Media Advisory: UB Students Design Real Cliff-Hangers -- Dwellings that Cling to Edge of Cliff

WHAT: Intriguing "Wall Buildings" -- architectural models constructed by first-year undergraduate students in the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning, under the direction of Adjunct Professor Christopher Romano, will be showcased at an exhibition of students' work. Upon request, Romano and students will be available on site to explain the exhibit.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: 120 students were asked to design and build models of a building to be constructed on the edge of a cliff. If full-sized, each structure would be a 20-foot cube that elevates a person at least 10 feet above the ground to two lookout stations offering a view along a cliff side.

WHAT YOU WILL SEE: A series of complex, visually intriguing constructions made of 1/8-by-1/8-inch Basswood sticks. The structures demonstrate structural elements of the students' architectural schemes, and also propose building strategies that advance new design concepts.

The structures, which resemble modernist abstract sculptures, are beautifully exhibited in a series, some in front of the Anderson Gallery's architecturally arresting front glass wall.

WHEN AND WHERE: Today through April 12 in the UB Anderson Gallery, 1 Martha Jackson Place, off Englewood Avenue, Buffalo. Gallery hours are Wednesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

CONTACT: To arrange an on-site interview with students and Romano, contact Patricia Donovan, University Communications, 716-645-5000 ext. 1414.