Even small or city gardens, where space is a premium, can be transformed into a haven of architectural foliage and fabulous areas for summer dining and entertaining, adding not only value to the home, but a new dimension to living space. Remember, the garden should not be considered as a separate entity, but more as an extension of the living room. In our short summers it should be a magnet drawing family and friends to it at every available opportunity, and in winter the view should be one which serves to remind that spring is not too far away.

The design and planning of a garden is the starting point. The chosen style and design should reflect the home and not be at odds with it. One needs to begin by addressing any unsightly features. Even an ugly view can be softened with careful thought to planting. Equally, privacy should be protected without the prying eyes of neighbours overlooking. Once again this can usually be achieved with strategic planting. Common garden fences can be camouflaged, as can sheds, which may serve as essential storage, but lend absolutely nothing to the overall design.

The next priority is the patio, the size of which should at the very least, accommodate the occupants of the household, and if space allows, provide for entertaining. Tables and chairs should fit comfortably with plenty of room to walk around, and the golden rule of never blocking the entrance from the house into the garden always adhered to. Ideally, patio depths should be a minimum of 4 metres. Quite simply, skimpy patios look awful.

The hard landscaping of the garden and the choice of materials is paramount and whilst budget may ultimately dictate the finishes, always try to aim for the best you can afford. For example, cheap pine decking looks like a budget finish from the day it is installed, let alone after a year or two, when it will become a slippery algae covered liability unless regularly maintained. A good quality hardwood deck, on the other hand, will look beautiful for many years to come with very little maintenance and in the grand scheme of things, the extra cost is money well spent. In a contemporary or minimalist garden where the emphasis really focuses on the hard landscaping, the quality of the materials becomes even more relevant.

Ideas for Roof Garden

A green roof generally means a carpeting of plants on a roof, which improves the energy performance of buildings, and reduces storm water runoff. Though many urban dwellers have flowerpots or container gardens on their roofs, these aren’t providing the energy savings that green roofs do. In order to start a green roof garden there are some things that must be taken into consideration:

Safety: First and foremost, the garden should be safe. This isn’t just about protecting those on the roof from falling off. Since roofs are generally windy places, we also need to protect the passersby from falling tools. So install fencing and securely tie down all equipment. Consult the local department of buildings for any necessary permits and regulations about fence height.

Weight: Wet soil is heavy. So too is a foot of wet snow on top of that soil. So it is necessary to figure out the sustainable weight load of the roof (consult a structural engineer), as too much load in the wrong places can cause structural damage. In most cases, a planting medium instead of soil has to be used.

Containers: A container that is lightweight, but allows drainage is essential. For maximum energy benefits, it should sit flat against the roof. A modular planting system designed for green roofs can be used. So that the plant roots don’t burrow into the roof membrane. Some containers like the recycled-plastic trays with a fabric weed block, wading pools, feed sacks and even recycled tires can be used.

Watering: It is to be done daily. This problem can be solved by running a garden hose up the side of the building, and attaching it to drip lines and a timer system.

Plants: Finally, what can be grown up there? Part of it depends on the available weight load.

Exotic Roof Gardens

A plant that is native to another part of the world but has been introduced anywhere else is an exotic plants. Similarly, exotic roof garden have plants that are not native to one’s place.

Semi: – A small split-level roof garden, which is cluttered with rubbish and a hotchpotch of different materials, is transformed into a slick modern roof garden. The space is divided up into two separate areas, each with its own character. One is funky and colorful; the other calm and relaxing.

Paving: – Bespoke paving is used throughout the garden to create a sense of unity and harmony between both spaces. The paving has tiny flecks of metal and glass embedded in it that reflect the light and sparkle in the sunlight.

Decorative relief screen: – Pale lilac paint is used on the walls to give the garden a sense of space. It also contrasts with a decorative relief screen that’s mounted on the wall opposite the stairs. The screen is custom-built and was inspired by the modern art of Ben Nicholson.

Wave water feature: - A contemporary, stainless steel water feature shaped like a tall wave is used as the central feature in the design, as it can be seen from both areas of the garden. The water cascades gently over the surface reflecting sky and sunlight into the garden.

Galvanized containers: – Galvanized metal containers are used throughout the garden to give extra space for planting. The reflective metal surfaces create additional light into the garden and also complement the plants inside them.

Metal gabions: – Gabions (metal cages) filled with large pebbles and topped with irk wood, form seating areas in the upper garden. They emphasize the contemporary feel of the space and also look good against the architectural foliage of the planting. A rope light threaded through the gabions adds an extra dimension at night.

According to their function, they are categorized as follows:
Main stairs
Service stairs
Portable stairs

According to their construction, stairs are categorized as follows:
Stone stairs
Timber stairs
Concrete stairs
Iron and steel stairs
Stairs from modern materials

Stairs are classified according to their plan form as follows:
Straight stairs: they stretch from a lower to an upper level in one straight run
Return (U) stairs: with two flights of steps parallel to each other with a landing between
Circular stairs: they sweep in a broad curve from one level to another
L stairs, double L stairs: they make a 90-degree turn at a landing
Winder stairs: they have “pie-shaped” steps which substitute a landing
Spiral stairs: they generally have winder steps and they twist around a centre pole

Prime considerations in stair design should be easy use and safety. The available space will make us determine the stair’s shape.

Straight stairs are easy and not expensive to construct, but they require plenty of space.

That’s why stairs with a landing (L-shaped or U-shaped stairs) are often preferred if there’s enough space for them. Winder stairs are used when the space is not sufficient for the L stairs.

Spiral stairs

are used where little space is available. They are not very safe and they are also hard to climb.

The wider and gradual the stair, the more space it will consume.

Stair Terminology

Tread: the horizontal surface for the foot to ascend from one level to another

Riser: the vertical distance between the upper surfaces of two consecutive treads

Flight: a series of steps between floors or landings

Landing:  a platform between two flights that either acts as a resting place, a change of direction or is the end of the stair

Nosing: the front edge of the tread that hangs over the riser

Going:  the horizontal distance between nosings

Stringer: the angled beam or member at each side of the stair that supports the treads

Balustrade: A railing system which provides protection on the open sides of a stair

Total Rise: the total vertical distance from floor to floor

Total run: the length of all of the treads combined

Pitch: the angle that the flight of stairs is built at

Headroom: the distance from the leading edge of a tread to the header directly above

Constructing to Current Building Regulations

All new staircases designed and installed in the UK must meet the standards and guidelines set by the ‘Approved Document K – Protection from falling, collision and impact’ Sub-sections K1 to K5. Part ‘K’ has been developed to make sure staircases are designed safely and covers additional items such as guides to riser heights, tread widths, handrail heights, workmanship, health and safety, head heights limits.

Speirs and Major Associates shared some photos on http://www.contemporist.com that show their work on the lighting of the Infinity Bridge  that was completed last year in Stockton-on-Tees, England.

About the bridge:

The brief called for an iconic structure as part of the Stockton-on-Tees regeneration of the North Shore site.  The resulting footbridge now links the north and south shores and provides better access to business and jobs in the area.

Constructed by Expedition Engineering, the slender bowstring bridge cuts a distinctive silhouette across the River Tees. A 230m-long concrete walkway is supported by a pair of asymmetric steel arches that appear to skip across the river like a pebble skimming water.

Source: contemporist.com

Archipod attempts to reinvent the concept of a traditional home office by bringing modern workspace and a peaceful working environment straight to your backyard. Each garden office comes with an ergonomic semicircular computer desk, concealed background mood lighting, electric heater, smoke alarm, data ports and electrical outlets. The design is trendy, eco-compliant and would be a major point of discussion at barbecues and garden parties.

1. Manchester Civil Justice Centre (Manchester, UK)

2. Container City (London, UK)

3. Gherkin Building (London, UK)

4. Lloyd’s building (London, UK)

5. London City Hall (London, UK)

6. Millennim Dome (London, UK)

7. New Office Building (London, UK)

8. The Empress State Tower (London, UK)

9. The Glynne Arms (West Midlands, UK)

10. Thin House (London, UK)

London is a city known for its beautiful and historic buildings designed by some of the world’s most famous architects. Since the turn of the century, however, a new type of architecture, constructed using concrete, steel and glass, has become an increasingly important part of the ever-changing cityscape. This modern architecture is a highly visible aspect of the city and deserves attention as much as its longstanding architectural counterparts.

As with all large, modern cities, London has its fair share of boring, uniform office high-rises, architecture that adds nothing to its surrounding environment. These and other ill-thought-out buildings tend to give modern architecture a bad name, though the reputation is unmerited. Home to an abundance of high-quality and visually stunning modern techniques, London proves that when done right, concrete, steel and glass can enrich and edify a city’s cultural heritage.

These three highly visible buildings are great examples of how modern architecture is enhancing London’s built environment.

London Modern Architecture – Lloyd’s Building (1986)

Richard Rogers’ Lloyd’s building is a breath of fresh air in a city full of concrete commercial office blocks. The daring design places the stairs, elevators, power cables, air ducts and water pipes on the exterior, creating a clean uncluttered working space inside the tower. The services, things that other buildings try to conceal, thus proudly ornament the outside of the Lloyd’s building, creating its unique look.

The Lloyd’s building is located at 1 Lime Street and although not regularly open to the public the office does open each year as part of London Open House, when it’s free to visit.

London Modern Architecture – London Eye (1999)

Similarly to the Eiffel Tower, in Paris, the London Eye was originally intended only to be a temporary construction. However, due to its immense popularity, much like the Eiffel Tower, the wheel has become a permanent landmark, an instantly recognizable symbol of the city.

The Eye is located on the south bank of the River Thames opposite the houses of parliament. It is currently the most visited paid tourist attraction in country and the 30-minute ride will cost £17.50.

London Modern Architecture – 30 St Mary Axe: The Gherkin (2004)

30 St Mary Axe, affectionately known as The Gherkin (the British word for a pickle) due to its shape, is a welcome addition to the city skyline. This visually striking postmodern tower is an extremely good example of how modern architecture can enhance its local environment. The building is appreciated by both the public and professionals alike and won its architect, Sir Norman Foster, Britain’s most prestigious architectural award, the RIBA Stirling Prize.

Located, unsurprisingly, at 30 St Mary Axe, The Gherkin is only open to the public once a year as part of London Open House.

These three iconic buildings are examples of the modern architecture that exists in London and is adding to the city’s growing portfolio of quality architecture. Due to their highly visible nature these buildings are almost impossible to miss on a trip to London, and if you get the chance are well worth taking a closer look at.

Source: http://architecture.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_best_of_londons_modern_architecture

A-cero Architects designed this house overlooking the Miera River near Santander, Spain.

Walter Gropius, Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe, collectively know as “The Big Three”, developed the principles of modern architecture in Europe during the 1920’s and early 30’s. Their philosophy was famously exposed to the world at the extremely influential 1932 International Exhibition of Modern Architecture at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). The ideals of this exhibition were adopted all across the globe, as Modernism from there after became the dominant style of architecture.

Following the MoMA exhibition, the city of New York has played a profound role in the shaping of modern architecture around the world. While the city is packed full with buildings of outstanding quality, the Guggenheim Museum, Seagram Building and the AT&T Center stand out due to their enormous impact upon the course of architectural history.

The Seagram Building (1957) Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Constructed in 1957, the Seagram Building is the archetypical “International Style” skyscraper. Built by one of the big three, Mies van der Rohe, this building demonstrates the ideals of a movement that takes its name from an exhibition at the MoMA 25 years earlier.

The building is constructed using an internal steel fame that supports the glass curtain wall, and the vertical bronze-colored I-beams of the exterior. The simplicity, honesty and rejection of all ornament, ideals that are synonymous with modern architecture, are displayed for all to see in this building. The International Style is ideally suited to skyscrapers, and thousands of similar looking buildings have risen across America, but Mies van der Rohe’s masterpiece is still undoubtedly the greatest.

The Guggenheim Museum (1959) Frank Lloyd Wright

The Guggenheim Museum is one of America’s best-known buildings, designed by her most famous architects, Frank Lloyd Wright. The Guggenheim’s sleek curves come as a breath of fresh air in the sharp contrast to the straight lines that dominate Manhattan’s buildings. Wright’s innovative design challenged conventional museum construction.

The standard organization of “exhibit in a box” was replaced with artwork displayed in an elliptical spiral starting in the entrance hall rising upward. Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece demonstrated that museums and art galleries do not need to be sterile boxes, and that an interesting space can enhance the visitor’s experience.

AT&T Center (1984) Philip Johnson

The AT&T Center (now the Sony Center) may not look too shocking today, but in 1984 it defied established ideas on modern architecture. Pritzker Prize winner, Philip Johnson’s, building was one of the first, large scale, New York skyscrapers to reject the stark unadorned striped down architecture of the International Style. The Georgian, “Chippendale” pediment on top of the building is purely ornamental, as is the seven story arched entrance. These features aimed to add an element of the past to this modern structure, which went against the principles of Modernism at the time. The AT&T Center is an early example of Post Modernist architecture and was a massive part of legitimizing the movement around the world.

The AT&T Center is far less famous than the Seagram Building or the Guggenheim but had an equally important role in the development of architecture. These three buildings, which changed the course of building history and have influenced architects all over the world, and now stand as monuments to the time they were built and styles they influenced.

While eco friendly architecture used to be too complicated and expensive for the masses, recent developments have occurred that are paving the way for its conversion to mainstream. Construction stores now have sections dedicated to eco-friendly products. Tools and materials used in green architecture now have labels detailing if they are environmentally friendly.

Home and Garden Television hosts segments dedicated exclusively to green architecture and shows their hosts using green products in other segments. There are also a plethora of websites now offering tips and ideas on how to incorporate green house plans at a minimum cost including offering free home plans and coupons for green products.

It is also important to understand that green architecture is not just an approach to the structure of any individual house. Green architecture also refers to the relationship a how shares with its given environment and the topography of the land surrounding it.
For example, if a house is built in a hot and humid city, an architect will likely try to minimize the amount of windows in the house to avoid the wasted energy resulting from air conditioning. Solar panels are integrated into houses where sun shines the majority of the year.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Green-Architecture—Both-Beautiful-and-Smart&id=2785188