TWO ARCHITECTURAL GREATS LOST

In March, 2005, the world of architecture lost two of its most respected 20th century masters, Ralph Erkskine of the United Kingdom and Kenzo Tange of Japan. Each died at the age of 91 after a long and influential career. Erskine became well known for his community planning in Britain and Sweden. Tange is remembered for bringing Japan out of the ashes of World War II. (Pictured: his St. Mary's Cathedral in Tokyo.) Next week we'll look back on the two illustrious careers.

CANAL-SIDE SUSTAINABILITY

The new office building for Rijkswaterstaat Zeeland, the Department of Water Management and Transport, in Middelburg, The Netherlands, sits prominently along a canal. Familiar sustainable-design techniques are used in innovative ways to make the building economical in energy use, without compromising its architectonic image or economic feasibility. The building makes use of passive solar energy, thermal storage, sustainable materials, and daylight. Next week we'll take a closer look.