Manchester United and Architecture

These are two things I am really passionate about: Manchester United and Architecture (In order of preference). So when I came across this article, I was really delighted. Gary Neville, has never been among my favorite united players, since he is no Cantona or Giggs. But knowing that he has applied to build a flower-shaped eco-friendly house in Greater Manchester, brought him a bit closer to those legendary figures.

Inspired by the Skara Brae, Make Architects have worked in this project for 3 years and just recently submitted the planning application. The project, if granted permission, will be built underground in the shape of flower petals within the landscape. In the heart of this underground "bunker" is the kitchen, with wings for working, sleeping and entertainment.

There are not many images of the project available, since it have just been released in the press I guess. But this is one house I'll be keeping an eye for.










Update:

According to the BBC, Gary Neville's plans for his eco-house which have been dubbed as the "Teletubbies house" have been rejected by Bolton Council. Even though officers from the council recommended its approval, the proposed house provoked opposition from some local people and committee members.

The objections were mainly on the 39m high wind turbine for its noise pollution as well as the fact that the proposed site lies on a greenbelt which must be protected. Some even stated that the environmental claims by the Manchester United star are exaggerated.

Make Architects

Here are some of Make Architects designs that I really like...


Project: The Cube
Where & When: Birmingham, UK. 2005
Description: Mixed use development that will accommodate shops, bars, cafes, offices, apartments and a hotel. A public space is in the middle of the development providing a lightwell that will improve the spacial qualities of the building.


Project: Sherwood Forest
Where & When: Nottinghamshire, UK. 2007
Description: A visitor center in the form of an iconic structure. The shape is influenced by the trees of the forest. It has a restaurant and a viewing platform providing great views of the forest. The building is aimed to achieve a zero carbon footprint by careful selection of materials and by producing its own energy through wind power, rain water collection and recycling systems.


Project: Stellar Tower
Where & When: Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Description: Still in its design stage... the building is another attempt at a low carbon building in the UAE. It will incorporate rainwater collection, sea water cooling systems, wind turbines on the roof and PV cells on top of the lower canopy. It is estimated that half of the energy required will be provided by those systems.