A HILL-HUGGING TENT HOUSE

A tent-like house in the south of France has been compared to a Stealth Bomber. Although it is within sight of a nearby historic chateau, its blending with the landscape has made it "invisible" to those charged with protecting historic views. And although it treads lightly on the land, it is solid and permanent. Thanks to geothermal and heat-pump technologies the structure is also comfortable. Next week author Robert Such will describe the Maison Barak and the "heretical" process of its design and construction.

THE REWARDS OF UN-BUILDING

Architects and designers are becoming increasingly aware of a rich source of materials that can't be found in manufacturers' catalogs or magazine advertisements. Instead, this wealth of structural and finish materials is locked in buildings crafted in earlier centuries. When these buildings are finally beyond rehabilitation, some of them are being subjected to deconstruction. Next week architect and writer Michael Cockram will describe how Portland, Oregon's ReBuilding Center is carefully dismantling old structures and making these materials available for reuse.

AWARD-WINNING PARK IN LONDON

The Thames Barrier Park in London is not a traditional English municipal park. Instead, it is an example of contemporary design and a reminder of the area's industrial heritage. The park's location next to the river Thames offers a feeling of peace, openness, and freedom, in contrast to the vast conurbation of London. Next week we'll see why ArchitectureWeek contributing editor Don Barker believes the Paris-based landscape architects Groupe Signes and London architects Patel Taylor have created a park whose influence stretches far beyond its architectural prowess.