RESTORING KEW GARDENS

Kew Gardens, on the banks of the River Thames in southwest London, represents 250 years of landscape and garden history. The site also houses 40 historically significant buildings, including Kew Palace, Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, and the Palm House (pictured). A complex conservation program has now been undertaken to conserve Kew's architectural and landscape heritage while developing the site to improve visitor and scientific facilities. Next week, ArchitectureWeek contributing editor Don Barker will describe the plan to restore the site's historic buildings and expand the garden's role as a unique center for UK biodiversity.

KUDOS IN DALLAS

The Dallas AIA announced the winners of its 2002 design awards program earlier this month. Honors were bestowed on both built and unbuilt projects, with special recognition for buildings at least 25 years old that have lasting influence. The "25 Year Residential Award" went to architect John Barthel for the Barthel Residence, completed in 1959. Jurors cited the distinctive "angular folded roofs that shelter two rotated living volumes underneath and float effortlessly above the site's lush, green carpet." (photo by Craig D. Blackmon, AIA) Next week we'll take a look at some other Dallas AIA award winners.

WORKING WITH ARCHITECTURAL STONE

Stone quarrying and production varies widely, and its application requires that an architect understand the equipment used to manufacture final building units and the methods for installing them. Since the introduction of technologically advanced machinery, finished stone surfaces no longer bear the marks of the stonecutter's virtuosity. This has eliminated some types of finishes and detailing. Yet it is still possible to achieve subtleties formerly reached exclusively through hand labor. Next week Malcolm Holzman, principal of Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates, will share his experience in selecting and specifying architectural stone.