Stretching across Copenhagen Harbor, a spectacular specimen of modern architecture takes shape. This proposed bridge and urban center, developed by the architects at 3XN, not only bridges the geographical gap between Marmormolen and Langeliniekaj; the futuristic CPH Arch moves from architecture, to innovation, to modern art in leaps and bounds. Consisting of two distinct towers and a bridge bowed between then, this modern design is notable for its sleek, singular silhouette and an all-encompassing curve that flows as freely overhead as do the waters that run beneath it. But the uber-modern appeal also a function. “Establishing a connection across the harbor radically improves public access and creates brand new opportunities for life and growth in the area,” according to the architects. 3XN.


25 Nov 2008 | Architecture | Comments (0)
Plasticamente Pavilion borders on art, architecture and technology alike in its futuristic design. Italian architect Riccardo Giovanetti has created this contemporary, hi-tech-inspired pavilion to play host to the premiere screening of Disney’s new film, Trilli – an eco-friendly children’s film. As a reflection of the cartoon’s content, Plasticamente Pavilion itself explores recyclables and plastics in a 130m2 structure. As reported by Contemporist, “The design of the Pavilion was an exercise in balance that comprises the transparency of the architecture, the visibility of the exhibition from far away and the sense of intimacy required for this kind of interior,” says Milan-based Giovanetti. The pavilion is enclosed in hundreds of white, plastic discs, giving this large structure a sense of weightlessness, and lending the design its unique, ultra-modern appeal. Riccardo Giovanetti
via Contemporist
Photo credit: Studio Morosetti


24 Nov 2008 | Architecture | Comments (0)
With seating for 60 and an unlimited creativity, this ultra-contemporary, ultra-creative design by London-based architect Thomas Heatherwick of Heatherwick Studio attracts crowds as much for its architecture as it does for its fares. The East Beach Cafe sits in a serene, seaside setting in Littlehampton, UK, where its become a local landwark thanks to Heatherwick’s innovative approach to design. “The studio saw its challenge as being to produce a long, thin building without flat, two-dimensional facades,” according to the architect. The result is a series of layers, “sliced diagonally into ribbons” that fold over the structure and open to the sea beyond. Glass doors and windows, which can be closed off with rolling shades, offer an unobstructed view while flooding the space with natural light. Heatherwick Studio.
21 Nov 2008 | Architecture | Comments (0)
The Zenith, newly located in Saint-Etienne, France, has recently opened its doors to rave reviews. It’s no wonder this sleek, contemporary design is a hit with modern architecture and art buffs, considering its origins in a 2004 international design competition. Needless to say that architects Foster + Partners won with their plans for the state-of-the-art performance center. “The project has two aims: to raise Saint-Etienne’s profile as a regional venue for arts events and to help drive the regeneration of this formerly industrial city,” according to the architects. The new building is geared to do just that with its distinctive, aerodynamic roof and flexible performance space. Apart from looking cool, the cantilevered roof is actually designed to “scoop” air and create a flow for passive interior ventilation. The modern concert hall is designed to accommodate anywhere from 1,100 to 7,200 culture connoisseurs. Foster + Partners
via Contemporist


20 Nov 2008 | Architecture | Comments (0)
The architects down under have come up with an ultra-modern design that lifts design to new heights – 10 meter heights, to be exact. Designed by Pacific Environments Architects, the curious, contemporary design for Yellow Treehouse Restaurant is a 10-by-12-meter split-level structure, constructed mainly of timber trusses. Set on the trunk of a majestic, 40-meter high Redwood on the outskirts of Aukland, New Zealand, the cafe resembles a glowing, floating lantern by night. Apart from its unconventional placement, the design of the actual cafe is an organic, tear-drop shape accessible via a 60-meter “treetop walkway.” Inside, seating for 18 awaits, where the gorgeous surrounding views are visible through the openings between the slats. “It’s inspired through many forms found in nature – the chrysalis/cocoon protecting the emerging butterfly/moth, perhaps an onion/garlic clove form hung out to dry,” according to the architects. This contemporary design is currently being built as part of a design competition hosted by the New Zealand Yellow Pages, which requires that participants source all products and services from listings in the Yellow Pages. Pacific Environments Architects
via Contemporist


19 Nov 2008 | Architecture | Comments (0)
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