Today, we met Pierre (our French professor from College of the Canyons, and a native Parisian) in small groups. He made it fun by giving each group a clue as to the meeting's location, rather than direct instructions. It was up to each of us to figure it our for ourselves and show-up on time. Our group was given a clue about "Mashrabiya" photovoltaiques by Jean Nouvel.
A little sleuthing around the internet and I found the Arab World Institute in Paris. The front of this building is covered with these large windows that have modern, photovoltaic mechanisms which let light in, but close if it is too bright. Additionally, the designe echoes the ancient Arabic screens which serve as privacy screens, but are open to allow air circulation. Pretty cool! Architect Jean Nouvel has designed some really beautiful buildings around the world.
Nearby, we also visited the neighborhood that houses the largest Muslim Mosque in Paris. It is quite beautiful itself, with lots of colorful tiles inside. There is a very nice tea room here, complete with Middle Eastern pastries -- someday, maybe I will visit for lunch or mint tea and pastries!
There was a cool modern fountain in the nearby neighborhood. . .
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