• A Lexicon of Modern Facades

    Architectural Modernism emerged between 1900 and 1930, influenced by the industrial revolution, the rapid growth of cities, and the horrific aftermath of World War I. They were motivated by the acceleration of industrialization and social change, and emphasis on function, simplicity, and...Read more

  • Where sidewalks and bike paths have priority

    Continuous sidewalks and bike paths cross intersections so that local streets are no more disruptive than a typical driveway.
    The City of Nanaimo, British Columbia, and ISL Engineering have been working for the last two years on new engineering standards and a complete street design guide. To showcase the standards, the City has implemented a complete street project on Metral Drive. A standout feature of the new standards...Read more

  • A new model for continuing care

    As Baby Boomers enter the market for retirement communities, they are demanding different models from the typical facilities of today, where the most prominent public feature is often a parking lot behind a gated entry. Some continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) are experimenting with...Read more

  • Breaking down scale to fit context

    The requirements challenged the architect to design a large 8-story building that is harmonious with much smaller scale neighbors.
    Avec on H Street in Washington DC is a transit-oriented development with 420 units (32 affordable) and 54,000 square feet of retail on three acres, completed in 2020. It is located in the urban core of the city. This 8-story building is a redevelopment of a former strip mall and parking lot on the...Read more