24 minute read
Greg Keffer
from Atelier 08
by Union Print
Client's Narrative A
INTERVIEW WITH GREG KEFFER
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The art of design comes not from the end product that is created, but the artistic and innovative mindset required to turn an abstract concept into a reality. Certainly two different architects would disagree on what constitutes a proper definition of ‘architecture’. The idea dates since the first creations of architecture, with historians such as Marcus Vitruvuis echoing the notion of “firmness, commodity and delight” to be the ideals of what is deemed as a social art and an artful science.
Hotel EMC2, Chicago - Archive Lounge
Photo Credit: Geodie Wood
With time comes new forms of ideals. This field is no stranger to the constant change in appearances and standards. Fortunately, we were given the opportunity to discuss the innovative and creative process that is derived from the world of architecture as we spoke to Greg Keffer. Mr Keffer is a Partner and Studio Leader at the world acclaimed Rockwell Group. Founded in 1984 by David Rockwell, the firm is an award-winning, interdisciplinary practice of architecture and design based in New York City composed of 250 people, with additional satellite
offices located in Madrid and Los Angeles. To name only one area of expertise that Rockwell is capable of doing is a challenge in itself as they have a portfolio so vast that it will require a separate article. However, to name a few, their work which they eloquently dub as their ‘curiosites’ span from the hospitality industry, to nightlife and entertainment, educational facilities and not to mention their affinity for the theatre.
Greg Keffer walked us through the creative process at Rockwell Group, as the company harnessed their levels of expertise into big projects.
Photo Credit: Emily Andrews 30 Hudson Yards - New York
Hotel EMC2, Chicago
Mr Keffer himself has been responsible for a variety of notable projects that include the hospitality designs of the Nobu Hotel in Barcelona, Moxy in Chelsea, New York, East Village and South Beach and the Kempinski Chengdu; to creative undertakings such as the HQ of Warner Music Group in Los Angeles as well as luxurious residential experiences like the Fifteen Hudson Yards.
“At Rockwell Group, we care most about how our designs are experienced, not theorized—how they are felt “on the ground” on an average day. Our work is driven by the client and the stories we want to tell together, not a prescriptive style. We begin every project with tons of research and brainstorming before we begin to think about a solution. Then we overlay these ideas with the obsessions and interests we have in the studio—around how things are made and how materials are used, inventive combinations, rituals, choreography, etc.”
The performing arts is one of the cornerstones of Rockwell Group. Mr Keffer highlighted the fact that the firm strives to create new and innovative projects that have a “sense of surprise, reveal, and anticipation”, an attribute adopted for “[their] deep interest in the theater”. This interest can be traced back to David Rockwell’s heritage, with his mother being a dancer and choreographer and “would often cast him in community repertory productions.” This love for the theater translated into a Tony Award for Best Scenic Design for the 2016 musical ‘She Loves Me’ along with six other Tony nominations.
Everything from construction methods to building materials to changes to the way people use space has shifted in the last decade.
Moxy East Village - New York Cathedrale Dining Room
By far, one of the company’s major pillars is the hospitality industry. The launch of the W Hotel in New York City was the firm’s first hotel project. The concept revolutionised the hotel industry, whereby it turned the lobby into a living space for people to unwind and relax. Since then, over 40 hotels worldwide have been designed by Rockwell Group. The challenge to remain innovative is an essential ingredient for the firm, and as Mr Keffer explained: “We continue to find ideas and solutions in the uncharted spaces between disciplines, between typologies. I think the “in between” space, and the edges and boundaries of a discipline, is where fresh ideas are born.”
These words resonate with other projects Rockwell Group have carried out, one of which is their modular dining concept for restaurants. Such a concept has been adopted in New York whereby a pilot project has been carried to instill “a safe environment for restaurant workers and guests, and by utilizing space within and outside restaurants during this period of social distancing.” The need to adapt has allowed Rockwell to apply their talents to allow people to “jump-start their businesses.”
It is no surprise that the current COVID-19 pandemic has been a deterrent to business of all shapes and sizes. Greg Keffer outlined the firm’s continuous efforts to adapt and persist in such times for not just themselves but for the community around them. Their efforts have tried to create space for “those that can be used for groups and individuals and also further connect public and private spaces so there’s a more seamless transition between spaces.” The situation clearly has not halted their work ethic, as in August a new hybrid retail shop-restaurant for Murray’s Cheese in New York was launched and more projects including the openings for a Moxy hotel in South Beach Miami and a new Virgin hotel in Las Vegas amongst other dining experiences are in the pipeline.
In a time when major aspects from our daily lives have been halted, Rockwell Group is a clear example of why a flexible and creative work ethic is a fundamental component of carrying forward not only a firm, but a community. Mr Keffer expresses this through the following statement, “It is a moment for us to rethink the value of urban space and ensure that it is used to benefit communities in need.”
Penang State Government initiated an international design competition in January 2020 to transform Penang South Islands into a sustainable, global destination, providing Penangites with approximately 4.6km of public beaches, 600 acres of parks and a 25km waterfront. BIG, Hijjas and Ramboll’s masterplan proposal – BiodiverCity – supports the Penang2030 vision with a clear focus on livability, on stimulating a socially and economically inclusive development, and on environmentally sustainability for future generations.
“The State Government hereby announces and congratulates BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group for PSI. BIG’s team together with Hijjas and Ramboll, brings together the best global and local expertise, and background in projects which are designed at the intersection of society, ecology and economy. The team’s sustainably focused philosophy is rooted in the belief that projects can be good for people, and for the environment. The BiodiverCity Penang masterplan envisions three biodiverse and sustainable islands designed to secure economic, cultural and ecological
growth using local and global technologies, and collective knowledge. By preserving and developing an ecologically diverse landscape, the islands promote coexistence with nature.
BIG, Hijjas and Ramboll will be working closely with the Penang State Government, collaborators and stakeholders to finalize the masterplan and develop a set of urban design guidelines for PSI. The team will also be in close collaboration with the State to ensure that all facets of the project celebrate both the heritage and innovation that characterize Penang, while creating a home for its growing communities, economies and ecologies.” Hon. Mr. Chow Kon
Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, Malaysia.
Penang’s vast biodiversity spans various topographies and protected environments which, in recent years, have seen its coastal zones and natural habitats disrupted by urban developments. In contrast, BiodiverCity is conceived as an Urban Mosaic of three diverse islands, and a set of urban design guidelines for mixing programs, addressing pedestrian and mobility networks, building sustainably and harvesting resources. The three islands bring together mixed-use districts of 15,000 to 18,000 residents across 50 to 500 acres, and a continuous 50 to 100m buffer around each district, establishing habitat connectivity and supporting edge ecologies in reserves, parks, corridors and urban plazas.
“It is an immense honour to have been chosen to imagine this new contribution to the Malaysian archipelago. Architecture and design at its core is the art and science of giving form to our future. In no case is this more evident than here, where we are literally embarking on a journey to create more of Malaysia for future generations. We have decided to set the bar as high as humanly possible by imagining a new archipelago that aims to be both more culturally and biologically diverse than previous developments.
BiodiverCity will have an integrated system of
localized water resources, renewable energy and waste management, tied altogether in a humanmade ecosystem. Rather than design a city for cars, we designed BiodiverCity for waterways, rail and different kinds of personal mobility, forming a multimodal environment of movement. The resultant urban landscape will be a celebration of Penang's position as a truly global crossroads of the world - economically, ecologically and socially.” Bjarke
Ingels, Founder and Creative Director, BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group.
The Channels, BiodiverCity's first island, is constructed in three complementary phases: in Phase 1, Active Destinations include a wave pool and technology park; in Phase 2, a Civic Heart establishes governance and research institutions in the area; and in Phase 3, a Cultural Coast builds upon the heritage and vibrant creative energy of Penang’s George Town to create a regional and international draw. As the heart of the district, the Channels’ 500-acre digital park includes spaces for research, development and local business opportunities. Malaysia’s newest public destination will be the future home for conferences, education centers and a family-oriented park where locals and guests can explore the world of technology, robotics and virtual reality.
“At the south-end of Penang Island, BiodiverCity’s ecologically diverse landscape promotes co-existence with natural elements while giving ground for communal experiences rooted within Malaysian heritage. A network of
biologically rich islands is scaled and programmed to accommodate diversity in social experiences for Penangites and newly established habitats for native plant and animal species.” Daniel Sundlin, Partner,
BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group.
The Mangroves, BiodiverCity's second and central island dedicated to businesses, is organized around a network of sheltered urban wetlands, creating suitable environments for its namesake Mangrove forests—an important natural infrastructure that doubles as effective powerhouses for sequestering more than four times as much carbon as a typical forest.
“Penang’s vibrant multicultural society and biodiverse ecosystem plays a vital role in the social, economic and physical well-being of its inhabitants. As the local architect and planner, we worked together with BIG and Ramboll to secure inclusivity across all levels, including people, culture, nature and land for Penangites. BiodiverCity is designed on this premise of ensuring a sound future and a new normal based on a social contract that puts us in harmony with nature and ensures inclusivity for all, both Penangites and the environment.” Serina
Hijjas, Principal Architect, HIJJAS.
At the center of the Mangroves, the Bamboo Beacon hosts meetings, conferences and major events—broadcasting the knowledge developed in
BiodiverCity out to the world. In addition, civic
amenities are distributed throughout the city to promote inclusive growth and participation in urban life.
The buildings in BiodiverCity will be designed to perform efficiently and will to a large extent be constructed by low-carbon materials such as bamboo and Malaysian timber in combination with green concrete, a sustainable alternative comprised of industrial waste and recycled materials. By encouraging green roofs, facades, public and private open spaces, the islands can form a nearly continuous habitat mosaic feeding back into the forests, beaches, riparian zones and estuaries at the island’s edges.
“The Penang South Island vision includes an adaptive infrastructure management platform to harness the site’s renewable resources provided by the sun, wind, rain and ocean. The platform will be ‘plug-and-play’ and include governance to
incentivize the use of emerging green technologies as part of an evolving resource management solution.”
Shonn Mills, Global Director, Ramboll.
The Laguna, BiodiverCity's westernmost island, is an oasis for ecological living, organized around a central marina. Eight smaller islands form a miniature archipelago, where floating, stilted and terraced housing takes advantage of the natural setting of Tanjung Gertak Sanggul, and where fisherman landing points can easily access the open waters by navigating each of the island’s waterways. Meanwhile, newly established marine habitats support biodiversity underwater by providing spawning grounds for native species, and recreational points and hatcheries support the local communities along Penang’s southern coast.
A web of ecological corridors connects forest reserves to coastal beaches while supporting habitats and communities across the islands. Within humanpopulated areas, animals are given safe passage
through the continuous canopy and waterways, and within natural habitats, people can safely access elevated boardwalks.
BiodiverCity supports a water, air and land-based autonomous public transportation network, aiming for a car free environment where streets serve as a safe and welcoming thoroughfare for bikers and pedestrians. Districts are efficiently connected below platforms to increase the efficiency of goods, services and regional mobility, while maximizing pedestrian safety throughout the public realm.
BiodiverCity is BIG’s latest masterplan unveiling following Toyota Woven City at the CES conference earlier this year. Last year, BIG presented Oceanix City at the United Nations high-level roundtable on Sustainable Floating Cities, bringing together innovators, explorers, marine engineers and scientists at the UN Headquarters to share ideas and solutions to the threat faced by coastal cities and countries due to rising sea levels.
The importance of good LIGHTING during Covid-19
If you are stuck at home? Let there be good natural lighting as light is essential for our health and wellbeing. It also plays an important role in any interior space. Don’t let light come as an afterthought as when decorating people usually focus on furniture and walls. However, one should consider the power of natural lighting in one’s space. Light can help us regulate our sleep-wake cycle and it will help manage our daily routines. General lighting altogether is important for your space as it helps improve the mood and creates a feel-good factor, that helps one feel energized and able to keep up the concentration levels. Since the days will now get shorter and the nights draw in, good lighting is really important for our eyes as it will help us see properly without straining our eyes.
When looking around for light fittings, as a general rule one should keep in mind that all rooms should have layers of light especially during this pandemic when people are spending more time indoors. One should include proper overhead, floor and table or desk lamps. Wall Lights are essential to create an ambiance to make your space feel cosier and warm and it is also good to highlight pictures.
The use of proper lighting such as directional lighting with the use of track lights by Delta Light can provide the right illumination for the entire room as one can highlight specific elements or corners. Track Lighting can be easily hung from a ceiling, with adjustable necks and the lamps that can be easily pointed at specific elements or to highlight home décor. If one spends long hours working on their laptop while staying at home, we suggest that one has proper use of lighting such as desk lamps by Artemide. In the words of Michele De Lucchi, “No desk lamp should make you use two hands to position it”. The Tolomeo lamp is designed for a fully adjustable direction of light. The Artemide lamps are considered on an international level as Design Icons of contemporary design; they are exhibited in most museums of modern art and design collections.
If you are looking for minimal lighting design, then Davide Groppi should do the trick as they offer light without limits. They compose light in space with maximum freedom, light that runs on digital tracks, on invisible threads and modular strips. They use light as a tool to see. They speak the language of authenticity which gives words meanings they have never heard before such as the Moon, an idea which
was born from a dream to bring the Moon home. In this particular moment in time it will make anyone feel good about having nature inside their home to feel comfort and calm.
Portable Lamps are also a must one should have in their home as they can be carried around from the bedroom, to the kitchen, to the study or else even on the terrace. The iconic Bellhop by FLOS, Come Together by Artemide, Cocktail by LEDS C4 among others offer the practicality as they are wireless, rechargeable and lightweight, the ideal lamp one should have as they create a cosy ambience indoors and out.
When it’s time to unwind after a day’s work you need light that changes everything, light by FOSCARINI. Foscarini imagines, develops and produces decorative lamps: night and day, whether they’re on or off, they seduce, surprise and inspire. Foscarini lights are conceived as design objects that transform spaces as they bring beauty and stir emotions. Dinner time will never be the same, as with Spokes suspension lamp it will be extra special.
Don’t forget your weekends, as if you are going to be spending time indoors you need good lighting on your terrace as well. With Roger Pradier you will be spoilt for choice as they can supply a wide variety of modern and classic outdoor light fittings for houses, villas, palaces and gardens. One can choose from 60 collections that come in a wide range of colours and a 25-year guarantee against the corrosion of aluminium.
With Elektra you’ll be spoilt for choice and it will definitely be built around your needs especially during this particular period in time. Turn your house into a home and keep in my mind the importance of good lighting for healthy lifestyle.
Sno ⁄ hetta Completes a Lush Open Office Space in Timber for ASI Reisen
When developing its new head office, international trekking and adventure travel company ASI Reisen sought to have its new space reflect the company’s working culture and commitment to offering sustainable trekking experiences for travelers around the world. Situated in Natters, just south of Innsbruck, Austria, this new timber building with an open office concept offers several solutions that will enable the long-term low environmental footprint of the office space. Inspired by a symbiosis between nature and humanity, the design concept was developed together with ASI Reisen’s employees and the design team from Snøhetta.
Surrounded by a lush exterior, the four-story timber structure combines timber frame construction with solid wooden elements to optimize material use and allow for the greatest amount of open floor plans. In addition to the open office concept and sustainable construction methods, the building features an optimized and sustainable energy concept, based on a combination of high-tech and low-tech solutions.
For humans to continue to live and thrive on this planet, the buildings we inhabit and spend most of our lives in need to be built with as much consideration for natural preservation and energy efficiency as for comfort. “With its resource-saving timber construction and sophisticated sustainable energy concept, the new ASI headquarters marks an inspiration for responsibly constructing our homes and office spaces for the future. At the same time, the new office space offers a pleasant and modern working atmosphere for its employees,” explains Patrick Lüth, Managing Director of Snøhetta’s studio in Innsbruck.
A LUSH FAÇADE
A “green curtain” of climbing plants growing on a suspended metal frame covers the blackened wooden façade, ensuring the building blends harmoniously into its verdant forest surroundings. Composed of 17 different warm weather and evergreen species growing in big planters, this green curtain also serves as a glare shield and for shading the generous glass surfaces. On the western side, the employees can use this metal frame as balcony. The 118 climbing plants change the appearance of the façade throughout the year and thus also adapt to seasonal thermal insulation needs. The microclimate created by this green buffer zone reduces the energy required for cooling the building.
For the facade, a traditional Japanese method of wood preservation was used, known as yakisugi. Slightly charred and thus carbonized, the façade is both waterproof and durable without the need for further painting, while also protecting against insects. The basement and the building core are made of reinforced concrete. Wood was also used for the mullion-transom-façade, the windows, floors and acoustic panels.
Rainwater from the roof is collected in an underground cistern and feeds the automatic irrigation system for the plants on the façade and the garden. Together with the 1,215 new plants in the open space consisting of 73 local species, the green façade also contributes to local biodiversity, ensuring that the building is a good neighbor to its human and other-than-human communities.
AN OPTIMIZED ENERGY CONCEPT
To achieve optimal results, the energy concept was tested and adapted using a thermal-dynamic building simulation. A reversible air-water heat pump system (40 kW) heats and cools the building via underfloor heating or cooling. Sensors measuring room temperature, humidity, CO2 and wind, control the natural ventilation using thermal lift and wind pressure conditions to circulate fresh air through the building. The constantly monitored room climate then regulates how wide and how long the ventilation flaps are open. The roof is covered with PV panels, and the electricity generated partly covers the power consumption of the building.
By offering solutions that will enable the long-term low environmental footprint of the office space, this flexible and open office space over several floors constitutes a healthy and enjoyable working environment for its users. The building is tailor-made for the needs of ASI Reisen and reflects the values of the company in an intuitive and generous way.
ABOUT ASI REISEN
ASI Reisen, founded as family business in 1963, is specialized in worldwide active tours and adventure travel. The company's mission is to develop sustainable experiences for travellers and local communities. The travel portfolio comprises around 1,300 different trips to all continents spanning from hiking tours in small groups with certified guides, individual hiking tours and alpine training, to (e)bike tours and adventure tours.
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GREEN INTERIOR SOLUTIONS
The open-plan office is designed for ASI Reisen’s 65 employees but can be flexibly adapted to future needs if required. Gallery spaces create a large, open and flexible office space, including a variety of individual workplaces as well as communal areas. Generous glass surfaces offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, and a large staircase and a double-height foyer create a welcoming space for visitors. Affectionately called Base Camp, the lobby is a point of entry where the history of the company is presented on large wall panels.
The bright and welcoming atmosphere of the building interior is emphasized by the use of light timber as the main material choice. Employee comfort is prioritized through the inclusion of communal spaces such as meeting niches and rooms, a relaxation room, a cafeteria, showers and changing rooms. Shelves abundant with plants provide a visually pleasing subdivision of the different working zones and offer storage space as well as informal work spaces for reading and writing. A bridge connects the new building with an existing building which includes meeting and relaxation rooms.
CREATING YOUR WALL
Placing decor on walls is a very personal statement. From childhood bedrooms and your first share house to buying your first home, there is something deeply satisfying about making a statement with wall decor. Yet this is often the most over-looked element of decorating a home. When everything else has been chosen, a bare wall can make a room appear unfinished.
Minimalist décor notwithstanding, a room needs space to breathe and the eye needs a place to rest. However, from a single artwork to a wall of eclectic images the beauty of artful arrangements cannot be under-estimated. Indeed, those empty walls are filled with possibilities—and a few additions can make a house feel like a home. If you're ready to turn those stark, bare walls into stylish centerpieces, keep reading. No matter your style, we've got the tricks that can amp up your walls and bring out your personality and taste. Whether you’re an art decor, a nature enthusiast, or a book lover, your walls can be customized so that you can be surrounded by the things you adore.
Today, there is something more on the market which can offer that extra 'aha' factor to your wall. Lucentini handmade tiles are the new trend in the local interior design industry. They are bold, colourful, artistic, distinct and truly bring to life any empty space in a house or any other living space. Irrespective of how you use them, Lucentini tiles are a great way to spruce up your walls. Indeed, their stylish and elegant kick make them the logical choice for any wall project you have in mind.
Unlike static painting one can vary the display from time to time combining different colors, styles, designs, shapes and an infinite combination of ideas. Whether you use several to fill a wall or a small number to make a statement, Lucentini tiles can give your room a unique and personalized look. You can even overlap pieces, and it’s also easy to mix and match different kinds of tiles. Like a gallery wall, you can plan out a configuration or just keep adding to your collection organically as you prefer.
Lucentini tiles are truly worth a place on your wall. Be brave. Try, it. It can’t go wrong.
BEAUTY
All little girls should be told they are pretty, even if they aren't.
Marilyn Monroe
A FACE LIKE THAT Anthea INTERVIEW WITH ZAMMIT
Stunning, confident and with a charming aura would be a perfect way to describe newly crowned Miss Universe Malta 2020, Anthea Zammit.
She is not only beautiful on the outside but also in the inside, a characteristic which fits perfectly with this year's Miss Universe slogan - Confidently Beautiful. The twenty-six-year-old beauty is not just a pretty face. The law student and professional dance teacher stands out of a busy crowd thanks to her sincere and genuine demeanour and amicable aura. Anthea is focused and is never seen beating around the bush. Above all she is spontaneous and a natural beauty queen, the fact that makes her unique.
Anthea's good looks make her participation in Miss Universe Malta 2020 a natural decision. However Miss Universe Malta is more than just a title. She seeks to make a difference in her country and that is what she plans to do. Above all, her participation served to expose the harm caused by psychological distress. She highlighted the problem by sharing her own experience of psychological abuse. Indeed, two years ago, Anthea endured the trauma of a psychological abuse in which she felt undervalued. Behind what many felt was a dazzling presence on stage, her charming smile hid a harrowing emotional experience. Anthea notes; “I was made to believe that I was just not good enough. People said negative things just to bring me down. I had a very traumatic experience,” she says.
