Before we get too far, we thought it would be fun to introduce the PJA staff. As an exercise, we answered the question: "What building best represents each of your co-workers?"
Phil – Kimbell Art Museum [Louis Kahn]
The Cornerstone. We have him to thank for getting this good thing going. He’s as honest as the day is long, every detail clearly expressed. The true beauty of this building lies in its structure + design, with elegant solutions in both plan + section. There’s no cladding to beguile, no shiny finishes to hide what isn’t there. With feet firmly planted on the ground, he’s wide reaching + knows there’s more to see by keeping your head out of the clouds. Phil’s style is clarity + articulation, with a soft spot for the curve.
All Images: “AD Classics: Kimbell Art Museum / Louis Kahn” 31 March 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed 03 March 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
Christian – Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower [SOM]
The Mover/Shaker, always keeping us on the cutting edge. If it weren’t for him we’d be stuck in our comfort zones + making slower mistakes [see #34 – Incomplete Manifesto for Growth]. Its bundled tube structure + open floor plans make this tower efficient + versatile; high performance meets sleek materiality, with clean lines + sharp reveals. Without being ostentatious, it’s still the tallest + brightest tower on the Chicago skyline.
All Images: “AD Classics: Willis Tower (Sears Tower) / Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill” 01 June 2010. ArchDaily. Accessed 03 March 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
Sara – Tama Art University Library [Toyo Ito]
The Constant. Sara brightens the office simply with her presence + uplifts with her dedication. Behind the illuminating façade, lies a great deal of complexity that manifests itself through fluid ideas communicated as succinct thoughts. The building deftly protects + displays a wealth of knowledge within its gracefully delicate use of concrete + arches. Of timeless material + trusted geometry, the library is steadfast + resolute in its raison d’etre: to educate, inspire + provide comfort of place.
All Images: "Tama Art University Library / Toyo Ito by Iwan Baan" 17 Mar 2013.ArchDaily. Accessed 03 Mar 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
Woody – Silodam [MVRDV]
The Newest Initiate - Unassumingly worldly, Woody is a colorfully capricious character, enlivening the office atmosphere + bringing with him a true sense of individuality. Similarly distinct + confident in its environment, MVRDV’s mixed use program gave a former dam + silo building a second life. Its polychromatic exterior delineates the various uses of its interior. Woody’s directness, + wide knowledge of Quizzo trivia, is an asset in our friendly office banter. We get to relive the classroom for a second time vicariously through him.
All Images: “Architecture City Guide: Amsterdam” 03 August 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed 03 March 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
All Images: “A New Architectural Style for the Age of the Individual” 19 August 2014. ArchDaily. Accessed 03 March 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
Kelly – Barnes Foundation [Williams-Tsien]
The Friendly Face. Kelly always has a smile for you. She’s bubbly + down to earth, illuminating all who walk through the door. She keeps internal operations humming. Unpretentious + incredibly sensitive to its surroundings, you’d never know this building houses one of the greatest collections of art in the country – a tall order, + it’s done with grace + delight.
All Images: “The Barnes Foundation / Tod Williams + Billie Tsien” 28 May 2012. ArchDaily. Accessed 03 March 2015. http://www.archdaily.com
