A critique of six civic buildings built since 2001 in Philadelphia.
Architecture critic Inga Saffron assesses the latest contributions to Philadelphia's civic architecture. The public structures include two new professional sports venues, a visitor center and a performing arts center. The author finds the buildings appeal to "conservative and cautious" tastes, and do not interact well with the surrounding urban environment. "The trouble is that they also fail to embody the very things that Philadelphia is good at: enduring quality and humane urbanism. The new civic buildings are disfigured with design flaws. They are not adequately engaged with Philadelphia's treasured, walkable street grid. Many behave like a frightened armadillo, curled up behind protective red-brick armor"
Thanks to Marisa Waxman
FULL STORY: Changing Skyline

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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
Custer County Colorado
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont