#costa brown architecture

[tobiaslovesmydauntlesscake]

L-Shape San Francisco Large eclectic l-shaped wet bar with a gray floor and an undermount sink, light wood cabinets, wood countertops, and a gray backsplash.

[daenylothbrok]

San Francisco Exterior Concrete Example of a huge eclectic multicolored one-story concrete exterior home design with a metal roof

[timelordoflumpyspace]

Concrete Exterior Huge eclectic multicolored one-story concrete exterior home idea with a metal roof

[thegreenvoyage]

13 Best Beach Clubs Lisbon (2023)

Lisbon is one of the top destinations when finding the perfect spot to spend your summer days. With its crystal-clear waters, golden sand beaches, and lively atmosphere, there's no doubt that this area is ideal for a leisurely vacation. Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach or enjoy cocktails by the water, you'll find the perfect spot here. So whether you're looking for a laid-back day by the sea or some more adventurous activities, these 13 beach clubs in Lisbon are sure to fit the bill. Table of ContentsTop Categories of Beach Clubs in Lisbon Overview 1- Beach Clubs in Lisbon for Families 2- Beach Clubs in Lisbon to Party 3- Beach Clubs in Lisbon on a budget 4- Luxury Beach Clubs in Lisbon 5- Beach Clubs in Lisbon for Couples & Honeymoons Lisbon Quick Guide What are the best beach clubs in Lisbon? 1.    SUD Lisboa Beach Club 2.    Bar Moinho 3.    Kailua Fonte da Telha 4.    Bar do Guincho 5.    Rampa Beach Club 6.    Cabana Beach Bar 7.    Costa in Beach Bar 8.    Yamba Beach Club 9.    Gemeos Bar 10. K Urban Beach Club 11. Lisboa Rio 12. Classico Beach Club 13. Tamariz Beach Club Best Things to Do in Lisbon 1. Enjoy the fun 2. Feel the sand 3. Enjoy the nightlife Lisbon Travel Essentials Conclusion Top Categories of Beach Clubs in Lisbon Overview 1- Beach Clubs in Lisbon for Families There are plenty of family-friendly beach clubs in Portugal, and Bar Moinho is one of them. This bar has a wide range of drinks, food, and plenty of seating. The beach is only a few minutes away, and there's also a pool and plenty of sun loungers for visitors. (number 2 on the list) 2- Beach Clubs in Lisbon to Party Cabana Beach Bar! This nightclub is perfect for party-goers looking for a night out on the town. A wide range of drinks and snacks are available at the hotel, as well as a swimming pool and a dance floor. (number 6 on the list) 3- Beach Clubs in Lisbon on a budget Costa In Beach Bar! This club is perfect for budget-conscious travellers looking for a night out on the town. There's a range of drinks and food available at low prices, as well as a pool and dancefloor. (number 7 on the list) 4- Luxury Beach Clubs in Lisbon Kailua Fonte da Telha! The luxurious accommodations at this beach club are ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Drinks and snacks are available, as well as a pool and spa. (number 3 on the list) 5- Beach Clubs in Lisbon for Couples & Honeymoons Check out Yamba Beach Club if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience. This club is perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape. (number 8 on the list) Lisbon Quick Guide Here are a few resources that you may find helpful in Lisbon. Popular Hotel Stays in Lisbon: - Room007 Select Liberdade - Browns Boutique Hotel - Browns Central Hotel - TURIM Terreiro do Paço Hotel - Browns Downtown Hotel Car Rental: Are you looking for a hassle-free car rental experience in Lisbon? Look no further! Discover Cars is a top car rental company in Lisbon, offering a wide range of vehicles and easy online booking. Bike Rentals: If you're looking for a bike, check out Bikes Bookings. They have a wide variety of bikes to choose from and a great selection of accessories, such as helmets and locks. Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide are two of the most popular tourist booking platform, offering various options, from walking to Segway tours. Here are a few popular selections - Sintra: Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket - Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip - Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour - Lisbon: Sunset Sailing with Portuguese Wine and History - Lisbon: Hop-on Hop-off 48-Hour Bus and Boat Tour Ticket What are the best beach clubs in Lisbon? Lisbon is known for its stunning architecture, gorgeous scenery, and delicious food, but many people don't know that the city is also home to some of the best beach clubs Lisbon. The following clubs will satisfy your needs, whether you're looking for a pool party, a beachfront bar, or just somewhere to relax with friends. If you're looking for the best beaches in Lisbon, you'll want to check out some of the city's best beach clubs. These clubs offer everything from great drinks and food to lively nightlife and stunning views. Here are 13 of the best beach clubs Lisbon that you won’t want to miss: - SUD Lisboa Beach Club - Bar Moinho - Kailua Fonte da Telha - Bar do Guincho - Rampa Beach Club - Cabana Beach Bar - Costa In Beach Bar - Yamba Beach Club - Gemeos Bar - K Urban Beach Club - Lisboa Rio - Classico beach club - Tamariz Beach Club 1.    SUD Lisboa Beach Club If you're looking for an idyllic spot to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Lisbon – without spending a fortune – you'll want to check out Sud Lisboa. This beach club is one of the most luxurious options you'll find in the city, and it offers all the amenities you could want, including a wide variety of restaurants and bars, a well-equipped gym, and stunning views of the Tagus River and the city skyline. If you're looking to spend a day or two soaking up the sun and enjoying some of Lisbon's best cultural attractions, Sud Lisboa is the place for you. On-site, several museums, a casino, and a range of attractions will keep you entertained for hours. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just looking for a day full of relaxation, Sud Lisboa is worth a visit. With its world-class facilities and luxurious surroundings, it's guaranteed to make your vacation in Lisbon even more special. Address: Pavilhão Poente (ao lado do MAAT, Av. Brasília, 1300-598 Lisboa, Portugal Phone: +351 21 159 2700 Website: https://sudlisboa.com/en/ Email: info@sudlisboa.com 2.    Bar Moinho The bar Moinho on the beach is perfect for some drinks and relaxation! It's located in the quiet Carcavelos, a great place to spend a lazy day. You can sit outside and enjoy the sounds of the waves or take a seat inside and enjoy some delicious Portuguese cuisine. The bar also has plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas, so you can soak up some rays while relaxing. Whatever your mood may be, Carcavelos has something to offer, from relaxing days at the pool to fun nights out. So take a walk and enjoy some of the best beach clubs Lisbon offers. Address: Praia do Moinho - Praia de, 2775-681 Carcavelos, Portugal Phone: +351 21 458 0194 Website: https://www.facebook.com/BarMoinhoCarcavelos/ Email: barmoinho@bardomoinho.pt 3.    Kailua Fonte da Telha Take a trip to Lisbon to Kailua Fonte da Telha if you want something fun and exciting. This bar/restaurant is a place to drink and eat, and it’s sure to please. A great bar atmosphere can be found at the station, and the staff is friendly, helpful, and accommodating to all customers. The menu features plenty of different options, including salads, hamburgers, toast, and desserts. There is also a separate menu available for smoothies and shakes if you want something more substantial. Those seeking a fun night out on the town will find Kailua to be the perfect place for them. The city of Kailua is the ideal place for anyone interested in participating in a variety of activities, whether they are tourists or residents looking for a place to relax and have some fun while in the city. Address: Av. Vasco da Gama, Praia Lareira Fonte da Telha, 2815-486 Aroeira, Portugal Phone: +351 21 296 3784 Website: https://www.kailua.pt/ Email: reservas.fontedatelha@kailua.pt 4.    Bar do Guincho If you're looking for a beach bar in Lisbon that will make you feel at home, Bar do Guincho is your spot. This place is iconic, and it's easy to see why – it's casual and comfortable, with a great atmosphere and a range of drinks to suit all tastes. The best part is that it's located off the beaten path, so you can enjoy peace and quiet while soaking up the views. Alternatively, if you're looking for a spot to party it up, Bar do Guincho is the place for you. It's always lively, and the staff is always happy to help you. Address: Estrada do Abano, Praia do Guincho, 547, 2755-144, Portugal Phone: +351 21 487 1683 Website: https://www.bardoguincho.pt/ Email: luis.rebelo@bardoguincho.pt 5.    Rampa Beach Club Rampa Beach Club is worth checking out if you're looking for a Lisbon beach club that will leave you feeling spoilt for choice. The venue boasts some of the best food in Lisbon, and the views are unbeatable – you can sit and enjoy the sun and waves from right on the sand. The atmosphere is also chilled out, which is great if you're looking for a relaxing break from the city. And if you're a fan of fresh seafood, then you'll be in heaven at Rampa Beach Club – the menu features sea bass and sardines, which are delicious. Rampa Beach Club is a great choice if you're looking for an exclusive beach escape – be sure to check it out if you're in Lisbon! Address: R. Vasco da Gama Lote 277, 2825-486 Fonte de Telha, Portugal Phone: +351 21 297 4810 Website: https://rampabeachclub.negocio.site/ 6.    Cabana Beach Bar Cabana Beach Bar is one of the city's most famous beach clubs, and for a good reason. It's located on the tranquil beach of Cabana, and just a few minutes' walk from the city centre. The club's sunbeds are comfortable and well-maintained, and the waters are crystal clear. The beach is also well-stocked with beach umbrellas, sun loungers, and parasols, so you can relax in the shade if you want to or take a dip in the ocean if you feel like it. The club's menu features a wide range of delicious food and drinks and plenty of options for children. The club offers upgraded services, such as private beach access, free Wi-Fi, and a children's play area. So whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the city or just a place to relax and enjoy the sun, Cabana Beach Bar is a perfect choice. Address: Descida da Fonte da Telha, Almada, Portugal Phone: +351 21 297 7711 Website: https://cabanabeachbarcy.com/ 7.    Costa in Beach Bar Located on the famous Costa do Sol beach in Lisbon, this bar is the perfect place to hang out with friends and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean climate. Costa In Beach Bar is one of the best Lisbon beach clubs and offers a wide variety of drinks and food options. There's also a lovely beachfront terrace with stunning ocean views, perfect for catching some sun and relaxing. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather or you're looking for a place to chill out and enjoy a drink, Costa in Beach Bar is the place to be! Address: Av. Gen. Humberto Delgado 7B, 2825-337 Costa da Caparica, Portugal Phone: +351 919 920 858 8.    Yamba Beach Club If you're looking for a beach daycation in Lisbon – away from the city's hustle and bustle, you'll want to check out Yamba Beach Club. This tranquil locale boasts stunning views of the Tagus River, crystal-clear waters, and a wide variety of beach amenities, including a children's play area, showers, and a beach bar. If you like to take your dog to the beach club, you are welcome to do so. If you're unfamiliar with Lisbon, stop by the Yamba Beach Club's information desk for a quick orientation. Whether you are interested in the city, the beaches, or the culture of the Portuguese, the hotel staff will be more than happy to assist you with your questions about them. Address: Praia da Bolina, Estr. da Praia do Castelo, 2825-491 Costa da Caparica, Portugal Phone: +351 932 737 401 Website: http://www.yambayamba.com/ 9.    Gemeos Bar In the Gemeos Bar, you can relax with a drink and enjoy the picturesque view of the Tagus River as you enjoy a good time. The terrace is perfect for eating and drinking, and the live music on Fridays and Saturdays makes it a great spot to get down and have some fun. Weekend nights are always packed at the Gemeos Bar, not just because of the lovely views. The themed parties always have a great atmosphere, and the DJs and live music make it enjoyable. Address: Carcavelos, Portugal Phone: +351 21 457 9274 Website: http://bardosgemeos.com/ 10. K Urban Beach Club K Urban Beach Club is located in one of the most popular areas of Lisbon – Areeiro. With its amazing ocean views, beautiful architecture, and perfect location, it is no wonder that this club is so popular. The club has many activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fitness classes, etc. Plus, the staff are incredibly friendly and will go out of their way to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. K Urban Beach Club is the perfect place if you're looking for a break from the busy city life and some quiet time. Address: Cais da Viscondessa, 1200-109 Lisboa, Portugal Phone: +351 961 312 719 Website: https://grupo-k.pt/ Email: geral@grupo-k.pt 11. Lisboa Rio With delicious food, cocktails, and a beautiful river view, it's the perfect spot to spend a night in Lisbon. The restaurant is in the heart of the Bairro Alto, a vibrant and lively neighborhood in central Lisbon. The Tagus River can be seen flowing in the background, providing a stunning view that sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable evening. The menu at Lisbon Rio Club is diverse and offers something for everyone. There are burgers, snacks, cocktails, and a wide selection of wine and beer. As part of the restaurant's menu, you will be able to find some delicious items, including burgers, fries, and onion rings, that will leave you wanting more. If you're looking for a night out that will let you relax and enjoy yourself, Lisbon Rio Club is the perfect place to go. As well as the beautiful atmosphere, the restaurant offers delicious and unique food and is located in a beautiful and relaxing location. Spend a night or two here, and you will not regret it. Address: Cais Gás 7, 1200-109 Lisboa, Portugal Phone: +351 966 447 171 Website: https://www.lisboario.pt/ Email: info@lisboario.pt 12. Classico Beach Club This prestigious establishment takes advantage of Caparica's stunning coastline to provide a truly luxurious dining experience. With an impressive list of accolades, the Best Beach Clubs Lisbon Classico Beach Club is known for its exquisite food and service. This establishment is a great choice if you're looking for a casual lunch or a more indulgent dinner. Whatever your mood, you're sure to find something that excites you here. The Classico Beach Club is also fantastic for relaxing and soaking up the stunning Caparica coastline. Whether you're in the mood for a swim, a soak in the spa, or a glass of wine on the terrace, this is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out. So whether you're looking for a luxurious beach escape or a relaxing day out, the Best Beach Clubs Lisbon, Classico Beach Club is the perfect place. Address: Praia de, Av. Afonso de Albuquerque S/N, 2825-485 Trafaria, Portugal Phone: +351 927 194 906 Website: https://restaurantesolivier.com/classicobyolivier/ Email: classicobeachbar@olivier.pt 13. Tamariz Beach Club One of life's simplest pleasures is spending time at the beach, and Lisbon has plenty of great beaches to choose from. You should head to Tamariz Beach Club if you want a truly unique experience. This beautiful spot is located just steps from the sandy shores of Estoril, and it's easy to see why it's been a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike for years. There is always a festive and upbeat atmosphere at the pool and beach. Furthermore, the staff at this hotel is exceptionally friendly and accommodating, always willing to assist in making your stay as comfortable as possible. The Tamariz Beach Club offers a variety of experiences, from casual beach days to more upscale ones. Address: Av. Marginal 7669, Estoril, Portugal Phone: +34 662 12 96 05 Website: https://www.facebook.com/TamarizSummerClub/ Email: tamarizsummerclub@fullest.pt Best Things to Do in Lisbon People come to enjoy the fun and relax in many places. You can visit a beach club in Lisbon where you can enjoy the sea breeze, feel the sand on your feet, and enjoy the nightlife. It is optional; you must spend a fortune to enjoy the fun. You can enjoy the fun with a budget, and you don’t need to be rich to enjoy the beach club in Lisbon. 1. Enjoy the fun The most important thing to enjoy is the sea breeze and the sun's rays. If you are a person who is fond of water and loves the sea, then you will be able to enjoy the water and feel its refreshingness of the water. 2. Feel the sand One of the most beautiful things about the beach club in Lisbon is that you can feel the sand. You can feel the coolness of the sand when you walk around the beach. The coolness of the sand will make you feel refreshed, and you can enjoy the nightlife. 3. Enjoy the nightlife At Lisbon's beach club, you can experience the nightlife. You can enjoy many activities that will make you feel happy and refreshed. You can enjoy the dance floor or the bar where you can drink. Lisbon Travel Essentials Are you looking to get away to Lisbon? Here are some essentials to make your trip a success! Flights & Hotels Accommodation: First and foremost, book your flights and accommodation. With over 100 airlines and countless hotel options available, WayAway and Booking.com are great resources for finding the best deals. Airport & Hotel Transfers: Book your airport transfers in advance if you're arriving in Lisbon on a Saturday or Sunday. Kwik Taxi is a reliable and affordable option. Rental Services: Once you've arrived in Lisbon, it's time to get your bearings. Head over to Discover Cars to rent a car for your stay. Transfers can be a major hassle, so using a rental service will make your life much easier. Transport Services: If you're looking for an all in one platform, 12go offers various transport services that allow you to explore the city at your own pace. Attractions, Museums & Shows: Now it's time to explore. Tiqets and TripAdvisor are fantastic resources for finding Lisbon attractions, museums, and restaurants. Activities: Viator is a great resource for activities in Lisbon, with options for cycling, swimming, wine tasting, and more. A comprehensive guide to everything Lisbon has to offer can be found at Get Your Guide. Conclusion The 12 Best Beach Clubs in Lisbon are perfect for tourists who want to enjoy the sun and the sand. These clubs are located in some of the most beautiful spots in the city, and they offer everything from pool parties to full-blown beach bars and pictureque sceneries. Read the full article

[tomirovira]

LOCK AND HANDLE

#antique #architecture #beets #brown #closed #detail #door #grunge #handle #iron #keyhole #keys #lock #metal #old #ring #rust #rustic #rusty #security #texture #vintage #wood #wooden #TomiRovira

[europeas20]

Discover Asturias: A Guide to Natural Beauty, Cultural Heritage, and Gastronomic Delights

Holidaying in Asturias offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Nestled in the verdant landscapes of northern Spain, Asturias beckons travelers with its rugged coastlines, lush forests, and picturesque villages. Here, every corner unveils a new adventure, whether you're exploring ancient ruins, indulging in delectable seafood, or hiking through breathtaking mountain trails. #AsturiasAdventures #ExploreAsturias #AsturiasGetaway #DiscoverAsturias #AsturiasVacation #AsturiasTravel #AsturiasEscapade #AsturiasMagic #AsturiasExperience #AsturiasWanderlust Asturias is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a diverse terrain that caters to all kinds of activities. From the majestic peaks of the Picos de Europa to the tranquil beaches of the Costa Verde, there's no shortage of options for exploration. Hiking trails wind through verdant valleys and dense forests, offering captivating views of cascading waterfalls and pristine lakes.

For those seeking a taste of history and culture, Asturias is dotted with charming towns and cities steeped in tradition. Oviedo, the region's capital, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, with its historic old town showcasing a fascinating mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque landmarks. Don't miss the iconic Cathedral of San Salvador or the pre-Romanesque churches of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The coastal town of Gijón is another must-visit destination, where you can stroll along the promenade, explore the bustling marina, or sample fresh seafood at local taverns. Nearby, the seaside village of Cudillero charms visitors with its colorful houses perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

No visit to Asturias would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The region is renowned for its gastronomy, particularly its seafood dishes crafted from the bounty of the Cantabrian Sea. From succulent grilled octopus to creamy seafood stew, every meal is a celebration of the region's maritime heritage. Pair your meal with a glass of Asturian cider, a beloved local tradition that adds a refreshing twist to any dining experience.

Nature lovers will find solace in Asturias' protected areas, including the stunning Lakes of Covadonga and the Somiedo Natural Park, home to diverse wildlife such as brown bears and golden eagles.

Whether you're kayaking on tranquil waters, birdwatching in pristine forests, or simply basking in the serenity of nature, Asturias offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Nature lovers will find solace in Asturias' protected areas, including the stunning Lakes of Covadonga and the Somiedo Natural Park, home to diverse wildlife such as brown bears and golden eagles.

Whether you're kayaking on tranquil waters, birdwatching in pristine forests, or simply basking in the serenity of nature, Asturias offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

In conclusion, a holiday in Asturias promises a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and gastronomic delights. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-fueled activities or peaceful moments in nature, this enchanting region captivates visitors with its timeless charm and undeniable beauty.

Travel Resources Hotels and Hostels Booking.com is available in 43 languages and offers more than 28 million reported accommodation listings, including over 6.6 million homes, apartments, and other unique places to stay. TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel guidance platform. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, and book experiences. Klook is a booking platform on which travelers can book hotels, cars, tours and activities, tickets to attractions, and shows at great prices.

Hotellook is a service that helps you find and compare prices on hotels around the world, provided by a leading reservation system. Today, Hotellook.com offered to put together information on more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries. Hostelworld, the global hostel-focused online booking platform, inspires passionate travelers to see the world, meet new people, and come back with extraordinary stories to tell. Hostelworld has more than 13 million reviews across over 17,000 hostels in more than 179 countries, making the brand the leading online hub for social travel. Tours and excursions WeGoTrip is an online service for booking audio excursions and tours on 35+ countries on different languages (mostly english). Travelers can take audio excursions created by professional tour guides and local experts. Tiqets’ innovative technology ensures that travelers can book tickets on their phone at the last minute, receive their tickets directly in a digital form, and show their mobile phones in place of physical tickets to museums, places of interest, and attractions. Offers available passes in Europe and the US.

Car Rental You can find the best car rental prices at QEEQ.COM. QEEQ.COM serves road trip travellers from different countries by working with car rental companies all over the world. The company offers its customers the widest set of car rental options and always strives to offer the most competitive price. Read the full article

[wherespaulo]

Hiking in Galicia, Spain

August 12-23, 2021

I blame it on Ramon – who’d inexplicably told me his name was Joseph when we first met. An affable and mysterious Galician who cracked me up on my 2019 hike from Seville to Santiago de Compostela without speaking a word of English. Short dark hair, mustached, 50’s with slight paunch, he somehow communicated his passion for his Celtic homeland by waving his arms and with a fast Spanish dialect that I didn’t understand a word of – all emanating from a cloud of smoke generated by his never-ending supply of cigarettes.

So here I was once again in the least known yet oldest of the Celtic regions, surrounded by Santiago de Compostela’s splendid ancient architecture and ready to explore Ramon’s homeland by hiking the Camino’s Ingles over three days (47 miles reverse alternative route from Santiago to A Caruna) and Dos Faros over eight days (122 miles Malpica to Finisterre).

The Camino Ingles, which originated in the 11th century when many English pilgrims arrived by sea prior to their onward trek to Santiago de Compostela and the tomb of St James, would take me to the coast, while the Camino Dos Faros, a newly established route, would take me along the Costa da Morte coastline in a westerly direction.

I would navigate using a combination of guide books (John Brierley’s guide to the Camino Ingles and John Hayes’ guide to the Camino Dos Faros), way markers (yellow arrows on the Ingles and green arrows on the Dos Faros), and electronic maps (AllTrails) and have my luggage transferred between my accommodations (small hotels) so that I only needed to carry a day pack.    

As always, for me this would be an inner journey just as much as a geographical one – all part of a much longer Odyssean journey. The four winds had been loosed from the cobblers bag years ago and I needed to find my way home. We all need to walk slowly in the rivers of our truth to find that place where we might belong, wherever or whatever that might be. Don’t we? “Seek and ye shall find” I used to say to my kids – and they always did. The trick is knowing something’s lost in the first place.

Most pilgrims I’ve met on the various Camino trails are searching for something. I met Enrique and Diego on a closed off section of the Dos Faros just after the beautiful estuary town of Ponte do Porto – clearly all like-minded rebels, we decided to ignore the ‘no-entry’ sign and plough on together. Diego, 60’s, with a bald head as brown as a nut, spoke no English and moved with a fast pace, head down, rudimentary wooden staff in hand – with silent determination he kept his inner journey firmly to himself. Enrique on the other hand, 50’s and wiry from Andalusia, shared his hopes and fears using good English learned over 13 years in the UK as a guide dog trainer. Recently divorced, he was clearly still processing what this meant for his future, now a blank canvas.

Jaime, 50, needed to borrow my phone at the Nariga Lighthouse to organize his taxi pick-up from Praia de Ninons since his signal had vanished amongst the coastal headlands. We walked together to Ninons, communicating via my Google Translate app – an excellent tool but for some reason was stumped by my English – New York hybrid accent, interpreting half my words incorrectly. Desperate to leave the failing custom signs business he ran with his brother in Valencia, his inner journey was to finally make this difficult decision.  

While back in Santiago before returning to New York I visited one of my favorite restaurants, Garigolo, situated close to the Atalaia B&B where I regularly stay. As with other restaurants and small hotels I’d visited on this trip, many owners seemed slightly shell shocked after the Covid pandemic experience, seemingly fearful of what else might be careering towards them. I felt a spiritual connection with the owner and told her I’d be back again soon -- she presented me with a four-leaf clover she’d recently picked and I was grateful for its magical protection.

On the Ingles between Sigueiro and Hospital de Bruma I entered a dark tunnel of dense woodland where it seemed the trees were in cahoots, suspicious, whispering -- until I realized it was the pitter patter of raindrops on the leaf canopy. A sun shower out of a crystal clear azure blue sky? There was clearly magic about in these woods. Was something trying to warn me that I was going in the wrong direction? As in life, I’ve generally preferred the road less traveled. It seemed as though I was the only person going in the reverse direction here, just as in 2018 on the Scottish Southern Uplands Way the locals were aghast to see me walking west into the prevailing winds. It all reminded me of my youngest son, Alex, who for many years insisted on putting on his pajama top inside out – the apple didn’t fall far from the tree there!

Between the Ingles and Dos Faros I stayed in A Caruna for two nights over a weekend. It was the Festas de Maria Pita so during the evenings the warren of streets were packed with thousands of outdoor diners sampling the local food. I’ve never seen so many people eating within half a square mile where the incredible mix of aromas together with the cacophony of sights and sounds of so many convivial Galicians were a welcome onslaught to the senses after so much solitude.

The tranquil coastline of the aptly named Coste da Morte on the Dos Faros belies its treacherous nature.

The English Cemetery at Punta do Boi where hundreds of British sailors are buried is testament to this -- drowned in the 1800’s after running aground on the many hidden reefs. Many lighthouses (faros) were built over the years to counter this trend.

In the end I had to cut the Dos Faros hike short by ending at Lires rather than Finisterre since I needed to get back to Santiago early to get my covid test in time for traveling back to the US. That was ok since Lires, a small village set into a beautiful estuary, has a special place in my heart after getting lost on my way there from Finisterre last year.

Don’t you think it’s interesting that something seems more precious when you’ve had to search for it? But perhaps it’s the journey of getting lost that’s more important than what you find?

[chasejackson-fan]

I Hate U, I Love U - Pedro Costa

Pedro Costa is a Brazilian who decided to live in the United States. He came at the age of 15, where he met Parker Jack Sullivan, June Del Toro, Quint Baker, Dirk Savage at school, and who already fell in love with Hunk Maddox and did not like Benny BeCat's face. "He looks a lot like being a spoiled rich man", that was one of the reasons. He started dating Hunk at the end of high school and started taking an architecture course. He has dark brown hair, green eyes and dark skin. Curiosities: Pedro remixes and knows how to sing. He gels his hair. He does a drawing class. And she loves anime passion (especially Death Note).

[bhandarimarblekishangarh]

Stones of India

In 2020 India possesses a wide range of natural stones that include granite, marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, and quartzite, spread out all over India. India has the best quality Natural stone amongst and we are the largest producer of raw stone material and the sectors are quite developed and vibrant in the South, as well as in Rajasthan and Gujarat, with a dedicated resource of entrepreneurs. India also has an indigenous resource of machinery and tool manufacturers that cater well to the demands of this sector.

The Indian stone industry has evolved into the production and manufacturing of blocks, flooring slabs, structural slabs, calibrated – ready to fix tiles, monuments, tombstones, sculptures, artifacts, cobbles, cubes, curbs, pebbles, and landscape garden stones.

Tradition of stones

India’s history, dating back to 3200 BC has been influenced considerably by the disposition, development, and use of stones and other construction materials. Dimension stones have also left deep imprints on the architectural heritage of the country. Innumerable temples, forts, and palaces of Ancient Indian Civilization have been carved out of locally available stones. The Taj Mahal at Agra was constructed from Indian marble. Some of the rock-cut structures include Khajuraho Temple, Elephanta Caves, and Konark Temple. Besides, all major archaeological excavations have revealed exquisitely carved statuettes and carvings in stone. Ancient Buddhist monuments like the Sanchi Stupa of 3rd century BC have also been carved out of stone.

This tradition of Stone Architecture has continued to the present era, with most of the important modern buildings in India like the Presidential House, Parliament House, and Supreme Court made from high-quality sandstone of Rajasthan. The Baha’i House of Worship of New Delhi stands testimony to the relevance of marble in modern Indian architecture.

Stones are still the mainstays of civil construction in India, with stones being used extensively in public buildings, hotels, and temples. It is increasingly being used in homes, with the use of stones now penetrating amongst the growing middle class of India. The success of the commercial stone industry solely depends upon defects in rock/stone. Natural defects in ornamental/commercial rock deposits adversely affect the quality of rock deposits. Detection of natural defects in the decorative and dimensional stone industry plays a vital role in the quality assessment.

India is a pioneer in the exploration, mining of commercial rock deposits, and in establishing a firm base for the stone industry. India, with an estimated resource of about 1,690 million cum, comprising over 160 shades of Dimension Stone Granite, accounts for about 205 of the world resources. Of the 300 varieties being traded in the world market, nearly half of them are from India. Commercially viable granite and other rock deposits are reported from Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and others.

Marvelous Marble

Marble was used for building tombs, temples, and palaces. For a long[weasel words] time it was considered as Royal Stone. It is, however, now used in hotels and homes too. There are many varieties.

Makrana

Makrana is the source of the marble used in the Taj Mahal. It is situated at a distance of 60 km from Kishangarh and falls in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan. The region has various mining ranges, mainly Doongri, Devi, Ulodi, Saabwali, Gulabi, Kumari, Neharkhan, Matabhar, Matabhar kumari, Chuck doongri, Chosira and Pahar Kua amongst others.

Rajnagar Marble

World’s largest marble-producing area, with over 2,000 gangs saw units located in the nearby town of Udaipur to process the material produced. Agaria is the best variety of this area, with numerous other varieties and patterns, primarily in white base. The marble is dolomitic and often has quartz intrusions.

Andhi Marble

Located near the capital city of the state of Jaipur (also known as the ‘Pink City’), it is dolomitic marble with intrusions of tremolite and is commonly known by the name of pista (pistachio) marble, because of the green-colored tremolite against an off-white background. One of the famous varieties of this area was known as Indo-Italian, owing to its resemblance with Statuario Marble. Most of the mining of this famous field is now banned by the Supreme Court of India because of the vicinity of the area to the Sariska Tiger Reserve.

Slumber Marble

Also known as Onyx Marble, it has thick bands of green and pink hint. A resemblance to Onyx Marble from Pakistan gives it this name. This is also highly diplomatic.

Yellow Marble

Though it has not been metamorphosed and hence is still a limestone, it is known as Yellow Marble in trade circles. It is mined in the Jaisalmer District.

Bidasar

These are ultra basic rocks in shades of brown and green color found in Rajasthan. The criss-cross linear pattern gave it a remarkable resemblance to a photograph of dense forest. These are also known as forest green/brown or fancy green/brown.

Morwad Kishangarh Marble

Gujarat – Amba Ji White Marble: It is one of the finest marble produced in India. It can be easily compared with Makrana Marble. It is highly calcic and is produced in a town called Ambaji (famous for its temple of Durga Devi). The marble has a very soft and waxy look and is often used by sculptors.

Rajasthan – Abu Black: This is one of the rare Black textured marble available. Only produced in the mines of Abu road, this amazing Black textured stone is the finest decorative marble ideal for homemakers, temples, sculptures, and corporate houses.

Madhya Pradesh – Katni Range: It is famous for its beige colored marble which is dolomitic but highly crystalline, with very fine grain size and some quartz intrusions. The marble accepts excellent polish. Another variety of the same range is red/maroon-colored marble.

‘Jabalpur range‘ contains dolomitic marble of excellent whiteness. It is more often used as dolomite lumps for chemical and industrial uses.

Indian Green Marble: It is found in Rajasthan India, Indian Green Marble’s most quarries are situated in Kesariyaji it is 60 KM far from Udaipur Rajasthan India. This Indian green marble is famous is many names all over the world. In Europe, people have known Indian green marble as Verde Guatemala.many kinds of varieties available in Indian green marble. Indian Green Marble is Exporting in Africa, Europe, Australia, Middle East, and many Asian countries. It is found in Udaipur District state Rajasthan of India.

Gorgeous Collection Granite

India has varieties of granite in over 200 shades. As of 2005, Granite reserves in India were 37,426 million cubic meters and ranked fifth in export of the processed product. Resources are found in Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh.

Classic Sandstone

Sandstone reserves in India are found over the states of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Karnataka, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Over 90% of the deposits of sandstone are in Rajasthan, spread over the districts of Bharatpur, Dholpur, Kota, Jodhpur, Sawai-Madhopur, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Bikaner, Jhalawar, Pali, Shivpuri, Khatu and Jaisalmer.

India is among the leading countries when it comes to mining and export of sandstone. The best part with Sandstone from India is that it is available in different colors and considered best for interior as well as exterior use. Few most popular sandstone products from India include names like Tint Mint, White Mint, Mint Fossils, Modak, Agra Red, Rainbow Sandstone, Raj Green, Teak, Buff Brown, Dhoplur Chocolate, Beige, Dholpur Pink, Lalitpur Pink, Mandana Red, Jodhpur pink, Jodhpur red, Jaisalmer yellow, etc.

This sandstone is available in some finishes and comes with great strength. However, Sandstone like Rainbow is only available in layered form and so is not suitable when the good thickness is required and Jodhpur sandstone is best when used in front elevation and high comprehensive strength. To illustrate it clearly, you can’t have cobbles out of Rainbow sandstone in particular as it is usually available in the slabs form.

Please contact us for Granites, Marble, Slate tiles requirements. Our strong supply base in the USA, UK, UAE, Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, European Union, Germany, Russia, France, Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Norway, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Spain, Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey, Brunei, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, Bhutan, Sikkim, China, Shree Lanka, Bangladesh, Brazil, Kenya, Sweden, Malaysia, Kuwait, Denmark, Hungary, Finland, Romania, Ireland, Portugal, South Africa, Ukraine, Greece, Israel, Argentina, Chile, Egypt, Venezuela, Nigeria, Iraq, Bulgaria, Morocco, New Zealand, Peru, Qatar, Tunisia, Lebanon, Netherlands, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Cuba, Kenya, Uruguay, Macau, Zambia, Cameroon, Mongolia, Mozambique, Bahamas, Zimbabwe, and the Maldives.

Made from premium quality stone material, each of our delivered stone products has defect-free finish and is widely used in various prestigious building projects in Australia, Netherlands, USA, Ireland, Germany, Sweden, Israel, Austria, France, Spain, Italy, UK, Cyprus, Belarus, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Egypt, Guatemala, Mauritius, Mexico, Peru, Ukraine, Romania, Russia, Serbia, South Africa, and Turkey. Our business transactions are transparent and hassle-free, enhancing the customer experience in the buying process. Empowered with well-defined infrastructure, our experience in handling bulk export order and meeting targets as per the given schedules help us in efficiently meeting customer’s needs at the most economical prices.

Add by Expert and Export team of Bhandari Marble World, India, Rajasthan, Kishangarh-305801

[travelcenter-uk]

A Getaway to The Best Beaches in Europe

When we think about beach vacations, the first thing that pops in to our heads is far-flung exotic beaches with, inviting tropical atmospheres, and we tend to forget that some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are just a few hours away from home. Many places in Europe are scattered with some of the best coastlines in the world, with endless stretches of golden sand, secluded bays, the serene turquoise waters of the vast Mediterranean Sea, and it’s brawling waves. Exceeding the seashores, you will find everything else that should couple with an extreme beach holiday. Surf joints, family-friendly beaches and more! Are you looking for a dreamy beach vacation? Read on to find out about our best selection of the best beaches in Europe.

The best beaches in Italy

Have you ever visited Italy and become enamoured with its coastlines? Well, you would be surprised by what other coastal beauties Italy has to offer! Miles of stunning coastlines sprinkled with some of the best beaches in Europe. Powder white sand, rugged cliffs, and the clearest waters.

Scala dei Turchi, Sicily

The seashores of Scala dei Turchi is a stunning coast near Realmonte by a rocky cliff with a striking uniqueness. Its glowing brown sands and the sharp blue seas stands as a stunning contrast against the rough limestone cliffs behind. The area is one of the most popular natural beauties in Sicily.

Atrani, Campania

Atrani is a small village situated along the Amalfi Coast, is less crowded but very famous in Italy. With its vivid cliffside roost, beautiful churches, and elegant piazzas, the unspoiled beach flows toward the Tyrrhenian Sea, makes it one of the best beaches in Europe.

Isola di Spargi, Sardinia

Ideally located in the Maddalena Archipelago amidst Corsica and Sardinia, will have you confused with the tropical beach of Tahiti, they are studded in palm trees and dense islands. This beach is one of the best beaches in Europe, with turquoise shoal waters perfect for snorkelling, and the shimmering sand-beds for sunbathing.

Spiaggia di Sansone, Elba Island

Elba Island in Tuscany is home to many beautiful beaches, with immaculate shores, with a blend of smooth stones and white sand that guides you through shallow tranquillizing waters. A favourite amongst families and snorkelers.

The best beaches in Greece

Greece takes a top spot on the list of best beaches in Europe, possessing the Mediterranean’s most extensive coastline with diverse beaches of peacock blue waters encircled by volcanic rock formations, bronze sand or smooth seashell shores. There are numerous exotic, sumptuous beaches on the mainland or on a beautiful island that will surely impress you and blow your mind away!

Ornos, Mykonos

Ornos is a vibrant yet quaint family-friendly beach in the Cyclades isle Mykonos with sandy beaches, warm waters, and every convenience you could wish for on a wonderful beach vacation. A perfect place for the smaller kids to swim in waters that increase with the tides. Sarakiniko.

Glyfada, Corfu

Corfu, is one of the most adored beaches in the Ionian, is overflowing with beautiful beaches fringed by pine and fir woodlands. Glyfada is one of the liveliest beaches on the island. A family-friendly beach fringed with sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports, and restaurants. A popular beach party hotspot, which draws in an energetic crowd.

Elafonisi, Crete

Pink tinted sandy beaches because of the tiny seashells, Elafonisi Beach is an unmissable place when visiting Crete, the largest island in Greece. This island is separated by a shoal lagoon and a sandbar—a preserved nature reservation where unique plants flourish.

Navagio, Zakynthos

Navagio, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is an Instagram famous coast. Situated on the Ionian island of Zakynthos, is considered one of the best beaches in Europe and the world! Teal-blue waters lap the grainy shores where a corroded shipwreck lays immersed in the sand, towered by cliffs.

The best beaches in Spain

Spain is not only famous for tapas, the flamenco, impressive architecture, and the diverse culture but also popular for some of the best beaches in Europe. With some of the most beautiful islands like Gran Canaria, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Cabrera, Spain hosts captivating beaches that decorate the vast coastlines of the country.

Barceloneta, Barcelona

Positioned in a traditional fishing town, along the Costa Brava coast, this is one of the oldest and one of the best in Europe. Barceloneta, in Barcelona, is a famous region by the sea, Popular among foodies for seafood tapas.

Ibiza

Ibiza delights many tourists with its charm and its party vibe. The beaches are diversely beautiful, and many are some of the best beaches in Europe. Secluded coves, legendary beaches, spectacular bays. The best beaches in Ibiza include Calla Bassa, Las Salinas, Aguas Blancas, Cala Llenya, and Cala Moli.

Mallorca

With some of the best beaches in Europe where tourists flock to sunbathe, swim, or dine on great seafood. The ruggedly beautiful shores and soft sand can be found on the north coast of Mallorca, on beaches like Cala Torta.

Canary Islands

There is something special about the beaches in the Canary Islands, so many beautiful beaches to choose from. Tenerife, with its vibrant hacienda in La Laguna. Similarly, pristine is the north coast of Lanzarote with its warm waters and golden beaches of Famara beach popular with surfers. Gran Canaria, where the dunes overlook the south while the cold turquoise of the sea shimmers like a bright fantasy.

The best beaches in Portugal

Bronze sands, set wide across the coasts; and the striking blue Atlantic Ocean; Boho beach vibes, popular surf spots. Some of the best beaches in Europe rests in Portugal, making it the ideal beach vacation.

The Algarve

The Algarve is a perpetual family favourite, a place renowned for its hot atmosphere, stunning beaches and the legendary sunsets. The most striking beaches include the Ilha da Fuseta and Praia do Carvalho, which are famous for the sea caves.

Portugal’s west-coast beaches & holiday islands

There are many secluded beaches that are yet to be discovered. An alluring scene has been gradually escalating in Comporta, in the south of Lisbon; and further up in the south Costa Vicentina has developed into a popular surf district. The Portuguese archipelagos of the Azores and, in the distant south, Cape Verde, has unbelievable atmospheres and sunshine all year-round, and tranquil places and best beaches in Europe to relax.

The best beaches in Croatia

Reveal the best beaches in Europe, in Croatia! In classic coastal towns of Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Split have remarkable beaches that are the key points to the secret islands of Croatia. With secluded sandy shores at Kupari, and Sunj beach on Lopud island. Also, the panoramic Stiniva beach was recently named the best beach in Europe.

So, if you’re interested in booking a relaxing getaway to one of the best beaches in Europe, feel free to reach out to us at Travel Center. From promotional offers and other cheap flights, there’s no lack of what we can do to make your trip better.

Read More:- https://blog.travelcenter.uk/a-getaway-to-the-best-beaches-in-europe/

This Article, Information & Images Source (copyright) :- https://blog.travelcenter.uk

[lupine-publishers-rrhoaj]

Lupine Publishers | Varied Presentation of Unusual Soft Tissue Lesions- A Case Series

For more Lupine Publishers Open Access Journals Please visit our website: http://lupinepublishers.us/ For more Research and Reviews on Healthcare articles Please Click Here: https://lupinepublishers.com/research-and-reviews-journal/ To Know More About Open Access Publishers Please Click on Lupine Publishers

Follow on Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/lupinepublishers

Follow on Twitter   :  https://twitter.com/lupine_online

Abstract

Malignant chest wall tumors are broadly classified into eight main diagnostic categories: muscular, vascular, fibrous and fibrohistiocytic, peripheral nerve, osseous and cartilaginous, adipose, hematologic and cutaneous. Some other malignant chest wall tumors that do not fit well in any of such category are synovial sarcoma and ewing’s sarcoma. Sarcomas of soft tissues, particularly those from the deep sites of the extremities raise a problem of diagnosis and treatment. Hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is a rare vascular tumor, and is most controversial, because earlier it was thought to represent a neoplasm of the pericytes of Zimmerman. Histiocytic sarcomas, including malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), represent a group of neoplasms with an unpredictable course and for which treatment varies widely. Pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) which is also known as undifferentiated high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma according to the latest World Health Organization classification is a diagnosis of exclusion. Myxoid liposarcoma (LS) is the most common subtype of liposarcoma and occurs predominantly in the extremities. Different cytogenetic features and their underlying molecular alterations define distinct entities among LS. Myxoid LS has a strong and specific association of the (12;16). Inflammatory fibrosarcoma, commonly referred to as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) has become as part of a spectrum of inflammatory myofibroblastic proliferation. It is potentially locally aggressive tumor of the mesentery of children and young adults. Immunohistochemistry plays an important role to distinguish different types of soft tissue tumors with similar morphology.

Keywords: Hemangiopericytoma; Pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma; Myxoid liposarcoma; Inflammatory fibrosarcoma.

Introduction

Hemangiopericytoma behaves aggressively with a high rate of local recurrence and distant metastases [1]. Hemangiopericytomas also represent rare intracranial tumors that have a tendency to recur locally and have the unique characteristic of extracranial metastases [2]. It has two histologic forms: conventional HPC and lipomatous HPC. Both the forms show a sponge‐like sinusoidal vasculature and staghorn‐shaped blood vessels which are haphazardly bounded and surrounded by ovoid and short spindle shaped cells. Histologic identification of lipomatous HPC is readily achieved because of an HPC like appearance with the added finding of a lipomatous component. Clinical presentation of conventional HPC is nonspecific. Pain is a late symptom associated with an enlarging mass; though symptoms vary depending on the site of disease. Characteristically, HPC is a well‐circumscribed, brown, spongioform lesion, surrounded by a pseudo‐capsule, often with small satellite nodules separate from the main tumor mass, whereas synovial sarcoma is grossly cream‐colored on gross examination [3].

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma presents with a rapid tumorous growth as the major symptom. The lower extremities are the most frequent anatomic site (±50%). This tumor may occur at any age but has a predilection for the 6th and 7th decades in males. The most important clinical prognostic features include site, depth, volume and number of muscles involved and the integrity of the neurovascular structures. The inflammatory component, mitotic index, cellular polymorphism and paraneoplastic syndromes are some of the other prognostic factors. Liposarcoma (LPS) is considered as one of the most common histologic subtypes of adult soft tissue sarcoma. Myxoid liposarcoma is a painless, slowly growing mass present for several months to several years. These tumors  are encapsulated, non-infiltrating, nodular masses of varying size and usually septated. Myxoid liposarcoma of the extremities and trunk wall rarely show distant metastasis [4]. Few cases present with a painful nodule [5]. Inflammatory fibrosarcoma which is commonly referred to as inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is a potentially locally aggressive myofibroblastic tumor that occurs predominantly in the mesentery of children and young adults. They are characterized as solitary, well-demarcated fibrous tumors with numerous inflammatory cells, mainly lymphoid or plasma cells along and may have associated reactive lymphadenopathy.

Case Summary

Case 1: Hemangiopericytoma: A 26-year-old female patient presented to the Surgical Clinic with complaints of pain and mass in the right anterior chest wall for two months. On physical examination, pulmonary auscultation showed decreased respiratory sounds on right side. A hard mass of approximately 10x10cm was palpated in the midline of right chest wall. Other physical examination findings with medical and familial history was non-contributory. The complete blood count and routine biochemical analysis were normal. On PA chest radiography, a mass of approximately 10x10cm was seen in the right lung with right pleural effusion. On thoracic computerized tomography, a heterogeneous mass with lobular contour localized in right mid lobe with continuity to the anterior chest wall without forming a costal destruction was observed. The mass was seen pushing forward the pectoral muscle without invading the breast tissue. An incisional biopsy was obtained from the mass and the histopathologic examination showed a malignant mesenchymal tumor, rich in vessels. Thereafter, an operation was planned for the patient and the vascular tumor mass disseminating to extrapleural space and the bottom tip of the sternum and the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th costae was excised.

Figure 1:  Hemangiopericytoma: Tissue section showed a high cellularity mass with uniform tumor cells with minimal pleomorphism, spindle to round to oval nuclei with vesicular to hyperchromatic chromatin and eosinophilic cytoplasm with indistinct cell borders and richly vascularized with staghorn-appearing vessels, with high mitotic activity. Hematoxylin and Eosin x 40X.

The histopathologic examination showed a high cellularity mass with uniform tumor cells with minimal pleomorphism, spindle to round to oval nuclei with vesicular to hyperchromatic chromatin and eosinophilic cytoplasm with indistinct cell borders. The tumor was richly vascularized with staghorn-appearing vessels, with high mitotic activity (Figure 1). There was no evidence of tumor tissue infiltrating the bone and the cartilaginous tissues. On immunohistochemistry, the tumor cells were diffusely positive for CD34 and MIC-2 whereas staining for actin and EMA was negative. Our patient is doing well after 12 months of follow up.

Figure 2:  Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: Microscopically, the lesion showed marked architectural and cytologic pleomorphism with haphazardly arranged malignant plump to spindle shaped cells admixed with giant cells. Hematoxylin and Eosin x 40X.

Figure 3:  Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: The neoplastic cells were positive for vimentin. IHC Vimentin x 40X.

Case 2: Pleomorphic Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma (Mfh): A 63-year-old man presented with a thigh mass for 10 months. On local examination, the mass was 12x 9cm, firm in consistency with ill-defined margins. The specimen of emergent debridement was submitted for pathologic and bacteriologic examination. Microscopically, the lesion showed marked architectural and cytologic pleomorphism with haphazardly arranged malignant plump to spindle shaped cells admixed with giant cells (Figure 2). The neoplastic cells were positive for vimentin (Figure 3), but negative for all lineage-specific markers. The diagnosis of pleomorphic MFH was made. Thoracic computed tomography scan showed bilateral multiple pulmonary nodules. The patient died 1 month later.

Case 3: Myxoid Liposarcoma: A 25-year-old man presented to the Surgical Clinic with complaints of soft tissue mass in the left thigh for the last 3 months. On local examination, the mass was soft to firm in consistency, well circumscribed of 12x10cm size. Blood parameters were normal and there was no functional abnormality. He was operated upon with wide local excision. The excised mass was 10x9.5cm, soft to gelatinous in consistency without necrosis or haemorrhage. Histopathological examination revealed a myxoid tumor comprising of small dark oval cells in a myxoid background. An extensive capillary network with typical lipoblasts were also seen with mitotic activity of 5 mitosis/ 10HPF (Figure 4). A diagnosis of myxoid liposarcoma was given. The initial surgery was accompanied with adjuvant chemotherapy and complementary radiotherapy. The patient was well after 12 months of follow up.

Figure 4:  Myxoid liposarcoma: Histopathological examination showed a myxoid tumor comprising of small dark oval cells in a myxoid background. An extensive capillary network with typical lipoblasts were also seen with mitotic activity of 5 mitosis/ 10HPF. Hematoxylin and Eosin x 40X.

Case 4: Inflammatory Fibrosarcoma: A 42 years old male presented to the Surgery Out-patients Department with complaints of generalised severe pain in the abdomen, localized mainly in the right iliac fossa for 2 days. He was previously fit and healthy and started with generalised feeling of being unwell for four months with mild recurrent pain abdomen, bloating sensation, loss of weight over half a stone and loss of appetite. There was no history of bladder or bowel disturbance, fever, jaundice or vomiting. His pain was worse in the last 2 days associated with nausea. On clinical examination he appeared anxious and sweaty with mild dehydration. Abdominal examination showed tenderness and guarding in the right iliac fossa with the rest of the abdomen soft and there were no masses palpable. Rectal examination was unremarkable. A possible diagnosis of appendicitis was made. Haematological investigations showed a raised white cell count of 17.800/cc and biochemical investigations were within the normal limits. Chest X-Ray was normal with the abdomen plain film showing stones in the gall bladder and a few dilated small bowel loops. Urgent ultrasound scan of abdomen confirmed a small collection of fluid in the right iliac fossa and gallstones with no gas in the biliary tree. In view of the uncertain diagnosis a laparotomy was carried out. This revealed a large mass in the right iliac fossa at the Ileo-caecal junction. The distal ileum was adhered to caecum and adjacent mesentery with thick pus between the loops of small bowel. Right hemicolectomy and an end to side ileo-transverse anastomosis was performed. The postoperative recovery of the patient was uneventful. The histopathology was initially reported as highly cellular spindle cell tumour, with frequent mitotic activity with the most likely site of origin of tumour being bowel wall and spreading in to the surrounding areas including the mesentery. Tumour markers SMA, desmin and vimentin were positive there by indicating leiomyosarcoma. In view of the positive cytokeratin immunostaining, a second opinion was sought by pathologists. On further review, an “Inflammatory fibrosarcoma of the colon” was given due to the marked pleomophism and associated inflammatory cell infiltrate (Figure 5).

Figure 5:  Inflammatory Fibrosarcoma: The histopathology revealed a cellular spindle cell tumour, with frequent mitotic activity with marked pleomophism and associated inflammatory cell infiltrate. Hematoxylin and Eosin x 40X.

Discussion

Hemangiopericytoma is a rare tumor of adult, found mainly in the fifth decade of life. It is most frequently mimicked by synovial sarcoma which occasionally presents as a pure hemangiopericytoma like lesion. These tumors can originate anywhere in the body where there are capillaries. The most common locations reported are the brain, lower extremities, pelvis and head & neck. It originates in the pericytes, the cells normally arranged along specific types of blood vessels. It can be broadly classified as intracranial and extracranial. Extracranially, it can occur at any site throughout the body in soft tissues and bone. They have a grade 2 or 3 behavior and needs to be distinguished from benign meningiomas because of their high rate of recurrence (41%) and metastases (12-20%) [6]. They are highly cellular and mitotically active neoplasm that is rich in pericellular reticulin and stains with anti-type IV collagen. They can be distinguished from benign meningiomas by their hypercellularity, higher mitotic index and microscopically bulge into vascular lumens without bursting through the endothelium, exhibiting a characteristic well-developed “staghorn” branching vascular pattern [7]. They are painless masses and may not have any associated symptoms. They can remain undetected for long periods of time due to the fact that they originate in soft tissue except when intracranial it can cause neurological disturbances. Exhibiting a characteristic well-developed “staghorn” branching vascular pattern. Differential diagnosis includes synovial sarcoma (similar vascular pattern, characteristic translocation), mesenchymal chondrosarcoma (islands of mature cartilage; malignant chondrocytes present), fibrous histiocytoma (storiform pattern, fibrohistiocytic lesion) and solitary fibrous tumor (more prominent collagen, less prominent vessels). Hemangiopericytoma on immunohistochemistry stain positive for CD99, vimentin, CD 34 and negative for Factor VIII and CD31. In adults, complete surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma has more recently been classified as pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma (PUS). It is considered as the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma in adults and has an aggressive biological behaviour with poor prognosis [8,9]. Typically occurs in adults with a slight male predilection. The presentation is usually with a painless, enlarging and well circumscribed palpable mass. They are usually confined to the soft tissues having predilection for extremities but occasionally may arise in or from bone also (1-5%). Some of its histological subtypes includes storiformpleomorphic, myxoid, myxofibrosarcoma, inflammatory, giant cell and angiomatoid. Pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma which is the most common subtype is considered a diagnosis of exclusion for sarcomas that cannot be more precisely categorized [10]. Imaging typically shows a well-circumscribed mass that is dark on T1-weighted images and bright on T2-weighted images. Histomorphology is characterized by high cellularity, marked nuclear pleomorphism accompanied by abundant mitotic activity including atypical mitoses and a spindle cell morphology. Necrosis is commonly present. Treatment consists of surgical excision and in almost all cases radiation eliminates the need for limb amputation.

Liposarcoma is a malignant tumor that arises from deep soft tissue fat and not from common lipomas. It accounts for up to 20% of all soft tissue sarcomas and commonly affects adult [11]. It can occur in almost any part of the body, commonly involving thigh and retroperitoneum. There are four subtypes, each having its unique characteristics: well-differentiated liposarcoma (most common subtype), myxoid/round cell liposarcoma, pleomorphic liposarcoma(rarest subtype) and dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Dedifferentiated liposarcoma and pleomorphic liposarcoma are considered as highly malignant [12]. Myxoid liposarcoma (MLS) is considered as a low grade tumor but the presence of areas of round cells more than 5% is associated with a worse prognosis [4]. MLS presents as a slow-growing, deep-seated tumor in the lower extremity of a relatively young adult. Specific chromosomal translocations have been discovered in MLS which consists of the fusion of the FUS and CHOP genes [(t12;16)(q13;p11)] in 90% of tumor [13]. Extremity myxoid liposarcomas have an unusually high predilection for extra-pulmonary metastases often deep soft tissue locations such as retroperitoneum or extrimities without any pulmonary metastases [14,15]. Imaging of the abdomen, retroperitoneum, and extrapleural chest should be performed for accurate staging and post-treatment follow-up of patients with myxoid liposarcoma. In all patients surgical management of the tumor is curative. It is radiosensitive as compared with other soft tissue sarcomas [16]. After treatment of the primary tumor, such patients should be followed with regular chest X-ray and abdominal/pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans.

Fibrosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm of mesenchymal origin in which histologically the predominant cells are fibroblasts that divide excessively without cellular control. Inflammatory fibrosarcoma is rare and was originally described in the lung by names such as pseudotumor, inflammatory pseudotumor and plasma cell granuloma. It is typically considered as a benign tumor with aggressive behavior (low-grade tumor) that can occur anywhere in the body. They are solitary, well-demarcated fibrous tumors and are characterized by storiform pattern of fibrous tissue along with of mixture of inflammatory cells such as plasma cells, lymphocytes and eosinophils as well as spindle cells without nuclear atypia [17]. These tumors may also have necrosis, hemorrhage, focal calcification and mitotic activity. Some of the histologic differential diagnosis includes: calcifying fibrous pseudotumor, inflammatory fibroid tumor and nodular fasciitis. Immunohistochemically, the tumor shows intense immunoreactivity for vimentin, muscle actin, and α-smooth muscle actin but are negative for desmin and highmolecular- weight caldesmon. In addition, tumor cells are not labeled by antibodies against AE1/3 and CAM5.2. The prognosis is generally good on tumor removal, but rarely some tumors are known to metastasize.

For more Lupine Publishers Open Access Journals Please visit our website: http://lupinepublishers.us/ For more Research and Reviews on Healthcare articles Please Click Here: https://lupinepublishers.com/research-and-reviews-journal/ To Know More About Open Access Publishers Please Click on Lupine Publishers Follow on Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/lupinepublishersFollow on Twitter   :  https://twitter.com/lupine_online

[subtilitas]

Nuno Brandão Costa - Factory extension, Paredes 2015. Via archdaily, photos (C) André Cepeda.

“Correcting the box” Kersten Geers

What is the form of a box? Boxes and their potential architecture are both fascinating and utterly problematic. Forty-five years since Denise Scott Brown and Robert Venturi made us learn to love the box, this most common of utilitarian structures has been the subject of preposterous and mostly failed attempts to turn it into Architecture. Many of these attempts were ambitious but seldom successful; most of them were too keen to inscribe the buildings with what we commonly accept as architecture, with its intricacies and mannerisms, and as a result, they ignored the very DNA of these buildings. When making architecture forces us to hide its generic character, it is an awkward mistake: a box is a box after all. The fact that boxes are ubiquitous today doesn’t make it any easier to design them. Mid-sized boxes are everywhere. They are an important constituent in an evenly covered field. If Big Boxes are a somewhat more gratifying design problem, simply because of their sheer size – it often is the only real quality these buildings seem to possess – scale also remains a key factor in the design of these mid-sized industrial buildings that seem to make up half of our present-day urbanised universe. In the slipstream of the ‘Decorated Shed’, any ambitious entrepreneur will have engaged himself over the last decades in beautifying his or her industrial container. Thus fitting both the desire to be seen, and seemingly fulfilling the cry for architecture in a place of perpetual sameness. But is that really what we should be after? Is it really what is at stake? These endless variants of company buildings, shoeboxes with add-ons: strange fronts, fancy signs, elegant entrances ‘du moment’, they all might make for a proud CEO, but they do not add up in this endless sea of small special features of self-indulgence. Like spoilers and stripes on a fancy car, they are merely a private affair; totems of personal taste and machismo – features the landscape simply endures.

How can a box transcend this pool of self-indulgent indifference? What is it that makes a box engaging, a space defining or simply powerful enough to transcend the private project?

To be any of this (and preferably all at once), a box needs to have territorial intentions. It needs to engage with the landscape it inhabits and find a proper scale to deal with it. In the meantime, it should give up its obsession with small intricate details: spoilers are not allowed.

A box that engages with its territory can be many things: it can be both simple and complex, long or short, high or low, but most important: it has to have the guts to choose what it is about and how it delivers; a good box acts without mercy with an intelligent version of an economy of means.

The building designed by Nuno Brandão Costa for Viriato is such a building. Perhaps the new building was fortunate to already find itself in a complex situation, a place that asked for clear decisions. Many things that were already there were perfect examples of mild self-indulgence. The site already had a workshop and a tasteful front. The fancy face was there, so the new building could find its challenge somewhere else. The Viriato box of Brandão Costa is an addition to the existing complex and seeks that opportunity as a possibility to give the whole complex territorial significance.  Its negotiation with the landscape can be understood rather literally: the building is long and wide enough to make the complex exist. It is simple enough to make it understood. It is blunt enough to make the rest of the buildings – the existing ones – disappear.

The new building is stretched to its maximum dimensions and defines a clear datum. The landscape it inhabits is not flat, but in a rather uncompromising way, the new building seems to ignore that fact. The building is pure plinth and corniche – if the landscape goes down, that is considered a pragmatic opportunity but not a fundamental architectural theme. The theme defines the building and its appearance; the territorial opportunities make the building work.  The plinth and corniche define the datum of the building and somehow narrate what the building would like to be. They show from up close where it reluctantly gives in, as if it is a carefully measured compromise. Although the building itself is very boxy and in fact quite clever in its sophistication for a box, it finds its final shape in the negotiation of what is there. Each of these negotiations makes for small corrections without ever losing the overall shape of the box itself.

The high voltage post on site provokes a complex formal decision, a bump in the platonic geometry. But it is so simple and effective in how it curiously reveals the fiction of the single-storied building, momentarily, that the moment you see it, you seem more convinced of the overall geometry. The explicit architecture of the box turns this major event into a footnote. The entrance to the showroom has an even smaller effect. It is a simple ramp that by its existence only emphasises the plinth, and again confirms the basic geometry. The angle of the adjacent street slightly tweaks the geometry of the box itself, but that also happens almost invisibly. Time and again, the box seems strong enough to take any blow of function and context without losing its steadfast character. Perhaps, most interesting in these series of small corrections of the flat and elegant volume is the positioning of the small stairway on its longest façade. By placing it at the plinth there just before the terrain steps down, it grabs all our attention, and the drop in the terrain becomes almost invisible. One keeps looking at the stairway and the pedestal. The simple building is of course in the end a complex tour de force.  What seems like a pedestal along most of the façade, and before the previously mentioned stairway, turns into a beam, and carries the cantilever of the building above the loading dock. So, in a way, it loses its major feature (as a base) and it becomes ‘technical’. It is at this moment that one can see the extreme refinement, and perhaps manipulation of Nuno Brandão Costa’s architecture. By (over) designing a set of defining elements of his building, he somehow frees these elements, so they can do what they want. If the pedestal wants to be a cantilever, fine! It will forever remain a pedestal, no matter how it behaves. Does the plan need a bump? OK! It will forever be read as a box. Thus, Nuno’s corrections show at the same time the intricacies of great architecture, and the monumental features of a great building – a landscape defining box. Nuno Brandão Costa’s box is for that reason the many things he allows the building to be, but most importantly a few things he wants his building to be.

It is in what he wants, that one finds the essence of his architecture: a plinth and a corniche – ground and roof: the two horizontal lines of reference; the rest is secondary. This is no accident. If the plinth’s role is blatant and indisputable, it is in the treatment of the roof that the building finds its sophistication. On the shorter sides of the new building, the mirror glass cladding abruptly stops to reveal the beams of the roof structure: a Spartan skeleton, a naked structure. In all its binary logic, the plinth remains an architectonic intervention, ready to show the skills of the sophisticated designer. The roof, however, is shown as what it is, as the ultimate counterpart of territorial design: technical containment. Is this the ultimate design task of the architect in a sea of indifference? To have the guts to show all that we have left. And to put that on a pedestal. Anything more seems frivolous.

[architectnews]

Ryder Architecture: Architects Office

Ryder Architecture, Architects UK, English Building Office, Photos, Newcastle Designs

Ryder Architecture : Architects

Contemporary British Architectural Practice, UK Design Office News

24 Mar 2021

Ryder Architecture News

Ryder Architecture News – latest additions to this page, arranged chronologically:

24 March 2021 Flagship Glasgow Residential Development Taking Shape Onsite image courtesy of Architects Holland Park Glasgow Construction work on Moda’s 34-storey Holland Park neighbourhood, which saw Ryder Architecture appointed following planning approval, is well underway. The £78m development replaces the Strathclyde Police Headquarters on Pitt Street in the city centre.

8 Jan 2020 Reckitt Benckiser Global Centre for Scientific Excellence, Hull, England, UK photo : Photos by Alex Wroe RB Global Centre for Scientific Excellence The purpose facility will take over as Reckitt Benckiser’s (RB) new £100m central hub for technical activities and creates a single location of expertise in formulation, analytical science and product innovation in Hull.

9 Apr 2019 PPWH – Pioneering Approach Brings Glasgow to Forefront of Modern Care image courtesy of Architects Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice Building Designed by international design practice Ryder Architecture, The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice is the first palliative care facility in the UK to follow the Sengetun model of healthcare design.

20 Mar 2019 Paddington Village masterplan, Liverpool, North West England, UK Design: Ryder Architecture image Courtesy architecture office Paddington Village Masterplan Liverpool A £30m office scheme is the third plot to be announced by the practice as well as coordinating the wider site regeneration.

27 Nov 2018 tombola Building, Wylam Wharf, Sunderland, Wearside, North East England, UK image courtesy of architecture office Tombola Campus Sunderland Building

22 Mar 2018 RIBA North East Awards Shortlist 2018

Ouseburn Road is one of twelve buildings shortlisted for RIBA North East Awards 2018 by Royal Institute of British Architects judges. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Museum Gardens, York on 24 May.

photo © Jill Tate

Urban Sciences Building, Newcastle University, is one of twelve buildings shortlisted for RIBA North East Awards 2018 by Royal Institute of British Architects judges. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Museum Gardens, York on 24 May.

Urban Sciences Building, Newcastle University by Hawkins\Brown with Ryder Architecture: photo © Kristen McCluskie

RIBA North East Awards 2018

1 Dec 2017 Northumbria and Ryder Architecture win award for most innovative collaboration

Northumbria University and Ryder have been recognised as the UK’s most innovative collaboration between a business and a university in the Times Higher Education Awards.

The University and Ryder began collaborating seven years ago to develop a specialist centre of excellence for digital engineering and transformation, forming BIM Academy, which provides consultancy, research and education activities on Building Information Modelling to global clients. This innovative approach has been recognised with the award for Most Innovative Contribution to Business-University Collaboration, sponsored by the National Centre for Universities and Business.

The award is presented to the business that demonstrates the most imaginative and effective ‘game-changing’ partnership with an institution which has led to significant long-term benefits to the business, the university and the economy.

Through BIM Academy, Northumbria academics and graduates work with Ryder to support the digital transformation of the construction industry through Building Information Modelling. BIM Academy provides independent research-based expertise combined with practical industry experience which helps clients transform their businesses through the intelligent application of smart processes and digital technologies.

Thanks to the success of the partnership, BIM Academy has been commissioned to work on high-profile development projects in Europe, the Middle and Far East and Australasia including the Sydney Opera House and Hong Kong’s M+ Museum. Most recently, it has been commissioned to provide BIM support to the Chinese creator of Forest City, a US$100 billion development off the coast of Malaysia, near Singapore. Described as the ‘Oscars of UK higher education’, the Times Higher Education Awards attract entries from universities that exemplify talent, dedication and innovation across all aspects of university life. Judges particularly praised the partnership for bringing vital competitive advantage to the UK construction industry.

Professor Glen McHale, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Engineering and Environment at Northumbria University, said: “BIM Academy is one of our shining examples of truly innovative partnership working which has brought huge benefits to all involved. Our students and staff have benefitted from being able to apply their teaching and research into real-life contexts; our partners at Ryder have benefitted from the leading-edge research knowledge within the University, and of course, our clients have benefitted from this excellent combination of skills to transform their businesses. “We were shortlisted against some excellent collaborative partnerships and are delighted that the judges recognised how distinctive our work in this area has been over the past seven years.

Peter Barker, partner at Ryder and managing director of BIM Academy, said: “It is very rewarding to see that our team’s hard work has paid off in growing our joint venture to be an internationally successful commercial business, as well as a centre of academic research excellence for the digital construction sector.” Last month, BIM Academy was also recognised at the BT Dynamites17 awards, winning the international success award for its work in delivering building information modelling consultancy and research to clients across the world. For more information visit www.bimacademy.global

4 Aug 2017 Ryder Architecture Announces Five New Partners

The new partners have been appointed to continue to build on the growing expertise of Ryder across an increasingly diverse sector and geographic base.

Peter Barker, Gareth Callen, Andrew Costa, Richard Dorkin and Ronnie Graham have all been promoted and join senior partner Peter Buchan, managing partner Mark Thompson and current partners Ian Kennedy, Gordon Murray and Richard Wise as part of the leadership team who will take Ryder through the next phase of the practice’s evolution.

Peter Barker is the managing director of BIM Academy, a joint venture between Ryder and Northumbria University, operating as a centre of excellence for digital engineering and transformation and developing an international reputation in the real estate and infrastructure sectors through consultancy, research and education.

Gareth Callen leads the Liverpool team and is also responsible for Ryder’s science portfolio which includes Liverpool Science Park, Thames Valley Science Park, Science Central in Newcastle and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Andrew Costa, who leads the London team, has worked on complex urban regeneration projects, residential, commercial, hotel and mixed use schemes in London for over 25 years.

Since joining Ryder in 1991, Richard Dorkin has worked across many sectors including manufacturing, education and healthcare and now leads the team in Hong Kong.

Ronnie Graham has been with Ryder for over 17 years with design and management skills in the office, leisure, residential and education sectors and significant urban design experience.

Managing partner Mark Thompson said, “These promotions recognise the significant contribution to Ryder during their combined service of over 75 years including newcomer Andy who only joined in 2015. We are entering an exciting phase in the evolution of Ryder. These appointments bring further resilience building on the foundations established by the current leaders over the past 25 years to ensure a continued passionate, collaborative and pioneering approach for which Ryder is recognised.”

The practice which now employs 140 people across six locations in the UK, Hong Kong and Vancouver also celebrated promotions for Francesca Harrison and Paul Milner to senior architects, David McMahon and Grant Sellars to architectural directors, Martin Smith to associate and Helen Whitfield to communications director.

7 Jun 2017 Northern Arc – Hyperloop One Global Challenge, UK Design: Ryder Architecture / Arup image courtesy of architects Hyperloop One Global Challenge: Northern Arc

Ryder Architecture and Arup unveil the Northern Arc proposal in Hyperloop One Global Design Challenge

The Northern Arc proposal was revealed as one of nine shortlisted routes spanning the continent as part of Hyperloop One’s global challenge, at it’s Vision for Europe summit held at in Amsterdam.

23 Feb 2017 Ryder Architecture Celebrate Best Companies Success

The architecture practice was ranked tenth place in the Sunday Times 100 Best Small Companies to Work For at the awards ceremony held at Battersea Evolution.

Andra Antone, Andy Costa, Helen Whitfield, David McMahon:

Best Companies received entries from over 400 small companies across the UK and over 4.5m employees were surveyed to gain scores across leadership, engagement, wellbeing and benefits.

Having maintained a three star status in the survey for the past five consecutive years, the business has rocketed from its previous highest placement in 43rd to tenth position through dedication and commitment from Ryder’s leadership team to engage, nurture and develop all their people.

Established in Newcastle in 1953, Ryder now has global connectivity with teams based in Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Hong Kong and Vancouver, employing 150 people. The practice has continued to invest in people and skills despite challenging market conditions with latest accounts for the business showing turnover has increased to over £11m with profit before tax increasing to £1.5m.

Helen Whitfield, communications leader at Ryder said, “The Best Companies award is a testimony to the passion of our leadership team to continuously develop and attract exceptional talent, providing our clients with the best possible service and design and making Ryder a great place to work.”

Alongside continued focus on delivering design excellence to clients across the UK, the business is strengthening its international credibility, celebrating the opening of an office in Vancouver in February and securing world leading expertise in Passivhaus design, with architects Adam James and Warren Schmidt, who will be disseminating their knowledge across the practice, simultaneously benefitting design in the UK and China.

Mark Thompson, managing partner at Ryder said, “The practice continues to be committed to all its established sectors while pursuing several overseas opportunities, including our first major project in Hong Kong. We have won some significant commissions in the UK offering collaborative project working to our clients.”

Ryder are leading the pioneering PlanBEE (Built Environment Education) programme and working alongside educational partners Gateshead College and Northumbria University to provide a unique apprenticeship offering a B.Eng in Architectural Engineering with guaranteed employment prospects with some of the north east’s leading construction businesses and ensuring the regional skills shortage demand is met.

Mark said, “We believe PlanBEE will inspire a new generation of bright, talented people to consider a rewarding career in construction. The blended learning approach aims to deliver work ready graduates with the creative, practical and entrepreneurial ambition the industry needs.”

6 Dec 2016 Motionspot and Ryder Architecture crowned winners of the prestigious Celia Thomas Prize

Held at the Palace of Westminster, the international competition to design an accessible hotel room of the future was run in association with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Bespoke Hotels. The competition attracted entries from around the world including Germany, Russia, Hong Kong and Canada. Entrants competed across a range of categories, including Product and Service Design, as well as the Celia Thomas Prize, worth £20,000 – believed to be the largest cash prize in the UK for a design concept.

Specialist accessible design company, Motionspot and international design practice, Ryder Architecture’s collaborative winning entry – AllGo, is a unique, universal approach to hotel room design to ensure that all rooms are functional, flexible, accessible and beautiful in their design.

AllGo will deliver personalised, accessible hotel rooms across the world, removing the barriers to travel and creating truly inclusive environments for guests. Each room can be adapted to the needs of the user through integrated and flexible design features that can be modified before the arrival of the guest.

Motionspot and Ryder will now look to realise the design concepts and aim to roll out pilot rooms in the coming year. It is hoped this will act as a catalyst illustrating the potential of a hotel environment, delivering beautiful, functional and fully accessible rooms.

Ed Warner, founder of Motionspot said, “Accessible hotel room design can be a real headache for architects, hotel operators and users alike. In collaboration with Ryder, the competition gave us the opportunity to create a concept that redefines the design of hotel bedrooms and bathrooms so they deliver the individual access requirements of guests without compromising on the aesthetics of the environment.”

David McMahon, associate at Ryder said, “We are extremely proud of the concept we have developed. Our collaboration with Motionspot has allowed us to create aspirational and inclusive environments for all. We hope that this paves the way in accessible design illustrating that good design should meet the needs of all.”

The entries were judged by a panel which included Paralympic gold medallist Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Stirling Prize winning architect Alan Stanton, and Baroness Celia Thomas herself, gathered in the Autumn to assess the submissions.

AllGo

www.all-go.co.uk

About Motionspot

Ed Warner established Motionspot after co founder James Taylor was paralysed in a diving accident in 2005 and returned home to find his adapted flat full of white plastic grab rails, shower seats, vinyl flooring and other products that were so synonymous with ageing and disability. Motionspot provides an alternative and designs environments and supplies products that deliver the necessary access for users without compromising on design.

As well as supplying bathrooms to the residential market, Motionspot is a leading provider of accessible bathrooms and washrooms to hotel & leisure, retirement and care clients across the UK.

www.motionspot.co.uk

Ryder highest ranking architect in prestigious top 100

For the second year running Ryder Architecture has made The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For.

Newcastle City Library by Ryder Architecture: photo © Tim Crocker

4 Mar 2014 – This year Ryder is the highest placed UK architect in the prestigious best small companies list. Nearly 900 organisations entered the awards and the opinions of 250,000 employees were canvassed, making it the largest survey of workplace engagement in the UK. Key indicators include leadership, management, colleagues, pay, training, wellbeing and CSR.

Jon Humphreys, right, Ryder associate, collects the award:

Ryder managing partner Mark Thompson said “We are delighted with this accolade, particularly for all our people who put in so much hard work and who clearly gain so much from working at Ryder. To be recognised in the Sunday Times top 100 for the second year running shows consistency in our approach ‘Excellence in our people, service and architecture’. To be the highest placed architect is a great benchmark for us to measure continued improvement.”

With offices in Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Newcastle – where the company was founded in 1953 – the ethos of creating talented multi disciplinary teams fostered by the founders Gordon Ryder and Peter Yates clearly remains to this day. Now a 120 strong practice, Ryder has also been shortlisted for Building magazine’s Architectural Practice of the Year award. Its iconic £82m anti crime centre near Glasgow (Scottish Crime Campus) is nominated for a BCO award and it has recently been appointed for a major office project in Greater Manchester.

Police Scotland Building, Aberdeenshire, north east Scotland – 29 Jul 2013 Design: Ryder, Architects image from architect With the completion of the base of the building, the Ryder-designed £11.2m 4,518 sqm, new Police Scotland facility at Kitty Brewster is progressing towards its planned handover early in 2014. The facility, designed and built through the public and private partnership hub North Scotland, will comprise a state of the art 60 cell custody facility, a virtual court, an identity parade suite, a community policing team and supporting office accommodation.

Ryder Architecture powers up with S36 consent for Grangemouth biomass plant

picture from architects Grangemouth Energy Plant

19 June 2013 – Forth Energy have secured Section 36 consent for the largest biomass plant in Scotland. The design by Ryder Architecture “draws heavily on the Port of Grangemouth’s position as Scotland’s largest container terminal, using the size and shape of cargo container as the basic building block of the new plant”.

Ryder Architecture launches 60th birthday exhibition in London

10 June 2013 – Ryder Architecture continues to celebrate its 60th birthday year with the successful launch of a Ryder retrospective exhibition at the Building Centre. The launch event on 6th June was a relaxed and lively evening, attended by senior figures from all areas of the built environment industry.

Says Peter Buchan, Senior Partner at Ryder, “It’s a credit to all the people who have worked at Ryder in its 60 year history that we can put together an exhibition of such important projects across such a range of sectors.”

images from architect

The exhibition runs until the 27th June, and charts the challenges, developments and complimentary strands of architecture across the decades, mapping Ryder’s work and seeking to place it within the context of the times. The projects chosen for the exhibition particularly highlight Ryder’s long standing use of interdisciplinary collaborations to support flexible design teams that answer the increasingly complex demands of management, economics and technology within design in the built environment.

Peter continues, “Working together – multi-disciplinary working – has always been at the core of Ryder’s ethos, from the very beginning with Gordon Ryder and Peter Yates’ innovative partnership in 1953, up to the present day with the Ryder-led Future of Built Environment Education campaign to reform built environment education and entry to the industry professions.”

The exhibition started it tour at the Briggait in Glasgow, and will move on from London to Mann Island, Liverpool, in October and finish at the BALTIC Centre in Newcastle in November.

Ryder’s 60th anniversary year has already seen some prestigious successes, with the practice winning two categories in this year’s AJ100 Awards; New Member of the Year, and the Best Place to Work in the North East & Yorkshire. Ryder has also achieved Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For, 2013.

Ryder Architecture in Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For

13 Mar 2013 – Ryder Architecture managing partner, Mark Thompson, said “To be one of only two national architectural practices included is a great achievement and demonstrates continued improvement and progress despite challenging economic circumstances in recent years. It is fitting and very rewarding to get this recognition on our 60th anniversary.”

image from architect

“To see our development and training ethos impact so positively on staff is also particularly encouraging. It gives us a great platform to go forward with renewed confidence and energy, striving for further improvement.”

Mark Thompson: image from architect

Nearly 450 firms registered in the survey and the views of more than 28,000 individual employees were gathered, measuring success on key indicators including leadership, management, colleagues, pay, training, wellbeing and giving something back.

Ryder scored best out of the new entrants for personal growth, with a positive score of 86%, figuring in the top ten. Training also scored impressively and 84% of staff indicated it is of great personal benefit, while 92% said their job experience is of value to their future development. Employees also said the company makes a positive difference to the environment.

Manchester Central Library Redevelopment, North West England, UK image from architect Manchester Central Library Maggie Barlow, Ryder Architecture consultancy director, said: “The integration of new information technology has become a catalyst that has transformed the library into a more vital and critical intellectual centre of life in our cities, schools, colleges and universities. Where institutions have worked in partnership with architects, planners and stakeholders usage has in fact increased despite predictions.

Liverpool Science Park, Merseyside, North West England, UK image from Ryder Architecture Liverpool Science Park Ryder Architecture has won planning approval for the next phase of Liverpool Science Park on a site adjacent to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King. Innovation Centre 3 – ic3 – will provide 3,750 sqm of fully serviced office and laboratory facilities over four floors with meeting rooms and a ground floor café.

Ryder, Architects – Key Projects

Major Buildings by Ryder Architecture, alphabetical:

55 Degrees North, Newcastle, northeast England, UK image © Adrian Welch 55 Degrees North This building is located in the centre of Newcastle, surrounded by a traffic circulatory on the north bank of the River Tyne.

Newcastle City Library, northeast England, UK Newcastle City Library Newcastle’s new City Library opens its doors to the public on 7 June 2009. One of the largest public libraries in the UK, the £24m building designed by Ryder Architecture, will offer 21st century facilities combined with inspirational places for reading, learning, researching, relaxing, meeting and working. The design vision of Ryder Architecture was to deliver an inviting, accessible and open library to inspire local, civic and regional pride.

More Ryder Architecture projects online soon

Location: Westgate Road, Newcastle, NE1 3NN, United Kingdom

Ryder Architects Practice Information

Ryder is a UK architectural practice with architects offices in Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Newcastle.

English Architects

The practice employs 140 people and is working on major commercial, education, healthcare and masterplanning projects across the country.

Ryder founding partners Gordon Ryder and Peter Yates, who worked with Le Corbusier and Lubetkin, established their architects practice in 1950.

Peter Buchan and Mark Thompson took over leadership of the firm in 1994.

Ryder Architecture Practice

Established in 1953, multi award winning practice Ryder Architecture operates from offices in Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Newcastle has an annual turnover of £7 million and employs 100 staff. Ryder has also achieved Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For, 2013.

2013 marks 60 years in practice – an important milestone in Ryder’s development. A series of events is planned which began with the launch of a retrospective which took place at RIBA HQ Portland Place in London in January. A diverse programme of research papers, debates and seminars will take place at various venues throughout the UK, focusing around a touring exhibition reviewing Ryder’s projects and looking forward to the hopes and challenges of the next 60 years.

At the book launch event, senior partner, Peter Buchan, commented: “To maintain consistency of output over 60 years of practice is a tough call. We have never tried to change; we have simply tried to improve the quality of our surroundings and in doing so, the quality of people’s lives.”

“The launch of this beautiful book is the first element in a whole year of events to mark our 60th birthday. We began the year on a positive note with a very productive meeting of the Ryder-led campaign to reform built environment education in the UK. Our other plans include a series of exhibitions – in Glasgow, Newcastle, London and Liverpool – combined with practice led research papers, seminars and debates.”

Ryder has established a number of key partnerships and collaborations to strengthen and focus its offer, including TFP|Ryder, the collaboration in China and Hong Kong with Farrell’s.

Ryder Architecture

Multi award winning practice Ryder Architecture operates from offices in Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Newcastle.

With an annual turnover of £7m and employing 120 staff, the practice was shortlisted for Architectural Practice of the Year, 2014 Building Awards. It also plays an important part in giving back to its local community groups, schools and charities.

Newcastle City Library by Ryder Architecture: photo © Tim Crocker

With an enviable portfolio of clients and projects, the practice operates globally across a wide range of sectors including education, healthcare, industrial, infrastructure, leisure, office, community, residential and science.

Ryder continues to pioneer the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM), having established BIM Academy, a unique collaboration between the private sector and academia which provides training, consultancy and research and development to the international construction sector.

Finalist – Building’s Architectural Practice of the Year 2014 Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For 2014

Ryder HKS : Practice

London Architecture

Ryder : London Architects

English Architecture

Architecture Studios

Comments / photos for the Ryder Architects page welcome

Website: www.ryderarchitecture.com

The post Ryder Architecture: Architects Office appeared first on e-architect.

[materiales-concretos]

SUBURBIA

María Teresa Muñoz

Una comparación entre “Learning from Levittown” (1970) de Robert Venturi y Denise Scott Brown y “Homes for America” de Dan Graham (1967-1978)

Aunque existen estudios anteriores sobre algunas áreas residenciales planificadas fuera de las grandes ciudades americanas, un especial interés por el suburbio se suscita en distintos ámbitos a partir de mediados de los años sesenta y se extiende a lo largo de la década de los setenta del siglo xx.  Arquitectos, sociólogos y artistas encuentran en el suburbio un campo nuevo sobre el que reflexionar y aplicar sus ideas, tomando como punto de partida el hecho de que tales conjuntos residenciales eran en general denostados e incluso culpabilizados del empobrecimiento de la vida urbana. Su población estaba formada por familias de trabajadores forzados a emigrar fuera de las ciudades consolidadas por razones casi siempre económicas y la arquitectura del suburbio se caracterizaba por su homogeneidad, la práctica identidad de sus unidades de habitación, y su esquemática o incluso nula planificación urbana, sin lugar para unas instituciones sociales y unos equipamientos comunitarios de calidad.

I.

Robert Venturi y Denise Scott Brown acometieron, a partir de los últimos años sesenta, una serie de trabajos destinados a la reivindicación del suburbio, que discurría en paralelo a la de los medios de comunicación y el simbolismo en arquitectura. La formación sociológica de Scott Brown contribuyó a este viraje del propio Venturi, hasta entonces más ocupado en su labor como arquitecto profesional y como crítico. La culminación de este camino se produjo con la publicación del libro Learning from Las Vegas a través de la editorial M.I.T. Press en 1972, del que se realizarán sucesivas reediciones a partir de entonces. No obstante, un anticipo de este libro ya había aparecido en la revista Architectural Forum en 1968, y el mismo año Venturi y Scott Brown realizan un seminario en la Yale University con el mismo título. Steven Izenour, que participó como alumno en dicho seminario, se convirtió después en socio de ambos y coautor del libro.    

Entre una y otra fecha, en 1970, Venturi y Scott Brown realizaron un taller de un semestre en la Yale School of Architecture bajo el título de “Remedial Housing for Architects”. Este taller dio lugar a un trabajo, cuyo manuscrito se conserva en los archivos de la propia escuela y fue elaborado por la alumna Virginia Carroll con objeto de convertirlo en libro, algo que nunca llegó a realizarse. El taller fue también conocido como “Learning from Levittown” y Denise Scott Brown comentó después que en ese momento ellos estaban más interesados en lo que la gente hace con sus casas que en lo que los arquitectos intentan que hagan; les atraía más la iconografía de Mon Repos, Cape Cod o las caravanas que la estructura y la iconografía de, por ejemplo, la Dymaxion House o Fallingwater. Estas declaraciones las realizó en una entrevista con Beatriz Colomina, en la que señalaba también cómo el interés por el suburbio en esos años se despertó sobre todo a partir de las ciencias sociales, campo en el que ella se había formado, sobre todo a través de la figura de Herbert J. Gans.

Beatriz Colomina entrevistó a propósito de “Learning from Levittown” a Venturi y Scott Brown y ambos insistieron en que su trabajo se centraba en examinar los cambios que los propietarios de las viviendas realizaban sobre todo en el exterior, incluso en los jardines delanteros, con lo que las casas eran consideradas como medios de comunicación, como anuncios comerciales. De hecho, de la misma manera que la casa era una forma de comunicación, también los medios de comunicación hacían un uso extensivo de las viviendas. Los textos de Colomina que recogen esta entrevista aparecen en: Radical Pedagogies A14. “Learning from Levittown at the Yale School of Architecture 1970”; en “Mourning the Suburbs. Learning from Levittown” publicado en Art, Culture, Ideas nº 43, 2011; y en el libro New Suburban Landscape de Andre Branvelt, Ed. Minnesota, 2008. En estos textos se resalta también el contexto tumultuoso en el que tuvo lugar el taller de Yale en 1970, ya que coincidió con el momento del auge y persecución de los activistas de Black Panthers. Los resultados obtenidos se expusieron parcialmente en la Renwick Gallery de Washington en 1978 bajo el título “Signs of Life: Symbols in the American City”. 

El primer suburbio conocido como Levittown fue erigido entre los años 1947 y 1950 en un campo de patatas del Nassau County, Long Island, sobre una superficie inicial de 1200 acres de terreno. Allí se construyeron 17.000 viviendas aisladas, con dos tipos básicos de diseño y algunas variaciones en el color, el tratamiento de las ventanas o la forma de la cubierta. Las viviendas eran producidas en serie, los Levitt hablaban de manufactura, no de diseño, y su referencia era la producción de automóviles. Las viviendas podían ser alquiladas, pero también adquiridas en propiedad por una población en su mayoría commuters con la ciudad de Nueva York. En el momento de su construcción, Levitt realizaba una de cada ocho viviendas en los Estados Unidos. Se construyeron tres Levittowns, la tercera en New Jersey que posteriormente cambió su nombre a Willingboro.

Herbert J. Gans (1927), sociólogo de origen alemán emigrado a los Estados Unidos en los años cuarenta, no solo fue la referencia intelectual de Scott Brown, sino que fue un antecedente directo del trabajo de Venturi-Scott Brown sobre Levittown. Gans escribió su primer libro The Urban Villagers en 1962, al que siguió su The Levittowners. Ways of Life and Politics in a New Suburban Community de 1967, que tenía como objeto el estudio precisamente el barrio suburbano de Willingboro en New Jersey, un conjunto de 11.000 viviendas y el tercero de los construidos por Levitt. Gans se oponía a la idea común de considerar los suburbios de esos años como uniformes y monótonos, incluso patológicos, resaltando en cambio la capacidad de sus habitantes para crear en ellos una cierta estructura social basada en sus diferencias.

II.

Uno de los primeros trabajos del artista norteamericano Dan Graham (1942) fue la publicación de un artículo titulado “Homes for America” en la revista Arts de Nueva York en la segunda mitad de los años sesenta. El artículo aparece en el contexto de la Costa Este, donde abundaban los discursos teóricos sobre el arte y sobre las estructuras sociales y su objeto eran los suburbios construidos en las inmediaciones de las ciudades, en los que su disposición y construcción obedecían a los principios de la estandarización y a una predilección por los productos instantáneos. Esta es la reseña exacta de la publicación: Dan Graham, “Homes for America”, Arts Magazine, Vol. 41, Nº 3 December 1966-January 1967. (1)

Este mismo artículo se publica hasta un total de once veces, la última en 1978, esto es, doce años después. En cada nueva versión se van produciendo variaciones en la tipografía, la selección de las fotografías, la relación imagen-texto y demás, todo ello respondiendo a decisiones deliberadas del artista y atendiendo al contexto en que se publica cada vez. A lo largo de estos doce años, las sucesivas versiones van recogiendo el material de las precedentes y añadiendo otros nuevos. En la primera publicación, el texto era al mismo tiempo objeto y medio y se ha considerado como uno de los primeros ejemplos del arte conceptual, incluso antes de que Sol LeWitt lo definiera, también en una revista, en su “Sentences on Conceptual Art” de 1969. Con él se trataba de desafiar el papel de las galerías, eligiendo las revistas como medio de exhibición, cuestionando también la posición del artista y de la crítica.  

Dan Graham declaró que su intención fue la de hacer un artículo que tipográficamente fuera como las casas en serie, una réplica de ellas, y que toda la página de la revista estuviera diseñada como una especie de esquema minimalista. Sin embargo, la propia publicación abrevió el artículo de Graham y lo presentó de manera muy distinta. Así, el artículo finalmente publicado abarca algo menos de página y media y trata sobre la estética y el carácter de los apartamentos en serie, deteniéndose en listados de opciones y combinaciones. El autor también criticaba las intenciones, la calidad y las consecuencias de la construcción de estas viviendas seriadas, en particular las que formaban algunas de las comunidades de New Jersey en la década de los sesenta. En concreto, el ensayo estaba dividido en tres partes: 1. Una introducción en la que trata la apariencia y la construcción barata, así como la lógica secuencial de los asentamientos; 2. Un examen de la oferta de una de las agencias formada por ocho modelos de casas y ocho colores de fachada, así como las posibilidades o las hipotéticas secuencias de grupos de ocho casas con cuatro modelos; 3. Un examen crítico de las consecuencias, destacando el desplazamiento de la relación arquitecto-casa o incluso residentes-viviendas así como la aparición de nuevas unidades de vivienda en las inmediaciones. Por último, en este primer ensayo “Homes for America”, aparecen únicamente dos fotografías: una de un grupo de viviendas de madera fotografiado por Walker Evans, correspondiente a los años treinta, y la otra, la planta y la vista de un modelo de casa ofertada por la agencia Cape Coral Homes bajo el nombre de “La Serenata”.

La segunda aparición de “Homes for America” se produce en el libro de artista End Moments del propio Dan Graham, una recopilación de 1969 publicada en 1970 que contiene una serie de ensayos de crítica de arte y cultura, además de sus propios trabajos. En este caso, se elimina la fotografía de Walker Evans y se incluyen dos del propio Graham de fachadas de casas de ladrillo, destacando sus puertas de entrada y escaleras de acceso. Por otra parte, los claroscuros de la imagen se hacen corresponder con los del texto a nivel visual. También en este caso, el artículo está incompleto, como sucedió en la revista original, tratando de destacar su naturaleza documental. La tercera versión es la que aparece en el catálogo de la exposición en la John Gibson Gallery de Nueva York, en 1970. Aquí vuelve a aparecer la imagen de “La Serenata”, pero se lleva a cabo una redistribución del texto para hacerlo ocupar una doble página, como si fuera un objeto de exhibición.

Algo más tarde, aparece en Interruptions, una revista para nuevos trabajos e ideas editada en Colonia en 1971. Es la primera vez que la publicación de “Homes for America” tiene lugar fuera de los Estados Unidos, aunque ahora también en una revista. El artículo ocupa tres páginas a tres columnas y se mantienen tanto la imagen de “La Serenata” como la especular de las dos entradas. La quinta versión corresponde a las litografías realizadas por el Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD), con una edición de 50 copias realizada en Halifax en 1971. Cada litografía ocupaba dos páginas, con las ilustraciones interrumpiendo el texto, y se incluían nuevas imágenes de puertas y de series rítmicas de viviendas. La litografía simula una reimpresión al mantener el título y la fecha de Arts, y la utilización de un medio masivo que en realidad es artesanal.

En 1972, Dan Graham realiza una impresión para el coleccionista de arte belga Herman Daled, una copia fotográfica en offset de gran formato (99 X 84 cm.) montada sobre dos tableros. Ahora el texto está cortado en bloques y va alternando con fotografías, más numerosas y algunas de ellas en color. Se trata de un procesamiento manual, a modo de collage, que simula el trabajo preparatorio para una revista, con el fondo blanco sobre el que se van colocando los bloques de texto y las imágenes. Se utilizan 21 tipos de letras y las imágenes incluyen algunos interiores y residentes. En París, en 1974, se incluye una nueva versión del artículo en el catálogo de la Galerie 17 titulado Textes. La novena aparece en For Publication, del Otis Art Institute de Los Ángeles, en 1975. El texto se dispone ahora con más libertad a dos columnas y va alternando con fotografías. En la lista de colores de fachada, se incluye por primera vez una barra gris como muestra directa de ese color. Y con la foto final se trata de mostrar la universalidad del fenómeno descrito. Como corresponde a una publicación de galería, en esta sexta versión resulta fundamental el diseño. La décima es una publicación para la Kunsthalle de Basel de 1976, y en este caso ocupa cuatro páginas.

Rudi H. Fuchs, que después sería el director de la Documenta 7, invitó a Dan Graham en 1978 a los Países Bajos e incluyó “Homes for America” en un libro titulado simplemente Artículos, editado en Eindhoven. El ensayo de Graham ocupa ahora seis páginas y mantiene la imagen de “La Serenata”, pero da cabida a comentarios posteriores, alguno del propio Fuchs, con una nueva composición. La penúltima página está ocupada enteramente por las dos fotos de las entradas a las viviendas de ladrillo a gran tamaño. Esta será la undécima y última publicación, doce años después de la primera.

Toda esta información procede del artículo “Dan Graham Homes for America re:visited” de Alexandra Wolf y que aparece en la revista All-Over de diciembre de 2015, el texto original está en alemán. Wolf señala que “Homes for America” comienza siendo un falso reportaje para pasar sucesivamente a un libro de artista, una reproducción artesanal y un catálogo de museo. Su atractivo, añade, está más en el enredo y las sucesivas repeticiones que en su posible radicalidad a finales de los años sesenta. Es a través de la repetición como surge la conciencia de “original”, ya que el artículo de Arts se convierte en un incunable del arte conceptual, transformado sucesivamente en objeto de exhibición, de colección o incluso objeto científico.

III.

Los arquitectos Robert Venturi (n. 1925) y Denise Scott Brown (n. 1931) son considerablemente mayores que el artista conceptual Dan Graham (n. 1942) y, mientras para éste “Homes for America” es prácticamente su primera obra, aquellos ya habían realizado trabajos en numerosos ámbitos, desde el proyecto de arquitectura a la crítica o la docencia, antes de “Learning from Levittown”. En ambos casos, sin embargo, se trata de incursiones fuera de sus respectivos ámbitos disciplinares, la sociología y los medios de comunicación por parte de Venturi-Scott Brown y la arquitectura construida por parte de Graham. Pero, teniendo en cuenta estas diferencias, lo más destacado al comparar ambas obras es la identidad de su objeto de estudio, que no es el suburbio en general, sino el Levitt en particular, y el tema de la homogeneidad de las viviendas como dato previo sobre el que se plantean los autores sus respectivas posiciones y expresamente construyen sus respectivos discursos. Pero, para esta comparación, hay que tener además muy en cuenta el hecho de que nos enfrentemos a una casi nula información directa sobre “Learning from Levittown”, en contraposición a un exceso de información de “Homes for America”.

Para Venturi-Scott Brown, la homogeneidad arquitectónica es una especie de fondo sobre el que actuar, una característica de las viviendas suburbanas que cada habitante o residente tratará de neutralizar con su actuación individual. En el límite, el suburbio podría verse totalmente transformado en su apariencia a través de las intervenciones personales, de los elementos añadidos capaces de conferir a cada una de las viviendas una imagen distintiva, propia. Para Graham, por el contrario, la homogeneidad de las hileras de viviendas es una cualidad estética de la que se sirve al artista para elaborar un discurso paralelo. No existen, para Graham, habitantes más allá de las repeticiones rítmicas de los volúmenes edificados de las viviendas, a cuya imagen él construye una obra utilizando como materiales el texto y la fotografía. Y, mientras Venturi-Scott Brown ponen en valor la atomización de la homogeneidad característica del suburbio a través del trabajo activo de los usuarios, Graham asume la indiferenciación y el hermetismo de una arquitectura producida en serie por parte de los promotores, que únicamente permiten alguna opción tan reglada como la del color de la fachada.

Las sucesivas reproducciones de “Homes for America” constatan la naturaleza esencialmente gráfica, más que analítica o crítica, de la obra de Dan Graham. No se trata de tomar partido a favor o en contra del carácter repetitivo e impersonal del suburbio, sino simplemente de servirse de él para crear una réplica en forma de artículo de revista construido como una repetición rítmica de elementos, tanto palabras como fotografías. Igualmente gráfico sería el soporte del trabajo de Venturi-Scott Brown sobre Levittown, aunque en este caso debamos conformarnos con recurrir a las imágenes prestadas de Learning from Las Vegas, más allá de las referencias a los archivos de Yale o a la muestra temporal de la Renwick Gallery. Efectivamente, Learning from Las Vegas, más allá de su reivindicación del paisaje de esa ciudad y la conformación particular de su strip, supuso una novedad en la forma de representar el paisaje urbano, sin duda extrapolado en el trabajo sobre el suburbio Levitt. Cabe, por tanto, encontrar alguna semejanza entre ambas obras en la importancia que se concede a los medios de comunicación y representación como vehículo para poner en evidencia la esencia propia del suburbio.

Para Venturi-Scott Brown, el tiempo del suburbio no es tanto el tiempo de su construcción, casi instantánea, como el tiempo de la vida de sus usuarios, que van modificando la arquitectura de sus viviendas progresivamente, hasta lograr una diferenciación personal de lo que no era más que pura uniformidad. Para Graham no hay tiempo en la construcción de las viviendas suburbanas, pero tampoco lo hay en su desarrollo, condenadas a permanecer inmutables como puros esquemas rítmicos y abstractos. El único tiempo para Graham es el del desarrollo de su propia obra, que va repitiendo una y otra vez un mismo esquema, pero ahora sí permitiéndose algunas variaciones en función del medio a través del que se exhibe. Mientras “Learning from Levittown” tiene una fecha concreta, la de la realización del seminario de Yale que recoge los resultados de las intervenciones en las viviendas, “Homes for America” diluye su cronología a lo largo de más de una década y crea un tiempo propio, que es el de su propio desarrollo.

No sabemos si Robert Venturi y Denise Scott Brown conocieron el trabajo de Dan Graham y viceversa, dado que ambos se producen en el mismo ámbito geográfico y temporal y fueron difundidos ampliamente a través de los medios de comunicación y expuestos en galerías. La ignorancia mutua puede explicarse como algo más que un simple desconocimiento en ese momento, aunque más tarde Graham haya reconocido su admiración por las obras de Venturi-Scott Brown. Nada podía ser más contrario a los enfoques propuestos por Venturi-Scott Brown que una consideración de las casas suburbanas como pura forma, como simples esquemas volumétricos marcados por los ritmos y la abstracción. Y nada podía ser más opuesto a la línea de trabajo de Graham que una atención prioritaria a la idiosincrasia del habitante individual, un destructor en definitiva de las cualidades homogéneas del suburbio. Si los primeros trataban de alejarse de la arquitectura, envolviéndola por medio de señales y signos, el segundo se sumergía en ella, buscando unas estructuras arquitectónicas capaces de traspasar sus propios límites para conformar otra disciplina, la del ensayo. En este sentido, Venturi-Scott Brown habrían buscado ser menos arquitectos y más comunicadores, en tanto que Graham, con su descubrimiento de una arquitectura esencial, habría encontrado en ella un esquema capaz de sustentar una obra de arte.

Pero volvamos a insistir en el modo en que son difundidas estas dos obras, a los elementos de que se sirven sus respectivos autores para materializar sus ideas sobre el suburbio. No es necesario, en el caso de Venturi-Scott Brown, contar con una evidencia gráfica de los acontecido en el taller de Yale para poder imaginar los resultados obtenidos por los estudiantes dirigidos por sus profesores, ya que se trata de una experiencia derivada de su trabajo anterior en Learning from Las Vegas, que podría ser fácilmente extrapolada o incluso comprendida sin necesidad de imágenes explícitas. Basta esa alusión vaga a la existencia de un material de archivo, nunca publicado, para conferir solidez y veracidad a las ideas expuestas por los autores. Lo contrario sucede con la obra de Graham, para la que resulta absolutamente indispensable una constatación gráfica de sus sucesivos formatos, a través de los cuales se va dibujando la repetición y variabilidad de un presunto original.

Restaría por considerar cuál es el verdadero papel de la arquitectura en cada uno de los trabajos. Para Venturi-Scott Brown, la arquitectura de las viviendas suburbanas, construidas a través de un proceso de producción más que de proyecto, no es más que un soporte material, caracterizado por su intemporalidad y su homogeneidad, sobre el que actuar después. Esta arquitectura residencial no es más que una materia prima a la espera de una intervención activa posterior por parte de sus habitantes. Esta es la función de las formas arquitectónicas también en el trabajo de muchos artistas contemporáneos, entre ellos Dan Graham. Sin embargo, Graham sí concede al suburbio unas cualidades arquitectónicas sustantivas y su homogeneidad es un valor en sí mismo, sin que se requiera una intervención posterior. La conversión del suburbio Levitt en una profusión de signos, relegando a un segundo plano a las propias formas arquitectónicas, destacado por los arquitectos Venturi y Scott Brown, podría verse como la antítesis de la salvaguarda de la integridad formal del mismo que propone Graham. El artista no toca ni propone tocar literalmente esa arquitectura suburbana, sino que se concentra en crear un objeto paralelo, capaz de reproducir sobre otros materiales esas estructuras arquitectónicas tan denostadas del suburbio americano de los años sesenta. No podríamos concluir un paralelismo o una divergencia entre las obras de Venturi-Scott Brown y Dan Graham sobre el suburbio, sino simplemente constatar cuán alejados estaban en ese momento los universos referenciales de arquitectos y artistas, lo que habría impedido un reconocimiento e incluso una influencia mutua, aun cuando ambos concentraban su interés sobre el mismo objeto.  El contraste entre uno y otro trabajo nos hacer ver claramente hasta qué punto pueden ser discordantes, incluso enemigas, las perspectivas de dos autores empeñados de un modo similar en tratar temas similares.

1. Ver Alexandra Wolf, “Dan Graham Homes for America re:visited” All-Over, diciembre de 2015.

Este es el listado de las sucesivas apariciones de “Homes for America” de Dan Graham:

- Arts Magazine Vol 41, Nº 3, December 1966-January 1967 (pg. 21-22). - Dan Graham, End Moments, New York 1969/70 (pg. 43). - John Gibson Gallery, New York 1970. - Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD), litografía, Halifax 1971. - Dan Graham, Selected Works 1965-72, Lisson Gallery, London 1972. - Colección privada Herman Daled, fotografía offset, Bruselas 1972. - Dan Graham, Textes, Galerie 17, Paris 1974. - Dan Graham “For Publication” Otis Art Institute of Los Angeles, Los Angeles 1975 (pg. 15-18). - Dan Graham, Kunsthalle Basel 1976 (pg. 18-21). -Dan Graham, Artículos, Van Abbemuseum, Eindhoven 1978 (pg. 5-10).

DESCARGAR PDF 

[tripstations]

20 of the most beautiful villages in Italy

(CNN) — Fabulous food, amazing art, rich language, dramatic and gorgeous landscapes — we all know what makes Italy so special.

Perhaps best of all are the scenic small towns and villages, where it’s possible to enjoy all these while surrounded by picturesque coastline, mountains, valleys, rivers or volcanoes.

Here are some of the most idyllic villages where you can travel that perfectly sum up the beautiful country, or “Bel Paese.”

Pietrapertosa

Pietrapertosa is popular with extreme sports lovers.

Courtesy I Borghi più Belli d’Italia

Located between the gigantic crags of the Basilicata region’s so-called “Southern Dolomites,” Pietrapertosa almost looks like it’s being swallowed by the mountains.

It takes its name from the ancient Petraperciata, which means “perforated stone,” a reference to the huge rock that in whose clefts this pretty village sits.

Shards of human-shaped rocks jut out everywhere in Pietrapertosa, which is shaped like an amphitheater.

Standing at an altitude of around 1,000 meters, its residents proudly say they live suspended mid-air between the sky and the earth.

This backdrop has allowed Pietrapertosa to become a hotspot for extreme sports lovers.

The most thrilling activity here is the Angel Flight, which sees visitors zip line from Pietrapertosa’s highest peak to that of the nearby village of Castelmezzano, offering an adrenaline-filled glide over sharp pinnacles and hairpin bends.

The village is also home to an ancient, crumbling Saracen castle that offers splendid views of the mountains.

Stand out local establishments include restaurant Le Rocce, located on top a hill, serves fantastic local dishes and cozy B&B Palazzo del Barone, with fabulous mountain views.

Le Rocce, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 109, 85010 Pietrapertosa; +39 0971 983260

Marina Corricella

Marina Corricella is flanked by fortress Terra Murata.

Courtesy Sergio Aletta

Procida’s oldest fishing village is easily one of Italy’s most beautiful thanks to its patchwork of purple, yellow, pink, blue and green houses.

Dating back to the 17th century, Marina Corricella has a simple, laid back vibe that’s hard to replicate. Lined with wooden boats and fishing nets, the harbor here is usually buzzing with shouting fishermen and vendors.

Fortress Terra Murata, a former prison, serves as the highest point on the island, with views stretching across the Gulf of Naples.

As for accommodation,18th century aristocratic palazzo Hotel la Casa sul Mare is a stand out, featuring just 10 designer rooms, while La Corricella restaurant serves signature fish dishes.

3. Ricetto di Candelo

Ricetto di Candelo — a tiny medieval village in the region of Piedmont.

Courtesy I Borghi più Belli d’Italia

Situated in Piedmont, the name of this fortified hamlet literally means “refuge.”

Locals hid in this medieval village in times of war and it was used to store grapes, wine and grain after peace was declared.

Dubbed the “Pompeii of the Middle Ages,” the original architecture of this pentagon-shaped village has been incredibly preserved.

Surrounded by tall walls, it’s made up of around 200 reddish-brown cube-like houses and five main roads, with cobblestone alleys so clean they shine at night.

Locanda La Greppia is one of the top restaurants here thanks to its delicious local cuisine, including various pork dishes.

And with only three rooms, local B&B Al Ricetto provides an intimate stay for travelers.

Locanda La Greppia, Prima rua, Ricetto, 13878 Candelo; +39 333 370 0425

B&B Al Ricetto, Via S. Sebastiano, 35, 13878 Candelo; +39 015 253 8838

Marettimo

Marettimo — the most remote of the three Egadi Islands.

Courtesy Silvia Marchetti

The wildest and most pristine island of Sicily’s Egadi archipelago, Marettimo is a hideaway in every sense.

Electric carts and donkeys are the sole means of transportation in this peaceful fishing village overlooked by an abandoned clifftop Saracen fortress.

Consisting of a cluster of white-washed dwellings with blue trimmings that sparkle at sunset, its simplicity is hypnotizing.

Islanders have been instilled with a primitive fear of the sea gods, which is apparent from the prayers scribbled on walls and doors to keep storms at bay.

Made up of cozy studios, Marettimo Residence is the only hotel in town and blends with the natural surroundings perfectly.

Another local highlight is seafront restaurant Il Veliero, a hotspot for bleeding sunset dinners.

Il Veliero, Corso Umberto, 22, 92027 Licata AG, Italy; +39 0923 923274

Chianalea di Scilla

This village has been dubbed the “little Venice of Calabria.”

Courtesy B&B Chianalea

Located in Calabria, at the tip of Italy’s boot, this fishermen village is built on layers of rocks rising out of the emerald green water.

With waterfront homes so close to the sea that waves that wash into courtyards, it’s known as the “little Venice of Calabria.”

Most of the homes here have boats and dinghies parked outside instead of cars, with locals proclaiming their “houses are boats and boats are houses.”

The tiny village lies on the Strait of Messina, believed to be the mythical location where dog-headed sea monster Scylla attacked the ship of Ulysses in “The Odyssey.”

At dawn, fishermen sell their catch down at the harbor, alongside Zibibbo wine and premium lemons.

B&B Chianalea 54, a restyled fishermen dwelling and restaurant Glauco’s, with specialties including sword fish rolls are both local stand outs.

Scanno

Lago di Scanno was created after an enormous landslide fell from Mountain Genzana.

Courtesy Cesidio Silla/Regione Abruzzo

Located in the wild Abruzzo region of central Italy, Scanno is a rural heaven.

Once a lair for bandits and outlaws, this pretty village nestled in the Apennine Mountains features a wonderful mix of Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Decorated with portals, masks and angels, its impressive facades, mansions, churches and fountains were originally commissioned by rich shepherd families, who competed against each other to ensure their properties were the most beautiful.

The village also boast various humbler stone and wooden dwellings that resemble something from a nativity scene.

Scanno overlooks a heart-shaped lake named after it, which some claim possesses magical powers.

Set in a 1930s Liberty-style mansion, hotel restaurant Roma serves regional cuisine using local products.

Hotel Roma, Viale della Pineta 6, 67038 Scanno; +39 0864 74313

Pienza

Pienza lies in the province of Siena.

Courtesy L’ Informaturista Pienza

Set in Val D’Orcia, Tuscany’s most pristine corner, Pienza has been dubbed the “ideal city of the Renaissance.”

Renamed and redesigned by Pope Pius II in the late 15th century, its packed with architecture masterpieces like Palazzo Piccolomini, designed by Florentine sculptor and architect Bernardo Rossellino, located in the stunning Piazza Pio II.

Positioned on a landscape of green rolling hills, the UNESCO World Heritage site, famously features a series of streets with romantic names like Love Street and Kiss Street.

Local restaurant La Buca delle Fate offers typical Tuscan menu items including picci pasta.

Bosa

Bosa is divided into two parts by the river Temo.

Courtesy Archivio RAS

This medieval village, also known as Sa Costa, is divided into two parts by the river Temo.

The region’s only navigable river lures in kayak lovers, its waters reflecting the multicolored buildings of the ancient district set in the western part of Sardinia.

Here simple artisan dwellings are juxtaposed with lavish palazzos of shiny pink magmatic rock.

Bosa was once renowned for its leather-making industry and is still filled with historical boutiques, where the art of tannery has been passed down across generations, as well as stores selling coral jewelry and asphodel baskets.

Built by the Tuscan Malaspina family in the 12th century, the Castle of Serravalle overlooks the town.

The impressive fortress can be fully admired from hotel restaurant Giardini Malaspina, which boasts a terrace and bar

Giardini Malaspina, Loc.s’abbadolzeddu, 08013 Bosa; +39 320 031 5896

Calcata

Calcata is popular with day trippers.

Courtesy Silvia Marchetti

Located close to Rome, Calcata is perched on a reddish hilltop rising out of a green canyon.

Shaped like a huge mushroom, the hamlet dates back to ancient Italian tribe the “Falisci.”

A labyrinth of moss-covered cobbled alleys that lead to openings overlooking the precipice, it’s been chosen as a lair by various modern artists and hippies.

With grotto dwellings adorned with scary masks and statues and alleys featuring squeaky wooden benches and rock altars, Calcata has something of a spooky vibe and is popular with day trippers.

Calcata Diffusa offers accommodation in grottoes scattered across the village, while restaurant Il Graal has outdoor dining on the piazza.

Il Graal, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi 9, 01030 Calcata; +39 360 788 110

Manarola

Manarola — one of five of the Cinque Terre towns.

Tristan MIMET from Pixabay

Not only is Manarola the second-smallest hamlet of Liguria’s Cinque Terre, it’s also the oldest and most romantic.

Enclosed by cliffs, the best way to get here is by train or by foot via the panoramic Lovers’ Lane connecting to Riomaggiore village.

Steep uphill stone paths connect the village’s colorful houses and orchards all the way up to a strange pyramid made of white cement that guides sailors at sea.

One of Manarola’s main streets, Via Belvedere leads to a natural panoramic balcony overlooking the Ligurian Riviera, dotted with olive groves and vineyards.

Hotel La Torretta, a 17th century tower, offers amazing sea view, while Trattoria La Scogliera serves delicious traditional pesto dishes. La Torretta, Vico Volto, 20, 19010 Manarola, Riomaggiore; +39 0187 920327

Marzamemi

Marzamemi is home to an ancient “tonnara,” or tuna plant.

Courtesy Sebastiano Campisi/Proloco Marzamemi

Situated near Noto in southeastern Sicily, Marzamemi is a tiny village of Arab origin.

Once a vibrant fish industry hub, its yellowish-grey Arab-style stone buildings are one of many nods to its history.

The village famously boasts an ancient “tonnara” or tuna plant as well as a wide piazza that’s been restyled into ceramic boutiques, bars and cozy apartments.

Tainted with black spots, the facades of the buildings make for an interesting sight.

The town, which served as the filming location for Gabriele Salvatores’ 1993 movie “South,” hosts the Blue Fish Festival each June.

Visitors B&B MaNanna, an old family dwelling run by the daughter of the last head tuna fishermen, is one of its top rated accommodation options and restaurant picks include Taverna La Cialoma.

B&B MaNanna, Via Salvatore Giardina, 12, 96018 Marzamemi; +39 349 733 6855

Sperlonga

Sperlonga — a charming seaside destination.

Courtesy Riccardo de Simone

Built atop a cliff about halfway between Rome and Naples, Sperlonga’s history is steeped in Greek legend.

The shiny white limestone of this village is said to have once guided Odysseus’s ship like a lighthouse.

Sperlonga also sits atop an underground maze of sea grottoes, where a beautiful “nymph” of the same name apparently lived.

Legend has it that god Jupiter, who had fallen madly in love with Sperlonga, turned himself into a meteorite in order to be with her, landing between her legs on the beach.

Their night of passion is said to brought about the high crags the village was later built on to escape Saracen incursions.

Today Sperlonga largely consists of terraced layers of houses and winding staircases that descend to the beach, where locals sunbathe close to ancient Roman pillars and and the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ lavish grotto villa, a must see site.

Located close to the village’s Blue Flag beaches is the splendid Virgilio Grand Hotel, which is also a chic seafood restaurant.

Castelrotto

Castelrotto is favored by winter sports enthusiasts.

Courtesy Alpe di Siusi Marketing

Situated in northern Italy’s South Tyrol, Castelrotto sits in a lush valley surrounded by Alpine peaks and premium vineyards, near the Austrian border.

Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the village is a blend of northern and Mediterranean cultures.

The locals speak in a weird German-sounding dialect and eat apple Strüdel and Canederli (knödel) dumplings.

Strolling through the town feels like walking through an open-air art exhibition thanks to the works of art on display. The mountain dwellings, a mix of Baroque and Liberty-style, are covered in colorful wall paintings by renowned 19th century artists.

Meanwhile bucolic scenes adorn bakeries, stables, barns and hotels, including the historic Hotel Wolf and tavern Zum Turm.

Hotel zum Wolf, Via Oswald Von Wolkenstein, 5, 39040 Castelrotto; +39 0471 706332

Cornello dei Tasso

There are no roads in Cornello dei Tasso.

Courtesy Museo dei Tasso

Time stands still in this fairytale medieval hamlet near Bergamo, Lombardy. The only way to reach Cornello dei Tasso is via a 30-minute walk along a crooked path.

There are no roads here, only cobbled alleys and narrow arches, and the houses have thatched roofs.

Despite its remoteness, Cornello dei Tasso was actually the birth place of the founders of the first European postal service back in the 13th century.

The village also boasts a museum dedicated to the postal pioneers, Bernardo Tasso and his son Torquato Tasso, author of the Renaissance epic poem “Jerusalem Delivered.”

The local museum also organizes guided tours around the hamlet.

Trattoria Camozzi is the only tavern around, serving game, hare and venison and La Tana del Tasso is a no-frills B&B.

Carloforte

This picturesque village is positioned approximately seven kilometers off the southwestern coast of Sardinia.

Courtesy Archivio RAS

Positioned on the isle of San Pietro in Sardinia, Carloforte was founded by the families of coral fishers from a Ligurian town of Genoa in the 18th century.

As a result, the picturesque village features the type of bright, Genoese-style architecture and “carruggi” alleys (wide enough for small carts) one would expect to find in Liguria.

Carloforte is the only place in the entire Mediterranean where the “mattanza,” a hunt in which hundreds of rare bluefin tuna are trapped in nets and massacred, is still practiced.

For locals, this brutal and highly controversial custom is a sacred ritual. It takes place each year during the Girotonno, which also showcases tuna gourmet delicacies and offers guided tours inside the tuna factory.Restaurant picks in the area include low key seafood dining spot Luigi Pomata and hotel Nichotel, which boasts cozy suites overlooking the harbor. Nichotel, Via Garibaldi, 7, 09014 Carloforte; +39 0781 855674

Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio has a population of just 12.

Alexandra Voicu from Pixabay

Founded by the Etruscans more than 2,500 years ago, Civita di Bagnoregio sits precariously atop a plateau overlooking the Tiber river valley in Latium.

Dubbed the “Dying City” due to constant soil erosion and a dwindling population, the remote village looks like it could crumble into the deep chasm at any minute.

Abandoned by most of its inhabitants years ago, only a dozen residents live her now, as well as many cats.

The footbridge was bombed during World War II and just one single metal catwalk connects the village to the main road today.

Visitors can check in to Corte della Maestà, a chic boutique hotel, while restaurant Alma Civita serves up good Italian and Mediterranean food inside a grotto.

Alma Civita, Via della Provvidenza, 01022 Civita; +39 0761 792415

Ginostra

Ginostra sits within a natural amphitheater.

Courtesy Silvia Marchetti

Only accessible by foot, or boat, the isolated hamlet of Ginostra lies on a secluded flank of the volcanic isle of Stromboli, part of Sicily’s Aeolian archipelago.

The tiny village is made up of a handful of white and pastel-colored huts covered in prickly pears and bright red bougainvilleas that clash with its jet black rocks.

According to legend, the village was built by a group of stranded sailors who took refuge here during a storm and were so struck by the beauty of the place that they never left.

Today the population here is estimated at around 40. Visitors enter through a steep path of stone steps winding up from a tiny docking bay, wide enough for just two boats.

Serving “volcanic dishes,” restaurant L’Incontro is a village along with charming B&B Luna Rossa.

L’Incontro, Via Sopra Pertuso, 98050 Ginostra; +39 090 981 2305

Luna Rossa, Via Piano, 3, 98050 Ginostra; +39 338 141 4620

Cetona

Medieval hilltop town Cetona lies in Tuscany’s Siena.

Courtesy Silvia Marchetti

Enticed by the slower pace of life and fresh air, Cetona is where the royals and fashion designers come to relax.

Set in southern Tuscany and shaped like a snail, the ancient hilltop town is incredibly well kept.

Starting at the magnificent Piazza Garibaldi, visitors can head up a narrow, paved road that circles round the tile roof houses and pretty churches, all the way to a panoramic castle tower complete with secret, exotic gardens.

The village’s surrounding countryside is known for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Historic family-run hotel restaurant Il Tiglio di Piazza is a great accommodation option.

Malcesine

Malcesine has Monte Baldo as its backdrop.

Pixabay/Creative Commons

Forget the holiday crowds. This corner of Veneto is one of Lake Garda’s best kept secrets.

Surrounded by olive groves and the gigantic Mount Baldo, Malcesine sits at the feet of a historic castle, Castello Scaligero.

Nestled between the lake and the mountains, silence rules in this charming village, with its steep cobbled streets lined with artisan shops. Sunbathers relax on its pebble beaches, whiling away the hours as fishermen sell their catch nearby.

Local restaurant La Vecchia Malcesine offers innovative twists on traditional recipes and B&B Casa Mosole is based in an interesting building that was once a cured meats shop.

Casa Mosole, Via Bottura, 3, 37018 Malcesine; +39 348 531 0790

Ventotene

Ventotene — a former prison island.

Courtesy Silvia Marchetti

This two-kilometer-long island close to Rome was once a prison, with lustful Roman women and anti-fascists among its detainees over the years.

Bright orange and pink dwellings, former prisoner cells, mingle with ancient cisterns and fisheries in its small village.

The little harbor is lined with fishermen grottoes that have been turned into lounge bars, while the main Piazza Castello features an old Bourbon fortress tower.

The ruins of Julia’s Villa, named after the daughter of Emperor Augustus, exiled here by her father on charges of adultery, are still visible.

Italian politician Altiero Spinelli, who became one of the European Union’s founding fathers co-wrote the “Ventotene Manifesto” here in the village.

Positioned within Piazza Castello, hotel restaurant Mezzatorre has a dining terrace overlooking the main Cala Nave beach.

The post 20 of the most beautiful villages in Italy appeared first on Tripstations.

from Tripstations http://bit.ly/2wd2kKq via IFTTT