The Linked Hybrid mixed-use complex in Beijing was designed by Steven Holl and completed in 2009. It is a counter to current urban developments in China because it creates a large urban space that is inviting and open to the public from every side. The entire complex is a three-dimensional space where buildings on the ground, above ground, and underground are fused together through open passageways. The design of the complex encourages various types of interactions in the public space including commercial, residential, educational, and recreational. The complex has been described as an “open city within a city”.

Eero Saarinen is a famous Finnish-American Architect. The Washington Dulles Airport is an international airport located just outside of Washington D.C.. The building is best known for its amazing roof top, that many believed could not be held up by the columns underneath. We actually watched a video about this building in class. I am actually lucky enough to have actually been to this airport many years ago on a trip to Washington D.C. with my Grandfather. It is a very futuristic and sleek design, very beautiful.

This September, Steven Holl completed the Hunters Point Library in Long Island. It has a mostly concrete structure and features large irregular windows that provide waterfront views of Manhattan. The concrete is painted with an aluminum finish, and the windows are placed in sculpted cuts carved out of the facade to show the movement of the people inside and give expansive views of the Manhattan skyline. The size of the windows also allows natural light in from all sides to animate the space within. Additionally, the interior is lined with warm bamboo, which combines with the natural light to create an inviting space. The library also has a reading garden and incorporates green space around the perimeter of the building despite the compact nature of the design.

The building itself was one of the two architects’ initial projects as young up and coming architects. With preliminary completion in 1993, the Goetz collection was later renovated and expanded upon from 2001-2004. The building itself is a very simple structure on two levels, with one part buried underground. The building is mostly made of reinforced concrete, birch wood, and translucent glass.

The Feltrinelli Porta Volta is a famous building complex designed by the two famous architects. Finished in 2016, the 200 meter/650 foot long complex comprises of two pitched roof buildings with offices, cafes, restaurants, and many other multifunctional spaces. The two men got their inspiration for the design from traditional north-Italian, and Milanese, rural farmhouse look.

The CiaxaForum is an awarded winning art museum housed in the former Mediodía powerhouse, the two architects renovated and expanded on the structure in 2008, making it a city landmark. The rusted steel cladding and vertical-garden aesthetic make it one of the city’s most recognizable buildings. The most unique thing about this building is the covered ground plaza that houses a very open and sheltered space for visitors and pedestrians.