The balcony angle articulation creates spaces enriched by contrasts of light and shade, exposure and protection, emphasized by the contrast between the white cast-in-place concrete and the dark Glass Reinforced Concrete. The geometric and material principle of the facades continues trough the external areas, creating landscaped spaces for playing, strolling and relaxing.
Fire twirling on the beach on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand. March 2012.
I wish I could have been knocked out of the atmosphere like Harry :o !
Reaching for the Stars: London’s Shard - stunning views of Europe’s tallest building have been posted on UK online newspaper the Mail Online. Based on an irregular triangular shape from its base to the 72-story high summit, the “Shard” now taking place in the London skyline will be clad entirely in glass offering spectacular views. However, this isn’t just artistic expression at a grand scale; architect Renzo Piano, quoted on the Shard’s own official website:
“This is my vision: I foresee the tower as a vertical city, for thousands of people to work in and enjoy, and for millions to take to their heart.”
The Shard doesn’t only look futuristic, it is a prototype arcology - a space colony that happens to be parked on Earth, realizing many of the essentials of a self-contained artificial urban environment. While it may not contain means to produce its own consumables (water, food, power, air) yet, an individual could live, work, and play his entire life within it.









