Rafael Viñoly
We’ve been fans of Rafael Viñoly since… well, since we launched this magazine. The Uruguay-born, New York City-based architect has designed buildings for more than 45 years, and his global portfolio is critically and publicly praised. He’s a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, an International Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and a member of the Japan Institute of Architects. We asked him to tell us about some of the most alluring green inventions he’s stumbled upon recently.
Glass PV Panels
With the production of oil nearing its peak, the profound implications we face thereafter will be challenging. It’s key for architects, like myself, to consider and specify power-generating materials such as PV panels, which are modular and easily expandable, and provide energy independence and environmental compatibility.
IceStone
IceStone
Sustainability is a hallmark of my work and a constant thread throughout the many different design stages of my projects. We recently came across this company’s remarkable and sustainable products with an ethos to match. With its dizzying array of color options, we recently were able to specify the right option for a client.
M/V ARIA Amazon River Luxury Cruise
M/V ARIA Amazon River Luxury Cruise
Eco-friendly tourism conjures up grueling travel experiences; luxury doesn’t come to mind. That is until I read about this well-designed ship aimed at preserving and protecting the health of the Amazon rainforest. Guilt-free luxury with an eco-twist that I plan on experiencing.
Dyson Airblade
Dyson Airblade
Customer loyalty, if there is still such a thing, doesn’t come easily for me, but I’ve been long wooed by my Dyson vacuum and sung its praises. It was no surprise to find the advanced hand dryer I used recently was by Dyson. What did surprise me was how hard it was to pry off the wall.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Because travel is so integral to my work, flying comfortably is imperative. The technical advances of the new 787 have the power to revolutionize the way we experience travel. The new composite structure will not only help save fuel but allow for increased cabin pressure and humidity—a win-win.
