A mixed-use concept aims to resist flood damage from rising tides in Boston, fashion designer Alber Elbaz passes away, and HD Expo kicks off with a two-day virtual preview next week. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.
Adjaye Associates unveils Cherry Groce memorial
Photo by Michelle Äärlaht
Adjaye Associates has completed its design of the Cherry Groce Memorial Pavilion, located at Windrush Square in London’s Brixton neighborhood. Commissioned by the Cherry Groce Foundation, which supports marginalized Black, Caribbean, and African communities, is named for the 37-year-old London woman who was shot by police in her home in 1985. Wallpaper reports that Groce was left paralyzed, and died less than 30 years later as a result of her injuries. The memorial comprises a single column and a floating, triangular canopy that symbolizes a community’s ability to shelter and protect, while integrated benches invite the public to sit.
Alber Elbaz dies from coronavirus at 59
Photo by TSCeleb News/Flickr
Fashion designer Albert Elbaz passed away due to COVID-19 on Saturday, April 24th in Paris. He was 59. Elbaz, who served as creative director for Lanvin and Yves Saint Laurent, began his fashion career in 1985 under Geoffrey Beene. Nearly 15 years with Lanvin followed, and Elbaz garnered attention for his feminine, contemporary shapes as well as signatures like pleats and ruffles, writes Dezeen. His most recent endeavor, AZ Factory brand, aimed to create designs that combined traditional craftsmanship with progressive applications and technology. The project’s graphic design drew inspiration from Elbaz’s iconic glasses, which were designed by Micha Weidmann Studio.
Boston development to withstand rising seas
HYM Investment Group has revealed new details about a proposed redevelopment of the Suffolk Downs racetrack near Boston Harbor. Amid the ongoing threat of rising sea levels, the 16.2-million-square-foot project would equip the 161-acre site to withstand flood damage from rising tides. Fast Company reports that the mixed-use site would feature selectively placed embankments as well as a layout to concentrate any flooding. Concepts even consider response to heavy rainfall and tidal surges. Slated for build-out around 2040, the development would include 10,000 housing units, 850,000 square feet of hotel and retail space, 5.2 million square feet of offices, and 40 acres of open public space.
Future New York hotels receive grim prognosis
Photo by Kasagai/Flickr
Mayor Bill de Blasio and other New York officials are proposing a controversial plan that will require City Council approval for any new hotel project throughout the five boroughs. While such oversight is required for developments from racetracks to helipads, the proposal hampers post-pandemic recovery. According to the New York Times, the move could negatively impact the city’s hotel stock and potentially cost $350 million by 2025, in addition to $7 billion in lost tax revenue by 2035. The proposal is expected to meet approval before de Blasio leaves office later this year.
Counting down to the HD Expo Preview
Ahead of the HD Expo + Conference this August 24–25th in Las Vegas, attendees can get a taste of what this year’s show will offer during next week’s HD Expo Preview. Held on May 4–5th, the preview comprises two days of free virtual programming that includes exclusive interviews, panels, and updates. Day one will feature conversations with the likes of David Rockwell, Alessandro Munge, Stephanie Goto, and Daniel Boulud, while day two will feature panels on wellness and brand identity in addition to a conversation with the 2021 Platinum Circle honorees. More information and registration is here.
