the history channels modern marvels has been running an interesting series of episodes that shows how modern skyscrapers are built from the ground up. whats interesting (to me anyway) is that they chose the caltran building by morphosis to document from conception to completion. its a coo look into how a building goes up. not just the initial architectural concept and design, but also the contracting, project management, construction, installation, etc. so not only do you get to see thom mayne win the competition and lead the design of the building, but you also get to watch as the structure, floor plates, and facades all go up. an added bonus is a peek at the real shit that goes down in a project, such as budget woes, schedule delays, and cash flow problems (too fucking common).
its only been three weeks since i left the architectural field (as periphery as i was) and im already getting nostalgic. the episodes are still running, so catch an episode or two to get a coo peek at the real world of architecture behind the thick-rimmed glasses and black turtlenecks.
> the history channels modern marvels
> morphosis website
gosh,those have been running for a while AND I ALWAYS MISS EM, ill have to check my local listings.