Hasta La Ideas

After gaining steadily in recent months, the American Institute of Architects’ Architecture Billings Index (an economic indicator of construction activity) dipped in April, falling to 42.8 from its March mark of 43.7. The good news? It’s the first time since last fall that the index, which reflects the approximate nine- to twelve-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending, was above 40 for consecutive months. The bad news? Any number below 50 means that overall demand for design services has declined. Meanwhile, inquiries about new projects are the rise. “A growing number of architecture firms report potential projects arising from federal stimulus funds,” said Kermit Baker, AIA’s chief economist, in a statement released today. “Still, too many architects are continuing to report difficult conditions to feel confident that the economic landscape for the construction industry will improve very quickly. What these figures mean is that we could be seeing things turn around over a period of several months.”

Recently on UnBeige:

London- and Madrid-based practice Daniel Statham Architects have designed a new facade for the City Development Land (CDL) headquarters in Singapore. (more…)

The new Modern Wing by architects Renzo Piano Building Workshop has opened at the Art Institute of Chicago. (more…)

Given his expertise at crafting and capturing candy-colored hyperrealities, one might expect the home of photographer David LaChapelle to be awash in glitter, shocking pink, and shocking pink glitter. Nope. We recognized this real estate listing as LaChapelle’s three-bedroom Hollywood Hills home, a “charming 1920s original Spanish with great open floor plan, wonderful light, great outdoor spaces, and true swimmers pool and secluded spa.” The 1,912-square-foot house can be yours for $1.65 million. Among the tip-offs that this understated abode is home to the man Richard Avedon once compared to René Magritte? The copy of the classic Taschen megavolume SUMO by Helmut Newton (that’s it in the living room, atop its distinctive Philippe Starck-designed display stand). Located only “moments from Chateau Marmont,” LaChapelle’s house will also be proximal to a new retail project that we hear is among his latest investments: a Sunset Boulevard lingerie boutique that will be run by Courtney Love.

The Yas Hotel by Asymptote architects is nearing completion in Abu Dhabi, UAE. (more…)