HDJ Architects / Engineers / Planners’ Post

Though Julia Morgan was one of the first licensed #womenarchitects in California and the nation, there are many more today who are front and center and behind the scenes of many projects, #residentialdesign #residentialarchitecture #commercialarchitecture   

An excellent decision

The rapport between landscape and structure is always exemplary

Charleston, SC is growing and thriving. Learn about what's shaping Charleston's growing infrastructure with insights into seven trends shaping the city's development. https://bit.ly/4aAs6tE

Great dissection of the biggest project for St. Petersburg in a generation.

In our journey toward more sustainable and health-conscious urban environments, the adoption of tunable circadian lighting for exterior spaces has emerged as a beacon of innovation. This lighting technology not only respects the natural rhythms of human biology but also minimizes the ecological footprint on our planet’s diverse ecosystems. As we know, excessive artificial lighting disrupts the circadian rhythms of humans and wildlife alike, affecting sleep patterns, behavior, and even the survival of species. The challenge we face is twofold: How do we illuminate our cities and landscapes in a way that supports human health and safety, while also preserving the dark skies necessary for our flora, fauna and wildlife. The answer lies in the development and implementation of tunable circadian lighting. This technology allows for adjustments in light intensity and color temperature, aligning with the natural progression of daylight and ensuring a harmonious balance between artificial and natural light. By mimicking the dynamic nature of daylight, we can create outdoor environments that support the human circadian system, enhance mood and productivity, and significantly reduce light pollution. But our responsibility does not end with human well-being. Protecting nocturnal wildlife, conserving energy, and preserving our view of the starlit sky are equally important. Integrating motion sensors and adopting dark sky-friendly lighting fixtures are steps we can take to minimize our ecological impact. As we embrace this journey, let’s collaborate across industries, from lighting designers and urban planners to environmentalists and technologists, to create outdoor spaces that respect both human and ecological needs. The future is bright – but let it be so in a way that honors the delicate balance of our planet. #SustainableLighting #CircadianRhythm #EcologicalDesign #UrbanPlanning #InnovationInLighting

"The main purpose and aim of design should be to make our lives better", Dirk Zschunke from Ippolito Fleitz Group talks about the dynamic relationship between space and people as well as his inspirations and design philosophy, in this exclusive interview with Sunon. 

PAUA Commentary on Housing and Urban Design:

Did you know? In the post-World War II era, William Levitt pioneered mass production methods, crafting budget-friendly suburban homes. Levittown, New York, emerged as a hallmark of the suburban dream. Real estate history is full of fascinating twists! 🏡✨ #RealEstateHistory #AncientArchitecture #PropertyLegacy #RealEstate

We are currently exhibiting the work that we have been doing in LAND411/2024 course at Worser Bay Lifesaving Club (251 Marine Parade, Seatoun, Wellington). This project has been a fantastic experience. We have been working with many individuals and representatives from more than 20 local community groups, as well as with mana whenua (indigenous people who have historic and territorial rights over the land). We have engaged with them through a series of site visits, lectures, workshops and reviews. The project advocates for the protection and restoration of this exceptional land by proposing an Ecosanctuary and Heritage reserve. Mātai Moana has a rich history as the former site of a Māori settlement, military emplacements, two historic prisons, and a strategic ecological value due to its location in Wellington harbour. It is mostly public land but it has no specific legal protection. As a consequence, it has been at the centre of recent controversy around how it should be transformed. This project aims to contribute to that discussion by proposing an inclusive design process, where different voices and interests have been considered. Designs have been grounded on site knowledge, Mātauranga Māori and community aspirations, considering community efforts as part of a 30-50 years restoration project. Public identity and sense of belonging aim to be achieved through engagement with biodiversity and cultural heritage, integrating into the reserve physically existing heritage, but also removed heritage, intangible heritage, and memories. The feedback received during the exhibitions will be used to develop a final consensus design while facilitating a deliberative process within the local community and mana whenua. This consensus design will go on public display during spring 2024, with the aim to inform the legal process towards land protection and the gradual transformation of the area. In case that you are interested but cannot attend, get a glimpse of the exhibition here ( https://lnkd.in/gigAGpcm ), or watch this video of the different designs ( https://lnkd.in/gVpQAtn2 ). If you are in Wellington, come along this weekend! Saturday 22nd of June from 13.00-16.00 and Sunday 23rd of June from 11.00-16.00.