AIA SALUTES EXCELLENCE IN ANNUAL HONOR AWARDS

"One of the undeniable pleasures of a booming economy is the rich palette of architectural projects undertaken," says John D. Anderson, FAIA, the new president of the American Institute of Architects. "If there is a trend to be found among this year's Honor Award winners, it is in the high number of projects that improve the quality of life for neighborhoods, communities, and the citizens who inhabit them." One of this year's winners is Seattle's Benaroya Hall (pictured) designed by LMN Architects.

THE VENT VERT'S DESIGN CHIC

A new perfume and cosmetics shop in the Morumbi shopping center in Sao Paulo, Brazil uses color, lighting, and materials to emphasize its chic design esthetic. The firm Marcap Arquitetura created the dynamic space to appeal to both men and women. Live mannequins, products displayed like sculptures, brand names as design elements, and floors of glass, stainless steel, and quartz-granite all contribute to this unique retail environment.

THE GATESHEAD MILLENNIUM BRIDGE

The River Tyne that runs between Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Gateshead in the northeast of England has a new bridge to add to its illustrious collection. Linking new cultural developments on both sides of the river will be the awe-inspiring Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the first opening bridge to be built across the River Tyne for more than 100 years. It will operate like the lid of a giant eye slowly opening, forming an arch under which ships will pass. London-based writer Don Barker will explain why this bridge—and its construction—have captured the attention of the world.