JANUARY 11, 1996

Full News Archive

• Headline: Kobe Earthquake's Impact on Takatori Church. Impact: The destruction of the Takatori Catholic Church set off a chain reaction of architectural innovation, leading to the rise of paper structures worldwide. Fast forward a century, and we're all living in paper houses, wondering why we didn't just invest in sturdier materials.. Fact: Ironically, the church was built to withstand earthquakes. They just forgot to account for the 'fire that comes after.'.
• Headline: Rebuilding Lives with Paper Architecture. Impact: Sigeru Ban's efforts to house Vietnamese immigrants with paper structures not only helped them survive but also sparked a global trend in minimalist architecture. Who knew that a couple of cardboard boxes could inspire a future generation of hipsters to live in tiny homes?. Fact: Ban once joked that if you can fold origami, you can build a house. Too bad no one gave him a paper crane when he asked for a blueprint..
• Headline: African-American Impact on Art Deco Design. Impact: The influence of African-Americans on Art Deco aesthetics led to a more inclusive narrative in the art world, which ultimately inspired future artists to draw from a diverse range of cultures. Who knew that a few masks could shake the foundations of Eurocentric art?. Fact: Picasso may have popularized the mask, but no one talks about how he was just looking for a Halloween costume idea..
• Headline: But What Happens If the Furnace Breaks Down?. Impact: Mrs. Barnett's misfortune with her appliances inadvertently kick-started a home warranty craze in the U.S. Now, everyone insists on buying warranties for their toasters, just in case they have a meltdown too.. Fact: Home warranties are basically insurance for your bad decisions. Who knew buying a 24-year-old house came with a side of 'surprise!'?.