Test your design IQ
MANILA, Philippines - Who is the architect that designed London’s iconic Swiss Re tower, nicknamed the Gherkin for its tall, rounded, pickle-like shape?
Said to be London’s first environmentally sustainable skyscraper, the Gherkin’s windows in the light wells open automatically to augment the air conditioning system with natural ventilation, an occurrence anticipated to save energy for up to 40 percent of the year.
The floorplans are shaped like flowers, with a circular perimeter indented by six triangular light courts. The indentations remain a constant size at each level, while the space between them diminishes.
The architect was born in Manchester, England in 1935. He received his architectural training at Manchester University School of Architecture, which he entered at age 21, and Yale University. He worked with Richard Rogers and Sue Rogers and his wife, Wendy, as a member of “Team 4” until he founded his own firm in London in 1967. His firm’s work shows a dedication to architectural detailing and craftsmanship. Their designs emphasize the repetition of industrialized “modular” units in which prefabricated off-site-manufactured elements are frequently employed. The firm often designs specialist components for individual projects.
He also designed Hong Kong;s Chek Lap Kok Airport, London City Hall , The Reichstag in Berlin, and the Millau Viaduct in France.
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Text your answer to 0926-3508061 with your name and address. One winner will be chosen through a raffle of texts with the correct answer. The winner will receive P2,000 worth of SM gift certificates for use at Our Home, SM Department Store, or SM Supermarket. They can claim their prize at Our Home in SM Megamall. Call Roma Cortes or Apple Caballes at 634-1951, 634-1952.Bring photocopies of two valid IDs and a clipping of the Design Quiz issue in which you appear as winner.
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Last week’s question: Who is this Broadway stage designer who designed objects for Bell Telephones, Hoover and TV’s for RCA?
Answer: Henry Dreyfuss
Winner: Leilani dela Paz of Malolos, Bulacan
