The House on the Flight of Birds is the name of the latest project of Bernardo Rodrigues, an house located in Ribeira Grande, a municipality on Sao Miguel island in the Azores, Portugal. The building is mainly composed by a central part and by two lateral bodies, recalling the shape of bird’s wings, one enclosing the kitchen, while the other offers a connection to the roof and to the upper floor, where the private rooms are located.

The Portuguese architect aim was to develop a structure able to resist to the adverse weather conditions of the area, characterized by strong winds and frequent showers. This is obtained with a system of walls that externally protect the building by  blocking  winds,  and with the two wing-shaped bodies, that creates a roof, which defends the open spaces on the lower floor from rain.

On the ground floor, in fact, surrounded by the covered patios and courtyards, we find the living area, where the choice of glass for the walls  is capable of adding light to the structure and makes possible to enjoy of the breathtaking landscapes.  The roof provides the last surprise, a terrace with a wonderful view of the north coast of the island.

Photographs: Iwan Baan

Forget all about mahogany king-size tables dimly lit by vintage abet jour lamps, comfortable, luxurious armchairs and books covered in colorful embroidered leather; the 21^st century library has become a contemporary architectural statement exhibiting highly increased functionality and a fusion of sophisticated media devices.

The Oberkirch Media Centre in Germany is a perfect example illustrating how the perception of a library has been reshaped by the demands of today’s fast-pacing society. The place is a complex three-storey building serving as a town archive, a library, a media center and also a place hosting various events. The Wurm+Wurm design team outdid themselves with this ambitious, futuristic, yet still operative project. Aimed towards architectural innovation, whilst keeping to the user-friendly interface, the Center was an unmitigated success!

When faced with the bizarrely sculptural, contrasting façade, any viewer would reasonably question himself what this building hosts. The odd exterior induces an overall feeling of rigidness through an eclectic mix of unorthodox cuts and corners, rounded structures and suspended terraces. Further, the all-white walls enhance the perfection of the design, making it appear even more imposing and impenetrable. However, on a second look, the crystal clear windows provide the viewer with a mischievous sneak peak to the bright, colorful interior. The alluring glimpse of the other side warmly invites you to explore the intricate labyrinth within.

So, as for the inner design, the first thing one will notice is how spacious, completely uncluttered and very well organized everything is. This deeply contributes to creating a relaxed, airy, Zen atmosphere. Moreover, despite the fact that there is plenty of room between book stalls, individual study places and reading areas on all three levels, not even one square meter is being wasted. For instance, the stories are interconnected by an ample, spiraling staircase -considered to be ‘le piece de resistance’ of the center, due to its organic, flowing finishing-, in order to fully exploit the remaining space among floors. The roof is pierced with mammoth round windows, with the purpose of making extensive use of natural light. The corridors, mostly illuminated by sunlight due to the ingeniously designed lateral glass structures and balconies, serve also as reading areas. Last but not least, the children’s special designated area is another avant-garde, yet utilitarian, statement, through the multi-use positioning of furniture and the eccentric design.

Having started as a project in 2007, it took the constructing team three years of hard work to finish this grand piece of contemporary architecture. Through its dual nature and contrasting elements, the building has incited numerous architects and design aficionados all over the world in the past year, gaining it widespread appreciation. As Oberkirch Media Center is regarded as one of the most fascinating modern libraries in Europe, the public is ardently expecting the future projects of Wurm+Wurm!

Population growth and urban centralization have led to rapid escalation in real estate demands in major cities and commercial centers around the globe. In all large cities there is a mad scramble for ground space to build residential and office spaces. The burning question is – the future of real estate. A Czech architect attempts to address this issue via his revolutionary design. Petr Pospisil brings to you The Acadia Tree Tower à la Orbit City of the Jetsons .

The Acadia Tree Tower, an example of the futuristic Googie architecture, draws inspiration from African deserts and the Acadia tree in particular. Pospisil emphasizes that, like the real trees, the Acadia towers would be built of varying heights depending on the context they are meant to serve so as to adapt to the needs of the local populace.

The lean tower supported on just three legs packs a punch in way of design and usability. The multi-functional tower excels in architectural quality. The model houses all – office complexes, living spaces, helipads, swimming pools, spas, shopping centers, hotels, sports facility – in one. Yet the architect manages to minimize environmental footprint, and ensure a green façade for the high-rise.
However, the compliance with the city skyline is critical for mass acceptance of the tower design. For as long as the city landscape remains old style it will be interesting to see how the tower location (and surroundings) adapt to the nouveau design.
I for one would love to live in one of those condos nestled in the secure greens of the tower, with landscaped terraces and a beautiful panoramic view.

Yes, the future is here and Mr. Pospisil ushers it in – in style. Bravo!