13 Months!

Our little Jake is 13 months old today! The last month; the last week even, has been such a blossoming of development. Jake is officially a walker, more and more steady on his legs every day. He just can't get to things fast enough and wants to be involved with everything that Samantha is doing. He is interested in figuring things out. He seems to be understanding a lot of language. The other day we were saying to Samantha "close the door" and before she could close it, Jake was closing the door. Jake very much wants to express himself and it often is in the form of screeching and pointing at things. He is making a lot more sounds that actually sound like words, and he appears to know exactly what he is saying! Yesterday I took Jake out of his crib in the morning and gave him a kiss on his head. Next thing I knew he was leaning in to give me a kiss! Now of course all I can keep from doing is asking him to give me a kiss and he either leans his head in or he goes completely nutso and flails around. We are now at the stage of being able to either store or give to other babies some of our baby items. I finally put the exersaucer in the basement yesterday to join ranks with the swing and bouncy chair.

Here is a video featuring Jake's newest walking skills (requested especially by Gamma):

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE OPENING RECEPTION OF

SLACKER'S PARADISE, LTD.

NEW WORK BY

JACLYN CAMPANARO

ERIC ISSACSON

JOSH ORION KERMIET

TAMAR MONHAIT

CHRIS NAKAYAMA

PATRICIA NO

CHRISTINA OWEN

MEG PETERSON

RIKKI ROTHENBERG

NORM SAJOVIE

CHARLIE SALAS HUMARA

CARI VANDER YACHT

FIRST THURSDAY, JULY 1ST

Early bird sneak peak between 5- 8pm

DJ CHAMPAGNE JAM will introduce the party at 9pm, bringing the bright and bubbly on into the wee hours.

This will be a time. Hope to see you!

Beach Bound

When Samantha was an infant we traveled with her numerous times and I even flew with her a couple times by myself. When Jake came along we sort of nixed the idea of traveling with two babies. This summer we decided that we were ready to test the vacationing waters (literally). This weekend we headed to the beach for a long weekend. We had no idea what to expect staying in a hotel with the 2 kids, but I am very happy to report that we all had a great time, and I think that Chris and I would both say we even were able to relax. We stayed at a great family friendly place that had big open grassy areas and a playground. There was a heated pool, and we had a very short walk to get to the beach and ice cream stands! The hardest part was figuring out meals for the kids. We knew that we would be going out to dinner for two nights, and were actually very lucky to be able to order a local restaurant's meal to our room for one night. Because we were ordering between the early hours of 4-6 we even got our whole bill for 1/2 off! Can't beat that! Lunch time threw us off because we just weren't prepared with a plan for what we were going to feed the kids. There was this want to feed them something healthy, but the convenience of the fried food places all up and down the beach was very tempting. We managed to find some food of some sort of nutritional value for some of the meals, but we all managed to ingest our fair share of fries!

The heated pool and floaties were big hits all around!

We had a really hard time keeping Jake out of the mini fridge.

Luckily, ours was only stocked with milk, water and juice!

Everyone enjoyed the beach when they weren't touching the water!

Samantha did not like the water at all, but Jake didn't seem to mind the waves on his feet.

It was pretty cold!

Riding the carousel

Vacationing agrees with him!

Monday, June 28th

Wow, wow, wow. Okay. So, members of some of our most beloved Portland bands are feeling the summer breeze and trying new things. And the new things RULE.

Lavender Mirror is Kerby from Lovers and Emily Baker, the lovely lady behind Sword and Fern.

Foil Kit Lampy is the new love child of Jayme Hansen (Fleshtone mama) and her partner Heidi.

Jewels of the Nile is Ms. Jessi from Magick Daggers and friends doing something totally different and equally inspired.

Come on down and get into the weirder side of electro- dance music. It's gonna be a real treat.

Tuesday, June 29th: oh, hell yeah!

Supremely stoked. Come celebrate the release of the new Dragging an Ox Through Water record. It sounds so good, y'all!

Vacation!

Nothing says summer like a little ice cream and some Del's!

Summer Fun

We have been having some gorgeous weather lately, and this being the first official day of summer and the longest day of the year, we really couldn't ask for a more perfect day. We've been busy in the back yard with the pool, sand/water table and the sliding board. We are also starting to take trips down the road to the country club where we are spending a lot of time on the weekends when Daddy is home. We are very fortunate, if not a little spoiled by our location here because right across the street we have a great park/playground that we walk to a lot. Last week we got together with friends from town and had a playground play date and we also took in the sights of the animals at the park (sheep and chickens).

The kids at the park (Jake, Ethan, Sammy, Nora, and Miles):

Blowing bubbles with Daddy:

He's only 1 and already lounging in a chair with a snack

(is he all boy or what??)

Jake and his floaty tube:

Family Photos

A few weekends ago we attended the birthday party for our friend Addison. Aimee managed to get this good family photo of us. Jake is much more into the toy he got from the pinata than he is having his photo taken, but these things happen.

Yesterday we snapped a few good pics of the kids:

Tuesday, June 22nd

Jeff and John (members of Inside Voices and Jeffrey Jerusalem) are debuting their new project together, Wet Wool. We can't wait to see it. Neal Morgan joins us after a long tour out with Johanna Newsome. We love his stuff. Bird and Flower will be coming all the way from Columbus, Ohio to wow us with their beautiful sound, and what's more? Marisa Anderson (Evolutionary Jass Band) will be putting together a magical opening set.

Can't wait for this night!!!!

SPECIAL UPDATE:

We're hosting a going away party for Sam Gould and Laura Baldwin!!!

Perhaps you've known these folks over the years- Sam through his art collective, Red76 or Laura through her awesome work as a lawyer. These dear friends have been in Portland a good long time and are moving to Minnesota this coming week. Please come and help us celebrate their time here in Portland! We know they'd really love nothing more then to see you before they go.

This is happening this Monday, June 21st. 8pm on through the night.

DJ Matthew Yake will spin some from his African collection and DJ vs Nature (Andrew Neerman) will play a smattering of arty, modern, deep cuts. The fun starts around 8pm. Hope to see you!

Sunday, June 20th

For those of you that can't read the fine print: THIS SHOW IS GOING TO BE AWESOME! Stoked to see rad projects from Seattle, Haunted Horses and Alaskas. Along with local greats, Mattress and ASSS...we really couldn't ask for a better night.

PAK FA T-50 16th Test Flight

Russia’s fifth-generation fighter aircraft Sukhoi T-50 made its 16th test flight at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TSAGI) in Zhukovsky near Moscow, thus completing the first stage of air and ground tests.

The aircraft was designed to replace the MiG-29 Fulcrum and the Su-27 Flanker in the Russian Air Force. The Russian Defense Ministry plans to buy at least 50 of the fifth-generation fighter jets starting in 2016.

The first stage of the government tests of the fifth-generation fighter will be complete in 2012.

The second stage will focus on testing the aircraft’s system for radio countermeasures, its surveillance capabilities in optical and infrared ranges and its weapons.

The Russian Defense Ministry has set higher demands for this new aircraft than those for the U.S. fifth-generation aircraft.

The fifth-generation fighter aircraft is distinguished by its multifunctional performance, including the ability to engage airborne and ground targets in any weather and at any time of day. It is also distinguished by its super maneuverability, which implies an ability to operate at low speeds and wide angles of attack. It also has low visibility in the optical, infrared and radio wavelengths as well as the ability to land on and take off from short runways of 300 to 400 meters.

PAK FA T-50 16th Test Flight Video

Severodvinsk Nuclear Attack Submarine

Russia Launches New Nuclear-Powered Submarine

Russia on Tuesday launches a new nuclear-powered multipurpose attack submarine after a short delay caused by technical reasons, the Sevmash shipyard said.

The construction of the Severodvinsk, the first Project 885 Yasen (Graney) class submarine, began in 1993 at the Sevmash shipyard in the northern Russian city of Severodvinsk but has since been dogged by financial setbacks. Russia planned to float out the submarine on May 7 to mark the 65th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in May 1945.

Last year, work started on the second sub in the series, the Kazan, which will feature more advanced equipment and weaponary.

Russian experts believe that the commissioning of Graney class would significantly increase combat capabilities of the Russian Navy.

"It is the newest generation of the Russian submarine fleet, which rightfully meets the demands of the 21st century," said Vladimir Pyalov, chief designer of the Malakhit design bureau.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev arrived in the port of Severodvinsk to attend the official float-out ceremony.

Graney class nuclear submarines are designed to launch a variety of long-range cruise missiles (up to 5,000 km) with nuclear warheads, and effectively engage submarines, surface warships and land-based targets.

The submarine's armament includes 24 cruise missiles, including the 3M51 Alfa SLCM, the SS-NX-26 Oniks SLCM or the SS-N-21 Granat/Sampson SLCM. It is also equipped with eight torpedo launchers, as well as mines and anti-ship missiles such as SS-N-16 Stallion.

The Severodvinsk is expected to enter service with the Russian Navy by late 2010 - early 2011.

Wednesday, June 16th

Mr. Dragging An Ox will be playing all the goodies for us on Wednesday evening. Happy hour all night long- no foolin!

You Don't See This Stuff in the City!

Papi has a variety of bird feeders in the back yard which makes for some very interesting viewing of nature from the house. Samantha is able to tell us if a cardinal is sitting out by the feeder (seen below).This summer we have also seen many turkeys around the neighborhood. Here is a male turkey trying to impress the female turkey as the cardinal looks on.
Close up of the male.
Apparently those turkeys weren't following each other around for nothing! Two weeks ago we started seeing the female walking around with 12 little turkey babies following her! Today they were out eating seed that had dropped out of the bird feeder so we were able to get a really close look at them!

Rewind

Here it is Sunday night and I still have things I want to blog from last weekend! Last weekend my mom and dad came into town to celebrate Jake's birthday. We had fun having Mammo, Papi, Gamma and Gampa in the house! We had a little cookout and ice cream sandwich cake for Jake on Saturday and then on Sunday we hit the zoo!

Happy Birthday sign Samantha made:

Jake and Cake:

Jake and Daddy at the zoo:

Samantha roaring like a tiger:

Last weekend a few sicknesses kept us from getting together with anyone but family for Jake's birthday, so this weekend we had a little bash with our Loban crew (yes, our Loban's). Jake didn't know what to do first; eat cake or open gifts, so he did both!

Feel the love:

Sam, Jake and Ethan (someday we will get Noah in there too!)

Strategic Bombers are Crucial for National Security

On December 23, Russia marked the Strategic Aviation Day, which was established to commemorate the creation of the world's first squadron of heavy bombers in 1914. Since then strategic aviation has become an element of the strategic nuclear triad ensuring Russia's security.

Currently, only three countries have strategic aviation - Russia, the United States and China. In fact, only Russia and the U.S. have it, because China only has license-made Russian Tu-16s, whose range and armaments do not meet modern requirements.

The bulk of Russian and U.S. strategic bombers were made during the Cold War.

The United States has 90 B-52H bombers, a modification of the B-52 plane designed in the 1950s. Made in the early 1960s, they are armed with cruise missiles and bombs. The Stratofortresses are expected to remain on combat duty until the 2040s and possibly longer.

The U.S. Air Force also has 20 B-2 Spirit (Stealth) bombers made in the 1990s, and 66 B-1B Lancer supersonic bombers used as conventional weapons carriers.

Russia's main strategic bomber is a Cold War veteran, the Tu-95MS Bear, a 1980s modification of the Tu-95 plane made in the 1950s. The Russian Air Force has 64 Tu-95MS Bears armed with long-range cruise missiles.

Russia's latest strategic bomber is the supersonic Tu-160 Blackjack. It has 14 such planes and plans to resume their mass production, which was suspended in the 1990s.

In addition, Russia has over 150 long-range Tu-22M3 Backfire bombers in its Air Force and Navy. They have a shorter range than the Tu-95 and the Tu-160 and are designed primarily for bombing targets in Eurasia and North Africa and the surrounding seas.

Shortly before the Strategic Aviation Day, Air Force Commander Gen. Anatoly Zhikharev reported on the progress in the creation of a new strategic bomber by the Tupolev design bureau.

The possibility of creating a new prospective strategic bomber was first reported in 2008. In August 2009, the Russian government said it signed a relevant contract with the Tupolev bureau, which has designed the bulk of the country's strategic aircraft since the 1930s.

Eventually, the new strategic bomber will replace the Tu-22M3 and Tu-95 aircraft, which are becoming obsolete, and will complement (and subsequently replace) the Tu-160.

The specifications of the prospective plane are kept secret, but sources say it will be a crossover between the Tu-22M3 and the heavier and more expensive Tu-160.

Since it will be cheaper than the Tu-160, the Russian Air Force will be able to buy a sufficient number of the new planes to decommission the Tu-95MS and the Tu-22M3. In all 200 aircraft will be replaced, including those made for the Navy.

It is so far unclear when the new plane will be ready. It was said in the summer of 2009 that it should make its maiden flight in 2015 or 2016, but sources say the deadline could be shifted to 2012-2013. Mass production is expected to start in 2019 or 2020.

The new supersonic bomber will have stealth elements, carry cruise missiles, and have a sufficient range to reach targets in Eurasia, North Africa and possibly (with midair refueling) on other continents and in the outlying regions of the World's Oceans.

The new plane will have a variety of weapons, in particular multirole cruise missiles and guided bombs, ensuring its use for different purposes, from pinpoint strikes in local conflict zones to nuclear strikes.

Strategic aviation is one of the most flexible elements of the military system. Unlike nuclear missile submarines and intercontinental ballistic missiles, strategic bombers can carry conventional weapons for use in local conflicts and fulfill a wide range of tasks in an all-out war.

Such flexibility of the multirole strategic bombers ensures them a prominent place in Russia's defenses even though they cannot fly as fast or carry as large an equivalent yield as intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Saudi Arabia Gives Israel Clear Skies to Attack Iranian Nuclear Sites

Saudi Arabia has conducted tests to stand down its air defences to enable Israeli jets to make a bombing raid on Iran’s nuclear facilities, The Times can reveal.

In the week that the UN Security Council imposed a new round of sanctions on Tehran, defence sources in the Gulf say that Riyadh has agreed to allow Israel to use a narrow corridor of its airspace in the north of the country to shorten the distance for a bombing run on Iran.

To ensure the Israeli bombers pass unmolested, Riyadh has carried out tests to make certain its own jets are not scrambled and missile defence systems not activated. Once the Israelis are through, the kingdom’s air defences will return to full alert.

“The Saudis have given their permission for the Israelis to pass over and they will look the other way,” said a US defence source in the area. “They have already done tests to make sure their own jets aren’t scrambled and no one gets shot down. This has all been done with the agreement of the [US] State Department.”

Sources in Saudi Arabia say it is common knowledge within defence circles in the kingdom that an arrangement is in place if Israel decides to launch the raid. Despite the tension between the two governments, they share a mutual loathing of the regime in Tehran and a common fear of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “We all know this. We will let them [the Israelis] through and see nothing,” said one.

The four main targets for any raid on Iran would be the uranium enrichment facilities at Natanz and Qom, the gas storage development at Isfahan and the heavy-water reactor at Arak. Secondary targets include the lightwater reactor at Bushehr, which could produce weapons-grade plutonium when complete.

The targets lie as far as 1,400 miles (2,250km) from Israel; the outer limits of their bombers’ range, even with aerial refuelling. An open corridor across northern Saudi Arabia would significantly shorten the distance. An airstrike would involve multiple waves of bombers, possibly crossing Jordan, northern Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Aircraft attacking Bushehr, on the Gulf coast, could swing beneath Kuwait to strike from the southwest.

Read more

Amazing Architecture | Exotic Architectural Gems of India

India is a land of beauty with a host of architectural gems, exotic hill stations, silent waterfalls, lush green forests, wildlife centuries, and a diversified image of ethnicities. With so much to explore and discover, the enchanting land has become a hot destination for tourists around the world.

With a blend of imaginations, creations, and passion, Tour of India offers to all a golden opportunity to discover the richness of India in all its form. The exotic architecture of the country is incredibly beautiful. Here are some of the most popular architectural gems of the country:

Taj Mahal

This is an amingly beautiful tourist attraction situated in the city of Agra. This great masterpiece was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in remembrance of his wife. Since then this exotic destination has become an epitome of eternal love.

Akshardham Temple

The Akshardham Temple is a massive temple built on the river Yamuna in Delhi. The architecture of the temple is outstanding with amazing statues, motifs and arches. The intricately carved pillars are also awesome. This recently built temple has broken all records of exotic old monuments.

Charminar

Charminar is a gorgeous landmark situated in Hyderabad. The architecture is characterized by magnificent galleries and arches that entice tourists from all over the world. The landmark is strikingly built on four towers from where it got its name.

Ajanta Ellora Caves

The Ajanta Ellora Caves are situated in Aurangababd in Maharashtra. The caves offer a beautiful blend of rituals, ceremonies, and ethnicities with a host of temples belonging to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.

Golden Temple

The Golden Temple built in Amritsar by Guru Arjun Singh is one of the most significant landmarks in India. It is considered to be the holiest place for Sikhs and as a tourist attraction it's just astounding.

Sun Temple

The Sun Temple of Konark situated in Orissa is built in dedication to Sun God. The temple is artistically built of stones with magnificent art including pictures of God, Goddess, and daily life of human.

Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple is another great architectural piece of modern India. The style, the design, and the artwork in the building are incredibly awesome. There is some kind of peace that is delivered within the four walls of the Lotus.

Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal is a five-story palace situated in Jaipur. The architecture is based on Rajpur beliefs and faiths and is considered to be a popular tourist destination.

For more on this land of beauty, visit About India and India News.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennie_Gandhi

Amazing Architecture | Architecture and Anthropology in the House of Mirth

This fall I read The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton on the recommendation of a former professor. It is a tale of a young woman in New York's high society in the early 1900s and follows her social rise and ultimate demise. My professor suggested that I keep my eyes open for anthropology throughout the story. I was amazed by how many elements of anthropology I found on nearly every page; at how many of the social events and nuances I recognized from anthropology lectures. I began to wonder whether Wharton was a student of anthropology or such an astute observer of people and society that she was able to capture these subtle elements.

Of huge importance in the novel was conforming to social norms. Lilly (the heroine/victim) of the novel was adopted and loved by her elite peers and warmly accepted into their exclusive group. She was touted as being the most beautiful among all of New York's young women, the desire of many suitable bachelors, and the holder of great social intelligence. Her access to this group gives Lilly the world, she is welcome to parties, pleasant summer stays in country homes, European vacations, and introduced to only the best in New York's society. Unfortunately for Lilly, she does not behave quite as they would like a young woman like her to, and she begins to have a falling out and is the victim of mistrust and suspicions. Eventually the problem becomes so great, particularly with a female rival, that she is completely ostracized from the group. It is not that as individuals they all dislike her, but she represents such instability to the group that the group must get rid of her to preserve itself.

Further, there was a near constant description of the characters, either through thoughts, words, or actions, considering their status among their peers and how to preserve or elevate their current social status. There is a near constant game of weighing one's own attributes against a rival's. For example Wharton writes "It was not that Miss Bart was afraid of losing her newly acquired hold over Mr. Gryce. Mrs. Dorset might startle or dazzle him, but she had neither the skill nor patience to effect his capture." Lily was taking an objective look at the threat any given rival posed and was quick to discover any points of weakness she could use to her advantage. These and other examples of intrasexual competition abound throughout the novel, especially in the context of high society where status is everything.

What is of further interest is that architecture is the backdrop for all of these events. The wealthiest country estates, most dignified sitting rooms, the most elaborate and elegant ballrooms, and most exclusive restaurants are where the events take place. In the beginning the reader is introduced to the manor at Bellomont where:

"The hall was arcaded, with a gallery supported on columns of pale yellow marble...and the light from the great central lantern overhead shed a brightness on the women's hair and struck sparks from their jewels as they moved."

The architecture and social occupants of the manor worked as one to advertise the wealth, social grace and status of the occupants. Later in the novel Lilly recalls her ambition to have

"an apartment which should surpass the complicated luxury of her friends' surroundings by the whole extent of that artistic sensibility which made her feel herself their superior, in which every tint and line should combine to enhance her beauty and give distinction to her leisure."

This reinforces the perhaps obvious but interesting notion that those with a higher social status should dwell in a place that reflects their status. It would be a strange sight to see a distinguished author, architect, politician or captain of industry living in tenement housing. Architecture and social standing are once again linked after Lilly has been ostracized from her group and left to fend for herself. She has taken residence in a boarding house and

"she dreaded to return to her narrow room, with its blotched wall-paper and shabby paint, and she hated every step of the walk thither through the degradation of a New York street in the last stages of decline from fashion to commerce."

In this instance, architecture and urbanism create a parallel tale to Lilly's own social decline. As she falls from the grace of high society and good fashion into a world where she must manage her own scant commerce, the architecture reflects her position.

Throughout the novel it became more apparent that architecture served as a backdrop for social activities, and became intertwined with anthropological events. Architecture was tied to social class and people and their behavior was linked to their dwellings.

Paul Goss is an architect, freelance writer, blogger and founder of the Architecture and Anthropology Curiosity Collaborative. Visit the blog to learn more about architecture and anthropology: http://architectureanthropology.com To learn more about Paul Goss and his work go here: http://www.paulgoss.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Goss

Amazing Architecture | Architecture of Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is the one among the Seven Wonders of World. The beauty of Taj is worth appreciating for its legendary history and wonderful architecture. This epitome of love is a source for inspiration for many since ages. Tourists are bewitched by the magnificent sight of Taj Mahal. One visit to experience the architectural beauty of Taj is a must for everyone. And once there, you will obviously feel like re-visiting it.

Taj Mahal Tours

Bagging the top list of New Seven Wonders of the World for one more time, has just multiplied the enthusiasm of the visitors to explore the architectural marvel of this wonderful structure in marble, our very own Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal is the finest specimen of architecture. Visitors to Taj Mahal are simply awestruck by the exquisite architectural excellence. The transcendent Taj is often described as India's "Jewel in the Crown", which certainly Taj is. For many centuries, visitors have been coming and seeing the beauty of Taj to appreciate the charming site.

Origin of Taj Mahal

The elegance of Indo Islamic architecture of Taj still attracts the lovers, poets, composers, tourists, travelers, architects, archaeologists alike. Unraveling the mysteries of Taj Mahal is quite interesting. Legend has it that Taj Mahal would not have been a reality had not Prince Khurram, Shah Jahan, seen and fallen in love with Arjumand Bano Begu, Mumtaz Mahal.

Their love at first sight solemnized into marriage and Mumtaz asked Shah Jahan to grant her wishes. Of four wishes, the one was to build a tomb in her memory which would not have seen or made ever before.

Shah Jahan fulfilled the dream of his beloved wife and the rest is history. The opulence of Taj Mahal works like a magic on the beholders. It casts a spell and the beholder is simply amazed by the splendid extravaganza of mysticism. It boasts of being the most enduring symbol of love in the world and one of the most sought after tourist attraction.

Architecture of Taj Mahal

The construction of Taj Mahal required great artistry and mastery. The magnum opus was not built just out of blue. Much pains had been taken for the designing and erection of this grand edifice. The present Taj is an outcome of skill, experience, expertise and diligence of about twenty thousand labors and artisans. The period of its construction is not less amusing. It took twenty two years to transmute this dream of Mumtaz into an epitome of eternal love. Started in 1632, the construction culminated in 1654.

Not only a long duration of erection but the amount of royal treasure spent on its construction is also stunning. If historians are to believed, it is said that Shah Jahan had spent thirty two million rupees from the royal treasury and had consulted several experts form Middle East and Europe. Master craftsmen were imported all the way from Qannauj, Lahore, Multan, Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara to make the wonderful piece of marble.

A fleet of one thousand elephants transported the construction material sourced from different parts of India and Central Asia. Twenty eight different kinds of rare, precious, and semi precious stones were used in the inlay work embellishing Taj.

The architectural complex of Taj Mahal comprise of five main elements:

The darwaza or the main gateway

The Baggecha or the garden

The Masjid or the Mosque

The Naqqar Khana or the Rest House

The Rauza or the Mausoleum

Gateway of Taj is built in pure red sandstone and measures 30 meters in height. The gateway is inscribed in apparently uniform lettering with a "Promise of Allah" (verses) from Koran. The garden of the Taj covers the entire area between the main gateway and the foot of the edifice. The layout of Taj Garden is in the formula of four with two intersecting marble canals studded with fountains and edged with cypress tress. The tomb of Taj is in square plan with chamfered corners. Entry to the mausoleum is through the southern portal. The slender minarets are crowned with eight windowed cupolas that accent the central structure.

Know more about the history of Taj Mahal: http://www.indiatouristspots.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aparana_Chauhan

Amazing Architecture | Architectural Fiberglass - Reasons to Consider This Modern Material

Every year, business owners, homeowners, and those who oversee offices and government buildings decide to enhance these structures through the addition of one or more architectural products. While choosing the right design is important, selecting an appropriate material for the job is also crucial. Architectural GFRP possesses several properties that make it a desirable choice for construction applications. Just a few of the advantages of GFRP are outlined below.

GFRP Can be Placed Outdoors, Even in Harsh Climates

Elements crafted from architectural fiberglass are very durable. Some of the impressive properties of GFRP that make it a robust construction material include:

* Architectural fiberglass is unaffected by salt water, acid rain, and many different types of chemicals.
* Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer elements have, in some instances, stood up to extreme weather events without sustaining damage. FRP structures crafted by Stromberg Architectural, for example, withstood Hurricane Floyd (a category 5 weather event). It is worth noting that nearby structures crafted from other materials were completely destroyed.
* GRP products are unaffected by freeze/thaw cycles, and can therefore be kept outside all year round.
* FRP is so water resistant that it can be installed underwater.


GFRP has a Very High Strength to Weight Ratio

Amazingly, GFRP is, pound for pound, stronger than steel. Many types of architectural fiberglass are also very light, weighing between 2 and 4.5 pounds per square foot. This is advantageous from a construction standpoint because GRP elements can usually be installed without adding extra support to the surrounding structure. Lightweight architectural fiberglass elements can also be transported and installed relatively quickly and easily.

Fiber Reinforced Polymer Offers Great Design Versatility

One of the most important advantages of architectural fiberglass as a construction material is its versatility. GFRP can be molded into a variety of complex shapes and textures. GRP can also be finished to replicate the look of less durable, heavier, and more expensive construction materials, such as iron, coral, bronze, and stone.

Architectural FRP Can be Used in a Variety of Construction Applications

Another advantage of architectural fiberglass is that it can be used to craft a number of elements commonly found on or in private homes, churches, retail establishments, and resorts. Just a few common GFRP elements are fountains, planters, cornice, cupolas, and signs.

When considering GFRP products, it's important to choose a company that has experience fabricating architectural fiberglass, constructing molds, and developing a variety of architectural fiberglass elements. This is the best way to ensure the Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer element will perform optimally, whether it is placed indoors or outside.

Stromberg Architectural is the world's leading producer of GFRC and GFRP products, including GFRP columns, domes, cornice, and sculpture. Visit http://www.strombergarchitectural.com/materials/gfrp for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Collin_Davis

Amazing Architecture | The Relationship Between Anthropology and Unprecedented Architectural Projects

Nick Gogerty has put together an interesting and brief post on the coinciding events of economic bubbles and skyscrapers. The latest example of this is of course the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which began five years ago in a boom. The newly completed tower now stands in a very different Dubai that is suffering economically. So why do we continue to make the decision to build these monolithic and amazing structures in such a competitive and one-up manner?

Going back to the fundamental base of Human Behavioral Ecology, all decisions are made to try to increase one's own reproductive success. Status is of the utmost importance in the realm of sexual competition, as is social intelligence, risk and being a part of a group and following social norms. To continue with the example of Dubai, they took advantage of the opportunity presented in an economic bubble to build an unprecedented urban/coastal landscape that has elevated their status to world class, one-of-a-kind.

So what are the large-scale benefits of this building boom? Economics and status. It seems that evolved behaviors to gain status and wealth translates into similar competition between empires, nations, and metropolises.

I am also reminded of the amazing scale of construction completed in Beijing for the 2008 Olympics. With such rapidly increasing media coverage for the Games over the last decade, the Olympics have quickly become a forum for newer, bigger, (better?), and possibly more absurd architectural projects with little to no thought given for the long term. The opportunity is seized for an instant status boost, but, strangely, the status remains long after the project has been forgotten or failed.

Social intelligence seems to play a role in this as well as group identity and social norms. To sell the idea for the next architectural wonder requires a great deal of social intelligence; perhaps in the art of storytelling, convincing the audience that yours is the best, as well as for coalition building to assemble a team that can actually pull the project off. Further, it you want to identify yourself with a certain group, you must conform to their norms. If your particular group of desire is an elite, progressive and architecturally challenging metropolis or society like Dubai, Beijing, New York and others, you've got to follow the lead and continue to push the envelope. With the latest burst of the bubble, it will be interesting to see how this trend adapts.

Bottom Line? Decisions in architecture are not always made in the interest of good design and wise decisions, but in the interest of short-term status gains.

Paul Goss is an architect, freelance writer, blogger and founder of the Architecture and Anthropology Curiosity Collaborative. Visit the blog to learn more about architecture and anthropology: http://architectureanthropology.com To learn more about Paul Goss and his work go here: http://www.paulgoss.com

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Amazing Architecture | Architecture of the Sublime

Architecture is evocative.

Navigating around the bend of the river a massive metal clad arch dwarfs the boat, the river, the trees, and the skyline. This arch demands attention. It cannot go unnoticed. Humbled by its presence, one can not only but wonder what this "thing" is or does and but also be curious about the premise of its existence. This "thing" commands one to notice its presence. It insists one recognize its power. It represents the zeitgeist of post-war America - a victorious America. The St. Louis Arch, designed by architect Eero Saarinen, creates a sense of awe through layered effects. These characteristics can be quantified, listed, and evaluated. There is no formula to be followed or regulation on the use of these characteristics in the creation of quality Architecture.

1. Originality: The creation of something unique and unprecedented. 2. Timelessness: The consciousness of timelessness does not follow a specific rule-set or path. For this discussion it will be defined as an outcome of the sublime. 3. Hybridization: A more specific form of originality - the creation of "new" through the combination of two seemingly unlinked normative conditions.

Before further discussion and exploration ensues, it must be stated that the symbolism of the St. Louis Arch is not what is under investigation, rather the role of architecture as an evocative object is what we are striving to ascertain.

According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of sublime is simple: awe inspiring. (Un)Fortunately, the implications and understanding of what can be defined as sublime is not so straight forward. "...sublime is to be found in an object even devoid of form, so far as it immediately involves, or else by its presence provokes, a representation of limitlessness."

A basic mathematical relationship has been derived to explore the myriad definitions of sublime: "limitlessness" > "awe inspiring." These two definitions are not equal. A simple definition of the sublime only succeeds in limiting the intensity of everything it had the ability to encompass. Many great works of architecture are timeless. These structures create a constant newness though evocation. Timelessness is a working of the sublime. Kant's definition of the sublime is what architect's strive to achieve through their work.

Architectural competitions have always attempted to allow the architect to express various theories and stylistic approaches that are not always possible or even desirable with a pragmatic client. These competition entries, whether built or not, exert an amazingly strong influence on the development of the field of architecture. The 1947 Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Competition fits into this category.

Eero Saarinen's winning entry for the 1947 competition to design a monument to honor westward expansion is one of these entities. The St. Louis Gateway Arch, a parabolic arch, grew to become not only a symbol for the city of St. Louis, Missouri, but also to epitomize the strength of post-war America. Innovation was the key to the success of Saarinen's competition entry. The Gateway Arch can be seen to fit into the general categories of monument, sculpture, and architecture. This cross-hybridization between disciplines is the reason it still remains iconic. To the laymen, the Gateway Arch can be placed in the category of architecture based on the fact that it is inhabitable. More so, the thing that defines this structure and all great structures is the real life experiential quality. The Gateway Arch is thus viewed as the immutable icon for the city of St. Louis. Great architecture leaves a lasting impression. This is another aspect that separates quality design from other built works - presence. Architecture has the ability, and should, to be experiential in the way that it creates something new, unforeseen, or unusual. This experiential nature can be developed and worked in various ways and disciplines within the field of architecture. Programmatic relationships, aesthetic qualities, structural innovations are all ways to create something unique in architecture.

The St. Louis Arch has a strong physiognomy. Everything that it is or is intended to be is shown from the surface. The structure is a simple parabolic curve built on an extremely large scale. The essence of tectonics and form embodies the zeitgeist of post World War II. The Arch is as much a gateway to the west as it is a symbol for St. Louis and the post-war condition of America. This monument is for all Americans to see the strength, power, and innovation of the country. It is also a symbol to the world, showing the superpower status of the United States. The visual nature of Saarenin's creation can be read by all as architecture. The sheer sense of scale, especially in contrast to the Saint Louis skyline, creates a sense of awe distinct to developments that push the envelope of innovation. To some, the line between sculpture and architecture may be disputed in regard to the Gateway Arch. It is not the architectural critics of that era who define what good architecture is. Eero Saarinen and his projects were not in critical favor during his career and have not been until recent times. His innovative style, structural technique and essence have withstood the test of time. Time is what determines whether or not a structure can be labeled as good architecture. If years pass and the now "old" structure still generates the same wonder and admiration as when it was first constructed, whether on an aesthetic or critical level, that work has passed the test of time.

"Critique of Judgment", a major work by Immanuel Kant which was published later in his career, has been and continues to be read as it pertains to aesthetics. While this interpretation requires the reader to ignore many of Kant's themes, the idea of aesthetics as being specific to beauty and the sublime is a crucial link in its relation to architecture. According to Kant, judgment lies between understanding and reason. The goal of Immanuel Kant's critiques, as stated in the introduction of "Critique of Judgment", is dedication "to uncovering and exhibiting the a priori principles of the mind and the rational structure of experience and moral practice in general."

"...there is no science of the beautiful, but only a critique. A science of the beautiful would require scientific determination and would then fail to be a judgment of taste." Judgment is the bridge between "what is and what ought to be." Kant begins by stating that the "power of judgment" forms a middle term between understanding and reason. The critical search for a principle of judgment (in the case of acts of judgment that are called aesthetic), relating to the beautiful and sublime in nature or art, is the most important item in a critique of this faculty. They "indicate an immediate bearing of this faculty upon the feeling of pleasure or displeasure according to some 'a priori' principle."

In "Critique of Judgment" Kant states that basing one's own judgment on the judgments of others shows a lack of self-determination, or heteronomy. Therefore, individual taste in itself is autonomous. A priori principles cause an immediate feeling of pleasure or displeasure which is individual to one's self. The "a priori-ness" of judgment itself allows it to hold validity. "...uncovering and exhibiting the 'a priori' principles of the mind and the rational structure of experience and moral practice in general"

"The 'power of judgment' forms a middle term between understanding and reason." The analysis of judgment and the establishment of its validity, as well as the sublime are essential to the discourse of architecture. J.M. Bernstein, in "The Fate of Art: Aesthetic Alienation from Kant to Derrida and Adorno" states that judgment can either be true or false, and not a mere expression or statement of like or dislike. "...no conceptual articulation of an object can saturate it sufficiently so as to license a valid judgment of taste."

Mark is an architect, designer, and contributor to Sinking Cities Architecture Blog.

Find more about architecture and design on http://sinkingcities.com/

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Amazing Architecture | Tuscan Architecture

Tuscan architecture combines modern and classic elements that make up pure Old World Europe. The beauty of architecture Tuscan style comes from the typical custom crafted natural stone. This includes limestone, travertine and marble. Terracotta floor and roof tiles are often used to give the antique feel. In Tuscan architecture, wooden beams are often refurbished from Tuscan farmhouses.

Tuscany architecture involves fine Italian building materials that create beautiful marble fireplaces, wrought iron gates and amazing fountains.

Integrating Tuscan elements brings a sense of Old-World charm and mystique to indoor and outdoor aspects of your home.

Exterior architecture typically include:

Tile roof Wrought iron front door entrance Walls covered with vines Crumbling stone walls that outline patios and walkways Beautiful travertine cobblestone driveways Brick or stone set garden paving Tuscan Landscape : Lavender, rosemary and sage can be found surrounding a Tuscan style home. Old lemon pots and antique jars give the feel of a Tuscany garden .

Interior architecture typically include:

Walls: Plaster walls with hand painted wall treatments. Usage of warm colors that represent the rolling hills of Tuscany bring the feel of basking under the Tuscan sun! Mediterranean decor involves subtle earth tones. These are standard in French Country decorating.

Ceilings: Textured richly. Stenciled borders can be found along the ceilings. Paneled or vaulted ceilings are a typical choice in decor as it creates pure Tuscany architectural framework. Wooden or chestnut beams provide a rustic feel to the Old World style home.

Floor: Glass, stone and tile are often used to create amazing mosaic art for flooring, which works well with table tops. Terracotta tiles, marble and ceramic flooring marks true Tuscany home decor. Selection of marbles that blend nicely with your Tuscan color palette.

Tuscany architecture uses pale travertine in home flooring. Marble Chips, stucco and crushed stone are polished nicely creating terrazo floors.

Your home can be so beautiful when choosing architecture Tuscan style!

Patrice D. Walker is an Architect student who specializes in Tuscan Decorating and home based business coaching. To start your own successful business, consider network marketing training to acquire the tools and resources needed.

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