Thursday, November 09, 2006

RECESSED COURTYARDS
three urban oases


The lack of green space and access to natural elements is a fundamental struggle in a densely packed urban environment. The American Society of Landscape Architects gives awards each year to public and residential landscaping projects and among this year's winners there were a few favourites that incorporate the concept of creating urban oases. The idea of bringing natural lighting and plants via a recessed courtyard seems to be an excellent solution for places where land space is scarce.

Court Square Press Courtyard, Boston, MA
by Landworks Studio
images: landworks studio






Light-On Electronic Headquarters, Taipei, Taiwan
by SWA Group
images: tom fox, swa group
more information
Principles of green building evident throughout the project in both sustainable material use, energy-efficiency, and relationship to existing environmental context.









Tahari underground courtyard, Millburn, New Jersey
by Valkenburgh Assoc.
images: paul warchol, elizabeth felicella
more information
This small recessed courtyard is smaller scale than the other projects featured here and therefore easier to replicate on a more modest budget and more constricted spaces. They accomplish the task of bringing light, plants, and the seasons to the underground offices.





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