By: Chris Lucas

The Dubai 2020 by Grimshaw has a very inviting and attractive design. I think the incorporation of sustainable materials is a great choice by them as well. I see an overarching theme in Grimshaw’s designs. The renderings also remind me of Pickard Chilton’s work—which I’m also a big fan of. I do think the design could also be seen completely different in the daytime as it’s seen during the evening/night. Looking through these constructions also make me excited for the days after the pandemic. These constructions promote interaction with other. They’re the place where you meet new friends, life partners, and interesting people. If I’m ever in Dubai, I’ll definitely add this building to my itinerary.

By: Chris Lucas

I’ve never seen something like the Termae Bath Spa. I think it’s a neat idea to be included in a social club or fitness center. Design of pools/spas never seem to impress me, but this one definitely does. I could see myself arriving in the morning, reading all day, and leaving once the sun sets below the buildings. I also hope the Thermae Bath Spa is salt water and not chlorine. I like how the railings are curving to the center of the spa to illustrate a sense of togetherness and unity amongst those who enter. Given the interesting and inspirational design, I hope that interesting and inspirational people are the ones who get to enjoy it.

By: Chris Lucas

I’m a big fan of the incorporation of wood and class in architecture. From what the photo projects, it looks like Grimshaw has chosen this look. I also think it’s very important to make buildings like airports, event centers, and transportation hubs, attractive and appealing. Being from Oklahoma, many of those buildings are gaudy and cement blocks. It makes me happy that Grimshaw is pushing the limits with these buildings. I’m hoping there’s a revolution of these buildings and to incorporate sustainability and a contemporary, yet timeless, style. Again, Grimshaw’s designs have surpassed my expectations.

By: Chris Lucas

My initial reaction to looking up works by Grimshaw Architects was, quite candidly, “this is so cool.” In terms of the racecourse, I think the design contributes to the significance of the sport of horse racing. The dark undertone of the material contrasting with the green grass and golden-brown hair of the horses is a great look. I also, I find the curvature of the top of the construction inviting and counteracts the rigid shape. I would like to one day visit this racecourse and maybe throw a few dollars on horse Number 2 that’s leading the pack in the photo above.

By: Christopher Lucas

One57 in New York is a very unique residential building that is the home of many financiers and executives. The building is designed to look like waves falling down from the top. The back side looks over central park and sparked a little bit of controversy over it’s unique design. When I visited NYC, I visited this building and I remember there being two entrances: one for high profile residents and one for visitors/other tenants. This was interesting to me that they were trying to implements a certain level of prestige even at the entrance. It made me feel like the building was almost trying to justify its loud design by creating a “high class” entrance for select individuals. While I think the design is loud, I think it contributes character to the south side of Manhattan.

200 West in New York City is one of the most beautiful commercial buildings in Manhattan. The building is Goldman Sachs’s global headquarters and was built to make their mark in the heart of the financial district. I remember walking past it a couple of years ago and feeling the energy of the fast pace of the financial services industry. To me, this building represents innovation, efficiency, and an entrepreneurial spirit. The large glass and steel building is a style I really like and it sets the precedent for how banks in the future will construct their headquarters.

By: Christopher Lucas

432 Park Avenue in New York City is one of my favorite sky scrapers. It stands out amongst all other residential towers. The unique design of large square windows projects a simple, yet complex design in the engineering. You can see that some of the squares are open, allowing wind to pass through the building for stability. Each unit is very expensive and I was astonished by the size of the building when I stood on the street looking up at it. I was motivated when I stood there in front of the lobby doors. Owning one of these apartments is the equivalent to owning a piece of art in the heart of Manhattan. What a beautiful building!

By: Christopher Lucas

29 Spanish Town Court in Rosemary Beach, FL is one of my favorite homes I’ve seen. Built in 2012, it has water front views and always seems to attract a festive crowd during summer evenings. The first time I saw it, the owner was having a party and I knew that this had to be a vacation home, and a perfect set up at that. The buildings in Rosemary Beach, even the residential ones, all having a matching style. But I have always thought 29 Spanish Town Ct has an intimating presence which I can admire, not only because it’s on the water, but because it stands tall on the coast which you do not see very often for ocean front homes to potentially obstruct views of those behind it. I hope to see the inside one day and every time I’m in Rosemary, I’ll always take a stroll past it. I’m already looking forward to the next time the ocean breeze hits me as I admire its style.