Baby its cold outside, and in case you were wondering how to build an igloo, your friends at Architectureweek have you covered. With a pole, saw, shovel and a little luck, the step by step instructions will have you warm and toasty in no time, and you will even learn some basic principles of physics and sustainable construction in the process. However unless you are in Alaska, Canada or a more exotic locale in the high northern latitudes, you may be out of luck. Suitable dense-packed, dry snow has yet to make its seasonal appearance in my hometown of New York City.
Via: Architectureweek, image by Amelia Bauer
The developers of Dubai World have announced their ambitions to meet sustainability goals for all new construction. Initial requirements will be based on the USGBC LEED rating system. The Dubai World master plan un-ironically includes a fanciful cluster of private islands off of the coast that mimic earth’s land masses. The price for your own private island? Starting at $10 million.
The construction of the islands is expected to finish this year. While moving over 326 million cubic meters of sand is an impressive undertaking, it doesn’t seem particularly green. This looks a lot like dredging to me. There must be some truth to the statement from developers of the World Islands that this feat “will not be repeated again.” New environmental regulations will ban building activities “within 50 feet of the sea.”
Via: BDC, construction photos via: Private Islands Online
