May 4, 2007
  Digging Deep, Building Strong—Rammed Earth for the Ages
Ward+Blake’s “Dirty Modernism” compresses dirt and design elements
Ward+Blake’s TK Residence outside Jackson, Wyo., adapts rammed earth building techniques by grafting post-tensioning rods into the foundation’s walls, thereby making them nearly as strong as pure concrete, a much more environmentally intrusive building material when compared to green-friendly rammed earth. The residence balances angular Modernism with a rustic Old West sensibility derived from the use of indigenous building materials.

Shaker Heritage Inspires Master Plan for Historic Village
John G. Waite Associates, Architects’ comprehensive master plan for Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield, Mass, will give the village an opportunity to reflect on its heritage and assess the current condition and needs of its 20 buildings and 1,200-acre landscape. This collaboration between architect and client will create the future of this outdoor living-history museum and offer a guidepost for similar venues. The team is drawing from Shaker heritage and the Shaker commitment to living a principled life to address contemporary issues such as building community and sustainability. The project is slated for completion at the end of the year.

 

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Here is where you will find our weekly Project Watch, short vignettes on notable projects in this country and abroad. The Design Zone is also where you will find coverage of awards programs, including the national Honor Awards as well as state and local component awards.