JAPANESE GLASS TEMPLE WINS DUPONT BENEDICTUS AWARD

An international diversity of architects was represented in the recent presentation of the DuPont Benedictus Awards. The competition recognizes innovative architectural uses of laminated glass by professional architects and students. This year's first prize winner was Takashi Yamaguchi & Associates, of Osaka, Japan for their Reigenko-ji Glass Temple in Kyoto. Designed to be in harmony with the nearby 17th century temple, the new structure also had to express the Zen spirit and create a meditative space. Next week we'll take a closer look at this and other winning projects in Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the United States.

DESIGNING THE MODERN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Science and math programs in middle schools have evolved into creative yet practical initiatives that engage students through a combination of multimedia instruction, field experiments, computer-based analysis, and hands-on activities. This level of interaction poses special challenges for school architects who must design multipurpose laboratories that both foster creativity and ensure safety. Next week we'll explore some lessons learned by Fanning/Howey Associates, Inc., which they've compiled in the book, Middle Schools: Shaping the Future.

THE INSIGHT ALLIANCE: REINVENTING THE GLOBAL FIRM

The future appears to favor three types of architectural practice: niche specialists, global giants, and local practices. Is it possible for one firm to be all three? Maybe one by itself can't be, but by joining forces with other firms, a new form of design team might be able to satisfy the demands of both local niche and global reach. Next week we'll examine an unusual new form of alliance between firms, which is testing the viability of such cooperation.