U.Va. Architecture Design Initiative Takes Multi-Disciplined Approach to Arctic Development

University of Virginia:

“Of the places on earth least likely to be developed, the Arctic would have to be at or near the top of the list. But that’s not the case, according to a design initiative under way at the University of Virginia School of Architecture, which includes an exhibition on display through Feb. 15. U.Va.’s Arctic Design Initiative says development of this northernmost frontier has already begun and expansion is the next step.

Matthew Jull, an associate professor of architecture, and Leena Cho, a lecturer of landscape architecture, began their Arctic research six years ago while in Rotterdam and brought the infant project to U.Va in the fall of 2012. They have since invited students to design for the unexamined impacts of the Arctic, creating a network of designers interested in exploring a new frontier. Through design studios, independent studies and seminars led by Jull and Cho, the initiative includes students at different levels in their academic careers.

The initiative’s focus is unique in that it is not just design-based, but also considers the impact of environmental, political, economic and cultural trajectories that remain disconnected by most designers. For Jull, who began his career as a research scientist before shifting to design, the connectivity between these various fields is inevitable.”

~Writes Ashley Patterson of UVA Today

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A Strategy to Protect Virginians from Toxic Chemicals

University of Richmond:

“The University of Richmond School of Law announces the release of the first comprehensive report on releases and exposures to toxic chemicals in Virginia, 'A Strategy to Protect Virginians From Toxic Chemicals.'  Prepared by Professor Noah Sachs and law student Ryan Murphy, the report concludes that the Commonwealth should place controlling toxics at the forefront of its regulatory agenda to prevent accidents such as the coal ash spill near Danville this week and the chemical spill along the Elk River in Charleston, West Virginia last month.   The report addresses issues that have not received much attention in Virginia, including:

• Chemical storage along waterways
• The lack of a comprehensive state program for remediating contaminated sites
• Coal ash disposal and regulation
• Increasing DEQ's enforcement authority
• Toxics in consumer products”

 ~Writes Noah M. Sachs: Professor, University of Richmond School of Law

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Slideshow: Route 29 UVa School of Architecture Vortex

University of Virginia

“During the first week of classes, students from the University of Virginia's School of Architecture participated in the third annual Vortex. The final projects presented a variety of designs for a future Route 29, including alternative modes of traffic, dense urbanization, and drone transportation of goods.”

~Writes Effie Nicholaou of Charlottesville Tomorrow

Click here to view the slideshow