Issue no. 49 | July 2009 kamra tal - periti
Ne wspaper Post In every issue 18
4 Editorial 5 KTP News 6 People & Projects PRACTICE 8 EU Desk 9 SACES
10 Arthur Erickson 12 Working abroad 14 Leaving a mark FEATURE 16 At the Bearth 18 Valletta Projects
20 Events 21 Heritage 22 Reviews CURRENT 23 International Events
16
21 14
“Places talk, they have something to say. Every project is a new adventure, and understanding the place is important.”
Renzo Piano JULY 2009 10 (see pg 18) contents TRFHE P O ESSIONAL CENTRE SLIEMA ROAD GZIRA GZR 06 - MALTA TEL./FAX. (+356) 2131 4265 EMAIL: [email protected] Building Regulations Act organised by Malta Enterprise WEBSITE: www.ktpmalta.com A Consultation Meeting with Periti was held on the 01 on the Intelligent Energy June 2009, in order to discuss the recently published draft Europe program. It was how- To support members of the profession in achieving excellence of the Building Regulations Act. A few periti attended ever agreed that KTP does in their practice of architecture and engineering in the interest together with Council members Vincent Cassar, Philip not at the moment have the In an issue of the “Lehen is-Sewwa” in 1949, Herbert Ganado in the nature of the constructions it includes, and also with of the community Grech, Anthony Fenech Vella and Simone Vella Lenicker. resources to deal with such had predicted that the Opera House would remain unbuilt respect to the active participation of the public throughout. The Council of the Kamra Tal-Periti for the year 2009 In addition, a number of periti sent in their comments by funding programs. consists of Vincent Cassar (President), David Felice well into the twenty-first century. It seems like he was wrong It also augurs well for the beginning of a national debate email. The meeting produced important feedback and (Past President), Simone Vella Lenicker (Honorary highlighted some issues that require attention. KTP shall Air-Conditioning at a time of Climate
… or wasn’t he? … the schematic proposals revealed a few on the quality of Architecture and the quality of our urban KTP News editorial Secretary) and Council members Ruben Paul Borg, be forwarding its final comments to the Ministry for Change & Energy Conservation days ago do not contemplate the rebuilding of the Opera spaces. And this will hopefully catalyse a future where Jacques Borg Barthet, Keith Cole, Philip Grech, Resources and Rural Affairs (MRRA) accordingly. This seminar, organised by Titan in col- House (“that would be fake” – Renzo Piano), nor the creation Architecture is valued as an art, and not simply as the task Anthony Fenech Vella, Danica Mifsud, and Damian laboration with the Kamra tal-Periti and of a new building on the site. On the contrary, the design of construction, further highlighting the need for a National Vella Lenicker. Avoidance of damage to third the Chamber of Engineers was held on the considers the valorisation of the existing ruins, and the Policy for Architecture, which the Kamra tal-Periti has been party property 17 June 2009. The presentations included The Architect is the official journal of the Kamra an overview of entrusted projects and portfolio of Titan, reintegration of parts of the building that are known to lie promoting since 2004. Tal-Periti. It is published on a quarterly basis and During the same Consultation in various locations around Malta, including, one hopes, the This issue of tA includes a brief overview of the proposals distributed with the Business Today newspaper. The Meeting of the 09 June 2009, the a line-up of specialised applications by STULS Germany, government compound in Marsa1, the field in Santa Lucija, for the “Valletta Projects”, as they are being referred to on Architect is not to be sold separately. draft Regulations on the Avoidance an explanation of the effects of photovoltaic and renew- LE:NOTRE working group on Information Technology. This of Damage to Third Party Property able energy, and keynote speeches by the Chamber of the two complete capitals in the grounds of MCAST, and the OPM website (go to www.opm.gov.mt for an in depth event was also supported by the Kamra tal-Periti. The contents of this journal are copyright. were also discussed. The meeting Engineers and the Kamra tal-Periti, the latter delivered by numerous bits and pieces that have been fashioned into cof- account of the concepts and schematic designs). We hope to Reproduction in part or in full is forbidden without indicated that the proposals being Perit Philip Grech. This one-day seminar was followed by a 10% Discount on Airmalta flights for KTP fee tables and garden furniture in private residences (though be able to delve further into the project in coming issues, and the permission of the editor. The opinions expressed made were unacceptable to the reception held on the 19 June. Members the latter may undeniably be an impossible task). to keep abreast of developments in this regard, particularly by writers of signed articles and letters appearing in profession in terms of responsibility Last September, the KTP entered into a corporate An interesting piece of information I came across recently is with respect to issues such as traffic management and acces- the magazine are those of their respective authors, and liability. KTP shall also be seek- Product Seminar: SIKA agreement for a year with Airmalta who have offered that London Bridge, constructed in 1831, was deemed struc- sibility that still need to be further defined. and neither the Kamra Tal-Periti nor MediaToday Co. ing legal advice and shall be forwarding its final comments JCR Ltd, importers of Council a number of flights at reduced rates to be Ltd is responsible for these opinions or statements. turally unsound in 1962. It was subsequently disassembled, The commissioning of the project to a foreign architect is to the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs (MRRA) SIKA products, organ- used to bring over International speakers to attend each piece numbered and sold off by auction for the princely in itself an item for debate. The cross-fertilisation of ideas accordingly. ised an evening seminar conferences and for members of KTP to attend vari- on the 28 May 09, at the sum of 2.5 million dollars to Robert McCulloch, who reas- through travel has always been an important aspect of the Editor: Simone Vella Lenicker ous seminars and conferences in European countries. Meeting for MEP Candidates Professional Centre, Gzira. Mr. Riccardo Verga, from SIKA sembled the Bridge in Arizona, USA (although apparently he advancement of society. From the Grand Tour in the 17th and Consulting Editor: Danica Mifsud The Kamra is pleased Unfortunately, the Go Today Seminar organised by Italia S.p.a delivered a presentation on waterproofing to inform periti that was under the impression that he was buying Tower Bridge!). 18th centuries, to Le Corbusier’s travels in the Mediterranean, Design: Zvezdan Reljic Sales: Adriana Farrugia Tel: 21 382 741 ext. 126 MediaToday in conjunction with the Kamra tal-Periti, materials for new and existing structures. The event was Airmalta have kindly Who knows, maybe Government could consider auctioning people have moved to experience different cultures, and to planned to be held on Wednesday 20th May at the Palazzo very well attended. agreed to extend this off City Gate to part-fund the €80 million project that it pass on the current thoughts, ideas and movements in art, Published by: Capua, had to be cancelled due to poor response. This agreement to paid-up seems quite certain will grace the entrance to our Capital literature, engineering and all sorts of fields. Architecture event was planned to provide an opportunity for all to Meeting with President George Abela members by offering City. If it finds someone mad enough to buy it, that is. is no alien to this, and the development of the language of discuss the importance of quality in the built environment, On the 5 June 2009, a delegation from the Malta Federation them a 10% discount Without entering into the merits of the proposal, if this architecture is certainly due to such exchanges. This led the not only at a local level but also at a pan-European level. of Professional Bodies met President George Abela at the on flights, which will apply on published pricing for project has achieved anything, it has certainly been success- editorial team to speak to a number of Periti working off our The Kamra believes that architects and politicians can and Palace in Valletta. One or two representatives of each of travel on Air Malta scheduled services. Travel validity is Vjal ir-Rihan must work in tandem, in order to ensure the highest levels the Organised affiliated with the Federation were pres- between June 2009 and December 2009. KTP Members ful in bringing Architecture to the forefront of the national shores. Martin Xuereb and Ray DeMicoli tell of their experi- San Gwann SGN 4016 of quality of life for our people. The Architects’ Council of ent. Perit Simone Vella Lenicker attended on behalf of the can book online, by logging into the Airmalta booking debate. Popular online blogs are inundated with comments ences in carrying out projects in various countries, while Malta Europe (ACE), of which the Kamra tal-Periti is an active Kamra tal-Periti. engine with a pre defined user name and password from people of all walks of life, each putting in their penny’s Joseph Galea, Kenneth Zammit and Sarah Anastasi recount Tel: +356 21 382 741 member, has recently issued Policy Recommendations Fax: +356 21 381 992 to avail themselves of the discounts. Electronic tick- worth of opinion on the scheme. Whether these comments about how they left the Islands for a period of time to work in Cooling without airconditioning Email: [email protected] addressed to the Institutions of the European Union and ets will be directed back to the passenger via email. are valid and based on an understanding of the sensitivity of Europe and Canada. All recount how these experiences have the Member States. These Policy Recommendations were This symposium took place at St James Cavalier, Valletta, Discount does not apply on promotional ‘N‘class fares. working in a site such as this, is another matter. Never before changed them, and have helped in the broadening of their Printed at: Union Print presented throughout Member States to the candidates on the 25 and 26 June 2009. The event presented a unique KTP members can make use of this offer by logging on in Malta, to my knowledge, has an architectural project been approach to architecture and engineering at all levels. for the recent MEP Elections for their endorsement and opportunity for architects, engineers, and members of the to the KTP website (www.ktpmalta.com) and following raised to the status of a national event, taking up prime commitment (see page 8 for the full text). Perit Jacques construction industry and the public sector, to gain added the link to the Airmalta login page. television time on a Saturday night. It was certainly the Simone Vella Lenicker Borg Barthet, Co-Chairperson of the Built Environment and significant insight into the latest innovation on pas- sive alternatives to mechanical cooling. The symposium main topic of discussion one overheard in Republic Street in Editor Standing Committee, participated in an edition of Reporter on the subject. This may be viewed online at: http://www. focussed on the recent developments and applications the week following the announcement of the project, with HSBC Banking Package for KTP Members youtube.com/watch?v=_IE0EqepRvo&feature=channel_ of passive and hybrid downdraught cooling in buildings people standing in Freedom Square and deliberating on the Reference: Last May, HSBC signed an agreement with the KTP page around the world. Public, commercial and global research proposals “on site.” This will truly be a public project, both 1 Letter to the Editor, Perit Edward Said; the Architect, Issue No. 47 whereby they have agreed to become our Corporate interest in the delivery of ‘zero carbon’ buildings has never Partners for 12 months. As part of this agreement, EMCS Real Estate Forum been higher and the adverse energy and environmen- HSBC have also included a list of benefits for our 2009 tal impact of conventional air-conditioning has clearly paid-up members. These benefits include attrac- Perit Keith Cole represented the been demonstrated. The event, organised by Architecture tive rates on home loans and Kamra tal-Periti on the panel of Project as part of a European Union funded project, was maxicredit loans, personal loans the Real Estate Forum organised supported by the Kamra tal-Periti and the Chamber of and overdrafts, benefits offered by EMCS that took place on the 8 Engineers. from HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd May at Portomaso. The Forum was and benefits offered from HSBC Stockbrokers (Malta) supported by the KTP. Conference on Digital Architecture Limited. Periti may avail themselves of these benefits The 10th Conference on IT in Landscape Architecture 2009 by obtaining a letter from the KTP which confirms Intelligent Energy Europe was held at the Phoenicia Hotel in Malta between the 21 membership. For further information, please do not Council members Vincent Cassar, Ruben Paul Borg and and 23 May. This conference was organised by the Anhalt Cover: Model of the proposal for the entrance hesitate to contact KTP or one of the HSBC branches. Simone Vella Lenicker attended a round-table session University of Applied Sciences in collaboration with the to Valletta. Image courtesy of the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications editorial4 JU LY 2 0xx 0 9 JULY 2009 5 MIES VAN DER ROHE AWARD The Jury also awarded the Emerging Te h Rubble Club The scheme grew out of the movement Euopeanr Capital of Europe. Having shown remarkable efforts in The team of four, Anna Gallo, Clyde Abela, In May, the European Commission and the Architect Special Mention to STUDIO UP/ A support group has been set up to help requirements and flows of the site. The Culture their various categories, the seven projects Dirk Psaila, and Sarah Calleja, analysed the Fundació Mies van der Rohe announced Lea Pelivan and Toma Plejić for Gymnasium architects through the “trauma” of seeing new buildings, that are conceived simply Recently, Minister for Education, Culture, were singled-out from the original 138 simplest element that could adapt itself, the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, 46° 09’ N / 16° 50’ E, Koprivnica, Croatia. The one of their creations demolished in their as stone envelopes that house and gener- Youth and Sport Dolores Cristina inaugu- awards entries that spanned 24 European without modifications given different cli- mixed-use pro- own lifetime. The Rubble Club aims to ate these flows, are built in such a way as rated the process leading to the choice of countries. The Awards were as follows: mate conditions - the human skin, the gramme for this draw attention to the number of buildings to blend, in terms of materials, colour and a city, town or region in the Maltese Islands Category 1, Conservation: The Kesälahti envelope that protects us, a skin which project includes a it believes are being torn down unneces- textures, with the newly restored historic as the European Capital of Culture for Church Bell Tower, Kesälahti, Finland; Mátra reacts to the different thermal conditions sports hall as well sarily. Among the first architects to sign buildings and the bastions serving as a 2018. Since its start, this initiative has taken Museum, Gyöngyös, Hungary; Chiesa di people & projects as a high school. up were Reiach and Hall, the designers of backdrop. prominence on the European Agenda, and Santi Faustino e Giovita, Fasano di Gardone people & projects The spatial and the canopy over the Forth Road Bridge toll The main concourse is similarly paved in Riviera, Italy; and High Level Bridge, visual overlapping booths, which was torn down less than a order to create the effect of a vast stone Newcastle, Gateshead, United Kingdom. of the facilities was year later when the tolls were scrapped. carpet at the foot of the stores, rising up to Category 2, Research: The Noah’s Ark the basis of the John Glenday, secretary of the Club, says roof level of the terminal and integrating Project design concept the buildings, sculptural games of mass Category 3, Dedicated Service: Dr Glenn and the spacious and fluidity, with the landscape. Ramps Banner from the Vilnius Capital of Culture website Murray, Segovia, Spain. interior street and steps are carved out of the limestone Category 4, Education, Training and organises and mass and develop into buildings and urban Awareness-Raising: Sustainable Aegean connects all the spaces. The intervention thus allows the has led to the acknowledgement of the Programme, Athens, Greece programmatic ele- main historic buildings to be read in isola- role of culture in all sectors of society, Europa Nostra, which represents over 250 ments. A system of Yorkgate Centre in Belfast, 1998-2000 tion and independently of the new build- including the economic, educational and heritage NGOs active in 45 countries across shutters above the (John Muir) ings from strategic points of view while the Brother Klaus Field Chapel, Wachendorf, social aspects. Europe, is dedicated to putting heritage Germany, 2007. Photo by Walter Mair sports hall and the that “People often don’t notice architecture interaction of the new architecture with In 1985, the European City of Culture and its benefits in the mainstream of public Norwegian National Opera & Ballet. Image by Jens Passoth ducts through the until it is gone, and they wake up one the old adds a new and fascinating dimen- Most recently critics have praised his Field programme was launched following the consciousness and is committed to making and enables the future house to be placed Oslo, Norway as the winner of the European cantilevered classrooms of the top floor morning to find a big hole where there sion to the area. The new architecture also Chapel to Saint Nikolaus von der Flüe near initiative of then Greek minister for culture heritage a priority for public policies both in different climates; hence the name Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture ensure a constant flow of cool air dur- was once a building. But at the end of the articulates the transition between the rigid Cologne, Germany. The jury singled out not Melina Mercouri. Since then, one or two at European and national levels. Its specific ECOshell, a container which houses life. A – Mies van der Rohe Award 2009. This ing the summer months while the double day demolition is usually the least environ- angularity of the bastions and the stream- only those buildings, but also the Kolumba European cities have been awarded the objectives are to promote, at a European container that protects, breathes, controls, landmark building by Snøhetta, who also polycarbonate skin creates a ‘green house mentally friendly option. When you con- Museum in Cologne, calling the latter “a title of European capital of culture each level, high standards of quality in the fields and adapts as it reacts to internal and designed the new Library of Alexandria effect’ in winter. The building transforms sider the energy that has being expended startling contemporary work, but also one year (known as European City of Culture of heritage conservation, architecture, external stimuli, guaranteeing a constant (2002), is the largest cultural centre built in the suburban periphery of Koprivnica by putting something up, it is usually well that is completely at ease with its many until 1999 and European Capital of Culture urban and rural planning and to advocate a comfort level - a regulating organism. Norway in 700 years. It sloping stone roof, creating a landmark and an emblematic worth the time thinking about whether it layers of history.” ever since). The aim of the programme balanced and sustainable development of This protective envelope wraps around made up of 36,000 fitted pieces, rises up place for the young people of the town. is sensible bringing it down.” In announcing the jury’s choice, Thomas J. is to ‘showcase the richness, variety and urban and rural, built and natural environ- a curvilinear form which was abstracted from the fjord allowing members of the The finalists were selected from 340 To satisfy the club’s rules of entry, the build- Pritzker, chairman of The Hyatt Foundation, similarities of European cultures and help ment. The Europa Nostra website address is from the shape of the human ribcage, the public, residents and opera goers alike, to projects proposed by the Architects’ ing’s architect must be alive and not party quoted from the jury citation, “Peter European citizens to gain a better under- www.europanostra.org. container that houses the most important walk over the building, developing a rela- Council of Europe member associations, to its destruction, and the building must Zumthor is a master architect admired standing of one another’. organs of the human body. Similarly this be built with the intention of permanence, by his colleagues around the world for Perit David Felice has been appointed as ECOhel s l form/structure protects the core of our meaning exhibitions, shops and interiors work that is focused, uncompromising and the Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial 2x2 is the name of the Maltese group that residential spaces. The skin had to achieve are not eligible. Finally, the building must exceptionally determined.” And he added, Committee set up to prepare for this excit- proposed the project which placed third five main goals: sustainability, comfort, be deliberately destroyed or radically “All of Peter Zumthor’s buildings have a ing event. Applications will close in 2013, in an international competition of ideas technology, flexibility, and prefabrication. Image by David Pisani altered, and so cannot simply burn down, strong, timeless presence. He has a rare after which a panel made up of six local for young architects. The competition was The skin is composed of a double layer for example. Although the Rubble Club’s line forms of the equally giant-scale liners. talent of combining clear and rigorous judges and seven from other European called House and/or House Spaces Towards system: an external protective layer, and early members are focused in Scotland and Full details on the winning projects, thought with a truly poetic dimension, countries will pick Malta’s cultural capital, the 22nd Century. The project was pre- an internal thermo-regulating receptive the north of England, the Club hopes that together with the nominations for the next resulting in works that never cease to which title it will be sharing with the cho- sented during a conference that was held layer. These skins work on the basis of the concept of preserving lost buildings in cycle of awards can be found on www. inspire.” sen region in The Netherlands. Vilnius in on the 22-24 May 2009 in Antalya, Turkey, automated intelligent sensors which digital form online would soon be taken up worldarchitecture.org In Zumthor’s own words as expressed in his Lithuania and Linz in Austria hold the title which conference dealt with the same sub- control the internal spaces with regards worldwide. Visit www.therubbleclub.com book, Thinking Architecture, “I believe that jointly for 2009. ject - the Future of Housing. to ventilation, temperature, and light. for further information. Pitkrr z e Prize 2009 architecture today needs to reflect on the Automated vents allow the removal of 65 year old Peter Zumthor of Switzerland tasks and possibilities which are inherently Euopeanr Heritage excess heat by the chimney effect which WrA o ld rchitecture has been chosen as the 2009 Laureate of its own. Architecture is not a vehicle or a Grand Prize is referred to as passive cooling. Slits both Community Awards the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The formal symbol for things that do not belong to Against the majestic backdrop of the Teatro laterally, and along the main curvature are Gymnasium 46° 09’ N 16° 50’ E. Image by Robert Leo The winners of the Fourth Cycle of the ceremony for what has come to be known its essence. In a society that celebrates the Antico in Taormina, Sicily, the European automatically controlled so as to give the World Architecture Community Awards throughout the world as architecture’s inessential, architecture can put up a resist- Union and Europa Nostra announced the right amount of natural day light whilst tionship with the public structure. Integral other national architectural associations were recently announced. Among the highest honour was held on May 29 in ance, counteract the waste of forms and European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage/ avoiding excessive heat and glare. The to the 1,000-room interior, which is largely and the Advisory Committee. These includ- 20 winning entries is the Valletta Cruise Buenos Aires, Argentina. meanings, and speak its own language. I Europa Nostra Award Grand Prize winners. plan is arranged in such a way that the lined with crafted woodwork (using the ed three submissions from Malta, namely Passenger Terminal by Architecture Project. Although most of his work is in Switzerland, believe that the language of architecture Seven grand prize living area has the largest glazed area. traditions of Norwegian boat builders), the Maritime Trade Centre by Architecture The project takes its inspiration from the Zumthor has designed projects in Germany, is not a question of a specific style. Every winners were chosen This double-skin also acts as an insulation are a number of art commissions interwo- Project, Two Twenty two by Chris Briffa harmonious scaling down of volumes that Austria, The Netherlands, England, Spain, building is built for a specific use in a from the previously layer. ven into the structural fabric, including a Architects and The Garden of Apollo by was created during the 17th and 18th Norway, Finland and the United States. His specific place and for a specific society. My selected 28 winners Through its rapport with the Turkish cloakroom, a collaboration with their 2007 Richard England. More information on all centuries, years that saw the transforma- most famous work is in Vals, Switzerland buildings try to answer the questions that for demonstrating Chamber, the Kamra tal-Periti was able to Serpentine Pavilion collaborator Olafur the entries can be found on www.miesarch. tion of Valletta from a Renaissance military — the Thermal Baths, which has been emerge from these simple facts as precisely outstanding heritage assist the team by alleviating part of their Eliasson. com. town into a centre of trade and commerce. referred to by the press as “his masterpiece.” and critically as they can.” achievements across travel expenses.
6 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 7 Despite the dreaded exam period that took were completed success- tion have always avidly participated in over the Faculty the past few months, it has fully, while another two will SACES events, and we are very pleased EU DESK been a very busy period for both SACES be continued in summer to welcome them! SACES Policy Statements 2009 and the Faculty as a whole. We started off since one weekend was not An event organised by the fourth year with the Easter workshop as the last official enough time to complete students was the last to be held at the Following the orientation debate that measures, including an early revision of the tions, relating to architecture and the built have acquired the necessary skills and event of the previous SACES committee, the job. Faculty this academic year. An exhibi- took place during the last General Public Procurement Directives, to ensure environment, that have been adopted over experience commensurate with a task followed by the SACES election, and an The completed projects tion, curated by artist Ruth Bianco and Assembly meeting of the Architects’ that the market for architectural services recent years at EU level such that their rec- that has a profound effect on society exhibition. include an upgrade and called Art by Architects, displayed a series Council of Europe (ACE) last November, remains open in a level-playing field, espe- ommendations become truly integrated and, at the same time, guarantees a The Easter workshop was first held last year improved access to the court- of installations which included static exhib- the Executive Board prepared a set of cially for innovative and emerging talent into all EU policies and legislation and, high level of quality of the service as a supplementary event to the primary yard and to a vacant space in the its, video installations and installations Policy Recommendations that were and for alternative systems of delivery that furthermore, see to their effective transpo- and of protection of the end-user. workshop in October. Last year brought studio. The courtyard was given a be which challenged our notion of space and adopted by the Assembly in Helsinki are quality based. sition in the Member States. Deriving from there the Professional about proposals as to how the Faculty build- breath of fresh air by a stencil graf- com- the functionality of certain architectural ele- earlier this year. These recommenda- - There is a tendency in certain Member - New approaches and methodologies Qualifications Directive must be ing could be improved to accommodate fiti mural representing the destruction of pleted in ments. The event was enjoyed by the large tions were forwarded to all member States to generalise the recourse to Public- must be developed to describe and assess revised as soon as possible to change changing needs, and resulted in a series creativity by the overpowering society in the summer crowd that attended, much to the satisfac- organisations for dissemination. Private Partnerships (PPP) whereby this the quality of the built environment, in all the required minimum duration of of sketches and presen- which we live. A swing when more plants and an irrigation system tion of all those involved. After all the work The Kamra tal-Periti worked towards the shows a (mis)use of the principles of such its dimensions, so that new criteria and studies for architects from four to five tations to Faculty mem- was also installed, which will be installed. A set of wall murals painted that went into the exhibition, it would be organisation of a Business Breakfast, to PPPs by wrongly extending this method tools are made available to procurement years (or the equivalent on a part- bers. This year, SACES is currently being used in the foyer caused a bit of a stir due to their wonderful to have the project become an which it invited all the local candidates to the procurement of buildings. There is and local authorities for use when they time basis) supplemented by a period decided to take a more by the braver members content, but it was ultimately decided that annual event both because of the learning for the MEP elections. Unfortunately the enough evidence of the perverse, nega- are judging the quality and sustainability of two years qualifying professional direct approach, and use of the student body. The continuing the murals would best benefit process that it brings about as well as the response was poor, and the event had to tive effects that result from an excessive of projects and taking decisions about the practice experience. the manpower at the vacant studio space was the space. be cancelled. The Kamra will however be use of design & build approaches that do management, development or re-develop- - The topic is also relevant in rela- workshop to implement turned into a group work Soon after the workshop, elections following up with the elected MEPs in not guarantee the independence of the ment of the human habitat. tion to the globalisation of trade, in actual improvements and tutorial space main- got under way and the new SACES order to put the messages below across architect to preserve the general interest to - The European Commission, Member particular at a time when there is an to the Faculty building. ly through the use of board was appointed. Three new and, with the backing of the ACE, direct- ensure a coherent quality based outcome. States and Local Authorities, through the acceleration of the process for the Participating students colours and the rework- members were elected while six other ly contribute with its knowledge, exper- - More generally it is necessary to adopt adoption and implementation of coherent negotiations of mutual recognition worked on four projects ing of furniture, in a bid members retained their place on the tise and experience in order to assist the more positive attitudes towards the reg- and well-thought out architectural policies, of architectural qualifications and, which sought to make to save on expenses and board. The new president is Matthew EU Institutions, Member States and all ulatory environment of the architectural must ensure that decision-makers at all beyond, of architectural service agree- the most of some cur- resources. Cachia Zammit, who has been on relevant decision-makers in the elabora- profession and conditions of architectural levels and the public at large are aware of ments, in the context of existing and rently underused spac- The construction of a the board since his first year and has tion and implementation of the recom- practice, in the public interest, taking due the positive benefits that architecture can ongoing trade negotiations between es in the faculty, or to green wall on the facade shown unparalleled dedication to mendations set out in this document. account of the specific nature of architec- bring to their daily lives so that they will the EU and third countries or regions experiment with inno- was particularly ambi- SACES throughout. He will be accom- tural services and of their fundamental strive to enhance the overall quality and so as to open up, in a truly reciprocal vative environmental tious and was given a panied by vice-president Pierre Bianchi impact on the health and welfare of society sustainability of the built environment. and equivalent manner, new markets solutions. Two projects Joanna Vella’s installation good head start, but will while Nicky Psaila Savona is the new ACE Policy Statements as a whole while not transgressing the fun- - There is a need to put actions behind the for the architects of Europe and the Secretary General and James Muscat A small portion of Keith Sciberras’ moving ‘memories’ damental principles of the EU. words of the European Economic Recovery world, now and for future generations. installation Addressed to Candidates The new tutorial space has retained his post as Public Relations Plan by giving to the construction sector, Officer. Lara Mifsud is the new treasurer and joy that the installations have bestowed to the European C ArEATE dequate and thus to the architectural profession for RviewI e nstitutional Sebastian Tanti Burlo is international offi- upon all those who have been seeing them its specific skills in synthetic and holistic Elections Conditions for Structures at all cer. The three enthusiastic new members over the past few weeks. problem solving, the necessary resourc- Enhancing Quality of Levels to Deliver More are Francesca Scicluna, Celine Schranz and And so another year comes to a close. While es for it to achieve its Strategic Research EsePn ur rocurement in the Environment for Efficiency David Camilleri, who prior to their elec- this year scored high on the events front, Agenda, especially in relation to the energy the Built Environment is Living in Europe - Ensure that the structures of the we hope that next year will efficiency of buildings, thus allowing the Quality-Based - Adopting integrated and holistic European Commission, the European The courtyard mural bring about even more rea- emergence of the necessary innovations - Ensure that the procedures used for the approaches that take more than economic parliament and other relevant bodies son to love the time spent that are needed for the achievement of the procurement of buildings and all structures and technical aspects into account so as to are able to respond to the challenges in the course. SACES hopes targets of the EU, having regard, in particu- that constitute the built environment, in include social and cultural considerations presented by the objective of achiev- to initiate a series of edu- lar, to the existing building stock and, more particular for those projects that receive is the only option for the European Union ing true sustainable development by cational talks and debates, generally, architectural heritage. public funding, are conceived and imple- to allow it to achieve all and any political streamlining the manner in which increase the profile of the mented in such a way that they permit objectives and targets it has set out that the built environment and all related workshops and encourage the selection of the best quality proposals affect the quality and sustainability of the Dvep e lo a Converging issues are managed and coordinated events outside of the SACES having regard to sustainability, architec- built environment. It is only by doing so Approach to Ensure within the services of the Commission domain, and following the tural quality and life cycle costing. Public that it may be able to answer the expecta- Adequate Level of so that a more integrated and holistic fourth years’ great show of purchasers must be alerted to the fact that tions of society and of future generations Qualifications of approach can be applied in policy and initiative, there is no reason in relation to the built environment the for a better quality of life. Persons who provide legislative developments in this field. that this should not happen. most economically advantageous tender - There is an urgent need to elaborate Architectural Services In particular the ACE calls for the con- In the meantime, we would that includes quality criteria must always and build upon the policies and other - It is essential to ensure that those tinued existence of the parliamentary like to wish everybody a be preferred. Furthermore adopt relevant relevant political conclusions and declara- who provide architectural services Intergroup Urban.Logement. wonderful summer!
8 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 9 modification of the site to create berms or mounds along the South perimeter. These
son 2007 mounds allow only interesting glimpses of
ricj the building from the road, while from the e
r building they hide the busy highway. A large
Working with Arthur Erickson hu ‘artificial’ lake extended from the building rt to the proposed mounds at the Southern
o © a end of the site; this was the ‘reflecting pool’ by Joseph Galea t
ho required in the brief taken to its limit. This P
Arthur Erickson very basic line drawing was the concept Arthur Erickson On the afternoon of 20 May 2009, the man its setting – rural or urban – become for me Washington DC was also on the boards. from which the team started to work. It is who Philip Johnson once called “…by far the the source of meaning in architecture. Site Later we competed for the Al-Ain University uncanny how very little the final building greatest architect in Canada, and maybe the provides the context and motivation of my in Abu Dhabi. changed from that initial sketch. greatest on the continent”1 passed away in buildings.”6 This is eminently evidenced in Staff was organised into project teams, each The municipal offices wing was conceived Vancouver, British Columbia. the series of Canadian West coast houses, team taking the project from schematic as a ‘shopping mall’ for municipal services, hence the multiple entrances providing My first job when I moved to Canada in 1985 most of them built on heavy wooded, steep- design to construction documents stage, Robson Square, Provincial Law Courts was with Arthur Erickson Architects (AEA) in ly sloped sites. taking on specialists when and as required. easy access from the parking area to dif- Toronto. AEA at the time was busy with the The same ‘dialogue’ between building and If a deadline was looming on one project, Athens or London. all design matters. However, he was a good firms with a strong design background and ferent departments. The building was low, Islamic University of Madinah. My experi- setting is still evident in Erickson’s major staff from different project teams pitched It was several days before I first met Arthur. listener and accepted suggestions from any a long list of important projects to their being only two floors high on the North ence in Saudi Arabia, where I had been for projects in urban areas, such as the Robson in to meet the deadline. Thus, although I He spent his time between the three offices, team member when he believed that these credit. side, stepping down one floor to the ‘lake’ on the previous seven years, was the key that Square project (1978-1983) in downtown was assigned to the University of Madinah interspersed with trips overseas, either to fitted into his overall concept. Discussions Markham at the time was a rapidly develop- the South following the lie of the land. The got me the job. I had heard about Arthur Vancouver. The glazed space frame roof cov- as Project Coordinator, at one point I was meet clients or just to continue to experience invariably were around study models, not ing town of around 105,000 (around 287,000 South façade was completely glazed. Large Erickson, but knew little about him. I there- ering over an acre, with reflecting pools on tasked with the review of the stone cladding and learn about different cultures, because, just of the building itself but often of the today) to the North East of Toronto. The skylights along the length of the building fore set about learning about my new boss office roofs and waterfalls flowing over the shop drawings for the Canadian Chancery. as he says “… one can never see enough to whole site. These models were chopped up, 11.5 hectare site for the project was at the further flooded the office areas with natural and his work. sides, hundreds of trees, and the famous Reviewing shop drawings is a time sensi- begin to understand sufficiently…”8 It was reassembled, cut-up and reassembled again junction between two major highways. The light. A lakefront walkway, defined by a line Arthur Charles Erickson was born in ‘stramps’ (stairs/ramps) immediately made tive activity and generally not one of the said that since 1965 he had never stayed and again during a meeting until they met slightly sloping, treeless site already con- of free standing columns carrying a planter, Vancouver in 1924. In his youth he had the project a Vancouver landmark. more enjoyable activities in architecture, in a place long enough to use a tank of gas Arthur’s satisfaction. Details were defined tained the recently built Markham Theatre ran along the whole length of this wing. artistic leanings and had intended to be a The first time I entered the Toronto office but essential to ensure that the built project in his rented car.9 In the years that I worked but not worked out during the meetings. and Unionville High School which had to be The second block rose to three storeys on painter.2 However, he decided to embark on on Bloor Street West it struck me that, even conforms to the original design. with him I never remember him being in the He was happy to leave the detail resolution addressed by the new building. the North side and comprised the execu- a diplomatic career since “Diplomacy allows Arthur Erickson by architects’ offices’ standards the place The University of Madinah project cov- Toronto office for more than two, maybe to his staff. Arthur hardly ever accepted the The project brief called for a building of just tive wing. This block is distinguished by the you to have painting as a hobby.”3 Then a seemed chaotic. Every square centime- ered an area of 300 acres and had to cater three, days at a time. Staff learnt about suggestion that something was not techni- over 12,000sqm ‘that would symbolise the round 200-seat Council Chamber crowned chance incident changed his plans forever. Erickson founded Arthur Erickson Architects tre was covered with drawings, sketches for all the academic and living needs of Arthur’s next visit only a few days before cally possible, and generally it was budget- town.’ Besides the usual municipal depart- by a terrace accessed from the Mayor’s In a copy of Fortune magazine Arthur saw with offices first in Vancouver and eventually and polystyrene working models in vari- a resident population of around 17,000.7 the date. Then study models were brushed ary considerations that prevented some- ments with public access, the building had office above. Below the Chamber is the the first published photographs of Frank in Toronto and Los Angeles. ous stages of assembly, or rather disassem- The massive project was a joint venture up and sketches and drawings prepared thing from being achieved rather than the to include a public lobby, winter garden, an glass enclosed cafeteria with views across Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West in the Arizona From the 1975 book, “The Architecture of bly. Interspersed with these were material between Erickson’s office in Toronto (archi- for the forthcoming discussions. Those who creativity of the design team. executive wing, council chamber, commit- the water between columns, springing from desert. The pictures captivated him and he Arthur Erickson,”5 it became immediately samples: fabrics, tiles, to full size window tectural design,) F.E. Basil Inc. in Athens were at the more advanced stages of their After two or three long days he would be tee rooms, chapel, library and archives, a the lake. The main lobby with a ‘winter gar- decided that “If you can do as imaginative obvious to me that Arthur was very different sections. The place had ‘creativity’ written (civil engineering,) and Dar Al-Riyadh from projects were more apprehensive. Arthur off again, continuing his development of daycare centre as well as fitness facilities for den’ stepping down to the lake links the two and creative a thing as that in Architecture, I from many other big-name architects. There all over it. their London office (building engineer- was a perfectionist and was known to delay elements of projects, sketching his ideas on the staff. External facilities were to include blocks. The lobby roof is a sloping glazed want to be an Architect.” 4 was no discernible ‘style’ that he followed. At the time the office was busy with several ing.) Coordinating the drawings, before or change design decisions that could mean 8½” x 11” pads, while travelling on planes a reflecting pool / skating rink. The project space-truss, which connects to the fully Erickson attended McGill University in However, what was common to all his proj- major projects. The Kings Landing Luxury the days of electronic drawings and e-mail a rework of weeks of drawing, a process that and faxing them back to the office he just budget was $14.4 million for the building glazed wall on the South. At the lower level, Montreal. On his way back to school for ects was a sense of fitness of purpose, a sen- Condominiums on Queens Quay in Toronto was a major challenge. Drawings had to be Keith Loffler, the Director of the Toronto left on his arrival at the next. and an additional $5.2 million for site devel- an external connection leads to the copper his final year he visited Frank Lloyd Wright sitive use of materials and an incredible con- were nearing completion; the design for the marked up, cut up, faxed, reassembled at office at the time, referred to as “creative In 1986 Arthur Erickson Architects (Toronto) opment and landscaping. clad chapel standing freely in the lake. at Taliesin East in Wisconsin. Wright invited textual relevance. Erickson’s greatest ability University of Madinah was in full swing; the the other end, discussed during hours-long procrastination.”10 was one of three firms shortlisted to par- After an initial site visit, the first sketch that The chapel was designed to be round, but Arthur to spend the year there. When he got was an intimate understanding of a site and Etisalat (the Emirates Telecommunications international phone calls and the process Arthur would spend time with each of the ticipate in the competition for the Markham Arthur faxed to the office from wherever he cost considerations made its external form to McGill to pack his things and head back how best to place a building on it. He says Agency) HQs for Dubai and Abu Dhabi were repeated over and over. Periodically, coor- design teams. He was a soft spoken man, Municipal Centre. I was assigned to the was at the time, showed a linear building facetted, much to the chagrin of Arthur to Wisconsin, the director of the school, John that “The ‘dialogue’ between a building and coming on line; the Canadian Chancery in dination meetings were held in Toronto, trim and fit with a full head of silver grey design team for the competition. The other with multiple entrances, with the long axis and the design team. Arthur also wanted Bland, told him that he was the candidate for hair. He was not a humble man and it was two companies were Moriyama and Teshima bent at the East end to connect to a second the copper cladding of the chapel and of the following year’s travelling scholarship clear that he was used to getting his way in Architects and Barton Myers Associates; two block at right angles. The sketch indicated the Council Chamber roof to be the mellow – an annual award to the best graduating green colour of aged copper, just like that he
student. So Arthur stayed on at McGill and s used on the Bank of Canada Headquarters in ct
on graduation travelled, for almost three e Ottawa. There, a Japanese team had spent it years, through the Middle East, Europe and h six months dipping copper into vats of dif- Scandinavia. During his travels he discov- Arc ferent acids to achieve the colour Arthur
ered a new appreciation for the history of son wanted.11 In Markham the budget did not architectural development and indigenous allow for Japanese craftsmen so one will Erick
architecture. r have to wait until time ages the copper Back in Vancouver, Erickson collaborated hu naturally. with Geoffrey Massey, son of the actor Art Our submission for the competition com- os ©
Raymond Massey, in designing houses for t prised the minimum three boards – site
ho plan, concept development, and plans and their friends. In 1963, he and Massey won P the competition for the design of Simon elevations. We produced a basic, white foam Fraser University. The Erickson/Massey core model and commissioned a profession- partnership lasted for eight years. In 1972 Markham Civic Centre Islamic University of Madinah al renderer to produce two required per-
10 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 11 spectives. The external view was acceptable, Like many design-focused architects Arthur but the second, showing the main lobby and had little interest in business matters and still remember my first day requires an appreciation of both fter graduating in on urban design, which to me winter garden was disappointing. Without never paid much attention to the finances at work in the UK quite aesthetics and number crunch- architecture in Malta, means designing at whichever the time to have another professional ren- of his operations. Regrettably this caught clearly. Three years back ing. One of the consequences and working in some scale but always thinking about dering done, we dug up a simple but effec- up with him and the firm became unten- and fresh out of University of the RIBA stages and numer- Maltese offices my the existing context, the quality tive study perspective sketch prepared some able. I therefore moved on to another firm onceI again, I was eager to get ous consultants to co-ordinate A‘career’ really kicked off once I of the place which will be cre- time earlier, cleaned it up, mounted it onto a in Toronto. The Town of Markham passed Working my teeth into a new challenge. is the requirement of detailed started work in The Netherlands ated and most importantly how board and submitted on time. responsibility for the contract administra- Little did I know then, that one documentation to capture the after graduating with a Masters people will use it and the impact We were very satisfied with our concept and tion phase to Richard Stevens, a Senior of the biggest challenges I faced vast amount of work carried out in Urbanism, and it continued this will have on society. Arthur Erickson design but when we visited the exhibition Canadian Chancery building Architect with AEA at the time, who, when was understanding my role in and ensure co-ordination for to advance when I moved to Working abroad has defi- Working abroad of the three competing projects our submis- AEA Toronto closed down, opened up his a vast and largely fragmented the next phase. the UK. It was during my time nitely influenced my approach sion appeared to be the poor relation com- developed concerned the lake: the porous own practice that is still going strong to industry. Kenneth Zammit The façade and cladding indus- in The Netherlands that I first Sarah Anastasi to design, as working in The pared to the slick presentations and detailed sandy soil would not retain water at the sur- this day. abroad I started working in the rela- try is particularly off-site prod- came to understand what urban Netherlands and the UK could models of the others. Our hopes of success face. However, the lake was a critical part of tively new Facade Engineering discipline uct based with a substantial amount of spe- design really is - not just architecture on a not be more different. It gives me the oppor- dimmed somewhat. the concept. After much soul-searching we While working practices after completing a course in the specialisa- cialist sub-contractor final design. This also larger scale and also not just planning. In tunity to compare two very different working However, the jury, which comprised decided to line it with an impermeable mem- in Malta are certainly tion. After a few weeks learning the ropes, holds for portions of main structure design, The Netherlands there is a clear structure and socio-cultural environments, where you Tom Januszewski, planning director for brane. Costs dictated that depth be limited one of the projects I was assigned was the where for example, concrete reinforcement and understanding of how it influences the really have to stop and think about what you Markham, Ron Moran, regional council- to under a metre. This in turn caused con- changing, both as a result BBC West One project, the new headquar- detailing and steelwork connection design built environment and how it interacts with are doing and why, as it is all so diverse. And lor, Larry Richards, director of the School cern about the possibility of algae growth. of an increased demand ters and recording studios for the other disciplines whether architecture, ecol- as a bonus...working in the UK has probably, of Architecture, University of Waterloo and Eventually, we overcame this by arranging corporation in central London. By ogy, planning, and hopefully, architects Jim Strassman and Ron Thom, to slightly chlorinate the water. Chlorination for high-quality projects then, the project was already at transportation, developed my declared the Erickson scheme the winner. In killed Arthur’s vision of a ‘natural’ lake com- as well as an improving Stage D... which I later came to and others. diplomatic side. plete with fish, reeds, and wild growing veg- know as “design development”, This is not only However, I etation. Arthur was not amused. On the day legislative framework, immediately following comple- u n d e r s t o o d would say that we had the official sod-turning ceremony for tion of the basic concept stage. by profession- the ‘foreign the project he still asked me whether any- experiencing work in other In contrast to my less regulated als but also by influence’ has thing had transpired to regain the ‘natural- countries is always an working experience in Malta, I society at large mostly changed ness’ of the lake. When I again explained the found the RIBA (Royal Institute who also expect the way in which geotechnical engineers’ conclusions and the eye-opening experience, of British Architects) stages to be certain quali- I think about my need for lining and chlorination, he replied often giving insight an excellent project organisation ties from the career. I would that ‘we cannot always accept what the engi- tool to inform clients when deci- places they live Masterplan for a like to think it neers say.’ Although with sufficient time and Mixed Use Canal Side into other approaches sions and changes can be made, in. There, urban Development, Wigan, UK lies somewhere money a solution to make the lake conform that can be adapted as well as guiding the various design is inter- between the to Arthur’s vision would have been found, designers on what level of detail esting, creative and flexible, not only on the Dutch philosophy of “Working to Live Vs The BBC Broadcasting House redevelopment, London we had neither. Arthur, reluctantly, had to to the local scenario. to produce at each point in time. drawing board but also when it comes to site Living to Work” - like clocking off at 3pm just accept the situation. It took some time to get to grips with the is carried out by sub-contractors. When visits. Forget the comfort of your car and its because the sun is shining - and the British We incorporated several novel technologies Erickson with the author complex project where the architect, as non-standard situations are encountered, back seat as your mobile office. Site visits in eagerness to join the rat race and make your in the building. Instead of the usual forced Kenneth Zammit and lead designer, was responsible for co-ordi- a substantial amount of research and co- way to the top as quickly as pos- air a/c, we used a water based system using nating the work of ten different consultants, operation with international façade manu- sible even if it means living at the slim radiant panels, of Scandinavian design, References: Sarah Anastasi are two from structural engineering and M&E to facturers is required at an early stage. On office. To me it is about constantly integrated with the ceiling. Motorised sun- 1. E. Iglauer, Seven Stones, Harbour young architects who acoustics and cleaning & maintenance. The the BBC West One project, several new proj- developing and improving my shades of special fabric cut off glare from Publishing, University of Washington Press, number of people involved was somewhat ect specific façade systems had to be devel- skills while contributing to some- the south facing glass wall and winter gar- 1981, pp. 11-12 have ventured off our overwhelming and often seemed excessive, oped, requiring six full scale structural and thing worthwhile with a sense den roof, while preserving views out. A 2. E. Iglauer, op. cit., p.39. shores to experience however substantial expertise is required weather-tightness tests. Such tests are quite of satisfaction but retaining an large ice-storage system in the basement 3. E. Iglauer, op. cit. p.46 in such complex projects with demanding commonplace in high-end façade projects interest in activities outside work. Canadian Architect cover with a personal produced ice during off-peak periods and working in Europe. Both clients. since they drastically reduce the risk of pro- The reason being that the more I dedication to the author 4. ibid. the subsequent stored ‘coolness’ used to 5. A. Erickson, The Architecture of Arthur hibitively expensive failures after the build- experience and the more varied condition the building when required. The have gained immensely, Erickson, Tundra Books, Montreal, 1975 ing is commissioned. the people I meet, the more I their report the jury said that they felt that building later won an award from Ontario 6. A. Erickson, The Architecture of Arthur professionally and in After material selection, testing and factory realise how much there is to see “the winning scheme had many outstand- Hydro for its innovative energy systems, long Erickson, Douglas & McIntyre, Vancouver, inspections in different parts of Europe, the and learn. ing qualities, but was particularly impressed before ‘Green Architecture’ and ‘Sustainable terms of their outlook, 1988, p.19 façade installation is now well underway. I believe that being good at with its imaginative site planning strategy, Buildings’ became bywords of the profession. through this exposure. tA While carrying out regular site visits, proj- Regeneration Proposals for a River Side Development urban design is not just having a superb landscape composition, and sensitive The building was originally intended to be 7. A. Erikson, The Architecture of Arthur in Kidderminster, UK Erickson, 1988, op.cit. p.168 ect completion comes in sight and new degree or the work experience but incorporation of existing buildings … (they) clad in an off-white reconstituted stone. caught up with them to projects kick off. These are now pushed to Holland often mean three hours on a bike, also about life experience, having a broad 8. Critical Biography by Rhodri W. Liscombe admired the sequences of views created for However, the colour was later changed to a increasingly remote destinations, as one camera round your neck, map in one hand understanding of the world, cities and places in Arthur Erickson: Selected Projects 1971- find out more about their the passer-by and members of council and light pink buff giving the building a warmer way of dealing with the UK recession in and the other desperately trying to maintain we live in and understanding the way people 1985, Exhibition Catalogue, 1985, p.10. staff in their daily work. The scheme’s sym- feel. experiences and to delve construction, while I bid farewell in envy control. Joking apart, extreme importance use them. The ‘foreign influence’ for me is 9. E. Iglauer, op.cit. p. 51 Installation of unitised curtain walling bolic image was also considered the most to a project colleague who has opted for a and priority is given to urban design and its therefore being open to this and this is one of 12 into the differences in appropriate for the Town of Markham.” The Eiup log e 10. E. Iglauer, op.cit. p.99 In this context, a combined background rather more exotic alternative…of touring role in influencing the public environment as the most beneficial things about living and competition entries were featured in The The Markham building was ready to go to 11. A. Erickson, The Architecture of Arthur working practices between in Architecture and Civil Engineering was the world as the global economy recovers! part of the design and development process. working abroad. Canadian Architect of January 1987. construction at a time when unfortunately Erickson, 1985, op cit. p.70 different countries. useful and much appreciated, particularly Having experienced this it is here that my For the next year I was the design manager Arthur and Arthur Erickson Architects were 12. Jury report as quoted in The Canadian by the architects, since façade engineering Kenneth Zammit ‘career’ took a turn and I started to focus Sarah Anastasi for the project. One interesting challenge that going through serious financial difficulties. Architect, January 1987, vol. 32, no. 1, p. 25.
12 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 13 Leaving a Leaving Mark Leaving a Leaving Mark Leaving a Markby Dr Conrad Thake Martin Xuereb is widely One of his most prestigious projects was stages all the way to the final commission- the clients’ architectural consultant on key recognised as one of Malta’s the Corinthia Bab Africa hotel built in the ing of the hotel. His architectural office design matters including the external colour most respected and established heart of the central business district of was responsible for the preparation and and lighting scheme. The hotel’s location local architects. His projects Tripoli, Libya. The luxury hotel has over 265 coordination of all the architectural design, within the fashionable Elizabeth Boulevard range from residential villas rooms and 34 suites and comprises a well- structural and mechanical/electrical design in Budapest’s historic urban core was a ness centre and a conference centre with tender documents and specifications. major factor in it being acquired by its new and apartments, to commercial a capacity of 500 persons. Completed in In 2001, Perit Xuereb was entrusted with owners, the Corinthia Group. Its facilities buildings and major hotel 2003, the hotel has received various design another high profile project - the Corinthia as a luxury five star hotel are similar to the Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal, concept design sketch Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal before remodelling project projects. During his career he accolades. It was awarded the International Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary. other international brand Corinthia hotels has had the opportunity to Metra Sistema d’Autore award for the most This project was basically a total overhaul with over 383 rooms, 31 suites, a grand outstanding façade design. It has also been and remodeling of an older building. His ballroom and a conference centre facility. be involved in architectural featured in prestigious international design conceptual designs for the project were In this case, the major design challenge was ‘The prospect of working projects varying from hotels journals such as Wallpaper. Perit Xuereb was accepted by the client at the initial com- that of revamping a rather bland façade into to mosques to office blocks the lead architect from the initial concept petitive tendering stage. He was retained as a sophisticated hotel façade that seems to on large projects in countries as diverse as recall the grand and ornate Parisian pala- the Bahamas, Croatia, Czech tial buildings of the late–nineteenth century recalling the Belle Époque period. overseas has always given Republic, Libya and Saudi Another project was that of a small skiing Arabia. However, for this issue resort boutique hotel in Bansko, Bulgaria. In me added stimulus as I am of the Architect we have focused 2006, he was entrusted by a local developer on some of his more recent to prepare conceptual designs for an econo- given the opportunity to my boutique-hotel that could accommodate overseas projects. some 138 rooms and a fitness centre. The leave my “architectural” design was inspired by the local vernacular and in particular, the pronounced pitched mark within another roofs of the local chalets. Unfortunately, the project was not realised. country.’ A major project in the pipeline is another hotel for the Corinthia group, this time in Perit Martin Xuereb
Benghazi, Libya. This is a readily available and any medium-to-large recent project as it was com- local architectural practice is compelled to Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal, Budapest, missioned in 2008 and is seek work overseas. The prospect of work- Hungary - night time view currently in the preparatory ing on an overseas project has always been tendering stage. Perit Xuereb a challenge in that it is an ideal opportunity has finalised the conceptual to leave one’s ‘architectural’ mark within that elements is integral to the design process. able to navigate his/her way through the designs for a luxury hotel country.” Although all his overseas projects have been usually complex and bureaucratic planning with all the usual facilities Perit Xuereb explained that upon being executed from his local office in Malta aided permit process and that allows him to focus that one would expect to commissioned to prepare a conceptual by frequent visits abroad, for practical and and concentrate more on the architectural find in a five star hotel. design for a project, he would always first logistical purposes he has always teamed- design aspect of the project. After this brief synoptic seek to personally visit and experience the up with an architect from the country where The vast majority of Perit Xuereb’s built overview, tA interviewed site. Issues such as the topography of the project is based. The local architect is overseas works relate to the hotel and tour- Perit Martin Xuereb about the terrain, the local weather condi- ist industry. He concludes the interview by his own personal experi- tions, the local building materials and expressing his gratitude and appreciation ence of working on overseas construction systems used, and the towards those Maltese companies working projects. He confessed that way the natural light relates to the overseas, in particular the Corinthia Group, “large-scale architectural setting are all important aspects that who have placed their trust in his talents Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel, Tripoli, Libya Corinthia Benghazi Hotel, Libya projects on a small island one has to be sensitive to. A com- and abilities and have given him the oppor- as is Malta are not always prehensive understanding of these Hotel Bansko, Bulgaria tunity to realise his projects.
14 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 15 hotel at Giardini Naxos, Sicily, is unfortunately being kept on hold by the planning council. For a competition in Bodrum, Turkey, despite being faced with stiff competition namely 2 German, 2 French and 4 Turkish firms, DANDA’s entry for a spa A t the Berth resort clinched the deal. And At At The Berth Perit Ray DeMicoli shared his experience of working beyond our shores with when international efforts do At The Berth not end in fruition, Ray manages Perit Annemarie Mayo for “the Architect” to translate efforts into improv- ing the quality of his office’s It was 1976, and a mere six months after Isles. Back home, he was anxious to keep local product. graduation. A young Ray DeMicoli, anxious the pace he had grown accustomed to Ray’s leaning towards proj- to explore the world beyond our shores, during his time overseas. In 1985, he set ects with a marine context was was offered a scholarship in Rotterdam up his own firm at 331 St Paul’s Street, exploited during his largest built at the Baucentrum. Three days prior to as well as an ad hoc training centre. The foreign project to date, Palm his departure, he received a call from latter provided evening courses intended City in Zanzour, Libya. Palm City Architect Roger Degiorgio, inviting him to bring local draftsmen up to speed with boasts 1.3km of coastline. The to join DP international, an architecture international standards. To Ray, Malta had project responded to a grow- firm in Paris. He was asked to assist in the become his berth, and the possibility of ing need for expatriate fam- making of production drawings for Saudi working on foreign projects never faltered. ily accommodation in a country projects. Perhaps the choice between Ray’s incessant wanderlust has caused him Palm City, Zanzour, Libya just about to take off. Ray com- Rotterdam and the glistening pavements to stumble across international clients in piled his brief after understand- of Paris hardly proposed a dilemma... the oddest of circumstances. A few years ing the needs of expatriates fol- While in Paris, Ray persisted in flexing his back, Ray had met a future client while Model for Hotel and Commercial lowing several interviews with design muscles by working on competi- windsurfing in the Philippines - the proj- Centre, Istanbul employees of oil companies. tions in his spare time. Despite being a rela- ect, a five cinema complex in Iraq, was While the competition built low tive newcomer to the scene, he collaborat- sadly brought to a halt in view of an density army-style barracks, Ray ed with visiting Architectural Association impending war. He met the owner of a endeavored to provide a home tutors he had met at the University of house in Frankfurt, which needed radical away from home in a village Malta. It was this network that landed him remodeling to accommodate a growing which provides all the necessary spending evenings and weekends at the family, on a flight to the United States. amenities as well as a welcome drawing bureau of Renzo Piano & Richard Parties seem to be another good source emphasis on soft landscaping. Rogers, who at the time were completing of bumping into the architect-deficient. A Having lived abroad for a con- the Pompidou Centre. Thus, Ray bore wit- project in the Caribbean was born out of a siderable amount of time, he ness to the coming together of a Parisian chance encounter at a party in Berlin. had learned to value the provi- landmark, an experience he admits was as Post-Portomaso, DeMicoli and Associates, sion of spaces for interaction. humbling as it was formative. or DANDA, as it is affectionately known, For a villa in limits of Avola in Sicily, Ray drew inspiration from One remarkable lady reawakened Ray’s Typical Unit, Hotel extension, San Martin participated in many an international Giardini Naxos Hotel, Sicily interests in Malta and he returned to the competition. The winning design for a thick ashlar walls of the sur- rounding fields. The project, which contrasts steel and glass with natural local materials, is currently under construction. Several other Sicilian farmhous- es are also in the pipeline. And Margerita, Ray’s sailing yacht, is always at the ready to escort him to a site visit. The energy Ray exhib- its through his work is set in motion by his sincere love for our clear blue waters. “I love the Mediterranean – this infi- nite wielding of cultures; not to mention the weather and cui- sine!” Some of us feel the shores of Malta bind us to our safe harbours. To Ray, our unique Spa Resort, Bodrum, Turkey Section through typical house , environs provide a sea of oppor- Spa Resort, Bodrum, Turkey tunity.
16 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 17 “We have a dream” West Elevation West nly a few days ago, the sche- a close, and to translate the dream into matic designs for the City reality.” He continued by stating that this Valletta projects Valletta more visible as a result of the demolition the space serves as a piazza with views projects Valletta Gate, new Parliament and project is all about civic pride, the creation The new Parliament also has a strong envi- of the Gate. towards the Auberge de Castille, the the Opera House site were of a national statement that speaks to the ronmental program, with the introduction The Ditch below will be replaced by a gar- Churches of Santa Catarina and Our Lady revealed to an enthusias- world about who we are as a people and of heat pumps that utilise the stable tem- den which is intended to host events and of Victories, as well as St James Cavalier. tic audience that filled the 90m stretch our values. perature of the mass of rock below the site, O activities, rendering this currently derelict With a capacity for an audience of 1,200 between Melita Street and St John’s Street With this as his brief, Renzo Piano and his allowing enough energy to be recovered to that while it was uncomfortable to work and, dare one say, ominous part of the people, this “open air opera” will be rare in of Republic Street. A street, in the words colleagues at the Renzo Piano Building heat and cool the building. Creating a “zero without one, this project could catalyse the Capital a haven for activity and vibrancy. the Mediterranean, offering an alternative of Minister Austin Gatt, that is central to Workshop (RPBW) in Paris set about (CO2) emission” building is one of the driv- inception of a masterplan. Movement between the Ditch and the City space in which to perform. the history of Malta; a street, that is rich their work on the schematic designs for ing forces behind the proposal. During the inauguration ceremony, Prime above will be by means of a stairway and a in architecture and that has set the stage this much discussed and much awaited Minister Lawrence Gonzi listed a series of panoramic elevator. for many an important event in Valletta’s proposal. Piano’s love and sensitivity for P arliament The targets ahead important anniversaries that are literally at The architecture of the Gate itself speaks of long and glorious annals; Valletta, the seat Valletta are evident in his description of Upon entering Valletta, visitors first come The proposals for the whole of the our doorstep. The year 2014 will mark the quality and strength in stone, “the moth- where the more important decisions that the thought process behind the scheme. “I across Freedom Square, more often than entrance area to Valletta are currently 50th anniversary of Malta’s independence; er of this island, part of its DNA,” Piano have moulded the face of Malta have taken never draw anything before spending time not used as a carpark, with the occasional on display at the Auberge de Provence 2015 will commemorate 450 years from describes. Bare of superficial and conven- place. in a place,” Piano explains, and although hosting of various events in this location. (National Museum of Archaeology) in the Great Siege; in 2016 we will be cel- tional decorations, it is made of massive Any intervention on a City of Valletta’s he had already put forward proposals for Piano describes this as a “non-place”, a stone elements, monumentally shaped calibre and importance must be sensitive the same site years ago, it was essential to place without identity and quality. and flanked by high, framing blades of to the past and at the same time look to come back, to experience the Valletta of The proposal is to locate the Parliament steel. Piano describes the Gate proposal as the future. Government’s ambitions in this today, to listen to what it has to tell, to hear building in Freedom Square, with an “simple and strong, steering away of any sense are focussed on healing the wound the voices within. “Places talk, they have interactive Museum of Maltese History extravagance – it is the best tribute to gen- that has scourged the face of Valletta for something to say. Every project is a new and Political Development located at the Presentation of the proposals by Renzo Piano to members of the KTP uine intention and authentic construction.” over 60 years. “We have a dream”, Prime adventure, and understanding the place is ground floor level, imparting locals and Minister Lawrence Gonzi stated during important.” Piano describes himself as hav- enhancing the experience of crossing from depth and strength by enhancing the feel- foreign visitors alike with an understanding the inauguration ceremony, “a dream born ing “become Maltese” in his quest to feel, one side to the other and at the same time ing of narrowness, opening up the view The Opera House of the history of the Maltese nation and its twenty five years ago around a debate that understand and sensitise himself to what allowing one to view the underlying ditch along Republic Street. The removal of the The original intention of the project was quest for independence and democracy. has been going on for 60 years. It is now he calls “this miracle city in the middle of once again. Piano describes the current current gate also results in the removal of to house the Parliament building within The proposed new structure is composed our responsibility to bring this debate to the Mediterranean.” bridge as a “motorway to nowhere”. The the street above, which will be replaced the Opera House site. However, as had of two massive volumes of stone, support- reduction to a width of 8m also plays on the by two large and gently sloped stepped already been stated by others in the past, ed on stilts that recede from the façade, axial nature of Republic Street, the spine of ramps, reminiscent of the staircases that this location is too small to host this func- creating an impression of suspension in the The Gate the City, thus leading visitors straight into flanked the gate before the creation of tion. It is also too small to fit in a modern air. The East block will house the chamber The proposal for this part of the project is the heart of Valletta. Freedom Square. These walkways will allow opera house when considering the various and the speaker’s office while the West to restore the entry bridge to the original The proposal aims at giving back to the pedestrians to experience the full height of requirements and running costs synony- block will hold all the administrative offices dimensions of Dingli’s gate of 1633, thus bastion walls their original expression of the fortifications, which will now be made mous with such a building. for members of parliament. The blocks fol- The Piano team also felt that after 60 years, low the axis of Republic Street, and are the ruins themselves had reached the sta- separated by another axis that follows the tus of a monument, a witness of history line of one of the flanks of St John’s Cavalier, and the dignity of collective memory. The allowing views through it to the Cavalier Site Plan valorisation of these ruins is central to itself. Valletta. The members of the Kamra tal- ebrating the 450th year from the laying of the proposal to convert this space into a A sunken garden will be located at the Periti had the unique opportunity, thanks the foundations of Valletta; in 2017, Malta place for artistic performances, preserv- lower level of the Parliament building, to the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport will hold the Presidency of the European ing the existing stone and which will be connected to the old Railway and Communications, to meet Renzo Piano Union; and in 2019, the birth of Parliament reintegrating fragments of Tunnel in such a way as to make this histori- and his team on the morning following the as a result of the Sette Giugno events one the original building that are cal structure accessible for public use while unveiling of the project – an encounter hundred years earlier will be remembered. known to lie strewn around preserving its authenticity and legibility. that was characterised by the simplicity The projects, he stated, must be in place the Islands. of Piano’s approach to the brief at hand, before these dates, setting the stage for the and the humility, respect and care with commemorative events planned to be held A light skin will define the Model showing the proposal for City Gate space, supported by a frame- which he spoke of his proposed interven- on each of these anniversaries. work of steel masts and tions on this most important, emotion- Public comment on these proposals will columns carrying remov- laden and historical corner of Valletta. Periti surely dominate the coming weeks. tA will able walls, lighting systems, had the opportunity to discuss, question continue to keep abreast of progress on the acoustic and sound equip- and criticise the proposals, thus expand- project, and the Editorial Team hopes to ment, giving the space its ing the debate and also contributing to be able to dedicate more space in coming specific identity during the the understanding of the scheme at hand. issues of the journal. Meanwhile, our read- staging of performances. Asked about his thoughts on the absence ership is invited to send in comments and ll images courtesy of the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications Transport ll images courtesy of the Ministry for Infrastructure,
Even when not being used, of a masterplan for Valletta, Piano stated reactions on [email protected]. A
18 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 19 ARCHITECTURE NIGHTS In May, the fourth edition of Architecture corporate professionals that make predict- St. Anne’s Square: Nights (AN) featured Hans Ibelings, archi- able boring boxes. Either arrogant utopians tectural historian and editor / publisher or petrified pragmatics. Events Tombazis of A10 new European architecture, a Their belief is that there is a third way Phase 1 - mission accomplished. Phase 2? Heritage bimonthly pan-European magazine. AN wedged in the fertile overlap between has in the past months seen the partici- the two equally sterile fronts and they pation of husband and wife team Franco thus turn rigorous analysis of economical, by Perit Edward Said Purini and Laura Thermes, who enthralled environmental, or social concerns into the an audience with their presentation of driving forces of design. By integrating Sliema’s St. Anne’s Square has finally been the authorities insisted on the retention of works at the Malta Property Expo last inputs from specialists and experts out- Gymnasium Fran Galovic returned to the people. Seeing those struc- the Majestic façade. They must therefore February, and Eduardo Langagne Ortega, side the field of architecture in the design tures come down was such a relief. Passing follow suit and do the same for the other an architect with a doctorate in architec- process they focus on the big picture to Exhibition of Architecture, and participat- The Scottish Parliament building by again and again one could almost feel elevations. ture by the University of Mexico, and 35 make sure that innovation is generated by ed at the ‘Mare Nostrum’ exhibition and 1998,the partnership won the competi- those poor stifled Ficus trees stretch out Piazza Sant’Anna should be considered as years of professional practice in architec- specific knowledge rather than random Power Lounge as part of the 2nd and tion to design the new Scottish Parliament again almost Tolkienesquely! The storms of a highly significant symbolic and historical ture and urban planning all over Mexico, experimentation. 3rd International Rotterdam Biennale of building and despite Miralles’ premature winter repeatedly tore down the barriers site in Sliema. Here are some of the reasons in the USA, Guatemala and Chile, whose BIG is currently designing and build- Architecture. In 2008 they were part of death in 2000, Tagliabue took leadership that concealed the renovation works that why: lecture held last March, saw a packed hall ing 20 major developments (more than the following exhibitions: ‘Balkanology’ in of the team as joint Project Director and were being undertaken, just as if the forces of enthusiastic participants. 300,000m2 in Copenhagen alone) span- Basel, ‘Peacebuilding’ in Rome and ‘New the Parliament was successfully com- of Nature now wanted to expose the site • The piazza is situated bang in the middle The May Architecture Night was an engag- ning the full spectrum of urban life incl. trajectories: Contemporary Architecture in pleted in 2004, winning several awards. once and for all. Now that works are com- of Sliema’s central business district, or really ing one with a very interesting discus- housing, hotel, office retail, parking leisure, Croatia and Slovenia’ in Boston. In 2009 More recently, she won the competition plete, one can look around and enjoy the and truly the town centre – the Ferries. sion after the lecture. The topic centred culture, sports and religion. Recent proj- Studio UP was awarded with the Mies for the new design of Hafencity Harbor in theatre that is a piazza. The constant pres- on “Reviewing European architecture” and ects include the Battery; a new 125,000m2 van der Rohe Award - Emerging Architect Hamburg, Germany, for a subway train sta- ence of pedestrians resting on the circular • St. Anne’s is Sliema’s only square in the was both about reviewing contemporary urban neighbourhood integrating the first Special Mention. tion in Naples and for the Arcelor pavilion benches in the cool shade of the towering true definition of the word. Annunciation architecture, in the common sense of the Mosque built in Denmark, The peoples’ in Luxembourg among others. trees above, surrounded by water features, Square and Dingli Circus are no more than word, as architectural critics usually do, building in China, a 250,000m2 tower in the Today under the direction of Benedetta Alndrosexa Tombazis is enough to witness the total success of widenings in roads and pavements, still and about developing a different view on shape of the Chinese character for “people” Tagliabue the Miralles-Tagliabue-EMBT Alexandros Tombazis was born in India in this project. Well done to all those con- commanded by vehicular traffic. European architecture and its history. This and the Clover Block, a 3km long perimeter studio works with architectural projects, 1939. He graduated from the Architectural cerned! In a town that is stigmatised with event was organised under the patronage block encircling the biggest public open spaces, urbanism, rehabilitation and School of the National Technical University destruction, this regeneration is refresh- • It is dedicated to the mother of Our Lady, of the Dutch Embassy in Malta. Special park in Copenhagen. exhibitions, trying to conserve the spirit of ingly hailed. who is synonymous with Sliema’s two old- thanks go to event sponsors DIS and the Spanish and Italian artisan architectural An additional bonus, perhaps more for est parishes. A niche on the corner of the Joinwell, as well as the KTP’s corporate studio tradition which aim is not specializa- Siotud UP those with an architectural eye, is the square with Tigne’ Seafront commemorates partners HSBC and Airmalta. Lea Pelivan and Toma Plejić tion. Their architectural philosophy is dedi- re-established pros- this (and was lovingly The line-up for upcoming Architecture graduated from the Faculty of cating special attention to context. pect of the facades restored as part of the Nights, which will restart in September, is Architecture in Zagreb in 2001. For of the buildings that project). an exciting one, with some very important the first two years they worked as overlook the square. names… BI. . G. – Bjarke Ingels a free lance architects in Zagreb The Majestic Theatre • The replicated interpre- Group and Split. At the end of 2003, Lea B.I.G. – Bjarke Ingels Group is an inter- facade, now part of a tation of the Diana foun- Mrals i l e -Tagliabue-EMBT Pelivan and Toma Plejić established disciplinary group of architects, builders, shopping complex is tain commemorates the Benedetta Tagliabue was born in Milan and STUDIO UP; this Zagreb-based firm New Basilica of Fatima designers and thinkers that operates in the the piazza’s undisputed arrival of running water graduated from the University of Venice in concerns itself with contemporary fields of research, design, architecture and centrepiece. It is also to Sliema new town. It 1989. In 1991 she joined Enric Miralles’ stu- architecture and urban studies. Studio of Athens in 1962. Alexandros N. Tombazis urbanism in Europe, the Middle East, USA flanked however by edi- was originally designed dio where she eventually became a partner. UP received the Grand Prix of the 2003 and Associate Architects was founded in and Asia. Traditionally the field of architec- fices faced in quintes- by the illustrious Her work with Miralles, whom she married, 1963 with services covering the design and ture is dominated by two opposites. On sential Maltese architec- Emanuele Luigi Galizia, includes a number of high profile buildings supervision of works in many fields and a one side an avant-garde architecture char- ture of the late 19th and himself one of Sliema’s and projects in Barcelona: Parque Diagonal broad range of scales. The primary aim is acterised by eccentric egos detached from early 20th centuries. most prolific architects. Mar (1997-2002), Head Office Gas Natural to offer inspired building solutions accord- reality, and on the other side an industry of The Tower Road eleva- (1999-2006) and the ing to clients’ needs, with respect to nature tions are probably ear- With so much of Sliema’s Market and quarter and the environment. Their work has been lier, adorned by typical identity systematically Santa Caterina (1996- acknowledged on many occasions both in timber balconies, one destroyed in the past Practically all the elevations overloooking St. Anne’s Square are the original Victorian ones. Mepa ought to ensure the protection of these facades 2005), as well as proj- Greece and abroad with prizes in numer- of them louvered above decades, St. Anne’s ects across Europe, ous competitions. As well as projects in the bustling shops underneath. As always, ment of Sliema ends a long way away from Sliema) that many apartment blocks sur- Square through the preservation of the including the School Greece, they have undertaken commis- the colour schemes of the apertures play St. Anne’s Square, therefore there is abso- round the area, and therefore these build- charming facades that surround it, can Studio UP of Music in Hamburg sions in Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, such an important role in the streetscape, lutely no recognition of the architectural ings are destined, sooner or later, to be stand as a kind of symbolic pocket of what (1997-2000) and the the Sultanate of Oman, Portugal, the especially in a piazza. and urban significance of these buildings similarly developed. However this would Sliema was once like and how it has been City Hall in Utrecht Zagreb Salon and represented Croatia at Netherlands, Norway, Bulgaria, Romania Studying the MEPA Local Plan, I noticed let alone their protection. One understands be an opportunity were facadism would be brought into the 21st Century. MEPA please Benedetta Tagliabue The Battery (1996-2000). In the 2004 Venice Biennale, 9th International and Ukraine. that the urban conservation area catch- (as is now the case nearly everywhere in an acceptable compromise. I imagine that take note!
20 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 21 Now to 10 July 2009; V&A Now to 23 August 2009; The Netherlands Now to 01 November 2009; Design Museum, London, UK Museum, London, UK Brazil Contemporary – Contemporary art, Remembering Jan Kaplický – Europe and the architecture, visual culture and design Architect of the Future O ur Architects English Baroque: Four Rotterdam museums, Museum Boijmans Van Jan Kaplický, who died earlier this year, was the Architecture Beuningen, the Netherlands Architecture Institute, the Czech architect responsible for some of the most Through “Our Architects”, André the Order of St John’s as well as would not do it for fun.” Other curi- in England Netherlands Photo Museum and Kunsthal Rotterdam, remarkable buildings that Britain has ever seen. Lord’s 1660–1715 Zammit has brought to light a explaining early Anglo Maltese osities include a detailed record of are bringing the rich culture of cricket ground holds the press box he built with his Some of Britain’s best known and most-loved buildings Brazil to the city on the Maas. former partner, Amanda reviews genealogy of our profession clashes during the times of the all periti graduated between ’61 can be described as English Baroque. But where exactly This exposition presents every Levete – it was their
which the contemporary perit is British. One case in point is the and ’92 as well as insight into the international events did its architects, such as Sir Christopher Wren, Nicholas facet of Brazilian culture in four first major project rarely aware of. Zammit has col- controversy regarding the selec- relationship that existed between Hawksmoor and Sir John Vanbrugh, get their ideas? exhibitions, a publication, and and won the Stirling lated what started as a private tion of Barry as architect for the lecturers and students. Discover how these and other architects took inspiration a programme of activities. Prize. Kaplický also interest in the long line of periti Royal Opera site – this in spite Zammit’s light tone of writing from European Baroque buildings through drawings www.nai.nl designed the Selfridges in his family - an ad hoc study of him never having set foot on and remarkable aptitude for story from the RIBA Library collections and the recently department store in which eventually developed and the Islands. Stories are always telling makes this book a thor- acquired model of Easton Neston (above), exquisitely Now to 04 October Birmingham, 2003 and yet even more remarkable became the story of the Maltese grounded in a historical and oughly enjoyable read. Boasting crafted to the designs of Hawksmoor in 1694. 2009; Design Museum, London, UK are the buildings that Kaplický designed, which the www.vam.ac.uk / www.architecture.com world will never see – to say nothing of his stream perit. social context, thus making for 200 illustrations, mostly from Super Contemporary of ideas for solar powered vehicles, electric cars, Design Museum has joined forces with Beefeater 24 to
Though it is generally believed easy reading. his private collection, timelines, book Now to 19 July 2009; V&A Museum, London, UK jewellery, bikinis and double-decker buses. that notable Maltese architects The preface to a chapter on genealogical charts and an index celebrate the fearlessly progressive spirit of London’s Baroque 1620-1800: Style in www.designmuseum.org in our history are few and far Paternal Family Trees begins on of over 2000 names, this book is a greatest creative minds, past and present. “London the Age of Magnificence thinks, designs and makes like between, his account reaches as this note: “It is not an easy mat- definite addition to any collection Now to 01 November 2009; Austrian The magnificence and splendour of Baroque, one of no other city; it creates and Museum of Applied Arts, Austria far back as the last decades of ter to trace family trees and you of Melitensia. the most opulent styles of the the world follows.” A magnet 17th and 18th centuries, will be for mavericks and freethinkers, Furniture as Trophy the subject of the V&A’s spring London has nurtured a creative An exhibition of furniture made exhibition. The exhibition will reflect community that continues to from hunting “trophies” such the complexity and grandeur rival all other design capitals. as antlers, horns, etc. www.archinect.com of the Baroque style, from the www.designmuseum.org www.mak.at COMPETITION Rome of Borromini and Bernini to the magnificence of Louis XIV’s Now to 11 October 2009; Design Museum, Gent, Belgium Now to 22 November 2009; Versailles and the lavishness of Baroque theatre and Yrjö Kukkapuro V&A Museum, London, UK performance. On display will be religious paintings by Can you identify this villa built in Rabat in the late 19th Functionality is key in Kukkapuro’s design philosophy, A Higher Ambition: Rubens and Tiepolo while silver furniture, portraits, “Form follows function” is the motto he lives by. Owen Jones (1809–74) century and name the architect responsible for its design? sculpture, a regal bed and court tapestries will conjure Time and again he takes up the challenge of creat- This display will trace Owen Jones’s unique contribu- up the rooms of a Baroque palace. The exhibition will ing functional, durable and tions to Victorian design reform; from his early studies The winner of this com- be the first to examine all the elements of the Baroque comfortable furniture using as of Islamic decoration at the Alhambra Palace, through petition wins a copy style and will show how, as European power spread, little materials as possible. The to his designs for the 1851 Great Exhibition building, of the book reviewed Baroque style reached other parts of the world, cap- exhibition layout was created by the publication of the Grammar of Ornament (one above: “Our Architects”. tured in objects such as a gilded Mexican altarpiece. Yryö Kukkapuro and gives an of the most important design Send your entries to: www.vam.ac.uk The Editor, The Architect overview of his work from the sourcebooks of all time) and his late 50s until today. Visitors will influence in the founding of the Competition, Kamra tal- Now to 26 July 2009; The Lighthouse, Scotland Periti, The Professional also have the opportunity to try South Kensington Museum. Between Earth and Heaven: The out a number of his designs. www.vam.ac.uk Centre, Sliema Road, Architecture of John Lautner Gzira, or by email on http://design.museum.gent.be thearchitect@ktpmalta. Over the course of a career spent largely in Los Angeles, Now to July com. The first correct John Lautner captured the essence of southern California Now to 18 October 2009; The Barbican, London, UK 2011; V&A Museum, London, UK in more than 150 distinctive structures. Trained by entry drawn on the 21 Radical Nature–Art and Architecture Aestheticism: Beauty in Art Frank Lloyd Wright, Lautner is best known for his private August 2009 will win. for a Changing Planet; 1969–2009 and Design 1860-1900 commissions such as the Elrod Residence in Palm Only residents of the The beauty and wonder of nature have provided inspira- This will be the first international The goal of Archinect is to make architec- includes a news section which is regularly Springs, featured in the James Bond movie Diamonds Maltese Islands are eli- tion for artists and architects for centuries. Since the exhibition to explore the uncon- ture more connected and open-minded, updated with what is happening around are Forever, and Los Angeles’s iconic ‘Chemosphere’. gible to participate. 1960s, the increasingly ventional creativity of the British and bring together designers from the world in architecture. It also includes www.thelighthouse.co.uk around the world to introduce new ideas an image gallery which allows users to Members of the Editorial evident degradation of Aesthetic Movement (1860-1895).
website from all disciplines. Archinect was initially upload their own images for public use. Board and their families the natural world and Featuring superb artworks from developed in 1997 by Paul Petrunia and The “Features” sections deals with a are not eligible to par- the effects of climate the traditional high art of painting, change have brought to fashionable trends in architec- has since become a top online desti- number of interesting topics, and includes ticipate. a new urgency to ture, interior design, domestic nation for progressive-design oriented a blog which allows users to comment on their responses. Radical Nature is the first exhibi- furnishings, art photography and new modes of dress, students, architects, educators, and fans. the various articles and enter into an The building featured in last issue’s competi- tion to bring together key figures across different this exhibition traces Aestheticism’s evolution from Archinect’s member-based community online discussion. Archinect also includes generations who have created utopian works and the artistic concerns of a small circle of avant-garde system allows anyone to participate by a section dedicated to ongoing architec- tion was the Auberge d’Auvergne in Valletta. The inspiring solutions for our ever-changing planet. artists and authors to a broad cultural phenomenon. registering and contributing. The site ture competitions and events. winner is Mr Karl Micallef. www.barbican.org.uk www.vam.ac.uk
22 JULY 2009 JULY 2009 23