View allAll Photos Tagged structuraldesign
Nestled along the vibrant Embarcadero waterfront, the Hyatt Regency San Francisco’s iconic atrium is nothing short of an architectural marvel. Opened in 1973, this record-breaking structure, designed by renowned architect John Portman, boasts the largest hotel atrium in the world at the time, soaring an awe-inspiring 17 floors high. Upon entering, you’re immediately enveloped in its vast scale: expansive glass elevators glide effortlessly up the walls, offering panoramic views of the bustling interior below and the intricate geometric skylight above. The soaring ceilings allow natural light to flood the atrium, creating a stunning contrast with the bold concrete structures, a hallmark of the Brutalist architecture style that defined the era.
Portman’s vision was to create more than just a hotel lobby—this grand space was designed to feel like a city within a city, fostering social interaction while giving guests a sense of urban retreat. Crisscrossing walkways and balconies offer visitors both intimate and sweeping views, adding depth and texture to the already impressive space. The design was so influential that the atrium has appeared in films like High Anxiety and Towering Inferno, further cementing its cultural relevance.
Situated in San Francisco’s Financial District, the Hyatt Regency is just steps away from iconic landmarks like the Ferry Building Marketplace, the Bay Bridge, and the vibrant waterfront piers. Its location makes it perfect for both business travelers and tourists looking to explore the city. Whether you’re staying the night or simply visiting, this monumental atrium is a must-see—an enduring testament to forward-thinking design that continues to inspire architects and travelers alike.
Vancouver's gigantic Five Sails harbour landmark now fully restored, glistens against sky and ocean. The project cost $21-million; 165 people worked on the replacement, installing 178,000 sq. ft. of fabric made of Teflon and Fibreglass. It took 120,000 labour hours to complete.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
MIRA, San Francisco’s striking new addition to the skyline, redefines modern urban living with its unique, twisted architectural design. Located in the heart of the city, this innovative residential tower stands out for its dynamic façade, which spirals upward in a series of shifting columns. Designed by renowned architect Jeanne Gang, MIRA's form is both a functional and aesthetic marvel, allowing for expansive windows and maximizing natural light in each unit. The building's white, metallic exterior contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and surrounding structures, making it an iconic feature in the city's landscape. Situated near the waterfront and major cultural hubs, MIRA offers residents a luxurious and convenient lifestyle with stunning views of the Bay Area. This architectural gem not only enhances San Francisco’s skyline but also represents a significant advancement in sustainable, forward-thinking design.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
This San Francisco warehouse captures the essence of the city's industrial past and adaptive reuse architecture. Located near the waterfront, this historic structure features exposed trusses and beams, characteristic of early 20th-century industrial design. The large, open interior space is illuminated by rows of windows, allowing natural light to highlight its raw, utilitarian aesthetic. Notably, the vibrant red door contrasts with the otherwise muted tones of the building, adding a splash of color and a hint of the structure's historical significance. The warehouse's blend of metal and wood elements reflects San Francisco's rich maritime and industrial heritage. Now repurposed, it serves as a hub for various enterprises, maintaining its architectural integrity while accommodating modern uses. This building is a quintessential example of how San Francisco preserves its architectural history, balancing old-world charm with contemporary functionality.
The Bay Bridge, a marvel of engineering and design, connects San Francisco to Oakland and stands as a key landmark in the Bay Area. Opened in 1936, this suspension bridge features a striking double-deck design, allowing for efficient vehicle traffic flow. The bridge's iconic towers and sweeping cables are a testament to the ambitious architectural vision of the era. Notably, the bridge was retrofitted to enhance earthquake resilience, showcasing advancements in engineering techniques. The eastern span, completed in 2013, replaced the original cantilever section with a self-anchored suspension bridge, reflecting modern aesthetic sensibilities. The Bay Bridge not only serves as a crucial transportation artery but also offers stunning views of the city skyline and the bay, making it a favorite subject for photographers and a symbol of San Francisco's innovative spirit.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
The Hyatt Regency San Francisco Embarcadero is not just a hotel; it’s an architectural landmark. Completed in 1973, this iconic building was designed by renowned architect John Portman. The highlight? Its jaw-dropping atrium, which, for a time, held the record as the world’s largest. The soaring space features geometric lines and futuristic design elements, drawing you into a scene that feels both grand and intimate. This atrium became a symbol of Portman’s signature style, integrating sweeping internal vistas with functional luxury, and has been featured in numerous films, including High Anxiety and The Towering Inferno.
The atrium is a visual feast, with its glass-walled elevators offering panoramic views of the space and beyond to the San Francisco waterfront. A playful mix of natural light and shadow dances across the interior throughout the day, giving guests a new experience every time they look up. The expansive openness of the atrium reflects the optimism of the early 1970s, blending brutalist architecture with modern aesthetics in a way that still feels contemporary.
Beyond its striking design, the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero is also celebrated for its prime location at the foot of Market Street, steps from the Ferry Building and the iconic Embarcadero waterfront. It’s a favorite spot for both travelers and architecture aficionados alike, offering not only stylish accommodations but also a living piece of San Francisco’s design history.
For those with a love of unique spaces and bold architectural statements, the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero’s atrium is a must-see, representing the best of 20th-century innovation in hospitality design.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
Rising above Third Street in San Francisco’s Mission Bay district, the UCSF Medical Center embodies the city’s blend of innovation, compassion, and architectural precision. Completed in 2015, this striking structure of glass, aluminum, and composite panels houses one of the nation’s most advanced health campuses. Designed with patient wellness in mind, its clean lines and layered façades mirror UCSF’s mission to integrate science and humanity. The surrounding streets—alive with transit, cyclists, and the hum of daily life—frame a symbol of progress and care. Here, cutting-edge research and healing intersect in a space defined by light, transparency, and purpose.
An intriguing monochromatic photograph that captures the stark contrast of a modern building's exterior. The well-defined lines, reflections, and geometric patterns seamlessly blend, creating a visually compelling narrative of urban architecture.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
Glen Park BART Station stands as a unique architectural gem within San Francisco’s transit network, seamlessly blending Brutalist design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Located in the heart of the Glen Park neighborhood, this station is not just a functional transit hub but a testament to mid-20th-century architectural innovation.
Designed by architect Corlett & Spackman, the station was completed in 1973 and is a striking example of Brutalism—a style characterized by its raw concrete forms and fortress-like appearance. The station’s imposing concrete façade, angular lines, and minimalist aesthetic contrast with the lush greenery of Glen Canyon Park, located just a short walk away. The interplay between the station's rigid structure and the soft, organic shapes of the nearby park creates a dynamic visual experience, making it a point of interest for both architecture enthusiasts and everyday commuters.
Strategically positioned along the BART system, Glen Park Station serves as a gateway for residents and visitors to explore one of San Francisco's more serene and residential neighborhoods. The station is also a crucial connector, linking the city’s southern neighborhoods with downtown San Francisco and the East Bay. For those interested in local history, Glen Park Station offers more than just transit—it provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving architectural landscape during a period of bold, modernist experimentation.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, Glen Park BART Station offers more than meets the eye. Its historical significance, combined with its unique architectural style, makes it a standout feature of the Glen Park neighborhood—one that resonates with the broader story of San Francisco’s urban development.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
The red-brick facade of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art stands bold and geometric beneath a perfectly blue sky. Designed by Mario Botta and later expanded by Snøhetta, SFMOMA’s distinctive architecture cuts a strong silhouette against the skyline, flanked by soaring downtown towers. The circular oculus peeks just above the roofline, hinting at the museum’s light-filled atrium within. Seen from street level, the building feels both monumental and accessible—an icon of contemporary culture nestled in the heart of SoMa. On days like this, the museum seems to glow with the same creative energy it houses inside.
View of the royal tombs in Gol Gumbaz was built by Muhammad Adil Shah in the year 1656 and is the second largest dome in the world. The dome contains tombs of Muhammad Adil Shah, his two wives, his mistress, his daughter and grandson.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
Volunteers of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa and the 418th Civil Affairs Battalion construct an Eco-Dome prototype Aug. 27 in Djibouti. The Eco-Dome was engineered by the California Institute of Earth Art and Architecture to provide comfortable, economical and sustainable building solutions for impoverished and natural disaster stricken-areas. The design ensures the structure will be resistant to earthquakes, fire, flood and hurricanes.
U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kathrine McDowell
Civil Affairs soldiers and camp service members from different branches began building an Eco-Dome prototype Aug. 24 as a model for possible future construction endeavors in Djibouti and the Horn of Africa.
Eco-Domes, igloo-type structures built from stabilized earth, sandbags and barbed wire, are an inexpensive alternative to constructing brick-and-mortar structures.
“The idea came from a corporation called Cal-Earth out of California,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Erickson, Company C, 418th Civil Affairs Battalion, team sergeant. “There was a situation in an area we couldn’t get materials to, and this could work perfectly for it.”
The prototype, built by a Civil Affairs team and volunteer service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier, will allow CA teams to determine whether it is feasible to build in other locations around the region, and whether the approach is of interest to Djiboutians.
“We thought it would be foolish to build the first one for someone to actually live in,” Erickson said. “We wanted to see if we could actually do it and if it is something Djiboutians would like. This is us building one to show them and to get a little practical experience on how to build them.”
If Djiboutians express a positive interest in the earth architecture prototypes, the CA team will teach them how to build them. The structures can be used for schools, community centers and health clinics, Erickson said. One company in the city of Djibouti has already indicated an interest in learning the earth architecture construction skills, he said.
When built properly, Eco-Dome structures can stand up to the elements.
“It’s fireproof, windproof, waterproof and earthquake- proof,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Kenneth Carmichael, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa strategic communications planner. Properly constructed domes can withstand magnitude 8 earthquakes, he said.
“It’s highly soundproof, and there are low bearings on the whole structure so it’s not going to lean and tip over,” Carmichael said.
Adopting earth architecture construction techniques could help Djiboutians in at least two ways, according to Carmichael.
CJTF-HOA currently spends $300,000-400,000 building schools, clinics and other structures, Carmichael said, and Eco-Domes could add significantly to the utility of those funds.
An Eco-Dome structure 10 feet in diameter, such as the camp prototype, costs less than $2,000 to build. A larger structure, 18-20 feet in diameter, can be built for less than $4,000.
“The goal is to build for capacity,” Carmichael said. “This structure is two things: It can be a school or any type of structure they want to make, but secondly, it’s a skill. It’s expeditionary economics.”
To learn more about U.S. Army Africa visit our official website at www.usaraf.army.mil
Official Twitter Feed: www.twitter.com/usarmyafrica
Official YouTube video channel: www.youtube.com/usarmyafrica
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
U.S. Army Sgt. Amanda Broome, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa Surgeon Cell animal care specialist, works on the construction of an Eco-Dome prototype with the 418th Civil Affairs Battalion Aug. 27 in Djibouti. The Eco-Dome was engineered by the California Institute of Earth Art and Architecture to provide comfortable, economical and sustainable building solutions for impoverished and natural disaster stricken-areas. The design ensures the structure will be resistant to earthquakes, fire, flood and hurricanes.
U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kathrine McDowell
Civil Affairs soldiers and camp service members from different branches began building an Eco-Dome prototype Aug. 24 as a model for possible future construction endeavors in Djibouti and the Horn of Africa.
Eco-Domes, igloo-type structures built from stabilized earth, sandbags and barbed wire, are an inexpensive alternative to constructing brick-and-mortar structures.
“The idea came from a corporation called Cal-Earth out of California,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Erickson, Company C, 418th Civil Affairs Battalion, team sergeant. “There was a situation in an area we couldn’t get materials to, and this could work perfectly for it.”
The prototype, built by a Civil Affairs team and volunteer service members stationed at Camp Lemonnier, will allow CA teams to determine whether it is feasible to build in other locations around the region, and whether the approach is of interest to Djiboutians.
“We thought it would be foolish to build the first one for someone to actually live in,” Erickson said. “We wanted to see if we could actually do it and if it is something Djiboutians would like. This is us building one to show them and to get a little practical experience on how to build them.”
If Djiboutians express a positive interest in the earth architecture prototypes, the CA team will teach them how to build them. The structures can be used for schools, community centers and health clinics, Erickson said. One company in the city of Djibouti has already indicated an interest in learning the earth architecture construction skills, he said.
When built properly, Eco-Dome structures can stand up to the elements.
“It’s fireproof, windproof, waterproof and earthquake- proof,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Kenneth Carmichael, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa strategic communications planner. Properly constructed domes can withstand magnitude 8 earthquakes, he said.
“It’s highly soundproof, and there are low bearings on the whole structure so it’s not going to lean and tip over,” Carmichael said.
Adopting earth architecture construction techniques could help Djiboutians in at least two ways, according to Carmichael.
CJTF-HOA currently spends $300,000-400,000 building schools, clinics and other structures, Carmichael said, and Eco-Domes could add significantly to the utility of those funds.
An Eco-Dome structure 10 feet in diameter, such as the camp prototype, costs less than $2,000 to build. A larger structure, 18-20 feet in diameter, can be built for less than $4,000.
“The goal is to build for capacity,” Carmichael said. “This structure is two things: It can be a school or any type of structure they want to make, but secondly, it’s a skill. It’s expeditionary economics.”
To learn more about U.S. Army Africa visit our official website at www.usaraf.army.mil
Official Twitter Feed: www.twitter.com/usarmyafrica
Official YouTube video channel: www.youtube.com/usarmyafrica
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication
A wide tunnel stretches into the distance, illuminated by overhead lights along the smooth, concrete walls. The feeling of solitude and emptiness is palpable in this stark environment.
"The design of the pavillon consists of 151 custom laminated lightweight beech plywood segments. In order to combine these ultra-thin plywood strips into a structurally stable configuration, newly developed robotic sewing techniques for prefabrication and manual lacing on site are applied."
further information:
photographed by
Frank Dinger
BECOMING - office for visual communication