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The Metropol Parasol: Rich Community History Meets Progressive Architecture

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After seven years of planning, design, and construction, J. Mayer H. Architects' Metropol Parasol in Seville, Spain, is a cultural and civic celebration of exuberance and hope -- and a striking testimonial to the spirit and dedication of the people of Seville in creating it. This mixed-use, total redevelopment of the Plaza de la Encarnacion covers over 18,000 m2 (approximately 193,750 square feet) and cost 90 million euros (approximately 129,501,000 U.S. Dollars). Completed in March 2011, the Metropol Parasol project, which defines the Plaza de la Encarnacion, brings welcome life to an important urban space (once a blighted parking lot) in what is becoming the hub of Seville, including a farmers' market, observatory, archaeological museum, and city-view promenades.

Small Hospitals, Big Ideas: Health Care for the Future

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Finalists in Kaiser Permanente’s "Small Hospital, Big Idea" Competition Share Their Visions

What will be the next big thing in hospital design? Kaiser Permanente, a leading not-for-profit health plan and care provider, aims to find out. Although accustomed to building large medical campuses, a changing health care delivery model has induced the company to explore ways of making care more accessible while improving cost effectiveness.

Philip Johnson’s Crystal Cathedral

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The Crystal Cathedral, designed by architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee in 1980 (with adjacent buildings by Richard Neutra and Richard Meier), will continue to serve as a house of worship, having been purchased by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange in 2011.

“Oh, I’m mad for religious buildings. The only thing that really gives you a kick in the world is a religious building.” The inimitable Philip Johnson was quoted saying these words in the iconic book on the architect by Hilary Lewis and John O’Connor, Philip Johnson: The Architect in His Own Words.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill: Sheikh Khalifa Hospital

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With sensitivity to Abu Dhabi’s local culture, climate, and architectural heritage, SOM designed a medical campus that creates a "city within a city."

Visiting the hospital for any length of time can be a difficult experience for patients and their families, what with adjusting to new surroundings, being separated from loved ones, or just missing the familiarities of home. That is why the designers of the Sheikh Khalifa Medical City have put hospitality and psychological well-being at the forefront of their medical campus design.

How to Repair Drywall

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Finding a big hole in your drywall isn’t much fun, but fixing it isn’t a big problem. Whether you have a hole to fix or you are just prepping to paint, a few supplies and tools are all you need for the job. Join our host, Jeff Wilson, for a demonstration of how to repair a variety of different size holes and divots in drywall.

The Waterhouse at South Bund by NHDRO

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What was once a three-story Japanese Army headquarters building from the 1930’s in the Cool Docks development on the South Bund District of Shanghai, China, has been renovated into a four-story, 19-room boutique hotel. Completed in May 2010, the Waterhouse at South Bund was designed by Neri & Hu Design and Research Office (NHDRO). Shanghai designers Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu founded NHDRO, which has received internal and domestic awards for their designs in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, England, Canada, Spain, and the Netherlands.

Exploring Garage Door Design Options

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As we become more aware of residential density and as lots shrink, our garages are more often sited closer to the road, as opposed to behind or next to our homes. Naturally, we would like our homes to have curb appeal, and the increasing variety in garage door design reflects this. We are no longer limited to white, gray, or brown; nor are we confined by building material or an absence of architectural flourishes. The sky – or at least the roof of the garage – is the limit.

Stained Glass: Painting The Light

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In many historic homes, especially ones that date from the Victorian era, one of the most eye-catching design features is a stained glass window. These classic elements recapture the elegance and luxury of days gone by, but the beauty of stained glass is no longer restricted to older homes. Many manufacturers nationwide offer an extensive range of modern stained glass products to suit the needs of any homeowner.

The term “stained glass” actually refers to glass that has been painted and then fired; traditional works are constructed from pieces of cut glass that are set into lead channeling to form a pattern. Most of what we see today is really art glass, although some artisans still practice traditional methods.

Painting: Tools of the Trade

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As the old saw goes, the proper tools make the job; this applies to painting as well. Purchase quality tools and materials. DIYers save on labor costs and can easily justify paying the price of quality tools. Tool quality and price vary widely, but you can find good quality at a medium price. The right tools will help you to achieve your goals of increased quality and decreased work time.

Maintenance Tips: Automatic Sprinkler Systems

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Maintaining your sprinkler system will conserve water and save money. This article will show you how to use an irrigation system to more efficiently water your lawn, garden, or landscaping.

Similar to any other product installed in your home, an automatic sprinkler system needs to be properly maintained. An automatic sprinkler system that is not properly maintained will waste water and be a detriment to the upkeep of your lawn and landscaping. Protecting your investments with regularly scheduled maintenance will ensure that your automatic sprinkler system operates efficiently throughout the year.