeting, and this was held on the 03 the KTP and MEPA regarding the recently announced holders in this transposition, and had organised a seminar June 2008. David Felice, Vincent Cassar and Keith Cole I was half-tempted not to write this editorial, which invariably is the What still remains to be seen is who will be monitoring these cer- The Council of the Kamra Tal-Periti for the year 2007 change in time of DCC Board Meetings from the after- in May 2007 to inform periti on the implications of this attended the meeting. Following the recommendations of consists of David Felice (President), Vincent Cassar noon to the morning. The Kamra presented a document directive on the profession and has since then liaised with the Federation of Professional Bodies that there should be last item that gets written when putting together this journal for tificates and the compliance with the Document F requirements. (Vice President), Simone Vella Lenicker (Honorary in which it compiled the reactions it had received from Government in the transposition process. representatives of the professions on the Faculty Boards,

publication. The summer heat is taking its toll, and my un-aircon- So far it appears that MEPA will not be assessing applications KTP News editorial Secretary) and Council members Keith Cole, Philip periti. This document may be downloaded at the following Prof. Torpiano had attempted to appoint a KTP repre- ditioned study is not the best place to be sitting in …which then in terms of their compliance. There has been talk of the Malta Grech, Frank Giordmaina Medici, Anthony Fenech address: http://www.ktpmalta.com/documents/comment- REAL ESTATE FORUM 2008 sentative on the Architecture Faculty Board. However, got me thinking about the Energy Directive and its implications Resources Authority acting as a consulting body (similarly to HAC, Vella, Etienne Micallef Grimaud, Alberto Miceli sReceived.pdf KTP President, David Felice, addressed the Real Estate this issue has as yet not been resolved. Prof. Torpiano on the way we design and build in the future. Or rather, the way KNPD, etc) but nothing is firm as yet. In any case, the legislation Farrugia, Danica Mifsud, and Damian Vella Lenicker. Items discussed during this meeting included DCC pro- Forum held on the 04 June 2008, with a presentation enti- presented a draft revision to the present course structure cedures, the proposed MEPA reform, the implications of tled “The Economics of Design: Adding Quality and Value which proposes a number of changes. This is currently we should already be designing and building, since the Directive will be effective as of next January, in some form or other, and it The Architect is the official journal of the Kamra The Urban Challenge (KTP’s position paper on the Built to the Built Environment.” This year’s Forum was intended being discussed by the KTP Council and feedback shall be came into force in 2006, while the Minimum Requirements for is not just periti who need to be aware of the implications, but Tal-Periti. It is published on a quarterly basis and Environment) in terms of the planning process, as well as to centre on the importance of upgrading the investment forwarded to the Dean in the coming days. the Energy Performance of Buildings, also known as Document F, also estate agents, notaries, contractors and construction workers, distributed with the Business Today newspaper. The the importance of consultation with the KTP in all MEPA value of real estate in Malta as well as address the issue of should have been adhered to for all new buildings since January building materials suppliers, the Faculty at the University, and Architect is not to be sold separately. issues. In the meantime, following the appointment of supply and demand based on the conclusions achieved ARCHITECTURE & CHILDREN 2007. How aware is the industry about these requirements? Are many others who are part of the building sector. Particularly, Austin Walker as new Chairman of MEPA, the Kamra will be in the first real estate forum of 2007. The forum was also The KTP has embarked on the UIA Architecture & Children The contents of this journal are copyright. we taking the Document F requirements into consideration when clients and building owners need to be aware of the obligations holding additional meetings, with particular focus on the addressed by Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mario project. The Union of International Architects (UIA) Built Reproduction in part or in full is forbidden without much discussed reform of MEPA. De Marco who highlighted his views on positioning the Environment Network aims to help Architects and Teachers designing modern edifices, or is the document lying on some imposed on them by such legislation. the permission of the editor. The opinions expressed real estate product as an integral part of Malta's unique show young people what makes good Architecture and a shelf, somewhere, unopened, unread and ignored? by writers of signed articles and letters appearing in MEETINGS WITH BANKS TO tourism value proposition. Sustainable Environment. This in order that, as adult In my opinion, the success of the implementation of these regula- the magazine are those of their respective authors, IMPROVE LEVEL OF SERVICE citizens, users, clients and decision-makers they may take The quality of our built environment is hugely influenced by the tions will only be effective if there is an adequate educational and neither the Kamra Tal-Periti nor MediaToday Co. Following comments received by members regarding KTP MEETS WITH MINISTER an active part in shaping the world they live in, embracing Ltd is responsible for these opinions or statements. way buildings are designed and detailed. The quality of the spaces campaign aimed at each of the sectors mentioned above. We are certain procedures adopted by local banks, the Kamra MIFSUD BONNICI both heritage and innovation in the creation of communi- within which we live, work and play, is also a direct result of the not talking just about complying with some minor regulation, but wrote to all financial institutions stressing the importance A meeting was held on the 07 May 2008 with Minister ties which provide a healthy and harmonious quality of life of the client’s prerogative in selecting a perit when it is the Mifsud Bonnici regarding the proposed amendments to for all. The co-ordinators, amount of attention given to each and every part of the design about a culture change that will affect the way we look at the con- Editor: Simone Vella Lenicker same client who pays for the professional service rendered, Tariff K, following the approval of the draft by the KTP Perit David Pace and Perit process, from such basic consideration as the orientation of struction sector in the coming years. Both locally and internation- Consulting Editor: Danica Mifsud also highlighting the issues of fees due in accordance with Extraordinary General Meeting Audrey Galea, were invited openings, to the careful choice of building and finishing materials ally, the debate on energy efficiency in buildings is heating up (no Design: Zvezdan Reljic Tariff K. Further to this correspondence, the KTP Council held last month. David Felice, to deliver a presentation to Sales executive: Mark Causon that can grossly affect the energy performance of these buildings pun intended), and in an effort to spur on the process, the Kamra held separate meetings with senior executives of Bank Vincent Cassar and Damian the KTP Council, describ- of Valletta, HSBC, APS and BANIF during April and May. Vella Lenicker attended the ing their progress. This and spaces. Choice of light fittings, inclusion of alternative energy tal-Periti recently organised a seminar as part of an EU-funded Published by: sources, a good level of workmanship in the actual construction project on this subject, and will continue to liaise with the relevant A discussion on the preparation of valuation reports and meeting. Both sides expressed presentation focused on adherence to KTP standards was also made. KTP also their views on Tariff K, in par- the main ways of imple- process, use of shading devices, the utilisation of rain water col- authorities in order to ensure as smooth a transition as possible as discussed ongoing issues and items of mutual interest and ticular regarding the prepara- menting the program, lected in wells … these are but some of the measures that can be well as to ensure that information on the implementation of the also investigated the prospects of some future cooperation tion of valuation reports. The namely by it being a part of the core subjects of the employed and considered in an effort at achieving buildings that impending legislation is widely and freely available. and collaboration between the Banks and the Kamra. Kamra tal-Periti presented students’ curriculum, a separate activity (eg workshops, Vjal ir-Rihan copies of the Valuations weekend events), or through an “Ideas” program, where are more and more environmentally conscious in their design, and San Gwann SGN 4016 more importantly in their use. In the meantime, the Kamra will also continue to work on its vari- Malta GENERAL SERVICES BOARD MEETING Standards document and the student becomes the client and is part of the design The first meeting of the General Services Board (GSB) for Minister Mifsud Bonnici The Urban Challenge to the process. Two young architects are also collaborating on ous other projects, in particular on the implementation of the deci- Tel: +356 21 382 741 2008 was held on the 09 May. Perit Philip Grech and Perit Minister, together with various position papers outlining the project. The next step is to approach the Ministry and As of January 2009, new regulations will come into force, wherein sions taken during its Extraordinary General Meeting held earlier Fax: +356 21 381 992 Email: [email protected] Alan Saliba attended this meeting on behalf of the Kamra the activities undertaken and decisions reached by the some potential schools in order to determine the best way each application submitted to MEPA for a new building, or this year, the setting up of a Centre for the Built Environment as tal-Periti. The KTP has been for several months requesting Kamra in recent months and agreed to hold further consul- to bring architecture closer to children. Anyone interested significant alterations to an existing one, must be accompanied well as the various activities already planned for after the summer Printed at: Union Print a meeting with the CGMO regarding the publication of tations, correspond more closely and cooperate with the in supporting this program is invited to contact the Kamra. by an Energy Certificate which grades the building according to months. It will also be involved in various consultations, including decisions made by the GSB, in order to provide periti with Ministry in order to address the issues discussed. (www.uiabee.riai.ie). a pre-defined scale. Similarly, any promise of sale agreement or the proposed reform of MEPA, the pre-Budget consultation proc- guidelines to improve their professional service. During this meeting, members of the GSB agreed to review their lease agreement entered into after next January must also be ess launched by government and various other aspects that have internal directives to identify those which are still valid CONTACT ktp accompanied by such Certificate. The Services Division within the a bearing on the way the profession is practiced locally, as well as and seek legal advice to determine whether these direc- Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs recently published draft with a view towards the international market. tives should be published and if so, by which entity. The The KTP Official E-mail Addresses are as follows: legislation on these matters for consultation with the industry, and Kamra will continue to follow the issue and keep members informed. [email protected] KTP President following such consultation the draft was endorsed by govern- Simone Vella Lenicker [email protected] Professional Practice Standing Committee Editor ment as I write. KTP ATTENDS MEETING REGARDING [email protected] Built Environment Standing Committee SERVICES DIRECTIVE [email protected] Finance Standing Committee The Ministry of Finance, Economy and Investment held a [email protected] Communications Standing Committee High Level Briefing and Consultation Conference regard- [email protected] International Standing Committee ing the Services Directive, with the aim to update on the [email protected] Education Standing Committee work done to date, identify the work that must necessarily [email protected] Events Standing Committee follow and to consult on possible solutions. Perit Simone [email protected] Ethics Standing Committee Vella Lenicker attended the meeting on behalf of the KTP. [email protected] Journal Editor Directive 2006/123/EC on Services in the Internal Market [email protected] Web Site administrator was adopted in December 2006. Member States, includ- [email protected] General Secretary ing Malta, will have to bring into force laws, regulations [email protected] KTP office and administrative provisions necessary to comply with

Cover: BASIL SPENCE 4 Dar Tal-Ghar, JuFawwara ly 2 1970 0xx 0 8 July 2008 5 editorial See page 17 view of the Hudson River and East River Shipyards, has been closely associated e x c e l l e n c e runways. The facility is running at 98 per- (province of Pordenone, Italy) in 1953. In at the same time, it was beautiful and I with the agriculture and farming commu- in a Maltese cent capacity with little room for growth. addition to his many undertakings and wanted to make that feeling accessible to nity. A Certified Public Accountant and context and Source: Architecture Week commitments in professional institutions, more people." He loves the idea of seeing Auditor, he was appointed chairman of the that sends a clear message that old build- he stood out for his role as architect and the sun rise and set in the same room, Co-operatives board and was also chair- ings can be successfully restored and con- Pritzker Architecture planner, with a well-known practice in and considers the building to be four- man of the Agricultural Export Marketing verted to modern use while retaining their Prize Laureate Pordenone. He is remembered, among his Architectural Drawing dimensional. "Time is always changing the Board between 1992 and 1996. In February character and intrinsic value. 62-year old architect Jean Nouvel of Paris, many professional activities, for his com- Prize shape of the building." 2005, he was appointed chairman of the Eligible projects include the restoration or France has been chosen as the 2008 mitment to salvaging and restoring build- people & projects In celebration of The Prince of Wales’s six- The rotation takes up to 3 hours, and gets MRA, regulator for energy, water and min- conservation of buildings, the adaptation Laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. ings damaged in the 1980 earthquake in people & projects tieth birthday in November, The Georgian Richard England, The Garden of Apollo, power from photovoltaic solar cells and 79 eral resources. of buildings to new uses, building additions The formal ceremony for what has come the Irpinia region of Italy. In addition to his Group, in association with The Prince’s St Julians, Malta wind turbines, one located between each On behalf of the Council of the Kamra or alterations, or new building projects in to be known throughout the world as position as Vice-President of the UIA, he Drawing School and the Traditional which is a conversion of a traditional court- floor. The system is meant to create enough tal-Periti and the Kamra’s members, the conservation areas. The projects can relate architecture’s highest honour was held on currently held the position of Head of the Architecture Group of the Royal Institute yard house with a number of minimalist energy to power the entire tower and still Editorial Team extends its congratulations either to a single building, a complex of June 2 in Washington D.C. at the Library of Italian Delegation to the ACE (Architects' of British Architects, is organising a prize modern interventions. The project’s rel- have some left for surrounding buildings. and augurs success in his new role. buildings, or historic urban environment Congress. In announcing the jury’s choice, Council of Europe). competition for a measured drawing of a evance is particularly noteworthy for the According to Fisher, two of these futuristic or townscape. The project will be judged Thomas J. Pritzker, chairman of The Hyatt On behalf of the Council of the Kamra Georgian building. preservation of the spirit of the old while scrapers are planned so far, one each in Ten international on the quality of the work executed, its Foundation, quoted from the jury citation, tal-Periti, the Editorial Team extends its The aim of the competition, which is open also projecting a non-intrusive essence of Dubai and Moscow. They will be built using architects to present historic, cultural, educational and social condolences to Giancarlos’s family and his to British, Commonwealth and US citizens the new. a truly radical technique. relevance, the preliminary research con- L'Institut du Monde colleagues at the UIA. ideas for greater Paris Arabe, Paris under 40, is to promote and reward excel- The other project is a landscape-interior Construction on the Dynamic Tower will be Nicolas Sarkozy, President of France, met ducted and the aesthetic and visual merit. lence in measured architectural drawing design scheme entitled the Garden of unlike anything that preceded it. The only with ten ‘big names’ in the field of archi- The project may be on any scale, and should BNA Cube 2008 and to encourage close study and under- Apollo by Richard England. The scheme is ber and is chosen from winners of RIBA part of the tower built on site will be the tecture and urbanism at the Elysée Palace display a standard of work which would be The Royal Institute of Dutch Architects standing of Georgian buildings. For the essentially a remodeling of the architect’s International Awards following visits by a centre core. It is on the 4th June in order to launch them outstanding in a Maltese context. (BNA) has awarded cepezed architects purposes of the competition, the term own private study and office annex, and is jury of architects and a lay judge. The 2008 strong enough on a project to re-image Greater Paris. Submissions for consideration must be with the BNA Cube 2008 for its complete ‘Georgian building’ means any build- winner was Casa Kike by Gianni Botsford to hold the Each architect/urban designer will have received at the Din l-Art Ħelwa office, 133 body of work. The BNA Cube is the highest ing completed in the period 1660-1840, Architects. floors in place, a budget to cover their work and a team Melita Street, Valletta, by 30 September decoration of the institute and possibly whether in Britain or elsewhere. Full details Casa Kike in Costa Rica is a small scheme and will contain of professionals that will permit full inter- 2008. Applications and participation con- the most prestigious Dutch architecture can be downloaded from www.georgian- where success is dependent on the abso- the building's ditions are available through Din l-Art prize. It is presented for exceptional merits group.org.uk. The deadline for entries is the lute simplicity of the initial diagram and a elevators, which Ħelwa. within Dutch architecture. 19 September 2008. refusal by the architect to over-complicate transport people “Of the many phrases that might be used According to the jury, cepezed's modern it. Two buildings, each a parallelogram, are and cars right Heathrow Terminal 5 to describe the career of architect Jean interpretation of the notion of the master Projects by Maltese orientated so their sides are parallel to the to their door. One of the largest construction projects Nouvel, foremost are those that emphasise builder compels admiration in particular. architects feature in boundaries of the site. The glazed ends Each floor will in Europe, the new Terminal 5 at London's his courageous pursuit of new ideas and Within this interpretation, the office does ARCA … (and here's the clever bit) are then twisted be made piece Heathrow Airport opened earlier this year, his challenge of accepted norms in order not distinguish architecture from construc- The April 2008 issue of ARCA, the pres- away from the meridian so as to catch the by piece in a factory in Italy and placed nearly 20 years after the Richard Rogers to stretch the boundaries of the field.” And tion. It uses integral design methods that tigious Italian architectural design journal northerly sea breezes. The house is built on onto the core using a lift system. With Partnership (now Rogers Stirk Harbour + further, Pritzker added, “The jury acknowl- have brought the architects an enormous features the work of two Maltese architects. characterised by a dynamic synergy with 1.2m piles of the hardest of hard woods, this method, each story is completed in Partners) won the commission. Master- edged the ‘persistence, imagination, exu- knowhow and competence in fields such One project featured was that of Conrad the external garden space. Both articles Cachà, which is so dense that it sinks in about six days. By comparison, traditional planner and lead architect Richard Rogers berance, and, above all, an insatiable urge

Thake’s own family residence in Zebbug featured in ARCA are illustrated by compre- water. As a result it is also termite proof, an ground-up meth- disciplinary consideration of how to give designed the new terminal as an exclusive for creative experimentation’ as qualities Westraven hensive photographic documentation. important factor in these parts. The point ods can take six birth to a new city. and unified home for British Airways. With abundant in Nouvel’s work.” office complex about the house is books, 17,000 of them, weeks per floor. Those chosen to undertake this mammoth its wavy roof and glazed facade, Terminal exterior_photo by Jannes … and others feature in so the fact that the books and the structure Groundbreaking task are Antoine Grumbach (FR), Roland Giancarlo Ius Linders AJ are brought together in what are in effect for Dynamic Castro (FR), Giancarlo Ius, Vice-President of the UIA The weekly publication The Architects’ structural bookcases is highly appropriate. Towers in Dubai Christian de Pontzamparc (FR), Jean Nouvel (International Union of Architects) since Journal (AJ) has been promoting good The two pavilions are linked by a raised and Moscow is (FR), Yves Lion (FR), Finn Geipel (DE), 2005, passed away on the 05 July after architecture since 1895. In one of its issues walkway which is long enough so that the expected to hap- Richard Rogers (UK), MVRDV (NL), Bernard suffering a heart attack in his hotel room in last June, AJ featured the Malta Maritime smaller building is not in the wind shadow pen in the autumn, Secchi (IT) and Djamel Klouche (FR). The Turin. Ius was a candidate for the presiden- Authority office complex in Marsa, designed of the bigger one. with construction teams are expected to present a prospec- cy of the UIA, a position assigned at the end by local practice Architecture Project. The Photos copyright: Christian Richt reaching comple- tive diagnosis at the beginning of 2009 of the XXIII edition of the World Congress of article also referred to the firm’s recent tion by the end of that will contain concrete proposals for the Architecture which has just drawn to a close exhibition of works held in Brick Lane, Dynamic Tower 2010. Further information can be found on metropolis in the post-Kyoto epoch. in Turin, and which elections were due to London. Italian architect David Fisher is building his www.dynamicarchitecture.net. take place www.architectsjournal.co.uk first skyscraper, the Dynamic Tower, a new Architectural Heritage 5 (T5) creates a recognisable face for the just hours as the organisation of the construction concept in luxury architecture. Every floor New MEPA Chairman Award airport, and forms a key part of the ongo- after his process, innovation and the development Lubetkin Prize of the 80-storey self-powered building Mr Austin Walker has been appointed as the Din l-Art Ħelwa is accepting entries for its ing Heathrow renovation and expansion p a s s i n g of construction components; all exerted The Lubetkin Prize is named in honour of rotates according to voice command, and new Chairman at the Malta Environment Award Scheme for Architectural Heritage project. away. for the purpose of architectural excel- the Georgia-born architect, who worked in nearly the entire construction of the $700 and Planning Authority (MEPA). The former for 2008, designed to encourage better Heathrow currently accommodates the Giancarlo lence. Paris before going to London in the 1930s million structure is prefabricated. chairman of the Malta Resources Authority architecture by rewarding any building world's largest number of international Ius was cepezed pairs a minimal use of materials Conrad Thake, to establish the influential Tecton Group. Fisher was inspired to design the Dynamic replaces Andrew Calleja who stepped project which made an outstanding and passengers and 85 percent of the UK's born in with most efficient execution techniques. Architect's family It is awarded for the most outstanding Tower during a visit to a friend's top-floor down in June. significant contribution to architectural international travelers, yet it only has two Z o p p o l a Furthermore, the office has always regard- residence 3 building outside the EU by an RIBA mem- Midtown Manhattan apartment. "I had a Mr Walker, who is also a director at Malta

6 July 2008 July 2008 7 7 ed recycling and sustainability as evi- Abitare il Mediterraneo The material received will provide the dent issues of construction assignments. The International Prize for architectural stimulus for a debating seminar on the Designing for the Future: This has resulted in inspiring examples. projects titled“Living in the Mediterranean” characteristics of primary installations cepezed's most recent work, such as the is aimed at professionals who, through - the piazza - and their relationships renovation and expansion of both the their work, ideas and passions, influence with the Mediterranean territory and Westraven office block in Utrecht and the the changes taking place in society in the its traditions, to coincide with the XV The Market and Quality of Life Audax Textile Museum in Tilburg, compels Mediterranean and who thereby foster General Assembly of UMAR which will An international conference was organ- to do so nowadays. They will con- projects and best practice. reverence because of it's consistent sub- the dialogue between different cultures turings of historic piazzas. They must take place in Morocco in January 2009 ised on 10 April 2008 in Brussels by the tinue to fulfil that role in building B. Economic pillar people & projects ace conference tlety and lightness and it's sensuous con- and different ethnic groups. The subject demonstrate the ability to fit into the on the occasion of architecture day. The xxxxx Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE), and the new Europe, harnessing growth 3. The cities of tomorrow can only be trol of at times rarefied space and light. matter of the Second Edition of the Prize urban context, consistency with already competing projects will also be displayed was held under the Patronage of José to develop a high quality built envi- deemed successful if they fulfil the genu- The BNA presents the Cube on a yearly is the “piazza”, understood as the funda- existing structures, a coherent dialogue in an exhibition which will take place Manuel Barroso, President of the European ronment for the 21st century. ine needs and responsible desires of peo- basis since 1965. Last year, the Office for mental topos of living: a place for social between the setting’s historic language during the Extraordinary Assembly of Commission. Over 400 of Europe’s lead- The conclusions of the Conference ple. The true needs of citizens must be Metropolitan Architecture received the gatherings and cultural exchanges in and its contemporary language, and the UMAR in Pescara in June 2009 during the ing politicians - at international, European, are reproduced hereunder and set anticipated and longterm viable solutions prize. The presentation of the BNA Cube every society in the Mediterranean. ability to reactivate the social and cul- Mediterranean Games. Further informa- national and local level - administrators, a roadmap for sustainability that devised to respond to them for which eco- 2008 will take place near the end of the The competing projects may be either tural practices at the heart of the piazza tion may be viewed on www. abitareil- industry representatives and professionals should be kept at the heart of all nomic aspects are decided on the basis of year. completely new undertakings or restruc- system. mediterraneo.org in the field met at this one-day event in political decisions in this regard. life cycle costing. Brussels to draw up the agenda for tomor- 4. Governments have to effectively and row’s built environment. Architects’ Brussels urgently assume their responsibilities and Vincent Cassar, also a member of the ACE Statement for the Future must see that it is not acceptable to pri- Executive Board, Simone Vella Lenicker and A high quality built environment vatise public policy. This is especially the KTP concludes consultation process Danica Mifsud represented the Kamra tal- requires high quality in planning, case in the areas where the market fails to Periti at this event. Jacques Borg Barthet, design, building and management produce good results. In particular, reform Anne Marie Mifsud and Ray Farrugia also with good, timely cooperation of the public procurement process must be During its Annual General Meeting approved, and the Council joined the Maltese delegation. between architects, other profes- devised in which quality outcomes become held in December last year, those was mandated to take up During the Conference, Richard Parker, sionals, city leaders, administrations the main goal over and above lowest cost. present approved a motion where- discussions with the relevant Professor of Public Policy at Harvard and citizens. A long-term vision by it delegated the Council of the authorities on this subject. University, pointed out that while modern for the built environment has to C. Environmental pillar and sustainability Kamra tal-Periti to forward a packet The fourth motion approved architecture has a shared communal ability recognise the importance of the 5. Designing for the future is a long-term to cultivate real beauty, this is often “pro- Jan Olbrycht, Member of the four pillars that constitute the basic vision. It must be recognised by all built of proposals to its members and to dealt with the Standard Forms foundly incompatible with markets - the European Parliament: “Space is framework for sustainable develop- environment professionals that sustainabil- receive written comments on such, of Agreement between periti not a luxury, but a basic need defining institutions of our time - and there for everyone in Europe” ment. ity is an absolute. A challenge that waits to following which it would proceed and their clients. The Council is thus a need to bridge this democratic be faced is the need to retrofit our cities, to assess these comments and to was given the mandate to deficit”. A. Social pillar devising policies and techniques at the consider amending its proposals. proceed with their publica- Professor Riccardo Petrella from the The Conference overwhelmingly agreed 1. A real challenge for all professionals in scale of the challenge faced that will lead Revised documents were to be cir- tion and dissemination to its Academy of Architecture of Switzerland- to the Brussels Statement which stressed the construction sector lies in their abil- our existing cities to a sustainable future. culated to members and proposed members and to introduce Italy urged the audience to “reinvent cities that architecture is a positive tool in steer- ity to capture quality and ‘beauty’ and to 6. Governance and decision-making proc- for approval at an Extraordinary measures to encourage their as places of “common goods”, providing ing investments towards sustainable translate them into completed projects and esses that lead to the creation of the built General Meeting to be held on the widespread utilisation in the public services for all” and to renew them as development. Developing cities demand measurable values. There is a need to better environment must adopt an integrated spaces of representative and direct democ- an integrated, holistic approach, approach drawing on all fields 06 March 2008. Due to the National profession. racy. Jean-Marie Beaupuy, Member of the with input from politicians, archi- that affect the quality of the General Election held on the 08 Lastly, the fifth motion dealt European Parliament, President of the tects, developers and civil society. daily lives of all citizens. March and other circumstances, with the proposed amend- European Parliament Inter-Group Urban. Planners, designers, the construc- such EGM was postponed to the ments to Tariff K. These were Logement lent his support to the architects tion industry and end users must D. Cultural pillar 01 April, where the discussion on also approved and the Council call when he said “We need to have a more work together to create and main- 7. Seen within the context of these documents began. Due to was delegated to initiate dis- coherent approach to the forms of govern- tain a quality built environment to globalisation, cultural quality time constraints, the Meeting was cussions in this regard with ance in cities, as this will help to improve provide solutions for sustainable and diversity provide dynamism, adjourned to the 15 April, where the relevant authorities and the social, cultural and economic standards cities. Public procurement at all identity and real attractiveness the consultation process was finally to revert back to the General of its citizens, so this October the Inter- levels should be used to promote to places resulting in economic, Group will present a report to the European sustainability and quality, and par- social and environmental bene- concluded with the approval of Meeting of the Kamra once Parliament on introducing an integrated ticular attention should be given fits. We need to recognise, cher- agreement has been reached, all five motions presented by the approach”. to rectifying the current misuse of ish and promote our European Council to the General Meeting. for the approval of the Public-Private Partnerships. identity. Architecture has vision- The first motion dealt with the government. delegated to present these “for the urgent General Meeting. Moreover the Council In a closing speech to the ary and synthesising power to approval of a Position Paper on the Periti The proposed amendments to subsidi- consideration of the relevant authori- was requested to proceed with the publi- Conference, Janez Podobnik, contribute to the achievement Act. This Paper assessed the current Act ary legislation 390.01, which includes the ties and to seek that such legislation is cation and dissemination of Guidelines for Minister of the Environment and of these statements. and proposed a road map for its updating. Regulations of the Chamber and the Code enacted without further delay.” the Engagement of the Services of periti Spatial Planning of Slovenia and President understand why the market does not fully The approved motion gave the Council of Professional Conduct, were the subject Another Position Paper discussed by the to its members and to introduce measures in Office of the EU Council of Ministers, respond to the desire of citizens for a high the go-ahead to enter into discussions of the second motion presented to the General Meeting was that dealing with to encourage their widespread utilisation reminded the audience that in the past quality built environment – and to address The full text of the conference report can be architects and politicians had together cre- these constraints one by one. downloaded from: with government, and to revert back to General Meeting. Save for some minor PI and Professional Liability. Here again, in the profession, and to proceed with its ated epoch-defining buildings - from the 2. Good design benefits all citizens. The role www.ace-cae.org/MemberN/Content/EN/ the Kamra’s members with any amend- alterations, the proposed regulations through the third motion presented by the work in the compilation and publication of pyramids of Egypt to the buildings of ren- of design in achieving greater equity and toc/toc/mytoc.html?id=1-1-3 ments agreed to between the Council and were also approved and the Council was Council, the contents of the paper were a Cost Information System (CIS). Over 400 delegates attended the Conference aissance Florence - and that they continue justice needs to be explored through pilot

8 July 2008 July 2008 9 Energy Efficiency in Buildings SACES update As the academic year draws to a close is eager to repeat the recent success we organizing a series of short workshops use of projec- SACES is pleased to introduce the new had with our recent Easter workshop, by throughout the year in collaboration with tions rather

EU DESK board consisting of many familiar the Faculty. than posters or SACES and Design for Accessibility faces as well as some welcome The end of term brings about a shift of in other instanc- new additions. The new mem- activity from our customary workshops, es, we witnessed a more exhibition- “A fully functional, quality namely an inade- office is the“Access clients all share in the responsibility for qual- bers of the board are: Giancarlo get-togethers and activities to the final like approach to our final presentations. and well-managed quate response to for All Design ity in construction and for the adherence to Torpiano, Matthew Cachia Zammit, preparations for our final reviews. It is Such changes not only allow students to built environment has a the local climate, Guidelines”. While regulations. Karl Ebejer, Michael Previ, Patricia with great satisfaction that we have learn from each others’ projects, but also and insufficiency motivating effect on society, these were met In an attempt to address these issues and to Grech, James Muscat, Lara Mifsud, witnessed a number of changes to the encourage the community atmosphere in detailing and with resistance provide a platform for consumers and pro- it sustains its identity and Pierre Bianchi, Marc Spiteri, and formats of the final reviews such as the that we are all too keen to promote within propels it to excellence in w o r k m a n s h i p upon their intro- fessionals to discuss the issues at hand, the Nicholas Psaila Savona. The new the faculty. all of its undertakings.” to meet require- duction, it is now Kamra tal-Periti, in collaboration with the team has already coordinated a It is in this spirit of community that we are (from Architecture and ments and stand- felt that genu- Chamber of Engineers, the Services Division Quality of Life, Architects’ ards. ine attempts at (Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs), trip to Torino in conjunction with dedicating much of our column in this edi- Council of Europe, 2004) Our buildings’ achieving build- and the National Commission Persons with the Kamra tal-Periti and prepara- tion to sharing the work of our esteemed ability to retain ings and urban Disability organised two seminars as part of tions for the summer activities such fifth year students’ thesis projects. We are Last November, the Kamra tal-Periti heat in winter spaces that are the FEED 2007 program. The program is part as the Sand Sculptures event, the TV Transmission and Power Generation Tower - Justin James Schembri Annmarie Mifsud - Pembroke Science Park here only showing a fraction of launched its position paper entitled “The and prevent solar gain in summer and to accessible for all are being made, though financed by the European Union through traditional summer barbeque and the full projects which were on Urban Challenge – Our Quality of Life and deal with water ingress and humidity are not always with the best possible outcomes. the European Social Fund (ESF), whose main of course, the October Workshop display in June. More projects the Built Environment.” Two of the main commonly debated facts. So too is the It is possibly now time to start talking about target is “helping develop employment by are well underway. from all of the other years will be scopes addressed by this document are the quality of our construction and its longev- what is referred to as universal design, which promoting employability, the business spirit The new board aims to work with shown later on in the summer at presentation of the vision of the Kamra for a ity. As the cost of land and hence the cost strives to be a broad-spectrum solution that and equal opportunities and investing in the Faculty administration to make the projects exhibition which we more sustainable development of the built of property spirals upward, the quality of helps everyone, not just people with dis- human resources.” the five year experience as ben- encourage everybody to attend. and rural environment, and the emphasis of our construction has remained relatively The seminars were held on the 15 May 2008 eficial and interesting as possible. Details of this exhibition will be the need for quality in design as an essential unchanged (with evident exceptions). A and were well received by periti, engineers Pierre Bianchi and Matthew Cachia released closer to the date. tool for the nation’s economic and social large proportion of our recently built prop- and the general public at large. In fact, the Zammit are currently sitting on In the meantime, SACES would development. erties however, are affected by the familiar Kamra was able to welcome 153 partici- the Faculty Board as Student rep- like to wish everybody a wonder- Two aspects of the design process that problems arising from inadequate detailing pants to the seminar on energy efficiency in resentatives and the whole team ful summer season! require attention and that are gaining in and bad workmanship. They are wasteful of buildings, and 91 participants to the semi- Katia Calleja Paula Curmi - Mediterranean Campus, Fort St. Elmo importance are the energy efficiency of our energy, over-dependent on fuel resources nar on accessibility. All participants received buildings and the issue of accessibility for for heating and cooling and ventilation. a certificate of participation at the end of all. Far too much of recent construction is They also require constant, frequent and each seminar. inadequately built, with a general absence costly maintenance programmes to keep Both seminars helped to raise an increased of attention to detailing both in the design, them in adequate condition. awareness on each of the topics discussed as well as in the implementation stages of The recent transposition of the EU Directive and served to launch an interesting debate the project. The principal issues are two, on the Energy Performance of Buildings on the quality of our built environment into local legislation through the recently even in the smaller details that affect our issued “Document F, Technical Guidance – daily living. Conservation of Fuel, Energy and Natural Minister George Pullicino addressing the Resources (minimum requirements on the morning seminar on Energy Efficiency in energy performance of buildings regula- buildings design tions)”, is a positive step in principle, though abilities. Moreover, it is an approach that

it highlights the Kamra’s concerns that the recognises the importance of aesthetics. Hi-Tech Research and Developement Science Park Sandro Valentino - Boutique Hotel, Fort St. Elmo Elaine Stephania Farrugia - Multi-Level Junction introduction of regulations is not always The introduction of any regulation needs to carefully thought through. All regulations be accompanied by a widespread educa- should be backed by adequate research and tion campaign to provide professionals with funding to ensure that they truly provide adequate knowledge to implement them value for money to society (e.g. although and to alert the public to the value of the these regulations have been published, investments they will be required to under- there is no relevant data on local construc- take. The proper training of other stakehold- tion materials against which to benchmark ers in the construction industry to ensure the performance of new buildings). that they too understand their responsibili- The presentations delivered on the day Minister John Dalli addressing the afternoon Another set of guidelines that has now ties and obligations is also critical. Together are available for downloading from: session on Design for Accessibility become a standard item in every design with architects, developers, contractors and www.ktpmalta.com/resources/feed2007.html Nicola Muscat - War Museum, Fort St. Elmo Peter Valentino-Academy of Mediterranean Studies, Fort St. Elmo

10 July 2008 July 2008 11 The Universal Home project by Annemarie Mayo Universal Universal home How it came to be The early stages Private place Major appliance kitchen (by Katrin Braun) Detailed Plan Universal home The project “Universal Home” was in essence a state-funded Working with people from such varied cultural and profes- initiative to bring young design professionals towards the sional backgrounds was an experience in itself. Initially, the the future relocating individuals had the potential to become Service Tree city of Essen, in North Rhine Westphalia, Germany. The state product designers were sidetracked into believing this was a major target group. A vertical sustainable operations plan which connects every is always on the look out for ways to breathe new life into merely a project on universal design. In contrast, many of Though we long for our personal sense of home, this may not private place to various services, such as the dishwasher this once dilapidated post war German city. It had once been the architects in the group found the scope to be so great, necessarily be related to the hardware that helps us run our service, the central laundry service and the major appliance hailed by the Allies as “the heart of German industrial power” that it lacked context. Dr Michael Blank, a member of the lives. We argued that the setting, friendship and engagement kitchen. and “the cauldron of wars”. board of directors of Walter Knoll, had mixed feelings. “We within a community are for most of us just as important as our To this end, architecture and design graduates from all see the work of the young designers and architects as an four walls. Thus we embraced a flexible living model based on Major Appliance Kitchen around the world were invited to submit essays on what inspiration for our own work and want to muster the cour- the exchange of different services. We wished to tackle ‘home The primary bridge designed to have people flow out of the proposed project Universal Home could be made into. age to see value in the “Universal Home” project without in its entirety’ and felt we managed to do this by making some- their private place and possible isolation into a social set- By August 2006, ten scholarship holders had been chosen, having a specific product in mind.” Cornelius Boerner, design thing great i.e. the home, even bigger. ting. Elements from the entire food system are networked and were asked to spend a year in Essen working in what manager at WMF, encouraged us by The system “Make yourself at home” can be into this spatial concept. The inhabitants of ‘make your self used to be the Zollverein Coal Mining Complex, now an saying that the very context we found used all over the world since it addresses a at home’ cook, eat, meet, shop, and socialise here. international centre for culture and design. They would be missing, was most valuable. global problem in a local way. At our test under the supervision of the Design Zentrum NRW, as well At Duravit We decided to take on this challenge and Zollverein site, “Make yourself at home” Small Appliance Shelf as ten German manufacturing companies. At the time, I research a context for the German com- is visualised in three architectural blocks, View of one architectural blocks Provided within the private place, the small appliance shelf was a fresh graduate of the University of Malta, with fertile panies to envision their future products each designed by a different architect to contains the basic hardware for making breakfast, a cup of interest in adaptable architectural solutions. I had been chosen Happily for me, the network of international friends I had in. Thus, motivated by our own situation, ensure desirable diversification yet respect tea or a hot soup when unwell. The shelf is designed to be to be one of them. developed from IAESTE(1) had kicked in at an early stage my workgroup “Make Yourself At Home” a sensitive architectural and socio eco- where relationships are valued as highly as architectural part of your living area and appears as a smart little piece During our first colloquium with the Design Zentrum, Dr Peter and I would be staying with a friend of a friend (of a friend). decided to design the living scenario we so nomic context. The five filters we kept hardware. of furniture. May include a used dishware drawer, espresso- Zec, the initiator of the red dot design award, explained that Back at the Design Zentrum, the management had worked dearly wished to have found in Essen. addressing, namely communication, maker, kettle, cool and hotshelf. the idea for the project stemmed from his own living situation. on closing off part of the red dot museum to visitors and sustainability, adaptability, mobility and The five filters The impracticality of his contemporary villa is often brought converting it into a workplace for us. The museum is housed My workgroup project: nature were our shared ideals for living. Our shared ideals, namely, communication, sustainability, home when his elderly mother visits or by the exploits of his in the boiler house of the Zollverein colliery, which is listed Make Yourself at Home For example, considering communica- adaptability, mobility and nature. Zollverein young children. Can there be a living space for all stages of as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage industrial monument So how does one go about making them- Random questions tion served as the primary instrument to life? 10 German companies of international repute, and all past and was remodelled by none other than Sir Norman Foster. selves at home for one year? My workgroup organise and define spaces and services. Every part of Make Buddy ID service winners of the red dot, would be following our research with Here are a few notes I wrote about my new address during which consisted of Canadian Katrin Braun (product design), yourself at home had to be passed through each of the five Both portal and person, the Buddy ID functions as a global interest. These companies dealt with products for daily living my stay. Chao Zheng (architect) from China, Iris Prehn (product design) filters. relocation passport assistant as well as a local host, ready to and included brands we often see in Malta such as Duravit, “(Its) main hall echoes Antonio Sant'Elia's 1912-1914 highly and Susann Stiehl (architect) from Germany, and myself sought Here are some examples of the recurrent jargon we used show you around. WMF, Miele, Vaillant and Poggenpohl. futuristic sketches of cathedrals to an electric religion. There to find out. We believed this to be a valid question which 21st throughout the project: is no doubt that the pair (Schupp and Kremmer) were inspired century inhabitants will be asking themselves time and time Luggage storage service Living and working in Essen by this artist's Futuristic drawings, whose visions have mostly again. Contemporary living seems to be made up of a never Home in its Entirety The luggage storage service is a personal memorabilia man- In the meantime, we were spending most of our free time graced the cinema screen. One example is Fritz Lang's 1927 ending sense of transition since exciting opportunities do not A concept for 500 people mixing living and working together ager. It categorises, on a learning basis, items used frequently, looking for a private place in the yet unexplored city of Essen. silent film 'Metropolis'…”” always arise at our doorsteps. Thus, a major premise was that in those too dear to throw away and those so rarely used it might be best to have them auctioned. Suitcases can be converted Home as a Workplace into furniture when stationary. The possibility to occupy neutral spaces and conduct work in a shared environment. Employment which is close to Furniture/wall configuration service home reduces travel time and is thus far more sustainable. Optional online configuration service which allows a future We believed that such a living scenario would have been user to select furniture from an online database and draft its the ideal address during our twelve months in Essen. Home layout prior to arrival. as a service for migrating individuals, couples and families eliminates the annoying hassles of moving and allows one Private place to spend time on what is really valuable - integrating with The communication of oneself through the space inhabited... the new surroundings and focusing on real life social and into and outwards from it. career networking. It will become a social reality which many in the near future will look for and be willing to IMU service participate in. At Kahla At Walter Knoll At Gardena IMU, or ‘Intelligent Mobile You’, is the principal city goods Make yourself at home workgroup delivery system. Be an IMU for a day and earn rebates off your (1) International Association for the Exchange of Students for rent! Technical Experience

12 July 2008 July 2008 13 Collecting Architectural Memorabilia by Conrad Thake memorabilia memorabilia During recent years, I have developed a keen ! passion for collecting memorabilia related to famous The back-side of architects. The collectibles could take various forms the same ticket be it an original signature, an autograph letter, a lists the dates of six weekly lec- commemorative medal, a signed photograph or tures on architec- some form of artwork produced by the architect. ture to be deliv- Surfing the internet particularly sites such as ered by Edward ebay.com has provided fertile hunting ground Middleton Barry for acquiring all kinds of architectural souvenirs. I at the Royal Academy for the have even managed to acquire some rather rare period January and invaluable material, with my most treasured to February 1880. acquisitions including a rare seventeenth century Unfor tunately, edition of the architectural treatise Gli Ordini di half way through Architettura by Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola and a the lecture series on the 27th

limited edition portfolio of architectural etchings by January 1880 he ! the modern regionalist Iraqi architect Rifat Chadirji. ! died suddenly at These items spanning decades, sometimes even

The ‘Professor’s Ticket’ of the Royal Academy of Arts, bearing the age of 50. A postcard bearing the stamp mark date of 17 May 1983 on the occasion of ! centuries, provide a tangible form of nostalgia and Edward Middleton Barry’s signature. memory where one feels personally connected to the 100th anniversary of the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. the subject. I will here highlight some of the more The postcard displaying the Brooklyn Bridge and part of the Lower Manhattan A signed photograph of Albert Speer (1905- skyline is signed in felt pen by Minoru Yamasaki (1912-1986), architect of the interesting items that form part of my collection. 1981), architect during the Third Reich who ill-fated Twin Towers. The towers are partially visible in the postcard. sought to implement Hitler’s grandiose architectural schemes. The photograph dated 4 April 1968, was taken two years fol-

lowing Speer’s release from Spandau pris- ! ons where he served a twenty year prison An autographed photo- % An information leaflet sentence for his role as Hitler’s Minister of graph of Sir Basil Spence on the architecture Armaments. (1907-1976), who became of the new German a celebrated architect in Chancellery in cen- Great Britain following the

tral Berlin, Germany post-war reconstruction of ! signed by the archi- Coventry Cathedral. Other tects Axel Schultes notable architectural works An original signature cut from the end of a letter by the and Charlotte Frank. of his include the British famous English architect Sir John Soane (1753-1837). The souvenir was Embassy building in Rome John Soane enlarged and rebuilt the Bank of England acquired follow- and the Sussex University in London (later demolished) and was an avid collec- ing a tour of the campus. Spence also had tor of art works from diverse cultures and periods. His Chancellery conduct- close connections to Malta house in Lincoln’s Inn Fields with its vast collection was ed by the architects as in the late 1960s he bequeathed to the nation and to this day serves as the themselves. purchased a farmhouse in Soane Museum. Fawwara, limits of Siggiewi where he would spend his

holidays painting and draw-

ing whilst enjoying from his ! % An original signature written on the back flap of an ! studio the spectacular view envelope by Edward Middleton Barry (1830-1880), of Filfla. architect of the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, An original wood-block print depicting A typed letter dated 14th March 1933 and signed in ink by Sir Edwin Lutyens London (1858) followed in 1866 by the Royal Opera a house in Morrison Street, Edinburgh (1869-1944), architect and planner of New Delhi, India. The letter addressed to the House in Valletta (destroyed in 1943). produced by Basil Spence, then a 16 year Broughton Moor Green Slate Quarries concerns the potential use of slate tiles for old student attending art classes. works being undertaken at Westminster.

14 July 2008 July 2008 15 Basil Spence Exhibitions MEPA Reform – the KTP’s Position Edinburgh – London | Reviewed by Richard England arlier this year I had occasion to visit the fact that he was a pupil ate love and unique talent the first major Exhibition of works of of Lutyens, accounted for architecture. He was m epa reform The Kamra tal-Periti (KTP) notes with sat- these core values should be structured ficient to develop a quality approach to tion on MEPA bodies from the various sec- Sir Basil Spence (1907 – 1976) at two for his masterly play and above all a great promoter Basil Spence isfaction the intention of Government as around the central tenet that develop- development and to ensure that develop- tors of society; venues; the first at the Dean Gallery understanding of light and of the profession, even expressed by the Prime Minister to under- ment should aim to achieve qualitative ment applications are handled in a timely - Continuous training should be central to in Edinburgh, Scotland, followed by shade in most of his build- more so during his term take reform at the Malta Environment public benefit and that this requirement and cost-effective manner. the MEPA’s staff development policy. aE watered down version of the same show ings. The Rome Embassy, as RIBA president (1958- and Planning Authority, and it applauds needs to be balanced against individual at the RIBA Gallery in London. The Exhibition a decade in the making 60). At the height of his Government’s decision to give this reform demands. The KTP notes that: Good Governance was a result of the donation of Spence’s (designed 1960 – com- powers he may be looked process sufficient importance so as to place These core values should include: herit- - Procedures are often inefficient and too There is a need for the strict implementa- archive by his family to the Royal Commission pleted 1971), apart from upon as the personality it under the direct stewardship of the Prime age (built and environmental) protection, bureaucratic on minor projects, yet insuf- tion of good governance throughout the on the Ancient and Historical Monuments the majestic Cathedral at who bridged the Lutyens Minister in the light of his responsibil- environmental sustainability, the avoid- ficient to ensure quality on major projects; organisation, firstly in national planning and of Scotland. Both shows offered an impres- Coventry, remains to my and Foster eras. Certainly, ity for the National Policy for Sustainable ance of undue speculation, quality living - Consultation procedures need to happen procurement processes, and later, in all sec- sive reminder and demonstration of Spence’s mind, his most beautifully he was the finest British Development. conditions in urban centres, and devel- in parallel rather than sequentially to avoid tions of the body. great talents and qualities as both architect crafted building. Its bold, architect of the immediate Last April, the Kamra presented a docu- opment which is of the highest quality, tortuous alteration procedures; - Strengthening and empowering public and artist. articulated forms, bask- post-war years. ment entitled “MEPA REFORM” to the Prime yet specific to its context. Investment in - Further procedures need to be put into participation and public consultation should During the 50s, 60s and part of the 70s, ing comfortably under a I have not mentioned Minister. This document presents the Kamra culture will further assist in the enlighten- place to reduce laborious review processes be encouraged and supported and should Basil Spence was without doubt, not only the vibrant Mediterranean my own recollection of tal-Periti’s position related to the issues ment of society. for minor applications so as to direct the be included at every stage of the process; most celebrated, but also the most prolific sun, sit comfortably in Basil as both friend and which it believes will be significant for the resources to developments that require - Board decisions should be published in architect working in Britain (a sort of Norman unison with its illustri- mentor during his period success of this reform. The KTP envisages Achieving Quality greater input; such a way that similar circumstances would Foster of his time). Yet nearly half a century ous neighbour, echoing in Malta between the that the process will require a long-term While MEPA has achieved improvements - The DCC boards should not adopt ad hoc benefit from such a decision; later, his legacy is somewhat overlooked and both its proportions and late 60s and his death in strategy built upon shorter term goals and in the overall process of urban develop- policy, but they should give their feedback - The non-functioning Planning Consultative his work still remains relatively underrated. rhythm. This is indeed a 1976. As a young architect, achievements. The KTP Council asked for a ment, it is clear that the end result, i.e. the to the Directorate where they feel that poli- Committee (PCC) should be reconvened and These exhibitions however provided a valu- timeless edifice and to when he first approached meeting with Dr. Gonzi in order to present quality of the rural, and particularly the cy does not sufficiently provide for suitable reconstituted, while the Users’ Committee able documentation of the vast spectrum of my mind the architect’s Basil Spence, Mdina Cathedral 1971 me to help him with the Spence’s work which ranged from ecclesiasti- masterpiece. conversion of Dar Tal-Għar, its position and also to discuss the way urban environment which we inhabit, still development; should be strengthened; cal to educational and institutional build- Others may well opt for his 1951 Coventry London turned both public and press against a property he had bought in Fawwara, I forward. However, this meeting has as yet leaves much to be desired. - The measurement of MEPA’s success or - Discussions and consultations with the KTP ings including also mass and private housing Cathedral competition winning scheme as him, with many of his contemporaries accus- trembled at our initial meeting. He however, not been set. The full document may be Quality is not a result of planning tools failure should not be calculated on its pend- on policy making and policy formulation schemes. being his greatest work. The winning of this ing him of adopting a veneered pictorial immediately put me at ease and during the downloaded from www.ktpmalta.com. and policy alone, yet an assessment of the ing caseload but on the quality of ensuing should be restarted, and a closer relation- That Spence was a formidable form-maker competition was to be a turning point in the approach to architecture, as opposed to more years that followed, we developed a rare and planning tools at MEPA’s disposal is neces- development; ship sought between the two bodies; Hereunder is a synopsis of its contents. is immediately made obvious by viewing architect’s life, also projecting him into a wide in-depth methodologies. precious friendship, the memory of which I sary to ascertain their suitability for the - The assessment of work output within - Inconsistency and favouritism in the treat- the bold and sculptural designs of his major public consciousness. His amalgamation of His work has regrettably been poorly under- cherish dearly. During these years, I gradually Developing a clear vision achievement of quality environment. the Directorate needs to shift away from a ment of applications, political lobbying and buildings. These demonstrate a remarkable the skeletal ruins of the devastated Cathedral stood and undervalued for too long. These discovered the man behind the architect and The KTP believes it is essential for reform quantitative assessment of number of files the lack of real autonomy from political verve, exuberance and proficiency in an era was a precursory gesture, at a time when the Exhibitions show that Spence’s work as an with each and every meeting my esteem within MEPA to be based on a clear vision, The KTP notes that: processed to a quality-based system where influence need to be eliminated; when British architecture was more inclined Modern Movement was making few, if any, architect now needs to be revalued, for much and respect for him grew. If as an architect for the environmental development (urban - Design quality is not a factor currently quality and diligence are given due merit. - There needs to be a clamp down on unethi- towards intellectualizing and verbalizing rath- reconciliatory gestures towards the past. Both of his ouvre was perhaps an architecture he had few equals, as an individual, he was and rural) of the Maltese Islands, which taken into consideration in the planning cal conduct by MEPA professional staff and er than producing manifest buildings. Falmer Exhibitions (the RIBA one omitted the educa- ahead of its time. His extravagant sculptural unique. He had an incredible joyous com- vision cannot be separated from the coun- process; With respect to resources, management; any abuses by employees, House at the University of Sussex (1962), tional buildings and private residences), show forms in the era of arid Modernism and mitment to anything he was doing, whether try’s economic and socio-cultural aspira- - Because they have not been consid- the KTP notes that: executives and appointees to the boards the small exquisite Mortonhall Crematorium Spence’s propensity in the handling of light, Internationalism were too much for the time. building model aeroplanes, painting, sculpt- tions. ered from a holistic urban design view- - Adequately skilled resources are highly should be investigated with urgency; in Edinburgh (1967), the British Expo 67 space and form as also his sensitivity towards Yet his architecture of euphatic flamboyant ing or working on complicated architectural Without a clear vision based on critical point, design guidance and policy (e.g. lacking in all levels of the organization; - Local representation within DCC boards Montréal Pavilion, and the ‘Modern Travertine materials. From his early regional, carefully gestures was to pave the way for a future projects. He approached all of these with core values, any reform risks being a costly Local Plans, vague interpretations of the - There is a need for skilled and experienced requires broadening; Palazzo’ of the British Embassy adjacent to crafted buildings in Scotland (his 1934 houses richer and more human palette of pluralism. an almost childlike enthusiasm and vigour. and laborious Structure plan Policies) are also having a planning officers who can judge applica- - Posts should be assigned on the basis Michelangelo’s Porta Pia in Rome, show an in Dunbar provide an excellent example), to While these shows reveal Spence’s qualities as During the long periods we spent togeth- exercise which negative effect on quality of design and tions on their merits (and not against a list of competence and merit, and sufficiently architect both daring and confident with his his later more monumental and expressive an architect, they also serve to demonstrate er, we discussed many topics and always will not result on quality of life; of tick boxes); remunerated to ensure the complete dedi- built-form. His was always an architecture edifices of the sixties, Spence always explored his fantastic graphic élan and draughtsman- I emerged enriched, for Basil was a great in a better - Highly prescriptive guidance documents - There is a lack of adequate forward plan- cation of the personnel to their employer; which looked resplendent under a blazing what he termed “the lusher pastures of plastic ship qualities. The fluency with which he ren- natural teacher and his knowledge, talent environment. like Policy and Design Guidance 2007 ning; - Redundant or underutilised staff must be sun. I have often wondered whether because expression”. dered his perspective presentations was both and warmth were a luxurious treat to a very This is all the shackle rather than promote creativity, - There is a need for policy impact assess- relocated away from MEPA; he was born and raised in India, together with Between the success of Coventry and the luring and remarkable. The ones on show, willing and grateful pupil. more so given innovation, and quality; ment from an Urban Design point of view; - Incompetence is never tolerated and sixties, Spence was a popular figure, his especially those of his early works in Scotland Surely, it is regrettable that the Malta the adversarial - There is a need for mechanisms which - There is a lack of supervision by inspec- measures are implemented to eliminate it communicative skills endearing him to the and the Coventry Cathedral panels, reveal Governments of the time never commis- and legalistic encourage creativity and quality; tors during construction and insufficient as far as reasonably possible; public at large. His success peaked when an artist of rare talent, with a vigorous deft sioned him to design a public building in system within - There is a need to establish an enforcement; - Management and the administrative roles he was knighted in 1960 and then in 1962, touch together with an immaculate sense Malta. In an era when the island hosted which MEPA Independent Design Review Commission - There is a lack of adequate resources for should be separated from the professional awarded the Order of Merit by the Queen. of composition, colour and texture. If not such personalities as Nicholas Monsarrat, operates and to assess the quality of all projects of heritage protection and listing of heritage planning function of the organisation, and Later, many of his forceful buildings were remembered as the superb architect that he Desmond Morris, Victor Pasmore, Nigel the often con- significant scale or importance from the buildings; the posts filled with those capable of man- criticised, many believing he was pursuing was, he would surely have had a protagonist’s Dennis and Spence himself, it is regretful that flicting con- point of view of their contribution to - The Structure Plan Review is way overdue aging; a personal eclectic expressiveness ignoring place in the history pages of 20th century the island never took full advantage of their cerns of the society and the built environment. and outdated; much of the research that - Management should be instilled with the the functional and social scope of the profes- British art. talents and potential. A Spence or Pasmore various parties has gone into its preparation is now several vision and drive to provide the best level sion. His 1965 ill-fated (Corb and Maekawa Above all, Spence was an exuberant, if con- Foundation of Museum at their respective it serves. MEPA Procedures and Resources years old; of service possible to its customers in order inspired) high-rise Gorbals housing blocks in troversial show-man, perhaps even a romantic, residences would surely have been wonder- The KTP Reform in procedures and resources is - There is a need to rely less on political for the organization to ensure it achieves Basil Spence, British Embassy Sketch, Glasgow (demolished in 1993) and his much with a penchant for both verbal and graphic ful assets for both the local culture scene and believes that necessary to ensure that these are suf- appointees and to have better representa- its mission. Rome 1970 maligned Knightsbridge Barracks (1971) in fluency. Always he was exuding his passion- the promotion of a cultural tourism.

16 July 2008 July 2008 17 The Ex-Rediffusion Broadcasting Complex, ARCHITECTURE & POLITICS Ex-rediffusion xxxxx Guardamangia U M AR The Kamra tal-Periti organised a semi- life and not merely for The recent decision by the Prime Minister instructing the Public Broadcasting nar entitled: ARCHITECTURE & POLITICS material wealth.” Authority to withdraw a planning application to demolish and redevelop the ex- - PARTNERING FOR SUSTAINABLE The Prime Minister Rediffusion Broadcasting Complex has been welcomed by the Kamra tal-Periti and DEVELOPMENT IN THE MEDITERRANEAN, also made refer- all those committed to the conservation of our architectural heritage. Both the on the 04 April 2008, on the occasion of ence to the Kamra’s the Union of Mediterranean Architects’ Position Paper on the KTP (Kamra tal-Periti) and DOCOMOMO Malta (Documentation and Conservation (UMAR) 14th General Assembly which Built Environment of buildings, sites, and neighborhoods of the Modern Movement) have been was held in Malta that weekend. Prime entitled THE URBAN instrumental in making the case for the preservation of this pioneering modernist Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi deliv- CHALLANEGE: THE building. The full text of the appeal made to the authorities is reproduced below. ered a keynote address. Other speak- QUALITY OF LIFE & THE ers included H.E. the Ambassador to BUILT ENVIRONMENT, By Conrad Thake France, Jean Marc Rives, Patrice Genet, when he stated that the “The former Rediffusion Building Complex to promote and adopt modern architec- the time. The complex which included To date little or no protection has been UMAR President, Prof. Lino Briguglio, “ideas in this document in Guardamangia is a pioneering work in ture so as to reflect the aspirations of a various studios, control rooms, offices afforded to post-war modern architec- chairperson of the National Committee that are generally con- the introduction of the modern architec- modern and progressive society. A number and libraries had cost the then princely ture in Malta. The partial demolition of for Sustainable Development and David sistent with the objec- tural movement in Malta. It was inspired of architects trained overseas were keen sum of 150,000 pounds. (Refer to Joseph Huntingford’s Qala primary school in Gozo, Felice, KTP President. tives declared by the by the design ideals and philosophy of the to introduce the principles of modern Bonnici and Michael Cassar, A Chronicle the demolition of the MIRA building in This seminar took place within a few Union of Mediterranean 1930s Bauhaus school based in Dessau, architecture into Malta. Architects Joe of 20th Century Malta 1900-1999, Book Gżira – one of the first concrete frame days of the debate held on architecture Architects (UMAR) were Germany. The movement’s ideals in dis- Huntingford, Joseph Borg Grech, Joseph Distributors Limited, Malta 2004, page commercial buildings on the island - and at the House of Lords in the UK, a debate taken into account in seminating modernism in various art forms Spiteri and Joseph Consiglio designed 250). the wanton ransacking of the ex-British which was held for the first time in four the policies put for- was promoted by its leading protagonists some of the most architecturally progres- Some of the more salient features of the services accommodation (known as the years. The discussion was intended to ward by my Party at including the internationally-acclaimed sive and modern schools on the island. broadcasting building complex include White Rocks complex) are testimony to 'call to attention the case for encourag- the last election.” architects Mies Van der Rohe and Walter The ex-Rediffusion Building Complex the iconic transmission tower with its our lack of appreciation towards this archi- ing high-quality architecture in the UK Founded in Rabat Gropius and artists of the fame of Itten, was one of the first institutional buildings quaint circular portholes on the eleva- tectural period. It is important that we and for ensuring that design quality is (Morocco) in 1994, Kandinsky and Moholy-Nagy. With the beyond the realm of educational facilities tion, the cantilevered winged canopy over secure the fate of the few remaining iconic taken into account by local planning claim that all its work is focused in this debate related to the built environ- UMAR represents all but two of the archi- coming to power of the Nazis, the Bauhaus to embrace Modernism. The adoption of a the main entrance to the building, and modern buildings for future generations authorities'. The debate included the sense. Architects need to assume their ment, given his decision following tects’ national organisations from coun- school was closed as it was considered to modern architectural idiom was consonant the distinctive strip horizontal windows to appreciate. likes of Richard Rogers who stressed responsibilities for their contribution to the General Election to take the local tries in and around the Mediterranean be subversive and incompatible with the with a future-oriented vision of broadcast- that run the full length of the façade and A final appeal to the decision makers at that architects should be placed at the voluminous and ubiquitous devel- planning authorities and sustainable basin. It aims to reveal Architecture vision and ideology of the Third Reich. ing, alluding to technological progress and that were promoted by the international PBS … please do go back to the drawing the heart of all government decision- opment, regrettably often of poor qual- development under his wing. The KTP to be of public interest, Architecture Most of its leading protagonists would be being in tune with the international com- Modern Movement, which promoted the board and do celebrate the 50th birthday making when it comes to the built envi- ity and a result of economic expedience. hopes that this is the start of a long and and the organisation of space being forced to leave Germany and emigrate to munity. Just over 50 years ago, on the 23rd use of a uniform white colour aesthetic as of this modern masterpiece not by demol- ronment. In addition, The Kamra now works healthy relationship between architec- expressions of culture. It also acts as a the United States. January 1958 the Rediffusion building was a unifying visual element. ishing it but by committing to restore and only last September, on programmes that ture and politics, particularly in the light forum for encouraging relationships of In the aftermath of the Second World War inaugurated by the local Governor General A recent planning application by the refurbish it in a sensitive manner for all worldarchitecture.com “SUCCESS WILL communicate the of the fact that these two disciplines are friendship, solidarity and confraternity and the massive reconstruction program, Sir Robert Laycock. Rediffusion was widely governmental agency PBS calls for the of us to enjoy. In doing so you would be (WAN) reported that values of architec- responsible for the physical transforma- between all architects, while acting as the Maltese scene was not particularly con- disseminated amongst the local population demolition of an integral part of the com- rendering a sterling service to the nation. the French President, DEPEND ON OUR ture, to members of tion of many of both Malta’s socio- a representative for more than 300,000 ducive to the introduction of the Modern with over 45,000 subscribers to the service. plex. Should this planning application be The Prime Minister’s decision to intervene Nicolas Sarkozy, was the profession but economic and cultural objectives. The architects in a dialogue with govern- Movement. It was only during the late For the special inauguration of the building accepted this would lead to the irretrieva- and safeguard one of the pioneering archi- seeking advice from ABILITY TO STRIKE also to children and Kamra thus enthusiastically supports Dr. ments, regional and international insti- 1950s and 1960s, that complex, the chairman ble loss of one of the pioneering examples tectural icons of the modern movement what was being called to the general pub- Gonzi’s contribution wherein he stated tutions. The Kamra tal-Periti is a founder Modern architecture of the company Mr F.J. of twentieth century modern architecture in Malta represents a historic milestone in a "dream team" to AN EFFECTIVE lic, also in the belief that, “The Government of Malta is - as member and has been prominently was gradually intro- Belchambers attended in Malta. This institutional building repre- the quest to conserve modern buildings develop a new vision PARTNERSHIP that, while it is ready always - open to dialogue with the active within the organisation. In fact duced to the island. the ceremony. The sents a milestone in the development of of quality and architectural significance. for Paris. to assume its respon- Kamra tal-Periti with particular refer- Malta is the official seat of the organisa- The intensive drive to complex was designed architecture in Malta in its historic progres- Whilst congratulating the Prime Minister for The main thrust of BETWEEN POLITICS sibility and provide ence to those matters that are distinc- tion and its Secretary-General is David build various govern- by the late Maltese sion from the Baroque to Neo-Classicism intervening, our appreciation and thanks the Kamra tal-Periti its willingness for tive locally. We need to work together to Pace, a past President of KTP. ment schools at both architect Carmelo to Victorian-era Eclecticism to the Modern goes to all those members of the Kamra has been to work on AND ARCHITECTURE” change, it cannot do achieve the highest professional stand- primary and secondary Falzon who was one of Movement. and DOCOMOMO (Malta) who contributed carving a space for this Lawrence Gonzi this alone. ards and to make sure that the core The Prime Minister’s address as well as levels was perceived as the leading architects Our heritage of truly valid modern archi- in highlighting the building’s value and debate on the national This was Dr. Lawrence values of what we do together, remain that by David Felice, KTP President, may a golden opportunity in private practice at tecture is limited in terms of numbers. objected to its proposed demolition. agenda and can safely Gonzi’s first public linked to what is valuable for quality of be downloaded from www.ktpmalta.com

18 July 2008 July 2008 19 Expert on tall buildings in Malta Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program aims to increase mutual Real Estate understanding between the peoples of the United States and t the 47th European Council of ECCE formulates guidelines to maintain – Opportunities and Challenges for the Future other countries, through the exchange of persons, knowledge, and Civil Engineers (ECCE) General and raise standards of civil engineering skills. Sponsored by the United States Department of State and AAssembly meeting held at Riga, education, training and professionals the Council on International Exchange of Scholars, the Fulbright Latvia between the 23 and 24 May 2008, competence, as well as assisting in

Industry news The Real Estate Market in Malta is evolving, rapidly. It is 2007, almost 34,000 tourists stayed in owner-occupied Program provides funding for students, scholars, and professionals the Kamra tal-Periti was formally admit- achieving mutual compatibility of Euro EFAP / EFAP ECCE no longer a single simple product market. The range of accommodation in Malta – accounting for 2.7% of the total to undertake graduate study, advanced research, university teach- ted as a full member of the organisation. codes, standards and regulations in the properties is vast, from commercial properties to different number of tourists. A further 7.7% visit Malta and stay with ing, and teaching in elementary and secondary schools. Vice President Vincent Cassar gave an related industry and encouraging and types of residential properties to rural properties. friends and relatives, thus enabling them to experience Through this program, and in collaboration with the US Embassy to overview of the organisation and activi- improving levels of safety and quality in The complexity of the Real Estate Market is a reflection the buildings owned by such local contacts. Malta, Fulbright Senior Specialist Dr Mir Ali visited Malta recently and ties of the Kamra to those present. the industry. of the development and the liberalisation of the Maltese The Forum included a large number of speakers who were conducted a program with the University of Malta and the Malta EFAPhe European Forum for Architectural and ecological aspects are of prime impor- ECCE is the equivalent of the Architects Also, ECCE is active in such areas as the economy that has further evolved since Malta’s member- invited to give their views on various aspects, including Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA). Dr Ali is a Professor at TPolicies (EFAP) Conference was held tance, but in the urban regeneration mostly Council of Europe (ACE) and thus environment, research and develop- ship of the EU and has been further liberalised since the the importance of including real estate in investment the University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign’s School of Architecture in Ljubljana, Slovenia between the 15 sociological aspects and the protection of through this new membership the ment, education and training, ethics, entry into the Eurozone. The regulation of the market portfolios, Malta’s potential on the international real estate and is an expert in tall buildings and urban design. He has written and 17 June 2008 with the theme “Urban cultural heritage and traditions come to the profession can say that the two inter- continuing professional development, however must also be liberalised in terms of right to let market, and means of enhancing Malta’s offer in terms of numerous papers and articles on tall buildings and has authored Regeneration – Adapting to climate change”. forefront. ests of the Perit – architecture and civil transportation and liability, as well and upgraded in terms of quality and standards, besides real estate. Perit David Felice was invited to address the a number of books, including the most recent “The Skyscraper The Conference was organised jointly by Recognising that the built environment is engineering – are now both duly rep- as organising workshops and confer- sorting out outstanding tax issues. Forum as President of the Kamra tal-Periti and delivered and the City” published in 2007. In addition, Dr Ali has designed or the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial a reflection of the culture and values in a resented. ences. Following on the success of last year’s Real Estate Forum, a a presentation entitled “The Economics of Design: Adding consulted on tall buildings in the United States, Singapore, Korea, Planning and the Chamber of Architecture society and is one of the most important ECCE was created in 1985 out of the The theme of the 47th General second edition was held last June, where the focus centred Quality and Value to the Built Environment.” Bangladesh and Ethiopia. and Spatial Planning of Slovenia. ideals of every individual, it is important to common concern of the professional Assembly was that of “Development of During his time in Malta, Dr Ali has worked closely with MEPA, which The Conference also formed part of “A Week attest these existing systems and relations at bodies for Civil Engineers in Europe that Infrastructure: Projects influence on local is developing policy guidance for high-rise development. His main of Architecture in Slovenia” that took place different levels of spatial use. the Civil Engineers working together building market (Demand and Supply between the 15 and 22 June 2008. There are a number of mechanisms in spatial role was to look at the sites that have been identified by MEPA across Europe could offer much more Side)”. In similar fashion to ACE, ECCE has The Conference placed particular empha- development and construction that allow as being suitable for such developments, and to advise MEPA on to assist Europe in advancing its built a number of Standing Committees (SC) adaptation to climate change and at whether such sites were in fact ideal for accommodating high rise environment and protecting the natural dealing specifically with Professional the same time contribute to the reduc- development. environment. Recognition and Mobility, Knowledge tion of factors affecting those changes. Dr Ali’s view, while he also tried to gauge the public’s impression of One way of achieving this and at the At EU level, ECCE aims to promote the and Technology, Development and tall buildings locally, is that people are generally opposed to change same time creating a good quality of highest technical and ethical standards, Business Environment, Education and and tend to resist anything that is out of the ordinary. This could pos- sis on adapting architectural values to the life in cities and settlements is by ensuring to provide a source of impartial advice, Training, Environment and Sustainability sibly be due to a lack of education and dissemination of information. increasing problems of climate change access to high social standard, quality public and promote co-operation with other and Civil Engineering Heritage. Of par- It is important that any examples of tall buildings in Malta are good and to the complex dimensions of urban places for socialising and well organised and pan-European organisations in the con- ticular interest is the last SC which is in ones, and allow the public to accept them as positive rather than regeneration in the light of intergenerational effective public transport. struction industry. ECCE also advises the process of preparing a publication negative contributions to the urban landscape. Siting is of course of relations and the strengthening of intercul- Distribution of activities in cities having and influences individual governments entitled “Civil Engineering Heritage in utmost importance, and the choice of sites for such buildings must tural dialogue. Several Slovenian and other regard to energy saving by reducing trans- and professional institutions, formu- Europe”. It is hoped that the Kamra will be done sensitively if such projects are to be successful. experts from different EU Member States port costs or energy consumption is another lates standards and achieves a mutual be contributing to this publication with Members of the Council of the Kamra tal-Periti and of its Built addressed the Conference. way. compatibility of different regulations three civil engineering projects carried Environment Standing Committee also had the opportunity of Special attention was given to the impor- The point was also made on the need of controlling the profession, and formu- out in Malta. A collage published by the Financial Times depicting world business in one place meeting with Dr Ali, once during a joint meeting with MEPA, and tance of the existing built environment as an having more effective systems for the con- lates standards for a European Code The 48th ECCE meeting in autumn 2008 with an island containing recognizable business buildings from all over the world, experiential environment, a source of iden- struction and renovation of environment- including the Jim Mao Building and Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai, Arche He referred to various examples of good quality architec- subsequently during a lunch hosted by Mr Jason Davis, Charge of Conduct of the Civil Engineering will be held in Cyprus and the theme tity and a cultural value for its users, which friendly sustainable buildings, such as build- De La Defence in Paris, Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, IFC 2 in Hong Kong, ture abroad, and how the profession locally is slowly but d’Affaires at the US Embassy. These were both important occasions Profession and disciplinary procedures will deal with water - its production, should be taken into account, together with ing orientation that enables reduced energy Shurfit-Stone Building in Chicago, Commerzbank Tower in Frankfurt, New York surely striving to achieve excellence in design and quality for the Kamra to exchange views with Dr Ali as well as with the MEPA applicable throughout the Union. harvesting and distribution. Stock Exchange, Taipei 101, The Gherkin in London, TransAmerica Pyramid in San the adaptation to climate change, in the consumption, rational energy use in social in the built environment. While a cursory glance at the delegates on this important issue that has a huge bearing on the Francisco, Landmark Tower in Yokohama. process of urban revitalisation or regenera- standard buildings, good energy protection local scene may give an impression of haphazard construc- future of Malta’s built environment. tion. – passive energy construction and consistent on the above issues as well as a number of other aspect tion with little or no sensitivity in their design, there are a It was stated that owing to the impact of use of alternative energy sources. affecting the Real Estate sector today. number of projects that stand out as shining beacons of climate change, economic processes and The Conference concluded that with an inte- In his opening address, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism the way forward. Reference was also made to the Kamra’s social stratification, numerous changes are grated urban regeneration aimed at improv- Mario de Marco stated that mistakes committed by the endeavours in this regard, in particular the publication of taking place in the urban and suburban ing the quality of life, while taking into construction industry in the name of progress and devel- “The Urban Challenge” last November. environment. Furthermore, environment is account the values and the sensitivity and opment might take years to undo, if they can be undone The new requirements in terms of the energy performance too often perceived as a good that can fragility of the urban environment, we can at all. He called for qualitative, sustainable development of buildings, as well as the obligation for energy certifica- be used unrestrictedly. Therefore, any initia- improve the wider perception of the environ- which blends in with the environment instead of scarring tion of all new buildings as well as those sold or rented tive leading to the rise in awareness of the ment and thus contribute towards the com- it and pointed out that sustainable real estate develop- out as of 2009 was also mentioned by David Felice as one importance of a well-managed environment mon goal of maintaining natural balance and ment can play a very important role in the development of the factors in the building industry that will have an is welcome. This applies to new structures, as cultural values of individual environments. of Malta’s tourism product. Quoting figures issued by the impact on the real estate market, possibly not immediately well as to the renovation and revitalisation The Forum was attended by Vice President National Statistics Office (NSO), Dr de Marco said that in but certainly in the not too distant future. of the existing built environment. In the case of the Kamra tal-Periti Vincent Cassar and Group photo with Dr Ali (centre) of new constructions functional, economic Director General (Works) Ray Farrugia.

20 July 2008 July 2008 ECCE 21 XXIII UIA World Congress – TRANSMITTING ARCHITECTURE A FANTASTIC START TO THE THIRD EDITION TORINO 2008 It is obvious that architects, tacular events held in Turin. 500 speakers included big names such with invited guests such as Massimiliano OF ARCHITECTURE NIGHTS The congress aimed at underlining the as Kengo Kuma, the ever controversial Fuksas, Italo Rota and Joseph Rykwert. national and international power of transmitting good quality archi- Peter Eisenman, Massimiliano Fuksas, During these three days, the streets of Architecture Nights, now in their third edi- of her focus is much wider: “Architecture tecture, and hence the power given to Jean Nouvel, Domenique Perrault, Cesare Torino, and the banks of the river Po came UIA organizations, and the UIA, tion, have gained a strong momentum and is a combination of various elements, like an08 architects in this ever-changing world. Casati, Foster+Partners, Thomas Herzog alive with the museums of the city staying popularity following the participation of town and landscape planning and interior which is architecture’s high- Through our architecture, we have the and Matthias Klotz, all of whom attracted open till 11pm, and all sorts of exhibi- award-winning world-renowned interna- design. Mecanoo’s work is characterized by power to transmit back values to societies large crowds to their talks. In the Lectio tions, shows, installations, films, concerts est international body, must tional architects and practices including the integration of these disciplines.” that are losing their own identities. Magistralis the main speakers presented and late night parties taking place in the be key players in the renewal Mario Botta, Manfredi Nicoletti, Richard Well known projects include the new This was no exercise in self gratification some of their works, their ideas and phi- beautiful castles, palaces and gardens of England, Peter Lorenz, Building Design Library for the Delft Technical University of economy and culture, but a vibrant workshop which, besides the losophies for transmitting good quality Torino. Partnership, Llewelyn Davies Yeang and (1998), Nieuw Terbregge in Rotterdan aspects of Architecture, tackled relevant architecture. In the other sessions, speak- The congress came to an end on the 3rd which affects politics and Bennetts Associates, among others, during (2001), the Chapel of St. Mary of the Angels issues of sustainability, habitat, heritage, ers were grouped and exchanged their July, and was immediately followed by the past two years. in Rotterdam (2001) and Montevideo in social coexistence: as archi- especially of the present together with views on various issues varying from sus- three days of the General Assembly of the This year, the debates kicked off on 29 Rotterdam (2005). In 2006 Mecanoo won modern materials and technologies. It tainable architecture, regeneration of slum Union of International Architects, where tects we must profess our March with world-renowned leading inter- the design competition for the Palace of also delved deeply into the modern social areas, waterfront architecture, tall build- KTP was represented by Perit Tony Fenech national architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Justice in Córdoba, Spain, to be completed hope for a brighter future, issues that discussed the effects of build- ings, sport and leisure buildings, preserv- Vella. This should have included the elec- Fox Associates for the first in a series of in 2011. The year 2007 was a very active ings on standards of living, of how to ing modern heritage, young architecture, tion of the new President whose 3 year work conscientiously, and five debates for Architecture Nights 08. year for the firm. In March, construction alleviate poverty, provide decent housing, landscaping and the use of old and new KPF was represented by none other than began on the new Theatre and Congress state with great conviction provide essential emergency services in materials in architecture. Among the list A presentation by one of the main speakers the Director of its London office, Architect Centre La Llotja in Lleida, Spain. That that we want: “to be archi- places of crisis or war as done by the of international speakers we were very – Matthias Klotz John Bushell, who presented KPF’s strong The House of the Winds on Santorini Island month Mecanoo also won the prestigious Architectes D’Emergence, of dealing with honoured to have three Maltese repre- tects and transmit quality body of work which has earned the firm pletion shortly, will be one of the tallest ity that is hard to find in contemporary competition for the National Kaohsiung the NIMBY syndrome, Universal Design sentatives. Perit Danica Mifsud delivered a recognition as one of the most respected buildings in the world at 1,509 feet. architecture. Her architecture is mature Performance Arts Center in Taiwan. In architecture.” and the problems related to intermediate presentation regarding the KTP’s projects architectural design practices in the world. KPF’s design ethos is based on the recogni- and proper, very fitting to the context in July the firm won the competition for and growing cities as well as the issues during an International Forum of Young Giancarlo Ius, UIA Vice- KPF has studios in New York and London tion that buildings have a responsibility which it is situated and responsive to envi- the Municipal Offices and Station in Delft. brought about by high rise. There were Architects Associations, which brought and a growing presence in Shanghai and not only to those who use them, not only ronmental and climatic conditions. Most of Finally, in November, FiftyTwoDegrees in President sessions dedicated to the study of the together young architects from all over the provides full architectural design, pro- to the city around them, but also to the her work is based in Greece which, given Nijmegen was officially opened, and work design of specific buildings such as those world to share their ideas about the future gramming, urban design, master planning, environment at large. For KPF the ongo- its Mediterranean context and similar cli- commenced on the celebrated housing for sports and leisure, waterside tourism, of architecture. Perit David Pace on the “Transmitting Architecture” is the theme graphic and product design services for cli- ing environmental crisis calls not for the matic condition to our country, makes her project Fox Hill in Sheffield, U.K., which will and places of spirit. The profession also other hand was part of a scientific com- that echoed in Turin, where close to 10,000 ents in both the public and private sectors. rejection of technological advances but architecture very apt for Malta too. Her be completed in 2009. had time to have a look at itself, on stand- mittee and presented to the congress the architects from all over the world met at The firm’s extensive portfolio, developed for the promotion of appropriate technol- sensitivity is particularly evident in the ards of professional practice, the emerging launch of an international competition of term of office would have ended at the their World Congress between the 29th over thirty years, includes designs ranging ogy, using new construction techniques judicious choice and use of materials and COMING UP… role of the architect in the decision making, ideas for defining the future of the monu- next Assembly set for Tokyo in 2011. There June and the 3rd July 2008. For this pres- from a small jewel-like glass pavilion for and innovative building components in the careful and sensible control of detail. The efforts of the team of young architects quality of design, education and universal mental complex of the Fenestrelle Fortress, were two candidates, Giancarlo Ius from tigious event, held in a different coun- Rodin sculptures to an entirely new city in order to make buildings more useful and This makes her buildings harmonious with who have been working on the organisa- accreditation systems. the iconic symbol of the Provincia di Torino. Italy and Louise Cox from Australia. In try every three years, professionals meet Incheon, Korea. The breadth of experience efficient. and respectful to the surrounding environ- tion of these events do not stop here. Work The sessions were not only run by Perit Vincent Cassar, vice-president of the an unfortunate turn of events, Giancarlo to discuss general architectural issues, allows the firm to bring an international Next in line was Greece’s most prominent ment – a calm and gentle approach to has already begun on the second part of Architects; there were journalists, politi- KTP and also Executive Board member of Ius passed away just a few hours before exchange ideas and elaborate in depth perspective to a local project. and respected female architect, Agnes architecture that is carried out without Architecture Nights 08 series that will take cians, art and architectural critics, person- the Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE) the elections were about to take place, on certain topics of worldwide interest. The postmodernist manner in which mate- Couvelas who chose to structure her pres- extra fuss but that can still provide strong off again in October with award-winning alities like Nobel prize winner Yunus who delivered a speech regarding sustainability after suffering a heart attack in his hotel A group of Maltese architects and archi- rials such as colored marbles and classically entation on 19 April around a theme, enti- architectural statements where required. London-based practice lead by RIBA Royal saw in architecture the hope for better in Malta during an Architects’ International room and, therefore, Louise Cox was auto- tecture students joined the crowds and reminiscent forms were employed by KPF tled ‘Locality – Interlocality: tools for archi- Her celebrated and award-winning muse- Gold Medallist Edward Cullinan. quality of life even in the poorer countries. Organizations Workshop. matically declared president. She succeeds participated in the series of talks and spec- became a hallmark of their buildings in tectural creation’. Agnes Couvelas operates um in Naxos, Greece is particularly inter- Preparations are also under way for the Moderators were of the calibre of Bruno At Lingotto, the congress centre, there Gaetan Siew, who hails from Mauritius, and the 1980s, many of which were corporate in the field of architectural projects in a esting for the deployment of an almost 2008 edition of Time for Architecture, T4A4. Vespa and Alessandro Cecchi Paone were also other activities taking place. who held this post since 2005. commissions. KPF increasingly produced wide area of applications such as muse- anonymous modern backdrop that was This series of events is organised annually The main theme was sub-divided into ‘Architektonika’ was an innovative event At the closing meeting, and in respect tall structures abroad for international cli- ums, archaeological parks and private purposely created to provide a sensitive to mark World Architecture Day, which this three parts: Culture – the past; Democracy where professionals from 105 countries of the brightness with which Giancarlo ents in the 1990s. To date KPF has built in residences and also lectures in numerous backdrop against which craftsmanship can year falls on the 6 October. The events will – the present; and Hope – the future. exhibited projects, experimental products Ius had tinted his presence in the various over 30 countries. One of KPF’s first signifi- architecture faculties in Greece, but is most speak. centre around two main themes, namely These were the three themes for each day and models, competition entries, and posts he held in the UIA, the Assembly cant commissions outside the US was the renowned for her residential projects, The first half of this series of debates came “20th C Architecture” and “Sustainability of the congress, where each day hosted innovation and research applied to new approved the following three resolutions: Westendstrasse 1/DZ Bank Headquarters which have featured widely in architecture to a close on the 17 May featuring none and Environmental Design”. Once again, a series of talks, lectio magistralis, main materials and solutions. ‘Architex’, also held • The Presidency of the International Union Building in Frankfurt in 1993, publications, including a other than one of Holland’s most promi- the program promises to be an exciting sessions, special sessions, round tables and in Lingotto, was a trade fair for the new of Architects will not only be shared with a 915,000 square foot mixed- summerhouse on Andros nent architecture firms, Mecanoo archi- one, with events to suit all tastes and workshops. The congress events were held textiles used in architecture, building and Giancarlo Ius, but will also be officially use complex that included Island, a one-family house tecten, represented by one of its partners, interests. As in past years, a workshop at the Lingotto Conference centre, the construction and interior and landscape entered in the Annals of the UIA; a 52-storey office tower, in the suburbs of Athens Francesco Veenstra. This debate was held for children will be held, together with a site of a previous FIAT factory converted design. • World Architecture Day, scheduled for residential apartments and and the celebrated ‘House under the patronage of the Dutch Embassy guided tour, two exhibitions and a film to a modern multifunctional space by The UIA Congress also included an inex- October 6, 2008, will be dedicated not only a winter garden, for which it of the Winds’ on Santorini in Malta. night. More details on the program itself Renzo Piano, and at the Palavela, with its haustible list of Off-Congress events, visits, to Giancarlo Ius but also to "Child Be the received its third AIA Honors Island. Her portfolio also Based in Delft, Mecanoo has produced will be forthcoming shortly, so keep your distinguishable sail-shaped roof fixed to exhibitions, presentations, concerts and Architect", the song whose realisation he Award in 1994. KPF has also includes the famous in-situ many outstanding projects in architecture eyes open for information in the local the ground at three points, which was festivals which attracted congress partici- had recently overseen; had a large number of com- museum of Naxos and the and urban planning both domestically and press. renovated and used as an arena during the pants from dusk to dawn in a festive series • The International Union of Architects will missions on the Pacific Rim, master planning of the internationally during its 25 years in exist- The Kamra tal-Periti thanks all its sponsors 2006 Winter Olympic Games. of events in all locations of the city. In institute a new prize, to be awarded every particularly in China’s pro- archaeological park of the ence. Founding partner Prof. ir. Francine without whom none of these events could During the days of the congress we the evenings, the city squares came alive three years: the "Giancarlo Ius Prize for vincial city of Shanghai. The Marathon Tumulus. Houben is opposed to stringent interpreta- take place. In particular thanks go to HSBC had the possibility of listening to talks with events which made architecture avail- Architecture", on the topic of "Child Be the Shanghai World Financial Agnes Couvelas’ work is tions of her work. For her, architecture is not and Steel Structures for their support of and presentations given by some of the able to everyone. On one such occasion, Architect". The first edition of the awards Center, scheduled for com- Agnes Couvelas characterised by a sensitiv- only about designing a building. The area Architecture Nights 08. The Lingotto Congress Centre world’s leading architects. The list of over a discussion was held in Piazza San Carlo ceremony is scheduled for 2011, in Tokyo.

22 July 2008 July 2008 23 Fort San Leonardo – one of Malta’s 21st Century House Jonathan Bell

Whatever happened to the future? out. few, iconic, and usually cliché, pieces of heritage lesser known historical monuments Whatever happened to what the mid As would be expected from a book editor, furniture. Residents? Pollutants. reviews 20th century imagined the 21st to be Bell introduces his book with a literature Bell laments that publishers have simi- by Edward Said like? 21st Century House offers its per- review which offers a valuable critique of larly reasoned that for non-architects to spective on the residential projects which the architectural monographs available want to own books on architecture, you Perhaps one of the least known of Victorian forts in Malta, The most visible feature is the keep will be representing the Noughties and for residential architects at local book have to tone down the technical jargon Fort San Leonardo undoubtedly is one of the finest. which is situated at the rear of the beyond. stores. He discusses today’s culture of and focus on the shiny stills. This is not Constructed between 1872 and 1878 as part of a chain battery, near one entrance and being The author, Jonathan Bell, is a regular representation, arguing in a similar man- one of those books. of fortifications, it watches over a stretch of the low-lying sited slightly higher than the rest of contributor to Wallpaper, the monthly ner to Kester Rattenbury that “This is The book categorises its case studies in south-eastern coastline of Malta, between Delle Grazie the complex, it commanded any fire journal for all things design interiors Not Architecture!” The manner in which four parts, namely, iconic, urban, practical battery to the North and Zonkor Battery to the South. attacks if any such need arose. Under fashion and art. He already has one book projects are showcased by the media and future. Jonathan Bell has chosen to Lawrence King Publishing, 2006 Fort San Leonardo is built on the polygonal system that normal circumstances it served for on residential design, co-authored with have a hand in shaping our perception, include projects by Álvaro Siza, London- ISBN 9781856694537 characterises many others of its kind and age in Malta. living quarters for the garrison that Sally Godwin, under his belt. Like “The sometimes mitigating possible dissemi- based FAT and Souto Moura Arquitectos Format Hardback - 256 Pages Aesthetically however, it has been described as “the most manned the battery’s guns. The fort is Transformable House”, Bell takes a select nation. Classic interior photographs are as well as lesser known architects such as means of both image and commentary, satisfying of all the coastal defence forts built by the British accessed through a staidly designed view at recent residential endeavours a well-orchestrated tableaux of clean the Portuguese Aires Mateus e Associados. complete with detailed architectural on Malta”(1). Its layout consists of an internal ditch which gate situated on the western flank. which will turn heads and our pockets architectural lines, punctuated with a Each project is illustrated thoroughly, by drawings.

segregates the battery proper from the keep, physically Another access was created when books dividing the fort. The gun emplacements in the battery later armament was installed on the were modified and upgraded over time right on to World south-eastern flank(2). Outworks War Two. A number of the original guns are today found include the construction of a ravelin- at Fort Madliena. The entire structure is strategically sited like structure, covert ways and an www.buildingsplatform.org Isometric impression of Fort San Leonardo in its original state (courtesy Dr Stephen C. Spiteri) atop the lofty Nwadar hill, however the sprawling nature extensive glacis amongst others(3). of San Leonardo’s design makes it cunningly invisible from Used as a military establishment until the 1970s, San Leonardo, convincing proposal revolving around agro-tourism. Indeed COMPETITION most approaches on land. as happened with a number of its counterparts, was then the area is of great ecological and agricultural significance as handed over by the state to a cattle-farmer. At present inside is the case with many of these fortifications. As almost a score The EPBD Buildings The gun emplacements used as cattle pens the overgrown, crumbling battlements, over two hundred of these Victorian monuments are lying in ruin and are being Platform was launched bovines thrive, giving Malta milk and beef whilst depositing abused as we speak, is it not high time the State considers by the European Can you identify the sitter of almost three decades of biological waste into the bowels such sensitive ideas for the sustainable regeneration of our Commission in the this portrait? He was one of the most prolific and accomplished of the fort. Further damage is being continuously caused country’s cultural heritage, which let’s face it, is the only this framework of the architects in Malta during the by dumping, construction of accretions and demolition of that make our Islands stand out. Intelligent Energy – second half of the nineteenth parts of the deteriorating complex. One can only wonder Europe, 2003-2006 century. His works include the what is happening to the extensive subterranean network of References: programme. It is an Ottoman Turkish cemetery. counterscarp galleries and ancillary tunnels. (1) Thake, Conrad & Quentin Hughes, MALTA – War and Peace – information service for Some years ago a group of urban design students carried an Architectural Chronicle 1800-2000, (Malta 2005), p121 The winner of this competition wins helping the implemen- out an extensive study of the fort and its surroundings. (2) Spiteri, Stephen C., The British Fortifications, (Malta 1991), p. a copy of the book reviewed above: tation of the Buildings’ They brought together a number of ideas for possible reha- 109 '21st Century House'. This book is bilitation and reuse of Fort San Leonardo and came up with a (3) Ibid., p. 111 Directive and is useful available from Agenda Bookshop, for practitioners and the sponsor of this competition and consultants, experts review page. in energy agencies, Send your entries to: interest groups and The Editor, The Architect national policy makers Competition, Kamra tal-Periti, in the EU’s Member States. the Commission and the Member States The Professional Centre, Sliema The main objective of the Platform is to in the follow-up and evaluation of the Road, Gzira, or by email on [email protected]. support the full and continued imple- impact of the Directive. The first correct entry drawn on Previous competition

website mentation of the EPBD by setting up The website forms part of this the 30 August 2008 will win. Only The cliff-hanging hotel that was mechanisms for the transfer of informa- Platform and is easily divided into residents of the Maltese Islands are proposed in 1967 by the famous tion between all stakeholders, helping the 5 main themes of the Directive, eligible to participate. Members of Spanish architect Julio Lafuente implement the Directive by specific namely Certificates, Experts, Inspection, the Editorial Board and their families was projected for Ta’ Cenc. The are not eligible to participate. actions and co-ordinating the activi- Calculation and EP Requirements. It winner was Ms Annabelle Bugeja.

ties of the various stakeholders, and includes a number of downloads, infor- providing input and tools to support mation tools and also a help desk. One of the entrances into Fort San Leonardo Casemates in the Keep. Note the anti-gas attack doorway Bomb damage and neglect on outerworks of the fort installed in the last war

24 July 2008 July 2008 25 Now to 24 August 2008; Alvar require new bridges to make new connections. SPANS ingly formless use of a variety of materials. As a first, Aalto Museum, Finland explores a select number of contemporary bridges to the exhibition “Formless Furniture” shows that the rule Renaissance Palace explore different approaches to design, celebrating the “form follows material” was also applied – and still and Defensive Citadel joy of crossing, connecting places and engineering. is – in the design of everyday objects: to this day, The Gallery’s 2008 summer Case studies will include both major arteries and small designers playfully oppose the so-called good form and exhibition presents two build- pedestrian footbridges giving equal importance to both. the marketing of conformity in living environments ings from Alvar Aalto’s early The exhibition will allow both industry professionals and www.mak.at production, both of which the public to understand how these structures work and were originally designed as will contribute to their enjoyment of these bridges. Now to 31 December 2008; Architekturzentrum club houses. The Jyväskylä www.newlondonarchitecture.org Wien, Vienna, Austria xxxxx international events Workers’ Club and the a_show: Austrian Architecture in Defence Corps building were Now to 29 September 2008; The Lighthouse, Glasgow, Scotland the 20th and 21st Century among the few masonry Haptic: Awakening the Senses With the opening of the final 3rd stage of a_show, buildings in the small town dominated by wooden build- haptic: of or relating to the sense of touch; tactile. the Architekturzentrum Wien is bringing the com- ings. The building history of these important milestones What happens when you ask 21 international architects prehensive documentation of Austrian architecture in Aalto’s architecture is presented in the exhibition and designers to create objects that focus on the sense of the 20th century up to the present day. through original drawings and photographs from that time. of touch, instead of colour and form? See a beautiful www.azw.at Original furniture from the buildings is also on display. and intelligent collection of fascinating items driven by www.alvaraalto.fi the senses including hair lanterns, soft doorknobs and Now to 24 April 2009; V&M Museum, London, UK packaging made of replica fruit skin. This exhibition Libraries of Light: Photographic Now to 24 August 2008; Design Museum, London, UK features work by Shigeru Ban, Jasper Morrison and Toyo Books from the V&A Collection Ito, commissioned by Japanese designer Kenya Hara, Richard Rogers + Architects – Photographic books are almost as old as photography Chief Executive of the Nippon Design Centre and MUJI. From the House to the City itself. Indeed, one of the inventors of photography, www.thelighthouse.co.uk Richard Rogers has had the most remarkable career in William Henry Fox Talbot, was also author of one of the British architecture. Beginning with an extraordinary family very first books to include photographs, The Pencil of Now to 12 October 2008, Gent Design Museum, Netherlands house in Cornwall, then changing the shape of post-War Nature (1844). The Museum has been collecting photo- architecture with the Pompidou Centre, he now heads up Homage to Hans Wegner (1914-2007) graphic books since 1852. The images below represent an international office that is busier than ever. Recipient This summer Design museum Gent a small selection from the V&A's holdings. Many more of the most prestigious distinction in international is bringing a limited homage to may be seen and handled on request in both the National architecture, the 2007 Pritzker Prize, Richard Rogers is Danish furniture designer–architect Art Library and the Prints and Drawings Study Room. one of Britain’s most influential architects. Exceptional Hans Wegner. He is one of the www.vam.ac.uk and high-profile projects include the headquarters for designers to have made Danish Lloyd’s of London, the Millennium Dome and the National design famous the world over, 05 September 2008 to 04 January 2009; Assembly for Wales. Rogers has established himself and is a major name in the gal- Design Museum, London, UK and his practice, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners lery of “Danish modernists”. Design Cities www.designmuseum.org www.design.museum.gent.be Design Cities tells the story of contemporary design Now to 7 September 2008; V&A and RIBA Now to 20 October 2008; The Museum through seven key cities at their creative height: London Architecture Gallery, London, UK of Modern Art, New York, USA (1851), Vienna (1908), Dessau (1928), Paris (1936), Los Angeles (1949), Milan (1957), Tokyo (1987) and Unseen Hands: 100 years of Home Delivery: Fabricating London (2008). The exhibition will feature a full range Structural Engineering the Modern Dwelling of objects from textiles and fashion to industrial pieces, To mark the centenary of the founding of the Institution of This exhibition will offer the most thorough examina- furniture and prints. It will include design classics such Structural Engineers (IStructE), this exhibition celebrates tion of both the historical and contemporary signifi- as chairs by Charles and Ray Eames, as well as work the importance of engineering in creating some of the cance of factory-produced architectures to date. by a spectrum of designers that together will evoke most iconic buildings of the past 100 years. Using three www.moma.org an impacting impression of their era. Key exhibits will themes (towers, bridges and large enclosures) to find include work by William Morris, Christopher Dresser, a pathway through a wealth of structural achievement, Now to 26 October 2008; Josef Hoffmann Adolf Loos, Marcel Breuer, Le Corbusier, Eileen Gray, the exhibition brings to life the design and construction Museum, Brtnice, Czech Republic Achille Castiglioni, Issey Miyake and Ron Arad. Design of edifices including New York's Empire State Building, Ornament and Modernity: Josef Hoffmann Cities has been organised by the Design Museum, Switzerland's Salginatobel Bridge and Poland's People's 1870–1956, Architect and Designer London in association with Istanbul Modern and is Hall – as well as more modern projects including the Millau The presentation outlines the life and work of Josef curated by Design Museum Director Deyan Sudjic. Viaduct, the Eden Project and the still-rising Burj Dubai. www.designmuseum.org www.vam.ac.uk Hoffmann on wall-high panels. Richly illustrated with 200 historical photographs and relying on detailed 17 to 19 September 2008; Van Nelle Now to 14 September 2008: MAK Gallery, Austria descriptions, the show documents the biography and production of the architect and designer. factory, Rotterdam, Netherlands Andreas Fogarasi www.mak.at The Challenge of Change www.mak.at Docomomo invites architects, historians, and other par- Now to 26 October 2008; MAK Furniture ties involved in the processes of preservation, renovation Now to 20 September 2008; New London Study Collection, Austria and transformation of modern buildings to investigate Architecture, London, UK Formless Furniture the paradox of the modern monument, and to reflect SPANS: Viaducts, Bridges and Walkways Since the 1960s, contemporary artists have transcended on the manifold dilemmas of change and continuity. It As London both expands along the Thames Gateway and redefined traditional relations between materials is time to once again face the challenge of change. and prepares for the 2012 Olympic Games it will and form by means of the experimental, often seem- www.archi.fr/DOCOMOMO

26 July 2008