Some of the world’s top architects are competing to transform a downtown space into something worthy of a nation’s capital.

The remainder will be demolished or incorporated into the new office complex.

The team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy bets heavily on Indigenous design to shape Block 2 itself.

Block 2 is likely to deliver on that aim.

That is for the competition jury to decide.

Barbara Deutsch, CEO of the Landscape Architecture Foundation, stated at the Grounding the Green New Deal summit at the National Building Museum that designers must influence policy as well as execute projects.

Landscape architects can create feedback loops by testing designs and overcoming barriers, thus advancing climate, water, and infrastructure policy through innovative projects.

Addressing climate change can be linked to improving housing quality, creating new local jobs, and establishing a more equitable society.

If discussions about design happen only at a high level, it means there is a lack of connection to the community.

Norman Foster is deeply invested in the future of sustainable design.

World Environment Day highlights five sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform workplaces into green spaces.

This serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet.

Modular meeting spaces and booths are key innovations for reusing and recycling both waste and built spaces.

Proper use of natural light is another sustainable design strategy.

Gloria Cabral emphasizes that “Everything Begins With the Wisdom of a Place.”
She reflected on visiting her childhood home in São Paulo and realizing its actual small size compared to her memories.

The trees on the property were not just for shade, but provided a sense of belonging to both her native and adopted places.

In places with limited sunlight, maximizing shade is not always practical; context and climate matter.

Cabral was inspired to continue her architecture career by the sustainable work of Gabinete de Arquitectura.

Resourcefulness and efficient use of materials are key to sustainability.

Material selection is context-dependent; there is no inherently good or bad building material.

For example, concrete serves many essential purposes, but it must be used thoughtfully.

Color and local materials played critical roles in notable projects like those built with Belgian bricks.

Italian regulations generally don’t allow thin, tall walls from demolition materials, illustrating regulatory challenges.

Reflecting on sustainable practice includes personal habits like energy use and lifestyle choices.

Cartoni combines design expertise and sustainability to help create healthy, durable, and beautiful architectural outcomes.

Sustainable design is also practiced at the educational level, such as competitions that encourage reducing plastics.

Winners of design innovation awards over the last decade reflect a shift towards sustainable design thinking.

Reusing existing structures is often one of the greenest building strategies.

In tropical regions, homes should be open to dissipate heat and moisture while protecting from the elements.

Many new homes are being designed to integrate naturally with their surroundings.

Natural forces influence the massing and form of buildings that aim to be at one with nature.

Examples from residential projects show how architecture can preserve existing trees and natural features.

Architects like Robert Gurney are recognized for their excellence in integrating sustainable principles.

Well-known experts in urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum.

A city that looks to the future is emphasized at the event.

More than 40 business program events will take place.

An expert will also participate in the session “City as Superhidea.”
This information comes directly from the source and does not reflect MIL-OSI or its clients' positions.

Proof of artistic value is provided by discussions on design projects.

A state office space in Moscow, completed in 2014, exemplifies enduring composition and furniture choices from the first sketch.

The focus is on the overall idea and core merits of the project, such as shadows, reflections, and materials, rather than on minor details.

The office includes a small working area with a sink, electric burner, and bar counter.

There is a meeting and negotiations hall as part of the office space.

Blauderman Bureau designed special botanical gardens for Sevastopol hospitals, where plants will bloom year-round and aid patient treatment.

Schools in Yekaterinburg, numbering 165 for 191,000 students, require a balanced urban environment to attract residents and investment.

Living in areas without educational facilities is a deterrent, highlighting the importance of competent construction and management.

Reducing building area by 5,000 square meters is possible while increasing usable space per student.

A school design solution replaces an assembly hall with an atrium connecting floors and acting as a transit zone.

Forum Group applied this advic e when designing a new gymnasium building.

Developers aim to reduce partitions and barriers on social facility grounds, but project coordination remains challenging.

Limited land for reconstruction or new construction led to creative solutions: building and equipping a children's clinic, then transferring it to the Ministry of Health.

In China, a tower with a “vertical forest” combines nature and metropolis.

The eVolo Skyscraper Competition awarded bold skyscraper designs in 2023.

Projects aim to solve housing for migrants and nomads, using skyscrapers with practical features.

One skyscraper design proposes using plastic waste for structure, with water flow nourishing plants and mobilizing trays.

Cairo’s water scarcity is noted in relation to these innovations.

A Mongolian tower design uses local wind conditions to spread grass seeds.

Despite advanced meteorology, weather certainty is elusive, impacting outdoor spaces.

Properly processed wood ensures outdoor structures, such as canopies and gazebos, withstand rain and weather, offering flexibility for guests.

Combining indoor and outdoor living spaces can involve glazed gazebos and rustic styles with full amenities under eco-friendly design principles.

Inspirational ideas for home and public space design are available, blending nature with daily living.

The lecture "Green Architecture in Egypt" aimed to connect university student projects with real-world applications.

Dr. Tariq Saleh, Dean at the October University of Modern Sciences and Letters, emphasized that over 95% of graduation projects this year support the country's sustainable development plans and align with national leadership's vision.

Climate Scout was listed by Fast Company among world-changing ideas for 2022.

The online platform enhances the creation of flexible, renewable, low-emission building designs capable of adapting to their environment by integrating images and data.

Al Ula Design Space witnessed significant events in February.

Burj Khalifa stands as the tallest building.

Smith noted to CNN, alongside Jill and Forrest, that there are few precedents in the field for practitioners to reference.

AS+GG is open about their approach because sharing knowledge advances the discipline.

Their most famous works include Jeddah Tower (formerly Kingdom Tower) in Saudi Arabia.

On resuming the project, Gill stated that "nothing is impossible."

The book explains the Jeddah Tower's structural system builds upon Burj Khalifa’s three-wing Y-shape for optimal stability, also seen in the CN Tower in Toronto.

Gill highlighted the Mays building as a design with uncertain long-term value.

Many conceptual designs focus on Dubai, which dominates this narrative.

Dubai's rapid growth has fostered experimentation with ambitious architectural projects.

Regardless of ownership, such buildings evolve into site symbols.

Yet, architectural value does not depend solely on height.

Advances are grounded in both science and design.

Books serve as valuable resources.

Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar’s paper described shaping Islamic architecture to combat climate change, evaluated sustainable buildings, and advocated integrating Islamic principles to protect the environment.

Eng.

's paper analyzed value engineering’s role in assessing the economic effects of climate change.

User comments are reviewed before publication.

Japan's economic boom era inspired architects to envision new futures.

World War II devastated Japanese life but inspired new urban forms.

The Nakagin Capsule Tower, designed by Kikutaki Kyunori—a Metabolic Architecture pioneer—features modular living units and was then unmatched in height.

Kurokawa Kisho designed the core reinforced concrete column with integrated stairs.

Different capsules serve as living, kitchen, and tea spaces.

Tange Kenzo designed another prominent building in Tokyo’s Ginza District in the 1960s.

The Tokyo Highway detour highlights these developments' urban integration.

These structures were local height records at the time of building.

The Nakagin Capsule Tower was set for demolition in early 2022.

Dalia Abdul Rahim leads the editorial board.

The construction process starts with master planning and material selection.

A new car system utilizes solar and electric energy, decreasing fossil fuel reliance and enabling rapid charging.

Youssef stressed the need to harness solar energy technologies and improve energy use for clean transportation.

He hopes such innovations will be widely adopted for environmental preservation.

Five global buildings exemplify the fusion of beauty and sustainability.

Learning from nature’s ecology allows architects to apply 3.8 billion years of evolutionary wisdom in sustainable design.

Features such as the wrinkles of elephant skin and the water-harvesting techniques of the Namib desert beetle inspire innovative building solutions.

Designers like Anuk use termite mounds to create porous wall tiles, which trap air and promote cooling for greater thermal comfort.

Some of the world’s top architects are competing to transform a downtown space into something worthy of a nation’s capital.

Title:

Content: Skip to main content

Some of the world’s top architects are competing to transform a downtown space into something worthy of a nation’s capital. The competition ends April 26

When was the last time the federal government commissioned a great building? This hasn’t happened for half a century in Ottawa, where recent public architecture has been unambitious and underwhelming. That is likely to change with Block 2, a new office complex to be built across the street from Parliament Hill.

Some of the world’s top architects are vying to lead the Block 2 design, in an international competition conducted in collaboration with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. Next Tuesday, a 25-member jury of parliamentarians, academics and architects, led by the philosopher and novelist John Ralston Saul, will announce a winner from among six shortlisted teams.

These teams unveiled their designs for Block 2 in a public online presentation last week. While they presented a diverse set of visions, whichever is selected will become the most ambitious work of public architecture the capital has seen for many years.

However, it won’t be flashy. Block 2 will be largely an office complex, for the use of parliamentarians and civil servants. It forms part of a 25-year project to rebuild the entire Parliamentary Precinct, the area on and around Parliament Hill. Block 2 is bounded by Wellington, Sparks, Metcalfe and O’Connor streets; this city block currently includes 11 existing buildings and several vacant lots. Two buildings in the middle are reserved for a future Indigenous Peoples’ Space. The remainder will be demolished or incorporated into the new office complex.

The government launched the process in March, 2021, with a request for qualifications from design teams. Twelve of these were invited to develop a detailed design concept. The jury then whittled them down to six, using an exhaustive set of aesthetic and technical criteria. These many constraints, not to mention the challenge of responding to the Parliament Buildings across the street, make it difficult to create an icon.

Instead the shortlisted designs show sophisticated and varied solutions to the competition’s puzzle. The designers include an international who’s who of contemporary architecture. They nod to the materials and detailing of the triad of Parliament Buildings; they include bold modernist form-making and articulation; and they incorporate thinking from Indigenous architecture.

There are commonalities. Several of the schemes extensively use engineered wood, or mass timber, an attractive and low-carbon material. All of them respond to the competition requirements with a mix of office space, meeting rooms and grand atriums.

But there are also some key differences in approach. The team led by London firm WilkinsonEyre imagines a rooftop C-shaped conference space. The team led by Paris-based Renzo Piano Building Workshop takes liberties with the existing heritage buildings to establish a uniform, monumental facade along Wellington Street. And the team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy bets heavily on Indigenous design to shape Block 2 itself.

Some of these designs stretch the rules of the competition, which is apt; the main benefit of a design competition is to test different ideas and designers, in order to produce an excellent result. Block 2 is likely to deliver on that aim. Its public areas and street facades will send two clear messages: that the work of government matters, and that public architecture can embody the highest cultural aspirations.

Here are early assessments of the six shortlisted schemes, based on the architects’ video presentations.

Zeidler Architecture with David Chipperfield Architects

Of the six proposals, this is the clear standout. David Chipperfield’s London firm is known for its sensitivity to heritage. This proposal “weaves together past, present and future to create a tapestry of forms and styles,” Mr. Chipperfield said during the presentation. The scheme, created by a team that also includes Toronto’s Zeidler Architecture, retains almost all of the exteriors of the existing buildings. The new ones have mass-timber structural systems and are dressed in panels of recycled copper – a poetic nod to the copper roofs of Parliament.

Inside, two large atriums link the existing buildings on site, unifying floor levels to provide accessibility, while a variety of meeting and hallway spaces feature recycled masonry. The team – including Mohawk architect Matthew Hickey of Two Row Architect – has also designed a Peoples’ Square that sits alongside a new Indigenous centre and in line with the Peace Tower across the street. At a small scale and at the scale of the block, this promises complexity and variety that could, as the architects suggest, represent the diversity of the country.

NEUF architect(e)s with Renzo Piano Building Workshop

This project, by contrast, remakes the facades along Wellington Street into two uniform and finely detailed boxes – the kind for which Renzo Piano’s Paris-based firm is globally known. (Its partners on this project include Montreal’s NEUF.) Clad in clear low-iron glass and limestone, these facades present a timeless and beautiful face to Parliament, topped with rooftop groves of large trees. The other main facade, on Sparks Street, restores and keeps elements of some heritage buildings, as is the case with the other schemes. But this design tops them with precisely carved slabs of glass and arrays of solar panels. If the competition jury wants a statement of uniformity, coherence and precision, there is no proposal better suited for the task.

Diamond Schmitt Architects with Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), KWC Architects and ERA Architects

This team brings together international stars BIG with established Toronto and Ottawa firms. Its vision includes buildings that are multifaceted, literally: New office blocks facing Wellington are irregular in shape, slanting inward from top to bottom to define new public squares around the future Indigenous centre. (Thoughtfully planted rooftop gardens by the landscape architects PUBLIC WORK provide an additional amenity.) The facades arrange Queenston limestone panels into a forceful modernist grid, contrasting with the remaining restored heritage facades. Windows are sized and arranged to control light and heat gain on each facade. Inside, offices and atriums are consistent, and rather bland, in finish and spatial qualities. This scheme aims to balance architectural flash with Ottawan conservatism.

Provencher Roy

The team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy focuses hard on the Indigenous component of the project. Working with Indigenous architect and planner Aaron Aubin, it imagines a round Truth and Reconciliation Tower that stands opposite the Peace Tower and houses committee rooms. This attempts to address a fundamental challenge of this block: the decision to put an Indigenous centre in what used to be the U.S. embassy on Wellington. That 1932 building by architect Cass Gilbert speaks a language of neoclassicism that has strong negative connotations for many Indigenous people. It’s an open question whether the Provencher Roy design of rather corporate-feeling spaces within Block 2 meaningfully solves this problem.

WilkinsonEyre with IDEA Inc.

The London architecture firm WilkinsonEyre, which recently completed a new headquarters for CIBC in Toronto, is the dark horse. (Its partners on this project include Ontario firm IDEA Inc.) This team’s design builds on the neoclassicism of the former U.S. embassy building, translating the three-part organization of its facades into an architectural language familiar from contemporary London. To add Canadiana, wooden “trees” of structural timber show up both on the interior and the exterior. Ovoid meeting rooms hang within the building’s large atrium, like berries on stems. This design has a symbolism that is easy to read; however, the busy and mannered approach to the interior architecture may not age well.

Watson MacEwen Teramura Architects with Behnisch Architekten

The German/American firm Behnisch is known for its commitment to sustainability, and that is reflected in the design of this team, which also includes Ottawa-based Watson MacEwen Teramura. A complex series of atriums and winter gardens on different levels aids in the management of light and ventilation, helping the building complex function for part of the year without mechanical ventilation. Like most of the other shortlisted designs, this one breaks up the mass of the offices into smaller pieces. Stefan Behnisch suggested in his team’s presentation that the architecture should “herald tolerance, inclusion, collaboration and communication.” But it goes further than most, covering the exterior with slanted light shelves that provide shade and capture sunlight with solar panels. The effect, inside and out, is very subtle. Is subtlety the right architectural message? That is for the competition jury to decide.

Your Globe

Build your personal news feed

Follow the author of this article:

Follow topics related to this article:

Check Following for new articles

The remainder will be demolished or incorporated into the new office complex.

The team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy bets heavily on Indigenous design to shape Block 2 itself.

Block 2 is likely to deliver on that aim.

That is for the competition jury to decide.

Barbara Deutsch, CEO of the Landscape Architecture Foundation, stated at the Grounding the Green New Deal summit at the National Building Museum that designers must influence policy as well as execute projects.

Title:

Content: Designing Decarbonization, Jobs, and Justice (Part I)

“It’s not good enough to just be active designers, we also need to be influencing policy upstream,” said Barbara Deutsch, CEO of the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF), during the kick-off of Grounding the Green New Deal, a day-long summit held at the National Building Museum (NBM) in Washington, D.C. Landscape architects can “create a feedback loop in which we test designs and overcome barriers,” advancing climate, water, and infrastructure policy through innovative projects.

In 2020, LAF, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, ASLA, and the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA) launched a collective, open source Green New Deal Superstudio focusing on how to plan and design the key goals of the Congressional legislative proposal H.R. 109, which are jobs, justice, and decarbonization. Some 180 universities, 3,000 students, and hundreds of practitioners submitted 670 projects. Of these, 55 projects have been highlighted by Superstudio curators, and many were featured in an exhibition at the NBM during the summit.

In a lecture to introduce the first panel, Billy Fleming, ASLA, the Wilks Family Director at the McHarg Center at the University of Pennsylvania, gave an introduction to the broad Green New Deal agenda, which was introduced in Congress in 2019. The agenda was seen as a criticism of the economic recovery package passed under the Obama administration, which was viewed as “too targeted, too Wall Street, and only one-time funding,” Fleming said. The economic havoc wrecked by the market collapse of 2008 was viewed by many liberals as a “crisis wasted.” The Green New Deal outlined an ambitious vision for addressing climate change while also tackling deep-rooted inequities in American society.

Like the original New Deal from the 1930s, which was a response to the Dust Bowl and Great Depression, the Green New Deal would yield thousands of public projects that would reshape communities. But in contrast to the original New Deal, which was not equitable in its distribution of public funds and reinforced the racist Jim Crow-era patterns of disinvestment in Black communities, the Green New Deal would be “more collaborative” and focused on lifting up long marginalized communities.

At the start of a wide-ranging panel discussion, Fleming argued that “carbon is mostly a technical problem.” Landscape architects, planners, and architects can’t focus solely on decarbonization, with “life the same afterwards.” Instead, he and other supporters of the Green New Deal argue that decarbonization should serve a broader economic and social transformation. Solving climate change can be connected to improving the quality of housing, creating new local jobs, and forging a more equitable society.

Nikil Saval, a Pennsylvania State Senator who represents Center City, Philadelphia, said the intersections of all these issues can be found when you “turn on your lights or stove.” Because of “historical redlining and disinvestment in Black and brown communities, many homes in these communities lack insulation and are in disrepair. As a result, the energy needed for lighting, heating, cooling is much more expensive.” Saval said this inequality in the end-use of energy mirrors an unjust “political economy of gas infrastructure” that also disproportionately impacts communities of color.

He argued that communities need to instead “attack the role of racism and inequality” in the current energy infrastructure while investing in energy efficiency in low-income communities and affordable renewable energy. Otherwise, a new clean energy system may simply reinforce many of the injustices of the current fossil fuel-based approach.

Colette Pichon Battle with the Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy was displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The disaster changed the trajectory of her legal career, and since then she has focused on environmental and climate justice in Louisiana, Mississippi, and other southern states.

Her organization and others in 13 southern states launched the Red, Black, and Green New Deal, an initiative that aims to tackle the drivers of climate change — economic and social inequality — and their impacts on communities, rather than focusing on “invisible atmospheric changes.”

The current economic system that leads to environmental and climate damages and injustices must be the focus of climate action efforts, Pichon Battle argued. For example, post-Hurricane Katrina, many cities in Louisiana were submerged under water for years. An incredible amount of trash accumulated and was eventually moved into landfills. Those landfills now form the foundation of new housing subdivisions marketed to low-income Black residents. “Those landfills are going to go under water again at some point and become toxic. Those Black folks marketed to weren’t just happened upon but targeted.”

“We need to be careful about talking about climate justice at a high level; it’s easy to decouple the issues from humanity,” argued Bryan Lee, another speaker on the panel, an architect and founder of Colloqate Design. “If you are talking about it at a high level, it means you don’t know your community. You need to know the people to know the climate impacts.”

Linda Shi, a professor of urban planning at Cornell University, asked everyone in the audience the question: “Who is part of the resilient future? Who makes space for others’ resilience dreams?” She argued that in any discussion about climate change, “we must center equity or it’s not about equity.”

She added that one challenge is that many engineering professions involved in building new climate infrastructure “have never been trained to deal with social issues.” Furthermore, governments and the private sector are more focused on reducing risk and legal liabilities with new infrastructure. “These legal concerns are different from justice, equity, and creating a sense of place.” This is where planners and landscape architects, who are skilled in equitable community planning and design, can help.

The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act created enormous opportunities for communities to improve their park, water, and transportation infrastructure. $50 billion has been allocated for improving water infrastructure alone, with 20 percent of that for water efficiency and reuse.

For Katherine Baer with River Network, the bill is a “transformative moment” and creates opportunities to design green infrastructure to achieve greater water equity. “We believe in connecting communities to their rivers, centering rivers in their life. In the built environment, there are too many buried rivers, creeks, and culverts. And these buried rivers impact some communities more than others.”

Anne Whiston Spirn, FASLA, professor of landscape architecture and planning at MIT, highlighted the ways landscape architects can empower underserved communities, address injustices, and increase climate resilience.

When her father took her to the March on Washington in 1963, “her life was transformed.” The march helped hone her life-long passion for “civil rights, environmental action, and beauty.” However, studying ecological design with Ian McHarg at the University of Pennsylvania, she found design academia at the time was “deaf to civil rights.”

Beginning 40 years ago, Spirn began partnering with communities through the West Philadelphia Landscape Project. White flight had led to disinvestment, but Spirn sought to keep people in cities by improving their environmental health and beauty. Realizing that “no one was going to pay me for this work,” she left private practice and took a job in academia. Using her salary she helped “communities who didn’t know they needed a landscape architect.” Through her “action research” approach, Spirn helped communities improve their landscape literacy. With the founding of her project, her goal was to “improve the natural environment and racial justice.”

She found that in low-income Philadelphia communities there is a lot of vacant land, which is almost always in the floodplain and often on buried streams. While she couldn’t convince the city government in the 1970s and 80s, she called for transforming those vacant lots into green infrastructure to manage water. She started partnering with middle school students to discover the communities’ environmental history. “I learned that landscape literacy could change the future. We need to empower youth. These kids are brilliant.”

Spirn and the West Philadelphia communities were eventually vindicated when the city reached more than a decade ago out to discuss its then-nascent Green City, Clean Waters plan. But she is now concerned all the green infrastructure improvements that have occurred in West Philadelphia as a part of her advocacy efforts are “catalyzing speculation and gentrification.”

She urged the audience to “think five to ten years ahead to the possible displacement impacts of your vision.” Any improvements in community green infrastructure should be coupled with “education, jobs training, affordable housing, and community land trusts.”

Read Part II

Landscape architects can create feedback loops by testing designs and overcoming barriers, thus advancing climate, water, and infrastructure policy through innovative projects.

Addressing climate change can be linked to improving housing quality, creating new local jobs, and establishing a more equitable society.

If discussions about design happen only at a high level, it means there is a lack of connection to the community.

Norman Foster is deeply invested in the future of sustainable design.

Title:

Content: Architecture

Norman Foster Is More Invested in the Future Than Ever

An extraordinary exhibition on the 87-year-old Pritzker Prize–winning principal of Foster + Partners has just opened at the Centre Pompidou in Paris

“As an architect, you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is essentially unknown,” says Norman Foster, the 87-year-old Pritzker Prize–winning principal of London-based architecture firm Foster + Partners. It’s a mantra that has guided him through the past six decades of his practice—the subject of a retrospective exhibition that opened yesterday at the Centre Pompidou in Paris—and has resulted in some of the world’s most distinctive structures, from the gherkin-shaped 30 St Mary Axe tower in London to Apple’s glassy donut-like campus in Menlo Park, California. A pioneer of the high-tech architecture movement, Foster’s work is generally known for its inside-out approach, façades that reveal buildings’ structures, and systems to allow for column-free or mostly uninhibited interiors. What they also champion, the new show makes clear, is the symbiotic relationship between advanced building technology, future-proof design, and the environment.

Curated by critic Frederic Migayrou and designed by Foster himself, the show explores these concepts in 130 Foster + Partners projects, represented in drawings, sketches, physical models and dioramas, photographs, and videos. Pulling from an architectural oeuvre that encompasses nearly all typologies, from transit to towers, Migayrou organized the retrospective into seven themes: Nature and Urbanity, Skin and Bones, Vertical City, History and Tradition, Planning and Place, Networks and Mobility, and Future. Foster admits that seeing an assembly of his work since he founded his firm in 1967 sparked new realizations of the visual connections between project designs. His emphasis on sustainability and the use of flexible design to achieve it, however, have always been tenets.

For example, “the National Botanical Gardens of Wales (2003) and the Elephant House in Copenhagen (2008) all recede into the landscape, deferring to nature,” says the architect. However, it was his 1997 Commerzbank Tower in Frankfurt am Main, Germany—with its multiple sky gardens, emphasis on a workspace with natural light and air flow, and use of new building technologies and methods to reduce heating and cooling needs—that convinced the Pritzker Architecture Prize jury to laud him in 1999 for “Europe's tallest and arguably the first skyscraper with an ecological conscience.” Since 2008 that building has been run entirely on green energy, and its innovative design continues to contribute to lowering its overall requirements.

Though his historic work has already accomplished much in the advancement of mainstreaming “sustainable design,” Foster’s current architectural focus is on the next generation. “An anticipation of the future” is a main driver for his work today, he reveals. In collaboration with MIT’s Center for Advanced Nuclear Systems, he is exploring the urban applications of autonomous clean energy from micro-reactors. At this year’s Venice Architecture Biennial, he is unveiling experiments with Swiss building company Holcim and his nonprofit research institute, the Norman Foster Foundation, showcasing a new low-carbon concrete to create virtually instant refugee housing. Adding water to the material draped over a reusable framework renders it structurally sound in just one day.

“Before this exhibition [at the Centre Pompidou] I was less sensitive to the roots of my design philosophy and its background in systems thinking,” sums the architect. “When I say this it suggests a mechanistic process. Nothing could be further from the reality—the quest is as much of the spirit or soul as the materiality of the built end result.” What Foster’s soul-search does, however, is create architecture that improves all our lives.

World Environment Day highlights five sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform workplaces into green spaces.

Title:

Content: Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP

This serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet.

Title:

Content: Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP

Modular meeting spaces and booths are key innovations for reusing and recycling both waste and built spaces.

Title:

Content: Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP

Proper use of natural light is another sustainable design strategy.

Title:

Content: Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP

Gloria Cabral emphasizes that “Everything Begins With the Wisdom of a Place.”
She reflected on visiting her childhood home in São Paulo and realizing its actual small size compared to her memories.

Title:

Content: Gloria Cabral: “Everything Begins With the Wisdom of a Place”

Gloria Cabral: “Everything Begins With the Wisdom of a Place”

Born in Brazil and educated in Paraguay, Gloria Cabral is an architect who early on learned that home can be many places—or none at all. Guided by a comprehensive understanding of the geography, culture, and social conditions of the places she designs, she has left her mark on buildings and artistic installations constructed in various locations, from Assumption to Venice.

Besides her interest in the specificities of the places where she operates, Gloria focuses on resource economy and material reuse — a trending theme that Gloria has championed for over fifteen years. We had the opportunity to speak with the architect about her experiences in Paraguay and Brazil, some of her works involving recycled brick, and her insights into architecture and sustainability.

+ 10

Romullo Baratto (ArchDaily): Until recently, I did not know you were Brazilian. I always thought you were Paraguayan. I would like to hear about your childhood in these two countries.

Gloria Cabral: My parents are Paraguayans, and they came to work in São Paulo. They already had two children at the time, but my younger sister and I were born in São Paulo. We lived on Bela Cintra Street, right in the center. Last year, I visited the building where we lived. It's still there, small and beautiful. It's curious how, upon visiting, I realized that it is actually much smaller than the image I had in my memory.

In my childhood, we spent a lot of time at MASP and Ibirapuera Park. My mother loved Ibirapuera and even studied landscaping there with Burle Marx. When I was six, we returned to Paraguay, and at the age of nine, I joined the Colegio Experimental Paraguay-Brasil, designed by Affonso Eduardo Reidy. That was my journey from one marvelous building to another. I completed my entire elementary education in that building and was fascinated by those concrete structures. I knew they were not just for providing shade. It was great to walk under those beams during recess.

RB: In interviews, you often mention that you are neither from here nor there, and your father used to say you're a citizen of the world. This brings to mind the word "desterrar" (to be unrooted or without land). Perhaps you are a kind of unrooted person or, even more, someone with many "lands"—many places to call home. This seems an essential aspect of your personal story. How has this influenced how you perceive and practice architecture, a discipline so deeply connected to a sense of place?

GC: Interestingly, I find myself in situations where people do not know if I am Paraguayan or Brazilian. But now, I truly feel I belong to both places. I have this fondness for putting down roots wherever I go. For feeling like I belong to the local culture. For taking off my shoes and sensing the energy of the place.

I enjoy sensing and understanding how people live in each location. Once this is comprehended, I try to envision how to enhance these spaces. That is our tool – how we can improve people's quality of life by changing scales and altering the proportions of spaces. I do not believe there is only one way to think about architecture. There are thousands of approaches for each situation.

When someone commissions a project, be it for an office, a house, or anything else, understanding the context and the way people live enables us to envision improvements. By grasping the unique dynamics of the place, we can always find ways to enhance it not just for the client, but for everyone around them. And what works here might be entirely different in Stockholm, for example. But I can work both here and in Stockholm with bricks and demolition materials. Creating shade in a place with only 6 hours of sunlight in winter does not make much sense. Designing a place that offers shelter and protection with the same materials, that's when it starts to make sense.

RB: You started designing in Paraguay. How did the landscapes there influence your projects?

GC: In Paraguay, after finishing high school, I was not sure if I would study architecture, medicine, or something related to mathematics. I chose architecture, perhaps influenced by my mother. Initially, the university seemed trivial, concerned only with aesthetics and what was trendy at that moment. When I realized that we could bring about change through architecture, that it is our tool for making the societal transformations we desire, that's when I truly started to enjoy the profession. I was on the verge of quitting the course when I discovered the work of Gabinete de Arquitectura. Understanding how we could change society through our discipline made me realize that this was what I wanted to do.

One characteristic of Paraguay's landscape is that temperatures can reach almost 50ºC. So, my practice revolved around figuring out how to create architecture that does not rely heavily on air conditioning. At Gabinete de Arquitectura, our research heavily focuses on creating shading structures to shield us from the sun — a crucial aspect that has always held great value in Paraguay. The challenge now is dealing with extreme heat in places not accustomed to such temperatures. It has become a global necessity: architecture that is not heavily dependent on air conditioning, incorporating passive comfort strategies.

I believe everything begins with the wisdom of a place. However, when you not only understand what to do but also why you're doing it, wisdom transforms into adaptable knowledge applicable to any region.

RB: I have realized that your approach to architecture extends beyond conventional aspects of geography like territory, topography, biomes, and climate. Your comprehensive view of geography also embraces the social aspect. This is evident in the practices at Gabinete de Arquitectura, where there's a distinct interest in the materiality of brick, particularly due to its connection with Paraguayan culture. In Latin America, characterized by economic scarcity, it seems there is an expansion in the understanding of the landscape that goes beyond mere territory considerations to encompass social and economic spheres.

GC: Certainly! For example, when clients approached Gabinete, we aimed to maximize the built area within the available budget. A good example is the rehabilitation project for Teletón: the funds available would cover only a third of the required area, and there was a long waiting list of children in need. I knew that if we could lower the cost per square meter, we could offer more built space and provide all the necessary services, such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and speech therapy.

If we didn't construct the entire necessary area, the children would have to wait until the following year to receive certain treatments. That was the pressure the project was under.

Doing this required a significant planning effort to reuse all the demolished bricks. However, it was crucial to ensure that reusing them did not incur an additional cost in the budget. When I talk about economic issues, it is not a matter of finances. It is about energy savings. If we were to reuse the bricks in the Teletón project, we would have to clean the demolition bricks and then prefabricate the closure modules again, for instance. At that time, bricks were inexpensive in Paraguay, so the cost of buying new bricks, breaking them, and using them, or taking demolition bricks, breaking them, sorting them, and using them was practically the same.

However, I knew we would save on the energy spent in producing new bricks and allocate about 65% of the budget to labor, instead of new materials, by using demolition bricks. This would involve more work and more people on the construction site, resulting in less embodied energy. It also meant more complications, especially when dealing with the inherent challenges of working with people. Certainly, it was easier to call a supplier and order new bricks than to plan and calculate everything that reuse entailed.

We were also going against all members of the Foundation's Board, who wanted to build quickly. It required calculating how many people we needed to hire to avoid exceeding the deadline and not spending more money. In the office, this meant a lot more work. The same happened with the glass we used, all from rejected tempered glass with flaws. By purchasing these glasses and using them creatively in the openings, we reduced glass expenses to one-fifth, and with that savings alone, we managed to build an additional 300 square meters. That was the challenge: how to do more with less.

RB: I immediately made a connection with your indecision between architecture and mathematics. It seems your approach to architecture is closely intertwined with mathematics, calculations, and spreadsheets. A pragmatic approach that involves solving a complex puzzle.

GC: When I joined Gabinete, we spent more time working on Excel spreadsheets than on actual drawings, seeking ways to cut the budget. The spreadsheet was crucial. It is not just mathematics; it is logic. We exchanged this for that and opted for this glass instead of that one...

RB: Yet, it is socially and economically responsible, and using the word everyone employs, sustainable. In the end, it is about saving resources. It is a logical exercise, as you mentioned, to do more with less.

GC: Exactly. When I started giving lectures in 2008, our projects were seen as picturesque. A novelty, something unusual. Now, people call me because they need to learn new ways of building. Especially in Europe, where there are already many laws in this regard, they are seeking examples and different ways of practicing architecture. The questions are all practical. "How did you do this?" "How do you work with bricks in this way?" "Is it possible to do it with wood?" These questions are frequent. They indicate an urgent interest in reusing materials that would have been discarded and turned into waste before.

For me, the idea of disposal, of waste, shouldn't exist. It's incongruent with the notion of sustainability. Everything has to be part of the cycle. We are discriminating against a material, setting it aside, but it's not to the side; it's right there.

RB: This material will be somewhere on the planet...

GC: Certainly. I am starting a research project with an artist here in Santa Catarina who works with discarded fishing nets. She began weaving and creating sculptures with these nets, which are usually thrown into the sea. A single boat can have about 30 of these nets. I am exploring how they can be used in the construction of prefabricated elements. In other words, it is about using what we have around us. Here, perhaps it is not bricks but fishing nets — it is essential to observe the specificities of the place.

It is clear that, in other situations, it will be necessary to produce new materials. There is no good or bad material. There are no villains. The material itself is not bad. Concrete is not bad. Concrete is great for many things. But we need to think about the best way to use it. If we prioritize demolition materials, the use of concrete becomes a fraction of what would be initially required. Concrete remains great for many things, but we need to find the right equation and the relevance of using a particular material in different contexts.

RB: Speaking of waste and unconventional materials in construction, I read that you are also working with biomaterials. Can you talk about that?

GC: I conduct research when invited to teach at universities. In Panama, Bolivia, Hong Kong, and Paraguay, I guided students to use materials that closed the cycle. We worked with mycelium, algae, cork, bioconcrete, translucent wood, and more. The most interesting part is that, typically, these students continue their research later on. It's a new universe that needs to be explored.

It is not just about stopping the production of materials that do not close the cycle but using traditional materials combined with new ones to close the loop. The idea of waste needs to disappear from our minds.

RB: Parece que esse é o único caminho possível para a arquitetura — e a sociedade — encontrar um equilíbrio. Ainda sobre reuso, gostaria de ouvir você falar sobre seu projeto na última Bienal de Arquitetura de Veneza: um muro, que na verdade é uma tapeçaria, feita com resíduos de vidro e tijolo do próprio local.

GC: I participated in the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative between 2014 and 2015, where I was a protégé of Peter Zumthor. The program has just completed twenty years, and to encourage the protégés — currently numbering more than sixty — Rolex invites them to collaborate on projects that combine their areas of interest.

That is how I began working with the artist Sammy Baloji, whose practice aims to highlight African roots in artistic works in Europe. When we started discussing our collaborative project, he was creating a sculpture in Belgium using bricks produced from material sourced from mining exploration. I was interested in brick production using industrial waste, so we decided to combine our research in the project Debris of History, Matters of Memory.

When Sammy expressed the desire to create a tapestry, I suggested using demolition bricks. We collaborated with the art historian Cécile Fromont and the activist architects' group Mutaforma in Venice. I chose to be involved in the entire process, not just hiring a construction company. We built the wall with local bricks, glass from the region, and a brick box from Belgium with Sammy's material. The variety of colors in the Belgian bricks was a crucial part of the project. When I see people touching the wall, taking pictures of the glass that allows light to pass through, I sense the energy the tapestry conveys.

RB: Brick and tapestry share the same tactile nature: we perceive both with our hands. This aspect of the process you mentioned is evident in the presentation. The scaffolding was kept, right?

GC: No regulation in Italy allows the construction of a wall with a width of 5 cm and a height of 4.5 meters using demolition material.

RB: Did the organization have reservations about removing the scaffolding?

GC: Is it impossible to obtain approval from the relevant authorities and leave the wall unsupported? We assembled the scaffolding as we built, securing props for support and wire ties to maintain compression and prevent the wall from collapsing. Since it was a laboratory, we decided to leave the scaffolding after completion.

RB: In this conversation, we have talked about Paraguay and  Venice, and now I would like to know why you returned to Brazil — and why Guarda do Embaú in Santa Catarina.

GC: For several reasons. Firstly, my sister moved to Florianópolis, which is nearby, 15 years ago. I came here to be closer to her and my nieces. Another reason is my desire to be surrounded by nature. Just yesterday morning, I encountered a lizard in my backyard. Occasionally, amid my meetings, a large blue bird perches on my window and begins to sing. I only bought one pair of shoes during the 3 years I lived here. I avoid using air conditioning, prefer walking everywhere, and only use the car once a week. Such experiences are uncommon in the midst of a city.

What captivates me here is the slow pace. I have realized that skipping work on a Wednesday won't be the end of me; in fact, it's quite the opposite. I dedicate Mondays and Tuesdays to work, reserving Wednesdays for learning something new—whatever it might be. Whether delving into understanding tensions or exploring new structures, Wednesday is my day. If I am keen on picking up a new language, Wednesday is the day for that. Dancing or singing? Wednesday is when I dive into those pursuits. I return to work on Thursday and Friday. Here, I find relaxation, breathe fresh air, and enjoy a good night's sleep.

We need to reflect on how we got to this point. At what moment did humanity enter this cycle? The pandemic revealed to us that it is not necessary (to work every day) and that we can stop at any moment, but we are forgetting it, missing the opportunity to learn something from that period.

For a long time in Paraguay, I used to say, "We should build in this or that way," but every day I would get into my air-conditioned car, drive to the office with air conditioning, and work all day. Twelve hours later, I would leave in my car and return home, turn on the air conditioning, and sleep to do the same thing the next day. Not anymore. If the day is beautiful, I close everything and enjoy the nice day. And when I have a lot to do, I work on Sundays, no problem. But the next day, I rest.

RB: It seems like a worldview quite aligned with the circularity you mentioned earlier. It's good that this came towards the end because it appears that you have not only learned a lot from the landscape of Paraguay but also the landscape of Guarda do Embaú. Today is Wednesday, and I've learned quite a bit too.

GC: It is an interview, a moment of learning together.

Image gallery

See allShow less
About this author
Cite: Baratto, Romullo. "Gloria Cabral: “Everything Begins With the Wisdom of a Place”" [Gloria Cabral: "Tudo começa com a sabedoria de um lugar"] 24 Jan 2024. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simões, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1012261/gloria-cabral-everything-begins-with-the-wisdom-of-a-place> ISSN 0719-8884

More interviews from ourYouTube Channel

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.

The trees on the property were not just for shade, but provided a sense of belonging to both her native and adopted places.

Title:

Content: The Home Standing Tall with the Trees

Luke Riley
Loading admin actions …

At homify we love to see homes that have been built to be at one with nature. For too long we have seen the natural environment suffer from destruction due to unsustainable home design and poor building practices. Thankfully, due to stronger government regulation, growing ecological awareness and a dedicated architecture and design movement—the good far outweighs the bad!

The project we're lucky to tour today is one of the stellar examples of good home design. Featuring both a sensitive building layout and many eco-friendly design aspects, this modern home by Robert Gurney Architect is the way of the future.

Let's check it out…

Leading us home

A long, sloping pathway directs us towards the entrance of the residence. As one walks down the pathway, they would pass by one of the many majestic pine trees that stand within the site. This is just one of the many mature trees that were respectfully protected and built around.

The design ethos from the owners and Robert Gurney Architect was for the home to be moulded by the rolling and wooded topography. This home does not simply imitate a particular architecture style but rather is formed as a unique expression of modern architecture and the natural landscape.

Natural forces

The massing and shape of the home has been dictated by the natural forces at play. Rather than cut and clear the site to be more favourable for a build, the home was instead built as a direct response to the steep elevation.

In terms of the materials chosen for the exterior, we can see how the architects have favoured natural materials to allow the structure to settle into position naturally.

Active and intricate

We are welcomed inside the home by an interior that is tranquil and minimal. Spaces here are not only pleasing to the eye, but they also appear active and intricate. Naturally we are drawn towards the warm flames of the ultra-modern fireplace that keeps all those who relax in the lounge area comfortable.

Bringing music to the ears is the majestic grand piano that stands not only as a beautiful feature of the space, but also subconsciously contrasts against the monochrome scheme of the rest of the space.

Sharing a meal

dining area on the landing upstairs introduces an exciting display of bold décor choices. Look no further than the gold shaded seats that surround the dining table. The table itself is a confident choice, with its transparent surfaces and intricate metal framework.

Positioning the dining area up on the landing appears to be an obvious choice considering the wonderful views that can be enjoyed from here. Diners wont miss a thing thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Business as usual

In today's modern life it is an unfortunate thing that we must occasionally work from home. Bringing work home can seem like a negative thing to do but we'd have to disagree in this instance. Just take a look at this amazing home office that brings the class of a CEO's office!

A huge meeting table that can fit all the board members has been positioned centrally to ensure that conversations flow and no important issue is unable to be resolved. Lining the walls are the beautiful timber bookshelves, filled with all the necessary books, documents and general paperwork.

For a quick bite

In the early morning rush quick meals are an essential part of the routine. A formal dining table would naturally seem like a poor choice of location for these types of meals so a small table with a handful of chairs have been placed beside the kitchen. It is an easy place to grab a bite to eat before the commute to work or dropping the kids off at school.

Observing nature

An incredible feature of the residence is the decking that surrounds a large portion of the first level. One would feel high above the world when standing or sitting up here. From this angle we can appreciate how the deeply stained timber appears to match the leaves of the deciduous trees in the foreground.

Swimming by the woods

To conclude our tour we find ourselves beside the crystal clear waters of the swimming pool. We couldn't imagine a better way to spend time in this home than swimming in the water while occasionally pausing to take the time to appreciate the beautiful wooded landscape.

It would feel incredible knowing that a home as perfect as this could be built without any destruction of the sensitive ecosystem of the woodlands. It just goes to show what an incredible job Robert Gurney Architect have done.

For another beautiful eco-friendly project, enjoy: The Home Perfected by Nature.

Need help with your home project?
Get in touch!

Discover home inspiration!

In places with limited sunlight, maximizing shade is not always practical; context and climate matter.

Cabral was inspired to continue her architecture career by the sustainable work of Gabinete de Arquitectura.

Title:

Content: Projecten

Nieuw project

At Cartoni we combine our knowledge of design and sustainability to help architects and designers create healthy and durable designs without ever losing sight of aesthetics. We believe architects and designers can create better designs if they understand what is really sustainable what components are available. We feel strongly about taking our responsibility and explaining how our work fits in a broader societal context. At Cartoni we research and source sustainable components that designers can use every day. We track these components down to the very fiber and make sure they can be used and modified according to industry standards. Always keeping in mind that these components not only have to be healthy but also need to be aesthetically pleasing and modular. By creating a simple system for these components and sharing our knowledge, we help them get ahead. Making truly better designs possible. Positive for architects, designers, society, and our own personal lives.

Servicegebieden
Amsterdam en Nederland
Adres
Gustav Mahlerplein 1
1082 MK Amsterdam, Nederland
Nederland
+31-615333937 www.cartonidesign.com

Resourcefulness and efficient use of materials are key to sustainability.

Material selection is context-dependent; there is no inherently good or bad building material.

For example, concrete serves many essential purposes, but it must be used thoughtfully.

Color and local materials played critical roles in notable projects like those built with Belgian bricks.

Italian regulations generally don’t allow thin, tall walls from demolition materials, illustrating regulatory challenges.

Reflecting on sustainable practice includes personal habits like energy use and lifestyle choices.

Title:

Content: Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP

Cartoni combines design expertise and sustainability to help create healthy, durable, and beautiful architectural outcomes.

Title:

Content: Projecten

Nieuw project

At Cartoni we combine our knowledge of design and sustainability to help architects and designers create healthy and durable designs without ever losing sight of aesthetics. We believe architects and designers can create better designs if they understand what is really sustainable what components are available. We feel strongly about taking our responsibility and explaining how our work fits in a broader societal context. At Cartoni we research and source sustainable components that designers can use every day. We track these components down to the very fiber and make sure they can be used and modified according to industry standards. Always keeping in mind that these components not only have to be healthy but also need to be aesthetically pleasing and modular. By creating a simple system for these components and sharing our knowledge, we help them get ahead. Making truly better designs possible. Positive for architects, designers, society, and our own personal lives.

Servicegebieden
Amsterdam en Nederland
Adres
Gustav Mahlerplein 1
1082 MK Amsterdam, Nederland
Nederland
+31-615333937 www.cartonidesign.com

Sustainable design is also practiced at the educational level, such as competitions that encourage reducing plastics.

Title:

Content: Projecten

Nieuw project

At Cartoni we combine our knowledge of design and sustainability to help architects and designers create healthy and durable designs without ever losing sight of aesthetics. We believe architects and designers can create better designs if they understand what is really sustainable what components are available. We feel strongly about taking our responsibility and explaining how our work fits in a broader societal context. At Cartoni we research and source sustainable components that designers can use every day. We track these components down to the very fiber and make sure they can be used and modified according to industry standards. Always keeping in mind that these components not only have to be healthy but also need to be aesthetically pleasing and modular. By creating a simple system for these components and sharing our knowledge, we help them get ahead. Making truly better designs possible. Positive for architects, designers, society, and our own personal lives.

Servicegebieden
Amsterdam en Nederland
Adres
Gustav Mahlerplein 1
1082 MK Amsterdam, Nederland
Nederland
+31-615333937 www.cartonidesign.com

Winners of design innovation awards over the last decade reflect a shift towards sustainable design thinking.

Title:

Content: advertisement
advertisement

How businesses learned to embrace sustainable design—and where it’s headed next

We look at the winners of Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Awards over the past 10 years as a lens onto a broader shift toward sustainable design thinking.

advertisement
advertisement
advertisement

When Fast Company launched the Innovation by Design Awards in 2012 to honor creativity in business, just two of the winning entries embraced sustainability as a central design thesis.

advertisement
advertisement

This year, roughly a third of the winners prioritize the environment, ranging from a converted coal power plant to a device that transforms salt water into electricity. As the effects of climate change become increasingly visceral, spreading fires, hurricanes, and other disasters around the globe, design is becoming a crucial tool of adaptation. “Designing for human survival will become the new necessary field of design,” says Slow Factory Foundation founder Céline Semaan in a special Fast Company report on where the industry can have the greatest impact in the next decade.

In some ways, eco-friendliness has always been a key aspect of good design. Legendary industrial designer Dieter Rams declared it nearly 50 years ago, as one of his 10 principles of good design. But the parameters of what constitutes sustainable design have shifted over time. Is a plastic coffee maker that lasts 20 years, but ultimately ends up in a landfill, really sustainable? Today, many designers understand that every part of product development, from the materials used to a product’s afterlife, must be carefully considered to limit waste. Others have gone a step further and found creative ways to actively reuse waste. Forust, the winner of this year’s Innovation by Design Award in materials, uses 3D printing to turn sawdust into furniture, bowls, and other accessories. RED, the winner of 2019’s student Innovation by Design Award, explored using red mud, a waste product of aluminum manufacturing, to create gorgeous ceramics and building materials.

Some designs were simply ahead of their time. An early winner of Innovation by Design was the Fisker Karma, one of the world’s first luxury plug-in electric vehicles. It had a solar panel on its roof and sustainable materials inside, like trim made from salvaged wood. “The Fisker shows what you can do by taking risks in sedan design,” judge Erica Eden of Smart Design said at the time. Shortly thereafter, the company went out of business when its sole battery supplier filed for bankruptcy. Intriguingly, the Karma’s design ideas live on in this year’s winner of the products category, Polestar 2. An electric car spun out of Volvo’s skunkworks lab, it has seat backs crafted from old water bottles and carpet made from fishing nets. It also uses blockchain technology to trace the origin of its cobalt, a key component of lithium-ion batteries that is often mined to devastating effect on both people and the planet. Polestar’s investment in these features shows the long tail of bold design.

advertisement

Many of the biggest strides in sustainable design over the past 10 years have come from architects. This may be a case of necessity breeding invention: Architecture and construction are responsible for nearly 40% of global CO2 emissions, an astonishing footprint for an industry that doesn’t garner nearly the attention of polluters like agriculture (representing 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions) and aviation (representing about 2%). Architects have responded with a range of thoughtful solutions, including offices that usher the outdoors in and buildings that generate more power than they consume, but adaptive reuse may be the profession’s most impactful legacy. It’s the idea that one of the greenest ways to build is to reuse what’s already there. In Long Island City in Queens, New York, the architecture firms SWA/Balsley and Weiss/Manfredi converted an abandoned industrial landscape into a 30-acre park that is designed to protect the area from rising flood waters. The project, called Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park, was an Innovation by Design winner in 2019. Two years later, the Chicago architecture firm Studio Gang has won accolades for another adaptation of industrial space, the Beloit Powerhouse, which transformed a coal power plant into a gym and student center at Beloit College in Wisconsin.

Some areas of design still have a ways to go. Disposable goods remain far too common in retail, and fashion and tech companies are particularly guilty of flooding markets with planned obsolescence in mind. “After nearly 15 years, I am using my fourth iPhone,” Frog Design founder Hartmut Esslinger tells Fast Company in the special report on design’s future impact. “Each time I had to buy a new one because of CPU (central processing unit) performance, [and] I put otherwise perfectly functioning products into my closet.” He calls on designers to extend their thinking beyond products and services to the very economic forces underpinning their work. “Recycling is a good thing, but not enough,” he says. “Design must inspire a new economic model and deliver much more long-term solutions.”

See more from Fast Company’s 2021 Innovation by Design Awards. Our new book, Fast Company Innovation by Design: Creative Ideas That Transform the Way We Live and Work (Abrams, 2021), is on sale now.

About the author

Suzanne LaBarre is the editor of Co.Design. Previously, she was the online content director of Popular Science and has written for the New York Times, the New York Observer, Newsday, I.D

More

Reusing existing structures is often one of the greenest building strategies.

In tropical regions, homes should be open to dissipate heat and moisture while protecting from the elements.

Title:

Content: 7 Bioclimatic Façade Strategies for Tropical Architecture

When we think of the word "tropic," the image that typically comes to mind is an exotic space, characterized by perpetual warmth and humidity, with frequent and heavy rainfall nurturing lush vegetation. Throughout history, this tropical climate has been romanticized as a paradise and criticized for potentially fostering weakness due to its perceived clemency.

Thankfully, those judgments and associations have been relegated to the past, paving the way for theoretical and practical projects that outline the advantages and disadvantages of living in a tropical climate. These projects acknowledge the various strategies to enhance human adaptability within these distinctive climatic conditions.

+ 15

Certainly, climate is the most pivotal element of the natural environment, as it impacts all geomorphological processes, from soil formation to plant growth. It's this profound interconnection that renders climate change so concerning. Hence, akin to how the natural environment reacts to climate, architecture must also be responsive to it.

In temperate climates, houses typically remain "closed" to shield occupants from harsh weather, retaining warmth. Conversely, in tropical climates, it's essential to "open up" the house to dissipate heat and humidity while shielding it from the sun and heavy rainfall. The abundance of tropical climate and vegetation often encourages outdoor living or greater interaction with nature. The main challenges in tropical architecture involve protecting against rain and direct sunlight, with a focus on strategies to regulate internal temperatures.

Bioclimatic strategies play a crucial role in achieving these objectives. They guarantee that buildings adapt to the local climate, boost energy efficiency, and enhance occupants' comfort. These strategies encompass principles and design techniques that leverage natural elements to establish sustainable architectures. By minimizing buildings' environmental impact and prioritizing occupants' well-being, these strategies collectively contribute to overall sustainability.

Since many of these strategies are implemented at the junction between a building's interior and exterior, we've listed below seven bioclimatic strategies and how they are applied to the facades of residential projects in tropical climates.

Shading Elements

Incorporating shade devices such as brise-soleil, cobogós, or other latticed structures on facades is crucial. These elements effectively block direct sunlight while allowing diffused light and natural airflow. This helps to minimize solar heat gain, reduce glare, and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

The Kenz House / Srijit Srinivas Architects

Casa Delta / Bernardes Arquitetura

Vegetation

Introducing vegetation on facades through vertical gardens, living walls, or planters can provide natural insulation, reduce heat absorption, and improve air quality. Plants also contribute to shading and evaporative cooling through transpiration, further enhancing thermal comfort and reinforcing the tropical ambiance within architecture.

Tropical Shed / Laurent Troost Architectures

Stepping Park House / VTN Architects

Ventilation Strategies

In tropical architecture, facades often incorporate operable windows or strategically positioned openings to facilitate cross-ventilation and natural airflow. This design approach effectively reduces humidity levels and improves indoor air quality.

Valley Expansion House / Studio Heya

OF House / Studio Otto Felix

Sun Orientation

Ensuring the correct solar orientation of buildings maximizes natural light penetration while minimizing solar heat gain. In tropical climates, designing buildings with a north-south orientation reduces direct sunlight exposure, particularly during peak heat hours of the day.

The House of Silence / Natura Futura Arquitectura

Country house in Puente Iglesias / Oficina de Arquitectura y Paisaje OAP + MDE estudio

Thermal Mass

Using materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete, stone, or adobe, in facade construction helps absorb and retain heat during the day. The heat stored during the day is gradually released at night, helping to stabilize indoor temperatures and reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems.

Discreet House / Jirau Arquitetura

Earth Farmhouse / Studio Verge

Reflective Surfaces

Using light-colored or reflective materials on facades helps minimize heat absorption by reflecting solar radiation. This reduces the need for cooling and helps mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Nagato House / RASA Architektura

House COVE(R) / TOUCH Architect

Adaptability

By integrating responsive facade systems like adjustable blinds or dynamic shading elements controlled by sensors or automation, buildings can adapt in real-time to environmental conditions. This real-time adjustment optimizes both energy performance and occupants' comfort.

Patio House / Caio Persighini Arquitetura

ABK House / Bernardes Arquitetura

Image gallery

See allShow less
About this author
Cite: Ghisleni, Camilla. "7 Bioclimatic Façade Strategies for Tropical Architecture" [7 Estratégias bioclimáticas aplicadas nas fachadas da arquitetura tropical ] 10 Apr 2024. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simões, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1015392/7-bioclimatic-facade-strategies-for-tropical-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.

Many new homes are being designed to integrate naturally with their surroundings.

Title:

Content: The Home Standing Tall with the Trees

Luke Riley
Loading admin actions …

At homify we love to see homes that have been built to be at one with nature. For too long we have seen the natural environment suffer from destruction due to unsustainable home design and poor building practices. Thankfully, due to stronger government regulation, growing ecological awareness and a dedicated architecture and design movement—the good far outweighs the bad!

The project we're lucky to tour today is one of the stellar examples of good home design. Featuring both a sensitive building layout and many eco-friendly design aspects, this modern home by Robert Gurney Architect is the way of the future.

Let's check it out…

Leading us home

A long, sloping pathway directs us towards the entrance of the residence. As one walks down the pathway, they would pass by one of the many majestic pine trees that stand within the site. This is just one of the many mature trees that were respectfully protected and built around.

The design ethos from the owners and Robert Gurney Architect was for the home to be moulded by the rolling and wooded topography. This home does not simply imitate a particular architecture style but rather is formed as a unique expression of modern architecture and the natural landscape.

Natural forces

The massing and shape of the home has been dictated by the natural forces at play. Rather than cut and clear the site to be more favourable for a build, the home was instead built as a direct response to the steep elevation.

In terms of the materials chosen for the exterior, we can see how the architects have favoured natural materials to allow the structure to settle into position naturally.

Active and intricate

We are welcomed inside the home by an interior that is tranquil and minimal. Spaces here are not only pleasing to the eye, but they also appear active and intricate. Naturally we are drawn towards the warm flames of the ultra-modern fireplace that keeps all those who relax in the lounge area comfortable.

Bringing music to the ears is the majestic grand piano that stands not only as a beautiful feature of the space, but also subconsciously contrasts against the monochrome scheme of the rest of the space.

Sharing a meal

dining area on the landing upstairs introduces an exciting display of bold décor choices. Look no further than the gold shaded seats that surround the dining table. The table itself is a confident choice, with its transparent surfaces and intricate metal framework.

Positioning the dining area up on the landing appears to be an obvious choice considering the wonderful views that can be enjoyed from here. Diners wont miss a thing thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Business as usual

In today's modern life it is an unfortunate thing that we must occasionally work from home. Bringing work home can seem like a negative thing to do but we'd have to disagree in this instance. Just take a look at this amazing home office that brings the class of a CEO's office!

A huge meeting table that can fit all the board members has been positioned centrally to ensure that conversations flow and no important issue is unable to be resolved. Lining the walls are the beautiful timber bookshelves, filled with all the necessary books, documents and general paperwork.

For a quick bite

In the early morning rush quick meals are an essential part of the routine. A formal dining table would naturally seem like a poor choice of location for these types of meals so a small table with a handful of chairs have been placed beside the kitchen. It is an easy place to grab a bite to eat before the commute to work or dropping the kids off at school.

Observing nature

An incredible feature of the residence is the decking that surrounds a large portion of the first level. One would feel high above the world when standing or sitting up here. From this angle we can appreciate how the deeply stained timber appears to match the leaves of the deciduous trees in the foreground.

Swimming by the woods

To conclude our tour we find ourselves beside the crystal clear waters of the swimming pool. We couldn't imagine a better way to spend time in this home than swimming in the water while occasionally pausing to take the time to appreciate the beautiful wooded landscape.

It would feel incredible knowing that a home as perfect as this could be built without any destruction of the sensitive ecosystem of the woodlands. It just goes to show what an incredible job Robert Gurney Architect have done.

For another beautiful eco-friendly project, enjoy: The Home Perfected by Nature.

Need help with your home project?
Get in touch!

Discover home inspiration!

Natural forces influence the massing and form of buildings that aim to be at one with nature.

Title:

Content: The Home Standing Tall with the Trees

Luke Riley
Loading admin actions …

At homify we love to see homes that have been built to be at one with nature. For too long we have seen the natural environment suffer from destruction due to unsustainable home design and poor building practices. Thankfully, due to stronger government regulation, growing ecological awareness and a dedicated architecture and design movement—the good far outweighs the bad!

The project we're lucky to tour today is one of the stellar examples of good home design. Featuring both a sensitive building layout and many eco-friendly design aspects, this modern home by Robert Gurney Architect is the way of the future.

Let's check it out…

Leading us home

A long, sloping pathway directs us towards the entrance of the residence. As one walks down the pathway, they would pass by one of the many majestic pine trees that stand within the site. This is just one of the many mature trees that were respectfully protected and built around.

The design ethos from the owners and Robert Gurney Architect was for the home to be moulded by the rolling and wooded topography. This home does not simply imitate a particular architecture style but rather is formed as a unique expression of modern architecture and the natural landscape.

Natural forces

The massing and shape of the home has been dictated by the natural forces at play. Rather than cut and clear the site to be more favourable for a build, the home was instead built as a direct response to the steep elevation.

In terms of the materials chosen for the exterior, we can see how the architects have favoured natural materials to allow the structure to settle into position naturally.

Active and intricate

We are welcomed inside the home by an interior that is tranquil and minimal. Spaces here are not only pleasing to the eye, but they also appear active and intricate. Naturally we are drawn towards the warm flames of the ultra-modern fireplace that keeps all those who relax in the lounge area comfortable.

Bringing music to the ears is the majestic grand piano that stands not only as a beautiful feature of the space, but also subconsciously contrasts against the monochrome scheme of the rest of the space.

Sharing a meal

dining area on the landing upstairs introduces an exciting display of bold décor choices. Look no further than the gold shaded seats that surround the dining table. The table itself is a confident choice, with its transparent surfaces and intricate metal framework.

Positioning the dining area up on the landing appears to be an obvious choice considering the wonderful views that can be enjoyed from here. Diners wont miss a thing thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Business as usual

In today's modern life it is an unfortunate thing that we must occasionally work from home. Bringing work home can seem like a negative thing to do but we'd have to disagree in this instance. Just take a look at this amazing home office that brings the class of a CEO's office!

A huge meeting table that can fit all the board members has been positioned centrally to ensure that conversations flow and no important issue is unable to be resolved. Lining the walls are the beautiful timber bookshelves, filled with all the necessary books, documents and general paperwork.

For a quick bite

In the early morning rush quick meals are an essential part of the routine. A formal dining table would naturally seem like a poor choice of location for these types of meals so a small table with a handful of chairs have been placed beside the kitchen. It is an easy place to grab a bite to eat before the commute to work or dropping the kids off at school.

Observing nature

An incredible feature of the residence is the decking that surrounds a large portion of the first level. One would feel high above the world when standing or sitting up here. From this angle we can appreciate how the deeply stained timber appears to match the leaves of the deciduous trees in the foreground.

Swimming by the woods

To conclude our tour we find ourselves beside the crystal clear waters of the swimming pool. We couldn't imagine a better way to spend time in this home than swimming in the water while occasionally pausing to take the time to appreciate the beautiful wooded landscape.

It would feel incredible knowing that a home as perfect as this could be built without any destruction of the sensitive ecosystem of the woodlands. It just goes to show what an incredible job Robert Gurney Architect have done.

For another beautiful eco-friendly project, enjoy: The Home Perfected by Nature.

Need help with your home project?
Get in touch!

Discover home inspiration!

Examples from residential projects show how architecture can preserve existing trees and natural features.

Title:

Content: The Home Standing Tall with the Trees

Luke Riley
Loading admin actions …

At homify we love to see homes that have been built to be at one with nature. For too long we have seen the natural environment suffer from destruction due to unsustainable home design and poor building practices. Thankfully, due to stronger government regulation, growing ecological awareness and a dedicated architecture and design movement—the good far outweighs the bad!

The project we're lucky to tour today is one of the stellar examples of good home design. Featuring both a sensitive building layout and many eco-friendly design aspects, this modern home by Robert Gurney Architect is the way of the future.

Let's check it out…

Leading us home

A long, sloping pathway directs us towards the entrance of the residence. As one walks down the pathway, they would pass by one of the many majestic pine trees that stand within the site. This is just one of the many mature trees that were respectfully protected and built around.

The design ethos from the owners and Robert Gurney Architect was for the home to be moulded by the rolling and wooded topography. This home does not simply imitate a particular architecture style but rather is formed as a unique expression of modern architecture and the natural landscape.

Natural forces

The massing and shape of the home has been dictated by the natural forces at play. Rather than cut and clear the site to be more favourable for a build, the home was instead built as a direct response to the steep elevation.

In terms of the materials chosen for the exterior, we can see how the architects have favoured natural materials to allow the structure to settle into position naturally.

Active and intricate

We are welcomed inside the home by an interior that is tranquil and minimal. Spaces here are not only pleasing to the eye, but they also appear active and intricate. Naturally we are drawn towards the warm flames of the ultra-modern fireplace that keeps all those who relax in the lounge area comfortable.

Bringing music to the ears is the majestic grand piano that stands not only as a beautiful feature of the space, but also subconsciously contrasts against the monochrome scheme of the rest of the space.

Sharing a meal

dining area on the landing upstairs introduces an exciting display of bold décor choices. Look no further than the gold shaded seats that surround the dining table. The table itself is a confident choice, with its transparent surfaces and intricate metal framework.

Positioning the dining area up on the landing appears to be an obvious choice considering the wonderful views that can be enjoyed from here. Diners wont miss a thing thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Business as usual

In today's modern life it is an unfortunate thing that we must occasionally work from home. Bringing work home can seem like a negative thing to do but we'd have to disagree in this instance. Just take a look at this amazing home office that brings the class of a CEO's office!

A huge meeting table that can fit all the board members has been positioned centrally to ensure that conversations flow and no important issue is unable to be resolved. Lining the walls are the beautiful timber bookshelves, filled with all the necessary books, documents and general paperwork.

For a quick bite

In the early morning rush quick meals are an essential part of the routine. A formal dining table would naturally seem like a poor choice of location for these types of meals so a small table with a handful of chairs have been placed beside the kitchen. It is an easy place to grab a bite to eat before the commute to work or dropping the kids off at school.

Observing nature

An incredible feature of the residence is the decking that surrounds a large portion of the first level. One would feel high above the world when standing or sitting up here. From this angle we can appreciate how the deeply stained timber appears to match the leaves of the deciduous trees in the foreground.

Swimming by the woods

To conclude our tour we find ourselves beside the crystal clear waters of the swimming pool. We couldn't imagine a better way to spend time in this home than swimming in the water while occasionally pausing to take the time to appreciate the beautiful wooded landscape.

It would feel incredible knowing that a home as perfect as this could be built without any destruction of the sensitive ecosystem of the woodlands. It just goes to show what an incredible job Robert Gurney Architect have done.

For another beautiful eco-friendly project, enjoy: The Home Perfected by Nature.

Need help with your home project?
Get in touch!

Discover home inspiration!

Architects like Robert Gurney are recognized for their excellence in integrating sustainable principles.

Title:

Content: The Home Standing Tall with the Trees

Luke Riley
Loading admin actions …

At homify we love to see homes that have been built to be at one with nature. For too long we have seen the natural environment suffer from destruction due to unsustainable home design and poor building practices. Thankfully, due to stronger government regulation, growing ecological awareness and a dedicated architecture and design movement—the good far outweighs the bad!

The project we're lucky to tour today is one of the stellar examples of good home design. Featuring both a sensitive building layout and many eco-friendly design aspects, this modern home by Robert Gurney Architect is the way of the future.

Let's check it out…

Leading us home

A long, sloping pathway directs us towards the entrance of the residence. As one walks down the pathway, they would pass by one of the many majestic pine trees that stand within the site. This is just one of the many mature trees that were respectfully protected and built around.

The design ethos from the owners and Robert Gurney Architect was for the home to be moulded by the rolling and wooded topography. This home does not simply imitate a particular architecture style but rather is formed as a unique expression of modern architecture and the natural landscape.

Natural forces

The massing and shape of the home has been dictated by the natural forces at play. Rather than cut and clear the site to be more favourable for a build, the home was instead built as a direct response to the steep elevation.

In terms of the materials chosen for the exterior, we can see how the architects have favoured natural materials to allow the structure to settle into position naturally.

Active and intricate

We are welcomed inside the home by an interior that is tranquil and minimal. Spaces here are not only pleasing to the eye, but they also appear active and intricate. Naturally we are drawn towards the warm flames of the ultra-modern fireplace that keeps all those who relax in the lounge area comfortable.

Bringing music to the ears is the majestic grand piano that stands not only as a beautiful feature of the space, but also subconsciously contrasts against the monochrome scheme of the rest of the space.

Sharing a meal

dining area on the landing upstairs introduces an exciting display of bold décor choices. Look no further than the gold shaded seats that surround the dining table. The table itself is a confident choice, with its transparent surfaces and intricate metal framework.

Positioning the dining area up on the landing appears to be an obvious choice considering the wonderful views that can be enjoyed from here. Diners wont miss a thing thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Business as usual

In today's modern life it is an unfortunate thing that we must occasionally work from home. Bringing work home can seem like a negative thing to do but we'd have to disagree in this instance. Just take a look at this amazing home office that brings the class of a CEO's office!

A huge meeting table that can fit all the board members has been positioned centrally to ensure that conversations flow and no important issue is unable to be resolved. Lining the walls are the beautiful timber bookshelves, filled with all the necessary books, documents and general paperwork.

For a quick bite

In the early morning rush quick meals are an essential part of the routine. A formal dining table would naturally seem like a poor choice of location for these types of meals so a small table with a handful of chairs have been placed beside the kitchen. It is an easy place to grab a bite to eat before the commute to work or dropping the kids off at school.

Observing nature

An incredible feature of the residence is the decking that surrounds a large portion of the first level. One would feel high above the world when standing or sitting up here. From this angle we can appreciate how the deeply stained timber appears to match the leaves of the deciduous trees in the foreground.

Swimming by the woods

To conclude our tour we find ourselves beside the crystal clear waters of the swimming pool. We couldn't imagine a better way to spend time in this home than swimming in the water while occasionally pausing to take the time to appreciate the beautiful wooded landscape.

It would feel incredible knowing that a home as perfect as this could be built without any destruction of the sensitive ecosystem of the woodlands. It just goes to show what an incredible job Robert Gurney Architect have done.

For another beautiful eco-friendly project, enjoy: The Home Perfected by Nature.

Need help with your home project?
Get in touch!

Discover home inspiration!

Well-known experts in urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum.

Title:

Content: Well-known experts in the field of urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum
Source: MIL-OSI English Language News
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
Specialists in the field of urban planning from more than a dozen countries will take part in the business program of the Moscow Urban Forum "Moscow-2030.
A city that looks to the future. ”
This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for urban planning policy and construction Andrei Bochkarev.
“On August 24-25, Zaryadye will host the main event of the Moscow Urban Forum – its business program.
It will bring together the best professionals in the field of urban planning from different countries - China, Brazil, Turkey, Egypt, Armenia, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, India, Qatar, Malaysia, Singapore, Cuba, Colombia, Zambia and South Africa, "he said.
Experts will discuss global trends in the field of improvement, infrastructure and innovation for a comfortable urban environment.
More than 40 events will be held as part of the business program.
During the sessions, foreign speakers will talk about their experience in managing large-scale urban projects.
On the first day of the forum, world-famous designer and architect Baharash Bagerian will speak.
He presented the project Nexgen Sustainable City – the world ’ s first climate-positive city located in Egypt.
“The expert will also take part in the discussion“ Climate control.
Adapting Cities to Climate Change. ”
Together with other participants, the specialist will discuss whether the modern metropolis needs climate-controlled streets and what the city ’ s climate plan should be, ” said the head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of Moscow.
Sergey Levkin.
Gil Peñalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities and author of the Cities for Everyone initiative, will also take part in the forum.
He will talk about his experience in creating a comfortable urban environment during the expert discussion “City-Home.
Formula of Moscow Improvement ”, which will be held on August 24 in the hall “Moscow ”.
The expert will also take part in the session “City as Superhidea.
What urban theories determine the future of the city ”, where he will present specific tools for working with the urban environment and talk about what path his projects go from idea to implementation.
Another star of the forum will be the pioneer of green architecture from Malaysia Ken Eang.
One of his most famous projects is the building of the National Library of Singapore with two roof gardens.
The expert will talk about his concept of an environmentally friendly approach to construction.
The participants of the meeting will learn what green architecture will become in 10 years.
To participate in the business program "Moscow-2030.
A city looking to the future ” requires pre-registration.
Note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
This is exactly what the source claims and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
MIL OSI

A city that looks to the future is emphasized at the event.

Title:

Content: Well-known experts in the field of urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum
Source: MIL-OSI English Language News
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
Specialists in the field of urban planning from more than a dozen countries will take part in the business program of the Moscow Urban Forum "Moscow-2030.
A city that looks to the future. ”
This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for urban planning policy and construction Andrei Bochkarev.
“On August 24-25, Zaryadye will host the main event of the Moscow Urban Forum – its business program.
It will bring together the best professionals in the field of urban planning from different countries - China, Brazil, Turkey, Egypt, Armenia, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, India, Qatar, Malaysia, Singapore, Cuba, Colombia, Zambia and South Africa, "he said.
Experts will discuss global trends in the field of improvement, infrastructure and innovation for a comfortable urban environment.
More than 40 events will be held as part of the business program.
During the sessions, foreign speakers will talk about their experience in managing large-scale urban projects.
On the first day of the forum, world-famous designer and architect Baharash Bagerian will speak.
He presented the project Nexgen Sustainable City – the world ’ s first climate-positive city located in Egypt.
“The expert will also take part in the discussion“ Climate control.
Adapting Cities to Climate Change. ”
Together with other participants, the specialist will discuss whether the modern metropolis needs climate-controlled streets and what the city ’ s climate plan should be, ” said the head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of Moscow.
Sergey Levkin.
Gil Peñalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities and author of the Cities for Everyone initiative, will also take part in the forum.
He will talk about his experience in creating a comfortable urban environment during the expert discussion “City-Home.
Formula of Moscow Improvement ”, which will be held on August 24 in the hall “Moscow ”.
The expert will also take part in the session “City as Superhidea.
What urban theories determine the future of the city ”, where he will present specific tools for working with the urban environment and talk about what path his projects go from idea to implementation.
Another star of the forum will be the pioneer of green architecture from Malaysia Ken Eang.
One of his most famous projects is the building of the National Library of Singapore with two roof gardens.
The expert will talk about his concept of an environmentally friendly approach to construction.
The participants of the meeting will learn what green architecture will become in 10 years.
To participate in the business program "Moscow-2030.
A city looking to the future ” requires pre-registration.
Note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
This is exactly what the source claims and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
MIL OSI

More than 40 business program events will take place.

Title:

Content: Well-known experts in the field of urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum
Source: MIL-OSI English Language News
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
Specialists in the field of urban planning from more than a dozen countries will take part in the business program of the Moscow Urban Forum "Moscow-2030.
A city that looks to the future. ”
This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for urban planning policy and construction Andrei Bochkarev.
“On August 24-25, Zaryadye will host the main event of the Moscow Urban Forum – its business program.
It will bring together the best professionals in the field of urban planning from different countries - China, Brazil, Turkey, Egypt, Armenia, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, India, Qatar, Malaysia, Singapore, Cuba, Colombia, Zambia and South Africa, "he said.
Experts will discuss global trends in the field of improvement, infrastructure and innovation for a comfortable urban environment.
More than 40 events will be held as part of the business program.
During the sessions, foreign speakers will talk about their experience in managing large-scale urban projects.
On the first day of the forum, world-famous designer and architect Baharash Bagerian will speak.
He presented the project Nexgen Sustainable City – the world ’ s first climate-positive city located in Egypt.
“The expert will also take part in the discussion“ Climate control.
Adapting Cities to Climate Change. ”
Together with other participants, the specialist will discuss whether the modern metropolis needs climate-controlled streets and what the city ’ s climate plan should be, ” said the head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of Moscow.
Sergey Levkin.
Gil Peñalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities and author of the Cities for Everyone initiative, will also take part in the forum.
He will talk about his experience in creating a comfortable urban environment during the expert discussion “City-Home.
Formula of Moscow Improvement ”, which will be held on August 24 in the hall “Moscow ”.
The expert will also take part in the session “City as Superhidea.
What urban theories determine the future of the city ”, where he will present specific tools for working with the urban environment and talk about what path his projects go from idea to implementation.
Another star of the forum will be the pioneer of green architecture from Malaysia Ken Eang.
One of his most famous projects is the building of the National Library of Singapore with two roof gardens.
The expert will talk about his concept of an environmentally friendly approach to construction.
The participants of the meeting will learn what green architecture will become in 10 years.
To participate in the business program "Moscow-2030.
A city looking to the future ” requires pre-registration.
Note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
This is exactly what the source claims and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
MIL OSI

An expert will also participate in the session “City as Superhidea.”
This information comes directly from the source and does not reflect MIL-OSI or its clients' positions.

Title:

Content: Well-known experts in the field of urban planning will share their experience at the Moscow Urban Forum
Source: MIL-OSI English Language News
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
Specialists in the field of urban planning from more than a dozen countries will take part in the business program of the Moscow Urban Forum "Moscow-2030.
A city that looks to the future. ”
This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for urban planning policy and construction Andrei Bochkarev.
“On August 24-25, Zaryadye will host the main event of the Moscow Urban Forum – its business program.
It will bring together the best professionals in the field of urban planning from different countries - China, Brazil, Turkey, Egypt, Armenia, the United Arab Emirates, Serbia, India, Qatar, Malaysia, Singapore, Cuba, Colombia, Zambia and South Africa, "he said.
Experts will discuss global trends in the field of improvement, infrastructure and innovation for a comfortable urban environment.
More than 40 events will be held as part of the business program.
During the sessions, foreign speakers will talk about their experience in managing large-scale urban projects.
On the first day of the forum, world-famous designer and architect Baharash Bagerian will speak.
He presented the project Nexgen Sustainable City – the world ’ s first climate-positive city located in Egypt.
“The expert will also take part in the discussion“ Climate control.
Adapting Cities to Climate Change. ”
Together with other participants, the specialist will discuss whether the modern metropolis needs climate-controlled streets and what the city ’ s climate plan should be, ” said the head of the Department of Urban Development Policy of Moscow.
Sergey Levkin.
Gil Peñalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities and author of the Cities for Everyone initiative, will also take part in the forum.
He will talk about his experience in creating a comfortable urban environment during the expert discussion “City-Home.
Formula of Moscow Improvement ”, which will be held on August 24 in the hall “Moscow ”.
The expert will also take part in the session “City as Superhidea.
What urban theories determine the future of the city ”, where he will present specific tools for working with the urban environment and talk about what path his projects go from idea to implementation.
Another star of the forum will be the pioneer of green architecture from Malaysia Ken Eang.
One of his most famous projects is the building of the National Library of Singapore with two roof gardens.
The expert will talk about his concept of an environmentally friendly approach to construction.
The participants of the meeting will learn what green architecture will become in 10 years.
To participate in the business program "Moscow-2030.
A city looking to the future ” requires pre-registration.
Note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
This is exactly what the source claims and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source.
It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
MIL OSI

Proof of artistic value is provided by discussions on design projects.

Title:

Content: Office of Military Representation
art & arch
Loading admin actions …
The widespread fascination with hyperrealism and competition in the naturalism of computer visualizations is a phenomenon that manifests itself in Russia more strongly than in the whole world.
I am not going to judge what lies behind this desire for an indispensable substitute for reality.
In fact, the more realistic the visualization, the less the author ’ s handwriting in it and the lower its artistic value.
In Europe, manual graphics and technology are valued much more than impeccable imitation.
For them, the main task of the architectural presentation is the transfer of the ATMOSPHERE, which the author is trying to create with the help of his project.
Proof of its artistic value.
For the realism of the idea answer detailed drawings, long tables of names and explications.
Today we offer you a project that illustrates the creative process from the first ideas and sketches.
We are talking about the state office space in Moscow, the design project was completed in 2014.
Office of the General Director
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
As you can see, the office of the CEO has not undergone much change since the first sketch was made: the same composition, the same models of furniture.
On visualization, the objects gained materiality, physical density, texture and color.
From the objects, a classic element of the office was added - a leather sofa and two leather armchairs.
Horizontal partitioning of chipboard panels is picked up by the geometry of wooden blinds and a small grid suspended ceiling.
Office of the General Director
press attaché office
Blauderman Bureau
View from the window inside the office.
It is obvious to our eye that this is not a photo and when looking at the picture, it concentrates not on minor details that give out a fake, but on the idea and real merits of the project: the game of shadows, reflections and materials.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the meeting room, we see the same wall panels as in the office, but the floor tile, retaining its dimensions and color from matte turns into glossy.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
Please note that the wooden table also acquires lacquer, which was absent in the director ’ s office.
This emphasizes the ceremonial nature of the meeting and reception room.
Sanitary unit
Simplicity in the modern world has long been the equivalent of wealth and style.
There is no mistake about it: doing it simply is difficult.
Choose one material, one door handle, one type of lamp out of a million possible.
One, but not the same as the last time, not the one that flaunts on the first page of the catalog, but the one that you need to first imagine and then find.
Or make it yourself.
Sanitary unit
A modern office is almost inconceivable without a shower.
And not only for the CEO, who often stays at work late, but also for ordinary employees who get to work by bicycle or jogging!
Cabinet.
Sketch
Sketch before 3D.
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The first sketch defines the basic composition-spatial division of the cabinet space.
The location of the main volumes, taking into account their own functionality and depending on the lighting, location relative to the entrance, etc.
Cabinet.
Sketch of furniture
Furniture for the office. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
On the second outline, the dimensions and materials of furniture are specified, which will be made to order.
Architects often think in pencil in the format of perspective or axonometry.
Two-dimensional projections appear already when the idea is clarified.
Kitchen.
Sketch of furniture
Dining area. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the third sketch we see a sketch of a compact kitchen area, organized in the form of an island.
There is also a small working area with a sink and an electric burner, and a bar counter.
The meeting room.
Sketch
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The fourth sketch shows the hall of meetings and negotiations.
Despite the fact that this is just a quick drawing with a felt-tip pen, we already see the main solutions: the models of chairs, and the size of the table, and the blinds on the windows, and the color of the floor almost unchanged go to the final version, which is presented below.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

A state office space in Moscow, completed in 2014, exemplifies enduring composition and furniture choices from the first sketch.

Title:

Content: Office of Military Representation
art & arch
Loading admin actions …
The widespread fascination with hyperrealism and competition in the naturalism of computer visualizations is a phenomenon that manifests itself in Russia more strongly than in the whole world.
I am not going to judge what lies behind this desire for an indispensable substitute for reality.
In fact, the more realistic the visualization, the less the author ’ s handwriting in it and the lower its artistic value.
In Europe, manual graphics and technology are valued much more than impeccable imitation.
For them, the main task of the architectural presentation is the transfer of the ATMOSPHERE, which the author is trying to create with the help of his project.
Proof of its artistic value.
For the realism of the idea answer detailed drawings, long tables of names and explications.
Today we offer you a project that illustrates the creative process from the first ideas and sketches.
We are talking about the state office space in Moscow, the design project was completed in 2014.
Office of the General Director
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
As you can see, the office of the CEO has not undergone much change since the first sketch was made: the same composition, the same models of furniture.
On visualization, the objects gained materiality, physical density, texture and color.
From the objects, a classic element of the office was added - a leather sofa and two leather armchairs.
Horizontal partitioning of chipboard panels is picked up by the geometry of wooden blinds and a small grid suspended ceiling.
Office of the General Director
press attaché office
Blauderman Bureau
View from the window inside the office.
It is obvious to our eye that this is not a photo and when looking at the picture, it concentrates not on minor details that give out a fake, but on the idea and real merits of the project: the game of shadows, reflections and materials.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the meeting room, we see the same wall panels as in the office, but the floor tile, retaining its dimensions and color from matte turns into glossy.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
Please note that the wooden table also acquires lacquer, which was absent in the director ’ s office.
This emphasizes the ceremonial nature of the meeting and reception room.
Sanitary unit
Simplicity in the modern world has long been the equivalent of wealth and style.
There is no mistake about it: doing it simply is difficult.
Choose one material, one door handle, one type of lamp out of a million possible.
One, but not the same as the last time, not the one that flaunts on the first page of the catalog, but the one that you need to first imagine and then find.
Or make it yourself.
Sanitary unit
A modern office is almost inconceivable without a shower.
And not only for the CEO, who often stays at work late, but also for ordinary employees who get to work by bicycle or jogging!
Cabinet.
Sketch
Sketch before 3D.
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The first sketch defines the basic composition-spatial division of the cabinet space.
The location of the main volumes, taking into account their own functionality and depending on the lighting, location relative to the entrance, etc.
Cabinet.
Sketch of furniture
Furniture for the office. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
On the second outline, the dimensions and materials of furniture are specified, which will be made to order.
Architects often think in pencil in the format of perspective or axonometry.
Two-dimensional projections appear already when the idea is clarified.
Kitchen.
Sketch of furniture
Dining area. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the third sketch we see a sketch of a compact kitchen area, organized in the form of an island.
There is also a small working area with a sink and an electric burner, and a bar counter.
The meeting room.
Sketch
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The fourth sketch shows the hall of meetings and negotiations.
Despite the fact that this is just a quick drawing with a felt-tip pen, we already see the main solutions: the models of chairs, and the size of the table, and the blinds on the windows, and the color of the floor almost unchanged go to the final version, which is presented below.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

The focus is on the overall idea and core merits of the project, such as shadows, reflections, and materials, rather than on minor details.

Title:

Content: Office of Military Representation
art & arch
Loading admin actions …
The widespread fascination with hyperrealism and competition in the naturalism of computer visualizations is a phenomenon that manifests itself in Russia more strongly than in the whole world.
I am not going to judge what lies behind this desire for an indispensable substitute for reality.
In fact, the more realistic the visualization, the less the author ’ s handwriting in it and the lower its artistic value.
In Europe, manual graphics and technology are valued much more than impeccable imitation.
For them, the main task of the architectural presentation is the transfer of the ATMOSPHERE, which the author is trying to create with the help of his project.
Proof of its artistic value.
For the realism of the idea answer detailed drawings, long tables of names and explications.
Today we offer you a project that illustrates the creative process from the first ideas and sketches.
We are talking about the state office space in Moscow, the design project was completed in 2014.
Office of the General Director
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
As you can see, the office of the CEO has not undergone much change since the first sketch was made: the same composition, the same models of furniture.
On visualization, the objects gained materiality, physical density, texture and color.
From the objects, a classic element of the office was added - a leather sofa and two leather armchairs.
Horizontal partitioning of chipboard panels is picked up by the geometry of wooden blinds and a small grid suspended ceiling.
Office of the General Director
press attaché office
Blauderman Bureau
View from the window inside the office.
It is obvious to our eye that this is not a photo and when looking at the picture, it concentrates not on minor details that give out a fake, but on the idea and real merits of the project: the game of shadows, reflections and materials.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the meeting room, we see the same wall panels as in the office, but the floor tile, retaining its dimensions and color from matte turns into glossy.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
Please note that the wooden table also acquires lacquer, which was absent in the director ’ s office.
This emphasizes the ceremonial nature of the meeting and reception room.
Sanitary unit
Simplicity in the modern world has long been the equivalent of wealth and style.
There is no mistake about it: doing it simply is difficult.
Choose one material, one door handle, one type of lamp out of a million possible.
One, but not the same as the last time, not the one that flaunts on the first page of the catalog, but the one that you need to first imagine and then find.
Or make it yourself.
Sanitary unit
A modern office is almost inconceivable without a shower.
And not only for the CEO, who often stays at work late, but also for ordinary employees who get to work by bicycle or jogging!
Cabinet.
Sketch
Sketch before 3D.
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The first sketch defines the basic composition-spatial division of the cabinet space.
The location of the main volumes, taking into account their own functionality and depending on the lighting, location relative to the entrance, etc.
Cabinet.
Sketch of furniture
Furniture for the office. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
On the second outline, the dimensions and materials of furniture are specified, which will be made to order.
Architects often think in pencil in the format of perspective or axonometry.
Two-dimensional projections appear already when the idea is clarified.
Kitchen.
Sketch of furniture
Dining area. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the third sketch we see a sketch of a compact kitchen area, organized in the form of an island.
There is also a small working area with a sink and an electric burner, and a bar counter.
The meeting room.
Sketch
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The fourth sketch shows the hall of meetings and negotiations.
Despite the fact that this is just a quick drawing with a felt-tip pen, we already see the main solutions: the models of chairs, and the size of the table, and the blinds on the windows, and the color of the floor almost unchanged go to the final version, which is presented below.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

The office includes a small working area with a sink, electric burner, and bar counter.

Title:

Content: Office of Military Representation
art & arch
Loading admin actions …
The widespread fascination with hyperrealism and competition in the naturalism of computer visualizations is a phenomenon that manifests itself in Russia more strongly than in the whole world.
I am not going to judge what lies behind this desire for an indispensable substitute for reality.
In fact, the more realistic the visualization, the less the author ’ s handwriting in it and the lower its artistic value.
In Europe, manual graphics and technology are valued much more than impeccable imitation.
For them, the main task of the architectural presentation is the transfer of the ATMOSPHERE, which the author is trying to create with the help of his project.
Proof of its artistic value.
For the realism of the idea answer detailed drawings, long tables of names and explications.
Today we offer you a project that illustrates the creative process from the first ideas and sketches.
We are talking about the state office space in Moscow, the design project was completed in 2014.
Office of the General Director
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
As you can see, the office of the CEO has not undergone much change since the first sketch was made: the same composition, the same models of furniture.
On visualization, the objects gained materiality, physical density, texture and color.
From the objects, a classic element of the office was added - a leather sofa and two leather armchairs.
Horizontal partitioning of chipboard panels is picked up by the geometry of wooden blinds and a small grid suspended ceiling.
Office of the General Director
press attaché office
Blauderman Bureau
View from the window inside the office.
It is obvious to our eye that this is not a photo and when looking at the picture, it concentrates not on minor details that give out a fake, but on the idea and real merits of the project: the game of shadows, reflections and materials.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the meeting room, we see the same wall panels as in the office, but the floor tile, retaining its dimensions and color from matte turns into glossy.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
Please note that the wooden table also acquires lacquer, which was absent in the director ’ s office.
This emphasizes the ceremonial nature of the meeting and reception room.
Sanitary unit
Simplicity in the modern world has long been the equivalent of wealth and style.
There is no mistake about it: doing it simply is difficult.
Choose one material, one door handle, one type of lamp out of a million possible.
One, but not the same as the last time, not the one that flaunts on the first page of the catalog, but the one that you need to first imagine and then find.
Or make it yourself.
Sanitary unit
A modern office is almost inconceivable without a shower.
And not only for the CEO, who often stays at work late, but also for ordinary employees who get to work by bicycle or jogging!
Cabinet.
Sketch
Sketch before 3D.
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The first sketch defines the basic composition-spatial division of the cabinet space.
The location of the main volumes, taking into account their own functionality and depending on the lighting, location relative to the entrance, etc.
Cabinet.
Sketch of furniture
Furniture for the office. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
On the second outline, the dimensions and materials of furniture are specified, which will be made to order.
Architects often think in pencil in the format of perspective or axonometry.
Two-dimensional projections appear already when the idea is clarified.
Kitchen.
Sketch of furniture
Dining area. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the third sketch we see a sketch of a compact kitchen area, organized in the form of an island.
There is also a small working area with a sink and an electric burner, and a bar counter.
The meeting room.
Sketch
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The fourth sketch shows the hall of meetings and negotiations.
Despite the fact that this is just a quick drawing with a felt-tip pen, we already see the main solutions: the models of chairs, and the size of the table, and the blinds on the windows, and the color of the floor almost unchanged go to the final version, which is presented below.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

There is a meeting and negotiations hall as part of the office space.

Title:

Content: Office of Military Representation
art & arch
Loading admin actions …
The widespread fascination with hyperrealism and competition in the naturalism of computer visualizations is a phenomenon that manifests itself in Russia more strongly than in the whole world.
I am not going to judge what lies behind this desire for an indispensable substitute for reality.
In fact, the more realistic the visualization, the less the author ’ s handwriting in it and the lower its artistic value.
In Europe, manual graphics and technology are valued much more than impeccable imitation.
For them, the main task of the architectural presentation is the transfer of the ATMOSPHERE, which the author is trying to create with the help of his project.
Proof of its artistic value.
For the realism of the idea answer detailed drawings, long tables of names and explications.
Today we offer you a project that illustrates the creative process from the first ideas and sketches.
We are talking about the state office space in Moscow, the design project was completed in 2014.
Office of the General Director
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
As you can see, the office of the CEO has not undergone much change since the first sketch was made: the same composition, the same models of furniture.
On visualization, the objects gained materiality, physical density, texture and color.
From the objects, a classic element of the office was added - a leather sofa and two leather armchairs.
Horizontal partitioning of chipboard panels is picked up by the geometry of wooden blinds and a small grid suspended ceiling.
Office of the General Director
press attaché office
Blauderman Bureau
View from the window inside the office.
It is obvious to our eye that this is not a photo and when looking at the picture, it concentrates not on minor details that give out a fake, but on the idea and real merits of the project: the game of shadows, reflections and materials.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the meeting room, we see the same wall panels as in the office, but the floor tile, retaining its dimensions and color from matte turns into glossy.
Meeting room
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
Please note that the wooden table also acquires lacquer, which was absent in the director ’ s office.
This emphasizes the ceremonial nature of the meeting and reception room.
Sanitary unit
Simplicity in the modern world has long been the equivalent of wealth and style.
There is no mistake about it: doing it simply is difficult.
Choose one material, one door handle, one type of lamp out of a million possible.
One, but not the same as the last time, not the one that flaunts on the first page of the catalog, but the one that you need to first imagine and then find.
Or make it yourself.
Sanitary unit
A modern office is almost inconceivable without a shower.
And not only for the CEO, who often stays at work late, but also for ordinary employees who get to work by bicycle or jogging!
Cabinet.
Sketch
Sketch before 3D.
Cabinet. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The first sketch defines the basic composition-spatial division of the cabinet space.
The location of the main volumes, taking into account their own functionality and depending on the lighting, location relative to the entrance, etc.
Cabinet.
Sketch of furniture
Furniture for the office. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
On the second outline, the dimensions and materials of furniture are specified, which will be made to order.
Architects often think in pencil in the format of perspective or axonometry.
Two-dimensional projections appear already when the idea is clarified.
Kitchen.
Sketch of furniture
Dining area. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
In the third sketch we see a sketch of a compact kitchen area, organized in the form of an island.
There is also a small working area with a sink and an electric burner, and a bar counter.
The meeting room.
Sketch
Meeting and negotiations hall. Moscow.
Blauderman Bureau
Blauderman Bureau
The fourth sketch shows the hall of meetings and negotiations.
Despite the fact that this is just a quick drawing with a felt-tip pen, we already see the main solutions: the models of chairs, and the size of the table, and the blinds on the windows, and the color of the floor almost unchanged go to the final version, which is presented below.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

Blauderman Bureau designed special botanical gardens for Sevastopol hospitals, where plants will bloom year-round and aid patient treatment.

Title:

Content: News of Sevastopol
Hospitals will have healing gardens.
Special botanical gardens, plants in which will bloom all year round and will help in the treatment of patients, have been developed for hospitals in Sevastopol, the press service of Sevastopol State University reported.
Special botanical gardens, plants in which will bloom all year round and will help in the treatment of patients, have been developed for hospitals in Sevastopol, the press service of Sevastopol State University reported.
“In total, within the framework of the project, scientists are working with more than 300 plants, of which therapeutic gardens of certain color and therapeutic directions will be created in the future.
Plants have not only a therapeutic effect, but also a coloristic effect has a great impact on humans. <... > Scientists have already developed six botanical gardens for city hospitals.
One of the projects — a rose garden for the hospital named after Dasha Sevastopol — will be presented in the near future, ” — quotes the message of TASS.
It is specified that the work was carried out within the framework of the research project “The concept of landscape and urban development of the territory of health facilities of Sevastopol ”.
It is planned that the gardens will bloom all year round: the flowers are selected in such a way that when one plant blooms, it is replaced by the next.
“We selected flowers specifically for the color and aroma that affect specific diseases.
We have a white garden, there are pink, red, orange and greenish and blue gardens. <... > This is the connection of the color code of plants, their habitus, height, competent combination: we selected natural compositions so that it does not have an aggressive effect on a person.
When a person gets into the conditionally natural environment created by human hands, he calms down, ” the words of the head of the Department of Architecture and Design, Professor Elina Krasilnikova, are quoted in the message.
A mistake in the text?
Select it and press Ctrl + Enter

Schools in Yekaterinburg, numbering 165 for 191,000 students, require a balanced urban environment to attract residents and investment.

Title:

Content: “If you manage to realize at zero, this is already a good result ”
How Ural developers build schools in Yekaterinburg
The shortage of places in schools encourages Ural developers, together with the authorities, to design and build educational institutions in the built-up and newly developed territories.
Developers depart from the principles of the same type of Soviet development and apply modern approaches in their work, including work not only with architects, but also with psychologists, and also focus on the principles of sustainable development.
Schools are at their peak
According to the Department of Education of the Administration of Yekaterinburg, there are 165 municipal schools in the city, 191,000 children study there.
Annually, the number of students increases by 8-9 thousand and, according to forecasts, by 2025 will exceed 200 thousand people, including due to migration flows.
Since the educational sector has been experiencing a serious shortage of places for several years, the municipal program “Creating new places in general education organizations of Yekaterinburg ” was launched in 2016.
In seven years, 16 new buildings were built in the city, 13 operating schools were overhauled and 17 thousand educational places were created.
Only this year there will be 3,400 new places.
On September 1, school No. 40 will open on Michurina Street, the construction of which is at the final stage, will be overhauled in schools No. 24 on Sevastopolskaya Street, No. 99 on Bauman Street, No. 140 on Reshetnikov Drive and No. 63 on Crowley Street.
The municipal program will last until 2025, but taking into account the dynamics of the growth in the number of children, Deputy Head of the Department of Education of the City Hall Mikhail Ladeyshchikov believes that the timing of the program should be increased.
Social responsibility of developers
The design and construction of schools in Yekaterinburg is most often done by local developers.
The work is carried out jointly with the administration, since in the vast majority of cases the customer and the financier of social projects is the state or municipal authority.
“Business, including developers, assist in the implementation of these projects.
This is mainly expressed in the design, providing the necessary data.
If possible, the largest developers allocate land ”, — said the President of the Guild of Builders of the Urals Vyacheslav Trapeznikov.
He noted that the practice, which is common in Moscow, when developers at their own expense build schools and kindergartens, unfortunately, in the Urals and the rest of Russia is impossible: “Profitability indicators do not allow our business to build such facilities at its own expense. ”
Despite the fact that both developers and city authorities are interested in the construction of social facilities, the process itself has many nuances.
“Working on a contract for the construction of schools and kindergartens is often not about financial benefits.
If such projects can be implemented at zero, this is already a good result.
However, the importance of such work for the future growth of the enterprise and the city is enormous, ” said Valery Ananiev, General Director of Atomstroykomplex.
According to him, it is impossible to develop the city one-sidedly, erecting only commercially profitable objects.
In order for people to want to live, work and invest in a particular territory, a fully balanced urban environment is needed there.
“If you have children, you will hardly want to buy a modern, spacious apartment in an area where there are no schools and kindergartens.
The developer will not invest his funds in the construction of a new quarter where there is no demand for new housing.
Consequently, this urban land will not be involved in circulation, it will not have new streets, cafes and shops, will not be updated networks, will remain unsettled dilapidated houses, the Treasury will not receive taxes from those enterprises and owners that could appear on it, ” explained Mr. Ananiev.
The head of the development department of Pervostroitel Group, Andrei Ponomarev, agreed that citizens should receive ready-made kindergartens and schools together with the apartment, but pointed out that the state finances the construction of social facilities not as quickly as developers would like.
“There is a dissynchronization that disturbs everyone.
To keep the balance, there are two ways: to build commercial facilities for the appropriate purpose or to help the city build municipal facilities, ” said Mr. Ponomarev.
The developer determines his task in assisting the mayor ’ s office in the construction of social facilities within the framework of the formation of land plots for construction, the preparation of various documentation, including for obtaining budget financing, and the passage of state expertise.
Another Ural developer, Brusnika, due to the increase in the share of social facilities in its portfolio (11 facilities are in operation), organized an additional workshop, which focused only on the design of schools and kindergartens, it also includes specialists in interior and landscape.
“We design some of the social facilities ourselves, and we entrust some of them to contractors.
Depending on the agreements with the municipalities, Brusnika either transfers the project documentation of the social facility to the city administration for further construction, or prepares it independently.
Examples of such cooperation are a school in Novosibirsk, a kindergarten and a school in the Vidny Moscow Region, ” Brusniki ’ s press service said, stressing that despite the changing agenda in the world, the company has not abandoned ESG initiatives.
Another approach
During the USSR, schools were built according to standard projects.
Therefore, in different cities you could see almost identical objects, not too different from each other.
Now developers, though standardize the typical elements from which projects are “assembled ”, but at the same time strive to preserve the uniqueness of each object.
“Standardization will speed up both design and construction, allow the use of prefabricated elements and reduce the commissioning time, while maintaining the quality of the product, ” explained Brusnik.
The design institute of the company "Atomstroykomplex" has developed several standard projects of schools and kindergartens, which are now recommended by the Ministry of Construction of the Russian Federation for replication throughout the country, their use allows to reduce the time and cost of preparing design and working documentation.
Now the developer is trying for himself the role of concessionaire.
The company was the first in Yekaterinburg to enter into concession agreements for the construction of two schools in the city along Kotelnikova Street and Sovetskaya Street.
According to Valery Ananiev, through concessions, the provision of educational services itself reaches a new level, since PPP implies that the design, construction and operation is concentrated in the hands of one company.
And yet, approaches to construction are changing – schools are becoming more like multifunctional centers, which in some cases become available not only to students, but also to all residents of the city.
“The modern school is like a spaceship, where the maximum of processes — from access control to the regulation of the microclimate — are automated.
Almost every classroom, every public space of the school is equipped with complex equipment - media systems, sports equipment, dispatching.
This requires colossal competencies from both the one who builds and the one who will manage the facility, ” said Mr. Ananiev.
Unlike Soviet schools, when designing modern educational institutions, preference is given to open spaces, unused premises are minimized, developing and unifying environments are created, that is, the developer follows the principle of economy in the operation of the building.
So "Brusnika" in its project in Novosibirsk refuses the H- and U-shaped in favor of a rectangular building with an atrium.
“This solution allows to reduce the total area of   the building by 5 thousand square meters, while the usable area in terms of one student becomes more.
Another solution is an atrium instead of an assembly hall.
This principle is based on studies that show that the assembly hall in the school is empty 90% of the time.
Atrium performs its function and becomes the most visited space - the heart of the school.
It connects the floors with each other and acts as a transit zone.
Also, due to the large area of   glazing in the room, it is light most of the day, it allows you to save electricity, ” the press service of the company commented.
Often, when designing schools, developers resort to the advice of psychologists and sociologists to understand how to more effectively implement all methodological recommendations in the future school.
For example, "Brusnika" did this when designing a school in the microdistrict "Eurobereg" (Novosibirsk).
This consultation helped to introduce into the project the idea of   inclusivity of a modern school - its readiness for joint education of children, regardless of their social status, abilities and characteristics of health.
Forum Group also used such advice when designing the new building of Gymnasium No. 99 on Elmash.
As the general director of the company Maxim Shaburov said, the developer ’ s team held a session to discuss the concept of the project with the participation of the Department of Education of the Administration of Yekaterinburg, the team of the gymnasium and experts of the Center for Psychological and Pedagogical Innovations, which deals with the architecture of educational spaces from the point of view of pedagogy and psychology.
Another principle practiced by Ural developers is the absence of blind partitions between class-clusters and the recreational area, as well as the rejection of the basement - instead of it, all communications are placed on the floors and on the technical floor under the roof.
Such architectural solutions reduce the heated area of the building, simplify the construction and operation of the school.
“In our projects, the landscape is responsible for the development and learning at school, including a dense and diverse landscaping, in the area around schools and kindergartens, we design places for bird watching, zones for the development of tactility, beds for growing greens and vegetables, ” the press service of Brusniki noted.
Developers also strive to minimize the number of partitions, fences, gates and other obstacles on the territory of social facilities, but so far this is difficult during the coordination of projects.
Non-standard solutions
With the complex development of built-up areas, developers sometimes have to resort to non-standard solutions.
For example, during the development of the territory of the former Uralobuv enterprise (Vtuzgorodok, Pervostroitel is engaged in the development of the territory) in 2015, it became clear that the prospects for the development of the new district exceeded the capacity of the existing school.
At the same time, it became clear that there was not enough land for the reconstruction of school No. 134 or the construction of a new
To solve the problem, the developer proposed to increase the capacity of the school from 600 seats to 1.5 thousand seats by adding a neighboring section of the children ’ s clinic and building a new school building.
To form a land plot for the development of the school, the company designed and built the building of the children ’ s clinic, and then equipped it and transferred it to the regional Ministry of Health.
Last year, “Pervostroitel ” at its own expense developed the design documentation of the school building, and this year the developer plans to receive a positive conclusion of the state examination.
In addition, the company appealed to the administration of Yekaterinburg with a request to include the reconstruction of the building in the municipal program for the construction of schools, which will ensure the financing of the future facility.
The package of agreed documentation for the inclusion of the project in the budget funding will be ready by the end of May.
Maria Ignatova
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...
Download news...

Living in areas without educational facilities is a deterrent, highlighting the importance of competent construction and management.

Reducing building area by 5,000 square meters is possible while increasing usable space per student.

A school design solution replaces an assembly hall with an atrium connecting floors and acting as a transit zone.

Forum Group applied this advic e when designing a new gymnasium building.

Developers aim to reduce partitions and barriers on social facility grounds, but project coordination remains challenging.

Limited land for reconstruction or new construction led to creative solutions: building and equipping a children's clinic, then transferring it to the Ministry of Health.

In China, a tower with a “vertical forest” combines nature and metropolis.

Title:

Content: The combination of nature and metropolis: in China built a tower with a “vertical forest ”
2 min
In the Chinese Huangan (Hubei province) completed two of the five towers of the residential complex with a “vertical forest ”.
A couple of weeks ago, people started moving in here.
According to Dezeen, the two residential towers of the complex have a height of 80 meters and are covered with more than 400 trees, as well as other plants and greenery.
The building was designed by the Italian studio Stefano Boeri Architetti.
The architects designed the object so that the foliage on the balconies fit perfectly into the design of the facade.
Studio founder Stefano Boeri said that this version of the towers is characterized by the presence of opening bay windows with indoor plants.
Thus, residents will be able to enjoy the environment of nature, being in the urban space.
The studio used the vegetation of the local flora, using about 400 species of trees.
Among them are Ginkgo biloba, Osmanthus fragrans, Acer griseum, Ligustrum lucidum and Chimonanthus praecox.
Also on the facade "grow" 4620 bushes and various herbs in an area of 2.4 thousand square meters.
According to the developers of the project, this amount of greens will be able to absorb 22 tons of carbon dioxide per year and produce oxygen in return.
According to the architect, China has recently seen a trend of greening cities, which allows more to absorb dust, which is one of the main factors of air pollution in cities.
Easyhome Huanggang Vertical Forest City Complex is the first vertical complex to open in China, and Boeri believes such buildings could be particularly suitable for the country.
As reported by NERUHOMI, the first part of the multifunctional complex was opened in Shanghai before the New Year, the authors of the project of which were inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Semiramis from Babylon.
Author:
Vladimir Grishenko
Journalist / Editor
Education – graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Journalism.
I have been working in the profession for more than 15 years.
My favorite topics are economics and politics, I understand cryptocurrencies and markets, I am interested in real estate.
On the resource NERUKHOMI since May 2020.
All articles by the author
Comments
2.2t
Your request is accepted
The sales department will contact you shortly

The eVolo Skyscraper Competition awarded bold skyscraper designs in 2023.

Title:

Content: Architectural magazine eVolo, which back in 2006 established the Skyscraper Competition, dedicated to various bold projects of skyscrapers, named the winners of 2023.
In addition to the triumphants, more than a dozen works were noted, and, most pleasantly, the projects were mainly aimed at combating environmental problems.
Who knows, maybe in the near future we will see these buildings put into practice.
And more importantly, it will save our planet.
First place: Nomadic megacities
Country: China
This project is aimed at solving the problem of housing for migrants and those who constantly move from place to place.
The capsule is relatively compact, and its design consists of a fixed part (for example, the kitchen and toilet are located in fixed parts of the house for connecting piping systems) and a rotating part, which includes the rest of the living quarters.
The capsule closes the issue of psychological comfort of the tenant associated with the move, and also saves resources for the construction of new houses for people rocking the planet.
Second Place: Ocean Re-clamation
Country: New Zealand
The skyscraper is a stunning example of an innovative idea that solves the problem of plastic pollution, as well as contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and wildlife.
First, the tower itself will be built from recycled plastic.
Secondly, it is designed so that, moving along the natural flow, collect plastic debris, which will later be sent for processing.
And thirdly, thanks to its unique design, the skyscraper has vast spaces and balconies that can accommodate trees and other natural objects that attract birds to live and nest.
And another important point: in addition to collecting plastic, the skyscraper systems are also designed to eliminate oil spills in the ocean.
Third place: K8 Forest take-off
Country: Germany
The K8 skyscraper aims to protect the Amazon rainforest ecosystem from anthropogenic damage, while improving the living conditions of its biodiverse inhabitants and neighboring communities.
Well, below you can get acquainted with other architectural projects that were awarded the attention of the jury.
Plastic skyscraper of blown panels
Country: USA
A skyscraper is a place where plastic waste can be useful.
The tower itself is built of recycled plastic, and the panels inflated with compressed air can be turned into steam balls that will pollinate the area around.
Spiral Farm Skyscraper
Country: Indonesia
A spiral farm skyscraper is a system of vertical farming.
Plants are located in the building so that they do not shade each other and receive enough sunlight for active growth.
The driving force that ensures the nutrition of plants, as well as the mobility of trays, is the flow of water.
Evaporative cooling and geothermal heating systems are used to minimize energy costs.
Gate of Cairo
Country: China
Cairo is one of the most water-poor cities in the world.
The Cairo Gate skyscraper system incorporates a tensioning membrane to produce water resources by collecting mist from the Nile water.
The captured water resources allocated from the mist will be used to grow desert algae that will replace fertilizers.
And also this liquid can irrigate agricultural land and be used for the daily needs of residents.
The skyscrapers themselves will act as full-fledged residential premises.
Wind seeding tower
Country: China
The sowing tower was created in order to stop the desertification of Mongolia and restore the natural ecology and national economy of the country, sowing fields for grazing and, thereby, once again increase the level of livestock production.
The tower itself is designed taking into account the unique conditions of Mongolia ’ s strong wind for spreading grass seeds.
The seeder uses the principle of accelerating the Laval nozzle, which can increase the wind speed by 10 times only by changing the cross section, so that the seeds can be sown on the ground at a distance of 1 km.
Origami skyscraper
Country: China
Fiji is known for its cyclones and other destructive natural phenomena.
The origami skyscraper is a place where you can hide from tropical cyclones.
Also, the building can become a place that will provide employment for the population.
And here you can conduct meteorological observations and equip habitats for birds.
Under normal conditions, the system will be flat and suitable for the development of agriculture and fisheries, but as soon as tropical cyclones appear, it will collapse to protect people, birds and ships.
PRIMUS: terraforming structure of Mars
Country: China, USA
Primus systems provide for the creation of industrial structures that will use modern technology to gradually change the Martian environment to make it suitable for human habitation.
The interior space under the system is intended as initial housing for Mars explorers and inhabitants, and it will provide the necessary infrastructure for research.
Antarctic Rescue Line
Country: China
In order to slow down the melting of glaciers and the imminent environmental catastrophe, a complex has been developed that will absorb heat from the cracks of the earth's crust (which accelerates melting) and convert it into electricity, which will then be charged in batteries.
Battery-powered submarines from other areas will transport discharged batteries here and full ones to other areas for use.
In addition, the upper part of the tower can create ice, which will gradually accumulate on the upper walls of the caves, strengthening and restoring the glaciers.
The Renaissance Skyscraper
Country: China
The essence of the project of this skyscraper is to help restore the Great Barrier Reef, increase the coral population and restore the marine ecosystem.
As the authors of the project say: "Life originated in the ocean, and this is not only the revival of corals, but also the revival of humanity."
Whale: Coral Forest
xxx
Country: South Korea
The whale is another system designed to restore the marine ecosystem by collecting plastic and other debris that actively accumulates on the water surface.
On the outer underwater surface of the building are corals, which perfectly harmonize with the marine fauna.
Also, the generators actively enrich the space around with oxygen, which helps to breathe and move freely and naturally to various marine inhabitants.
Source

Projects aim to solve housing for migrants and nomads, using skyscrapers with practical features.

One skyscraper design proposes using plastic waste for structure, with water flow nourishing plants and mobilizing trays.

Cairo’s water scarcity is noted in relation to these innovations.

A Mongolian tower design uses local wind conditions to spread grass seeds.

Despite advanced meteorology, weather certainty is elusive, impacting outdoor spaces.

Title:

Content: 13 structures that will save gatherings from bad weather
Tatyana Vashchenko
Loading admin actions …
Despite the work of meteorologists, people still can not be 100% sure of the weather.
Sometimes it can completely upset all plans, or spoil an important moment in your life.
How often it happens that the clear sunny sky, under which it is so good to cook a barbecue with friends, in a matter of minutes is drawn by clouds and overthrows the flow of water!
Homify has prepared 13 great ideas for such cases.
Now you can have parties and friendly gatherings in your garden, without fear of changes in the weather – you will always have somewhere to hide.
This is especially useful for gardeners.
Let ’ s build a shelter together!
1.
Patio under awning
Garden furniture
Lothian Design
The easiest way to shelter your yard from the rain is to pull a durable tarpaulin awning.
However, this lifehack will save your patio from the scorching sun.
In addition, this solution can look very stylish if you choose the right furniture and decor.
In the photo you can see a very good example: under the canopy are comfortably located wonderful wicker chairs, a table, tubs with green plants.
2.
Barbecue terrace
Outdoor Living Pod, Louvered Roof Patio Canopy Installation.
homify
If you like to cook barbecue and do it often, get serious and build a covered terrace specially designed for this purpose.
There you can place the necessary equipment - and not just a grill, but a good stove - and put a table for guests.
3.
Rustic style
Exposed Braai
The Braai Man
The barbecue corner can be decorated in a rustic style - this will make it more cozy.
A massive wooden canopy, a cast iron stove, a log cabin with neatly folded firewood, a basket with firewood, bundles of dry herbs for cooking - all this creates a special atmosphere.
The main thing is to take care of the proper processing of wood, so that the canopy itself does not deteriorate from the rain.
4.
Magnificent Pavilion
Virginia Water
Keir Townsend Ltd.
If you have a large family, or you like to collect noisy companies, you will need a lot of room for parties.
And if we talk about a covered corner in the garden, then nothing can be better than a spacious pavilion.
Having placed a large banquet table there, you can accommodate all guests.
Do not forget about good lighting - for sure the fun will continue in the dark, so the lamps should provide excellent visibility even at the furthest ends of the table.
5.
Cozy gazebo
Rattan Garden Cabana, Weatherproof Wicker Shade Room and Sun Loungers
Ingarden Ltd
For natures romantic ideal will be a small, cozy gazebo, where you can be alone with your thoughts, a good book or a loved one.
For greater comfort, it is possible to equip not ordinary benches, but sofas or armchairs with soft pillows.
6.
Dining terrace
A great idea is to build a small terrace directly next to the dining room.
In case the bad weather rages too much, and your guests become uncomfortable even under a canopy, you can quickly move into the house.
7.
Electrotents
Patio Awning Installation in Cheshire.
homify
A very modern solution is to install an electric canopy in your yard, controlled by a remote control.
Depending on the weather, you can open it, close it, change the angle of location, etc.
This option, perhaps, can be considered the most convenient.
Spending once on the device itself, you will be spared a lot of trouble.
8.
Under the umbrella
Hangman Valley Residence
Uptic Studios
A classic option that will bring Mediterranean notes to your yard – umbrellas installed above the dining table, seating area and other strategically important places.
It is convenient, practical, simple and very beautiful.
9.
Water treatments
And meanwhile, hide under the canopy is not only the dining area, but also the pool.
If you do not know why to do it, because you have never been burned in the sun, swimming in the water, just take our word for it.
However, a wide durable awning will save not only from the scorching sun rays, but also from rain, allowing you to swim for your pleasure in any weather.
10.
Living room in the fresh air
If guests gather at you regularly, you can equip not just a gazebo or pavilion, but a real living room.
Yeah, yeah, one more.
Or even combine the living room with the dining room, putting under the canopy sofas, dining table and equipment necessary for making tea.
11.
Increased protection
Why not build a gazebo that will not only have a roof, but also walls?
In this case, not only rain, but also wind and cold will not be afraid of you - especially if you build a simple heating system.
To keep the feeling of being on the street, just glaze the gazebo from all sides.
12.
Eternal Classics
The decoration of the traditional garden will be a gazebo in a classic style.
It is perfect for family dinners, and for gatherings with friends, and for relaxation in proud solitude.
A special charm of the gazebo will be added by lush green plants, wrapping it around.
13.
In the spirit of eco
If you love natural materials and care about the environment, your choice is reclaimed wood.
From this material, you can build a magnificent pavilion in the rustic style, charming with its rough, natural beauty.
From modern designers, you can always get inspiration for such a project.
Need help with a home project?
Contact us!
Find inspirational ideas for your home

Properly processed wood ensures outdoor structures, such as canopies and gazebos, withstand rain and weather, offering flexibility for guests.

Combining indoor and outdoor living spaces can involve glazed gazebos and rustic styles with full amenities under eco-friendly design principles.

Inspirational ideas for home and public space design are available, blending nature with daily living.

The lecture "Green Architecture in Egypt" aimed to connect university student projects with real-world applications.

Title:

Content: Department of Architecture Engineers: Green architecture reduces the consumption of resources and improves the environment
Saturday ، 14 January 2023 10: 01 PM
A side of the meeting.
I wrote a frown verse.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
On Saturday, January 14, 2023, the Architectural Engineering Division, headed by Dr. Walaa Nour, organized a seminar entitled "Green Architecture", coordinated for the seminar and moderated by Eng. Iman Ragheb Al-Sayed, Chairman of the Commission on Sustainable Development of the Division.
In her opening speech, Dr. La Nour thanked the lecturers for their interaction with the Architectural Engineering Division and their keenness on their presence and involvement with their colleagues and children members of the Syndicate, especially the young engineers, and praised the effort exerted by the Commission on Sustainable Development of the Division and its President and the good choice of the theme of today ’ s seminar.
Nour said that green architecture respects the resources and natural beauty of the land, and provides the needs of its users, as it leads to maintaining their health, increasing their production, and satisfying their spiritual and material needs, by taking care of the application of proven strategies for the sustainability of the environment and development.
She pointed out that it takes into account the reduction of consumption of non-renewable resources, the improvement of the natural environment, the reduction or removal of toxic harmful substances, in addition to the use of building materials and products that reduce the destruction of the environment.
For her part, Eng. Iman Ragheb Al-Sayed stressed that green architecture is a global trend, and has become a major demand in the current era, not a kind of luxury and luxury, especially after humanity has reached a critical stage in the development of human culture with regard to the environment and climate change.
For his part, Dr. Ahmed Abul-Saadat said that today ’ s event informs young engineers about the latest developments in the world of green architecture, which took place in some facilities.
The first lecture was entitled "Green Architecture in Egypt" and was delivered by A.D.M.
Adel Yassin Mahram - The concept of green architecture, where the lecturer stressed that human comfort in the building he occupies is linked to his harmony with the building and this is what the green entity means in the sense that it does not harm and does not bear harm, pointing out that since the late architect Hassan Fathi called for "architecture and environment" called for building in a manner compatible with society and the environment.
Adel Muharram explained that the idea of calling for green architecture in the early 1990s witnessed the presentation of Ain Shams University with visions and works taken by the Ministry of Housing, meaning that the ministry applied academic thought to basic traditions in construction in Egypt to offer the homeland the green village and the green city, which was later called the Green Pyramid.
The lecture also shed light on some of the components and characteristics associated with the green world, and presented what has already existed in the hospital building since its inception.
In the third lecture given by M.D.
“Noha Mohamed Ezzeldin ”, which was entitled“ Evaluation Criteria for Rationalization and Production of Energy in Hospitals ”, pointed out that the energy component in hospitals consumes from 25 to 40% of the total hospital expenses, so attention should be paid to replacing this energy to alternative energy and directing the difference to medical and therapeutic expenses, explaining the importance of applying the hospital design code.
During the lecture, Noha presented her personal experience through her PhD thesis on the design of the first energy efficient and productive hospital in the Administrative Capital as a model to be followed and can be applied in all its procedures.
At the end of her lecture, Noha Ezzeldin recommended making any hospital an energy efficient list through “smart technology ”, presenting local and international examples that addressed and succeeded in this direction.
At the end of the seminar, Prof. M. Walaa Nour, Head of the Architecture and Engineering Division Iman Ragheb, Chairman of the Sustainable Development Committee of the Division, presented the shield of the Syndicate to the lecturers and take commemorative photos with them in recognition of their interaction with the Division.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

Dr. Tariq Saleh, Dean at the October University of Modern Sciences and Letters, emphasized that over 95% of graduation projects this year support the country's sustainable development plans and align with national leadership's vision.

Title:

Content: Tuesday 10 August 2021
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
I'm sorry.
Mohamad Elbaz
Editor-in-Chief
Wael Lotfy
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
I'm sorry.
Mohamad Elbaz
Editor-in-Chief
Wael Lotfy
Furniture room: 95% of the graduation projects of students of the Faculty of Arts serve the state plans for development (Photos)
Eng. Ahmed Helmy, Chairman of the Chamber of Wood and Furniture Products at the Federation of Industries, and Dr. Tarek Saleh, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design, October University of Modern Sciences and Letters, visited the Graduation Projects Exhibition 2021 for the students of the Faculty of Arts and Design, October University. October University of Modern Sciences and Letters.
- The goal of joint cooperation is to link the efforts and projects of university students with the practical reality.
For his part, the Chairman of the Chamber of Wood Products and Furniture of the Federation of Industries said that the graduation projects of students were characterized by seriousness, and that the goal of cooperation with the university is to link the efforts and projects of university students with the practical reality and engage them positively in the development taking place in Egypt now. The design and continuation of the efforts of the Chamber in communicating with the scientific and academic community in a way that reflects on the industry positively.
Helmy added that the Chamber has been in contact with colleges of applied arts in a number of universities and provide opportunities to train students within furniture factories, in order to benefit the industry and link education to the needs of the industrial community, in a way that achieves many of the needs of member companies, especially in the field of design, research and development.
For his part, Dr. Tariq Saleh, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design, October University of Modern Sciences and Letters, said that more than 95% of the graduation projects this year serve the state ’ s plans for sustainable development and achieve the vision of the political leadership of the new republic.
He added that although the academic year 2020-2021 has been full of challenges for all of us, due to the impact of the new coronavirus and social separation, and despite all these difficulties, students continue to implement their projects with unmatched determination and dedication, of course this was the result of the attention of the faculty and support staff who have been role models for students at all stages of the project over two full semesters.
He added that the projects won the admiration of the arbitration committees, which included many professors of architecture and interior design, experts and senior designers of prestigious names.
More than 80 projects were submitted and students presented their projects with confidence to the judging committees. This year ’ s projects were linked to the country ’ s development goals and plans by encouraging students to explore the implementation of sustainable development goals in the built environment and localize them in multiple projects and create designs that match the objectives with interior design.

Climate Scout was listed by Fast Company among world-changing ideas for 2022.

Title:

Content: Annual report showcases innovative sustainability solutions
Climate Scout included in Fast Company ’ s list of ideas that can change the world for 2022
Callison RTKL, a global planning and architectural consultancy, has revealed in one of the industry ’ s leading annual sustainability reports three key ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from current construction by 40%.
The report highlights the importance of effective use of technology in construction processes for more sustainable results.
Callison RTKL has committed that 50% of its projects will adopt building performance simulations by the end of the year, where the performance of these projects is tracked and measured innovatively using a digital dashboard.
This is in line with the company ’ s commitment to having all of its projects achieve positive climate impact operationally by 2030, in terms of materials used by 2040, and in line with efforts across the region. A recent survey found that 82% of IT decision-makers in the UAE consider sustainability to be one of the most important factors in their organization ’ s success in achieving science-based goals. [1]
Kashev Davidar, partner at Callison RTKL, said: “Innovative digital technologies that make building designs more sustainable are key to creating a low-carbon architecture environment, offering low-carbon climate solutions that reduce emissions, enhance carbon neutrality efforts and contribute to setting standards for positive design impacts on the planet. ”
The three main ways in which digital technologies can reduce the impact of the architectural environment on the world include:
Climate Scout
Callison RTKL has launched the award-winning Climate Scout, the first open-source platform of its kind, which allows users to design unique buildings that meet the requirements of the construction site by providing climate-specific design consultancy covering all aspects of the building.
Climate Scout instantaneously links climate, design and architectural elements appropriate to the surrounding environment, and contributes to the ability to interact through a diagram showing the relationship between design strategies and climatic conditions.
It is worth mentioning that since its launch less than a year ago, the platform has achieved remarkable success with 14,000 visits.
The platform integrates the Köppen-Geiger climate classification with the building design strategies of Architect 2030 ’ s Palette Platform and is included in Fast Company magazine ’ s list of world-changing ideas for 2022.
The electronic platform uses a combination of images with data to enhance the ability to create designs for buildings that are flexible, renewable, low emission and able to adapt to the surrounding environment.
PERFORMANCE BASED DESIGN
Performance-based design is a data-driven design process that combines digital and traditional tools to design buildings that are low emission, more resilient and responsive to climate conditions.
This process is flexible, allowing it to be used to achieve all project objectives and providing designers with information and guidance that adopts scientific principles, research methods and performance simulations in an increasingly complex world, improving the quality and value of any project.
Data Analysis and Computer Design
Utilizing the potential of data, computer design aims to provide the highest possible value by providing design solutions that meet the needs of customers and communities.
Drawing on numerous evidence and indicators on the social, economic and environmental impact of architectural design, Building Performance Simulation (BPM) performs the greatest analysis of available information and data to create a design that has tangible benefits for humans, the environment and the world.
Data analysis in the design process contributes to the sustainability of the architectural environment by reducing the impact on the natural environment.
Kashev Davidar added: “As one of the leaders in computer design and product development, we continue to build on our company ’ s knowledge and deliver responsible design solutions that are highly responsive to climate conditions.
We provide our designs with sustainable strategies using a range of ready-made tools developed by the company ’ s team. ”
For more information, please visit the website.
# Company Data
- Done.

The online platform enhances the creation of flexible, renewable, low-emission building designs capable of adapting to their environment by integrating images and data.

Title:

Content: Annual report showcases innovative sustainability solutions
Climate Scout included in Fast Company ’ s list of ideas that can change the world for 2022
Callison RTKL, a global planning and architectural consultancy, has revealed in one of the industry ’ s leading annual sustainability reports three key ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from current construction by 40%.
The report highlights the importance of effective use of technology in construction processes for more sustainable results.
Callison RTKL has committed that 50% of its projects will adopt building performance simulations by the end of the year, where the performance of these projects is tracked and measured innovatively using a digital dashboard.
This is in line with the company ’ s commitment to having all of its projects achieve positive climate impact operationally by 2030, in terms of materials used by 2040, and in line with efforts across the region. A recent survey found that 82% of IT decision-makers in the UAE consider sustainability to be one of the most important factors in their organization ’ s success in achieving science-based goals. [1]
Kashev Davidar, partner at Callison RTKL, said: “Innovative digital technologies that make building designs more sustainable are key to creating a low-carbon architecture environment, offering low-carbon climate solutions that reduce emissions, enhance carbon neutrality efforts and contribute to setting standards for positive design impacts on the planet. ”
The three main ways in which digital technologies can reduce the impact of the architectural environment on the world include:
Climate Scout
Callison RTKL has launched the award-winning Climate Scout, the first open-source platform of its kind, which allows users to design unique buildings that meet the requirements of the construction site by providing climate-specific design consultancy covering all aspects of the building.
Climate Scout instantaneously links climate, design and architectural elements appropriate to the surrounding environment, and contributes to the ability to interact through a diagram showing the relationship between design strategies and climatic conditions.
It is worth mentioning that since its launch less than a year ago, the platform has achieved remarkable success with 14,000 visits.
The platform integrates the Köppen-Geiger climate classification with the building design strategies of Architect 2030 ’ s Palette Platform and is included in Fast Company magazine ’ s list of world-changing ideas for 2022.
The electronic platform uses a combination of images with data to enhance the ability to create designs for buildings that are flexible, renewable, low emission and able to adapt to the surrounding environment.
PERFORMANCE BASED DESIGN
Performance-based design is a data-driven design process that combines digital and traditional tools to design buildings that are low emission, more resilient and responsive to climate conditions.
This process is flexible, allowing it to be used to achieve all project objectives and providing designers with information and guidance that adopts scientific principles, research methods and performance simulations in an increasingly complex world, improving the quality and value of any project.
Data Analysis and Computer Design
Utilizing the potential of data, computer design aims to provide the highest possible value by providing design solutions that meet the needs of customers and communities.
Drawing on numerous evidence and indicators on the social, economic and environmental impact of architectural design, Building Performance Simulation (BPM) performs the greatest analysis of available information and data to create a design that has tangible benefits for humans, the environment and the world.
Data analysis in the design process contributes to the sustainability of the architectural environment by reducing the impact on the natural environment.
Kashev Davidar added: “As one of the leaders in computer design and product development, we continue to build on our company ’ s knowledge and deliver responsible design solutions that are highly responsive to climate conditions.
We provide our designs with sustainable strategies using a range of ready-made tools developed by the company ’ s team. ”
For more information, please visit the website.
# Company Data
- Done.

Al Ula Design Space witnessed significant events in February.

Title:

Content: Saturday, 27 January 2024 11: 34 GMT
February Witness Al Ula Design Space
Al Ula Design Space, located in Al Jadida Art District, offers exhibition space, workshops and archives designed to foster collaboration between professional designers, students, and design enthusiasts, while promoting the heritage of Al Ula throughout the cultural landscape as a driver of creative inspiration and design. Shen Supplier Exhibition: We Celebrate Inspired Design.
Through a series of exhibitions, workshops and documentation under the supervision of Sarah Ghani, who also curated the inaugural exhibition, Al Ula Space aims to connect with professional and emerging designers from the region and the world to explore the principles and innovative stages of design through the lens of the natural and cultural landscape of Al Ula.
The space will be open to all sources of design from architecture to urban planning, production and graphic design, and will support and engage the design community, while highlighting the important role that design plays in building the identity of the region, the quality of life, and the diversification of the economy.
Contemporary building
Al Ula Design Space is a contemporary building made of corten steel, glass, and polished concrete, designed by Geo Forma Studio, inspired by the old buildings made of patterned bricks and widely used in the surrounding buildings in Al Jadida Art District.
The building is designed around a luminous courtyard, with geometrically patterned bricks on the facade, to take the form of a variety of patterns that allow light and natural ventilation to enter the building as a whole.
The opening exhibition, Mawred: Celebrating Inspired Design, will present the stages of the design ideas of ten modern designs inspired by Al Ula that address design, architecture and urban planning.
The event will be the first in the ongoing exhibition program, and will open from February 15 until June 1, 2024.
The inaugural programme, which will take place from 15 to 17 February 2024, will feature keynote presentations, masterclasses, workshops, panel discussions and design tours, designed to serve as a series of lively discussions and debates, maximising engagement with audiences. The programme also reflects Al Ula Design Space ’ s interest in being a knowledge-sharing hub for creative minds, heritage preservation and integrated urban planning.
MENAFN27012024000089011017ID1107775699
Legal Disclaimer:
MENA Financial Services Network provides information "as is" without any representations or warranties...
This disclaims our responsibility for the privacy practices or content of the sites included in our network, including images and videos.
For any queries regarding the use and reuse of this source of information, please contact the provider of the above article.

Burj Khalifa stands as the tallest building.

Title:

Content: The tallest is Burj Khalifa.
The designers of the world's tallest towers share their secrets with CNN
STYLE
Publish
8 minutes read
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN) -- The Burj Khalifa has been the tallest in the world for more than a decade.
Another tower has yet to break this record, standing 828 meters (2,717 feet) tall, adorning the Dubai skyline, and creeping into the collective consciousness of architecture in the world.
Not only did it break the record, it surpassed Taipei 101, the tallest tower, by 62%.
He was a great teacher, and he was of great benefit to the man who designed it.
Adrian Smith, then an architect at Skidmore, Owings and Merill (SOM), envisioned the Burj Khalifa, but by the time it opened in 2010, he had set up his own company, Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, alongside Gill and Robert Forrest.
Known as AS + GG, the company specializes in the design of ultra-high skyscrapers, which in turn are no less than 300 meters and 600 meters in length.
Ultra-tall skyscrapers are still relatively rare, with only 173 completed in the world, and only three ultra-tall skyscrapers are currently completed, according to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH).
Many have also been discontinued at various stages.
Smith told CNN in a joint interview with Jill and Forrest via video technology that for anyone working in the field, “you don ’ t have a lot of examples to go back to. ”
“The final learning experience is when the building is complete, ” he said, noting that“ everything else remains on paper. ”
That ’ s why skyscrapers like Burj Khalifa are still important.
“Going back 15 years and seeing what has been achieved, how it ’ s weathered, how it ’ s performed, and talking to people about their experience, or how the building works, is critical, ” Gill said.
Over the past 15 years, AS + GG has built a range of skyscrapers across Asia, North America, Europe and the Middle East.
The company compiled these designs with a new book entitled "Supertall | Megatall: How High Can We Go?"
(Ultra-high towers | Ultra-high towers: What higher height can we achieve?).
This monumental book aspires to be a practical guide for both students and practicing architects.
It is full of art illustrations that explain the innovations that underpin skyscrapers, such as the recently completed Central Park Tower in New York (472 meters), the upcoming Chengdu Greenland Tower in China (468 meters), and design concepts that exceed one kilometer in height.
It is an avant-garde architecture of technological development, charting a course for the future of skyscrapers afterwards.
“It ’ s amazing that few people on the planet really know how a supertall tower works, ” Smith said, describing it as“ still somewhat unknown. ”
So why is this company so happy to share its secrets?
Great ideas don't go to waste.
The most famous designs of AS + GG are Jeddah Tower (formerly known as Kingdom Tower) in Saudi Arabia.
It will be over 1,000 meters high when completed, making it the tallest building in the world.
With the 2020 deadline set for completion, the building reached a height of 58 layers in 2020, according to the book, but faces delays.
Smith explained that the creators "protected everything that needed to be protected" and that "the building did not deteriorate".
In response to queries about resuming work on it, Gill said “nothing is impossible. ”
CNN did not receive a response from the Jeddah Economic Company, which is responsible for the upcoming Jeddah Economic City, where the tower is located, to a request for comment on the condition of the building at the time of publication.
One of the book ’ s longest introductions is dedicated to the innovations involved in the tower ’ s design, from intensive wind testing on a scale of 1: 4000, to solar radiation mitigation strategies, to a condensate recovery system with the ability to collect water for 14 Olympic-sized swimming pools from the building annually.
But the book also pointed out that the structural system of the Tower of Jeddah is based on an improved design of the Burj Khalifa, a three-wing Y-shaped for maximum stability, used in previous designs such as the CN Tower of WZMH Architects in Toronto.
Smith also explained that the Burj Khalifa and the Tower of Jeddah were inspired by the German design Ludwig Mies van der Rohe for the sharp and fully glazed Friedrichstrasse skyscraper in the 1920s, which remained ink on paper.
Gill said the Mays building was “an excellent example [of a design] that he doesn ’ t know is of continuous value. ”
This probably explains why the book has AS + GG skyscrapers that were never built.
Many of these designs conceptualize Dubai which has the lion's share in this book.
As a growing city with a very big ambition, Dubai has been a petri dish for bold projects over the past two decades.
AS + GG ’ s proposed skyscraper designs included Meraas Tower (526 meters), Zabeel Tower 1 (598 meters), and Dubai Atrium City (1000 meters).
It is a fictional journey to explore what the city skyline will look like with its addition, but, like the Tower de Rohe "Friedrichstrasse", its absence did not constitute an absolute loss.
DESIGNED TO BE INVISIBLE
For cities seeking to raise their profile globally, super-tall skyscrapers may help build the reputation they crave.
Forrest said: "It is impossible for these buildings to disappear."
“Regardless of the owner, they become a symbol of the site. ”
What worked in Dubai became a blueprint for the city of Jeddah.
But height isn ’ t everything, and it ’ s not necessarily what the company ’ s business is all about.
Smith recalled that the mandate to make Burj Khalifa the tallest building in the world came from Emaar.
For AS + GG, height is the starting point for a series of problems to be solved, a measure that requires and embraces innovation.
The book notes that ultra-high and ultra-high buildings update ideas related to energy efficiency, reducing carbon footprint, and connecting the built environment with nature through bio-design.
“We have a huge economy in which we can offer ideas that will sometimes remain constant. ”
“Sometimes I think people look at buildings and they can ’ t say what they ’ re seeing. ”
He explained that the reason is because “we often design for the invisible.
Things that people never see and never interact with.
But they are in science and design.
That ’ s what makes buildings better. ”
Through the book "Supertall | Megatall", the invisible finds its way into the spotlight.
“The educational component of this book should not be ignored, ” Smith said, who, like his partners, is delighted with AS + GG designs to find a second life as an industrial resource.
Gill said, “As professionals, we have a responsibility to share our knowledge. ”

Smith noted to CNN, alongside Jill and Forrest, that there are few precedents in the field for practitioners to reference.

AS+GG is open about their approach because sharing knowledge advances the discipline.

Their most famous works include Jeddah Tower (formerly Kingdom Tower) in Saudi Arabia.

On resuming the project, Gill stated that "nothing is impossible."

The book explains the Jeddah Tower's structural system builds upon Burj Khalifa’s three-wing Y-shape for optimal stability, also seen in the CN Tower in Toronto.

Gill highlighted the Mays building as a design with uncertain long-term value.

Many conceptual designs focus on Dubai, which dominates this narrative.

Dubai's rapid growth has fostered experimentation with ambitious architectural projects.

Regardless of ownership, such buildings evolve into site symbols.

Yet, architectural value does not depend solely on height.

Advances are grounded in both science and design.

Books serve as valuable resources.

Title:

Content: Reviving the Heritage Trades.
Researchers at Al-Azhar Climate Conference call for sustainable environmental materials
Sunday ، 19 December 2021 02: 39 PM
Al-Azhar Climate Conference
Books – to me.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
Researchers at the Third International Scientific Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development at Al-Azhar University, entitled "Climate Change; Challenges and Confrontation", discussed research topics on the issue of "Sustainable Development and its relationship to confronting climate change", in the first session of the second day of the conference, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, at Al-Manara Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.
Engineer Basant Abdul Hakim Abdo, a British grant holder, presented how to use paper models as a sustainable environmental material and an easier and faster solution to facilitate the design and preparation of prototypes, and reviewed how to take advantage of the Japanese experience in the use of paper and invent new ideas to improve life and exploit it optimally and revive traditional crafts.
Eng. Ashraqat Abdel Hakim Jouda, a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented a research paper entitled "Towards the integration of biophilic design and smart technologies to face environmental degradation and climate change", and recommended the need to support and encourage civil society and investors and guide politicians and decision-makers to the seriousness of the construction industry.
The paper presented by Eng. Iman Helmy, a researcher at Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Engineering, dealt with the impact of using smart materials on the environment and how to use building facades to implement the idea of smart buildings, reduce environmental problems and reduce cost to balance the internal and external environment of the building and reduce the consumption of internal and external energy.
The paper presented by Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, entitled "Shaping Islamic Architecture as a Tool to Combat Climate Change", discussed the aspects of sustainable development and contemporary applications of formations in Islamic architecture, highlighted the idea of sustainable buildings and their evaluation systems, and called for the need to take advantage of serious practices aimed at maximizing the values of Islamic architecture in order to preserve the environment.
Mostafa Mahmoud Ali Al-Sayed Fouda, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Girls of Al-Azhar University, presented a paper entitled "The impact of climate change on buildings in Egypt and methods of technological maintenance", stressing the importance of activating the role of maintenance for buildings and how to use modern technology, and making organized plans of specialists to face climate change and preserve the environment.
In his paper entitled “The Role of Value Engineering in Determining the Economic Impact of Climate Change ”, Eng. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Aboul Fotouh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented theses to develop a methodology for designing the outer shell of buildings and how to use value engineering to accurately calculate the cost, function and environmental status of buildings and how to benefit from them.
The second day of the conference will discuss the economics of climate adaptation, the role of Arab and African universities and research institutions in the field of environment and climate change, pollution and control of carbon emissions, climate change and biodiversity scenarios, climate change and agriculture, sustainable development and its relation to climate change, environmental sustainability mechanisms, effective adaptation, policies and legal actions to combat climate change.
The conference sessions and events will be held over three days (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), from 18 to 20 December 2021, in Al-Manara Hall in the Fifth Settlement, starting from Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts to hold a number of conferences, seminars and workshops in preparation for, and in support of, the United Nations Conference COP27 to be hosted by Egypt in Sharm El-Sheikh in November 2022.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar’s paper described shaping Islamic architecture to combat climate change, evaluated sustainable buildings, and advocated integrating Islamic principles to protect the environment.

Title:

Content: Reviving the Heritage Trades.
Researchers at Al-Azhar Climate Conference call for sustainable environmental materials
Sunday ، 19 December 2021 02: 39 PM
Al-Azhar Climate Conference
Books – to me.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
Researchers at the Third International Scientific Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development at Al-Azhar University, entitled "Climate Change; Challenges and Confrontation", discussed research topics on the issue of "Sustainable Development and its relationship to confronting climate change", in the first session of the second day of the conference, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, at Al-Manara Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.
Engineer Basant Abdul Hakim Abdo, a British grant holder, presented how to use paper models as a sustainable environmental material and an easier and faster solution to facilitate the design and preparation of prototypes, and reviewed how to take advantage of the Japanese experience in the use of paper and invent new ideas to improve life and exploit it optimally and revive traditional crafts.
Eng. Ashraqat Abdel Hakim Jouda, a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented a research paper entitled "Towards the integration of biophilic design and smart technologies to face environmental degradation and climate change", and recommended the need to support and encourage civil society and investors and guide politicians and decision-makers to the seriousness of the construction industry.
The paper presented by Eng. Iman Helmy, a researcher at Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Engineering, dealt with the impact of using smart materials on the environment and how to use building facades to implement the idea of smart buildings, reduce environmental problems and reduce cost to balance the internal and external environment of the building and reduce the consumption of internal and external energy.
The paper presented by Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, entitled "Shaping Islamic Architecture as a Tool to Combat Climate Change", discussed the aspects of sustainable development and contemporary applications of formations in Islamic architecture, highlighted the idea of sustainable buildings and their evaluation systems, and called for the need to take advantage of serious practices aimed at maximizing the values of Islamic architecture in order to preserve the environment.
Mostafa Mahmoud Ali Al-Sayed Fouda, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Girls of Al-Azhar University, presented a paper entitled "The impact of climate change on buildings in Egypt and methods of technological maintenance", stressing the importance of activating the role of maintenance for buildings and how to use modern technology, and making organized plans of specialists to face climate change and preserve the environment.
In his paper entitled “The Role of Value Engineering in Determining the Economic Impact of Climate Change ”, Eng. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Aboul Fotouh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented theses to develop a methodology for designing the outer shell of buildings and how to use value engineering to accurately calculate the cost, function and environmental status of buildings and how to benefit from them.
The second day of the conference will discuss the economics of climate adaptation, the role of Arab and African universities and research institutions in the field of environment and climate change, pollution and control of carbon emissions, climate change and biodiversity scenarios, climate change and agriculture, sustainable development and its relation to climate change, environmental sustainability mechanisms, effective adaptation, policies and legal actions to combat climate change.
The conference sessions and events will be held over three days (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), from 18 to 20 December 2021, in Al-Manara Hall in the Fifth Settlement, starting from Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts to hold a number of conferences, seminars and workshops in preparation for, and in support of, the United Nations Conference COP27 to be hosted by Egypt in Sharm El-Sheikh in November 2022.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

Eng.

Title:

Content: Reviving the Heritage Trades.
Researchers at Al-Azhar Climate Conference call for sustainable environmental materials
Sunday ، 19 December 2021 02: 39 PM
Al-Azhar Climate Conference
Books – to me.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
Researchers at the Third International Scientific Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development at Al-Azhar University, entitled "Climate Change; Challenges and Confrontation", discussed research topics on the issue of "Sustainable Development and its relationship to confronting climate change", in the first session of the second day of the conference, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, at Al-Manara Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.
Engineer Basant Abdul Hakim Abdo, a British grant holder, presented how to use paper models as a sustainable environmental material and an easier and faster solution to facilitate the design and preparation of prototypes, and reviewed how to take advantage of the Japanese experience in the use of paper and invent new ideas to improve life and exploit it optimally and revive traditional crafts.
Eng. Ashraqat Abdel Hakim Jouda, a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented a research paper entitled "Towards the integration of biophilic design and smart technologies to face environmental degradation and climate change", and recommended the need to support and encourage civil society and investors and guide politicians and decision-makers to the seriousness of the construction industry.
The paper presented by Eng. Iman Helmy, a researcher at Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Engineering, dealt with the impact of using smart materials on the environment and how to use building facades to implement the idea of smart buildings, reduce environmental problems and reduce cost to balance the internal and external environment of the building and reduce the consumption of internal and external energy.
The paper presented by Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, entitled "Shaping Islamic Architecture as a Tool to Combat Climate Change", discussed the aspects of sustainable development and contemporary applications of formations in Islamic architecture, highlighted the idea of sustainable buildings and their evaluation systems, and called for the need to take advantage of serious practices aimed at maximizing the values of Islamic architecture in order to preserve the environment.
Mostafa Mahmoud Ali Al-Sayed Fouda, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Girls of Al-Azhar University, presented a paper entitled "The impact of climate change on buildings in Egypt and methods of technological maintenance", stressing the importance of activating the role of maintenance for buildings and how to use modern technology, and making organized plans of specialists to face climate change and preserve the environment.
In his paper entitled “The Role of Value Engineering in Determining the Economic Impact of Climate Change ”, Eng. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Aboul Fotouh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented theses to develop a methodology for designing the outer shell of buildings and how to use value engineering to accurately calculate the cost, function and environmental status of buildings and how to benefit from them.
The second day of the conference will discuss the economics of climate adaptation, the role of Arab and African universities and research institutions in the field of environment and climate change, pollution and control of carbon emissions, climate change and biodiversity scenarios, climate change and agriculture, sustainable development and its relation to climate change, environmental sustainability mechanisms, effective adaptation, policies and legal actions to combat climate change.
The conference sessions and events will be held over three days (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), from 18 to 20 December 2021, in Al-Manara Hall in the Fifth Settlement, starting from Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts to hold a number of conferences, seminars and workshops in preparation for, and in support of, the United Nations Conference COP27 to be hosted by Egypt in Sharm El-Sheikh in November 2022.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

's paper analyzed value engineering’s role in assessing the economic effects of climate change.

Title:

Content: Reviving the Heritage Trades.
Researchers at Al-Azhar Climate Conference call for sustainable environmental materials
Sunday ، 19 December 2021 02: 39 PM
Al-Azhar Climate Conference
Books – to me.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
Researchers at the Third International Scientific Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development at Al-Azhar University, entitled "Climate Change; Challenges and Confrontation", discussed research topics on the issue of "Sustainable Development and its relationship to confronting climate change", in the first session of the second day of the conference, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, at Al-Manara Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.
Engineer Basant Abdul Hakim Abdo, a British grant holder, presented how to use paper models as a sustainable environmental material and an easier and faster solution to facilitate the design and preparation of prototypes, and reviewed how to take advantage of the Japanese experience in the use of paper and invent new ideas to improve life and exploit it optimally and revive traditional crafts.
Eng. Ashraqat Abdel Hakim Jouda, a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented a research paper entitled "Towards the integration of biophilic design and smart technologies to face environmental degradation and climate change", and recommended the need to support and encourage civil society and investors and guide politicians and decision-makers to the seriousness of the construction industry.
The paper presented by Eng. Iman Helmy, a researcher at Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Engineering, dealt with the impact of using smart materials on the environment and how to use building facades to implement the idea of smart buildings, reduce environmental problems and reduce cost to balance the internal and external environment of the building and reduce the consumption of internal and external energy.
The paper presented by Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, entitled "Shaping Islamic Architecture as a Tool to Combat Climate Change", discussed the aspects of sustainable development and contemporary applications of formations in Islamic architecture, highlighted the idea of sustainable buildings and their evaluation systems, and called for the need to take advantage of serious practices aimed at maximizing the values of Islamic architecture in order to preserve the environment.
Mostafa Mahmoud Ali Al-Sayed Fouda, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Girls of Al-Azhar University, presented a paper entitled "The impact of climate change on buildings in Egypt and methods of technological maintenance", stressing the importance of activating the role of maintenance for buildings and how to use modern technology, and making organized plans of specialists to face climate change and preserve the environment.
In his paper entitled “The Role of Value Engineering in Determining the Economic Impact of Climate Change ”, Eng. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Aboul Fotouh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented theses to develop a methodology for designing the outer shell of buildings and how to use value engineering to accurately calculate the cost, function and environmental status of buildings and how to benefit from them.
The second day of the conference will discuss the economics of climate adaptation, the role of Arab and African universities and research institutions in the field of environment and climate change, pollution and control of carbon emissions, climate change and biodiversity scenarios, climate change and agriculture, sustainable development and its relation to climate change, environmental sustainability mechanisms, effective adaptation, policies and legal actions to combat climate change.
The conference sessions and events will be held over three days (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), from 18 to 20 December 2021, in Al-Manara Hall in the Fifth Settlement, starting from Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts to hold a number of conferences, seminars and workshops in preparation for, and in support of, the United Nations Conference COP27 to be hosted by Egypt in Sharm El-Sheikh in November 2022.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

User comments are reviewed before publication.

Title:

Content: Reviving the Heritage Trades.
Researchers at Al-Azhar Climate Conference call for sustainable environmental materials
Sunday ، 19 December 2021 02: 39 PM
Al-Azhar Climate Conference
Books – to me.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
Researchers at the Third International Scientific Conference on Environment and Sustainable Development at Al-Azhar University, entitled "Climate Change; Challenges and Confrontation", discussed research topics on the issue of "Sustainable Development and its relationship to confronting climate change", in the first session of the second day of the conference, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, at Al-Manara Convention Center in the Fifth Settlement.
Engineer Basant Abdul Hakim Abdo, a British grant holder, presented how to use paper models as a sustainable environmental material and an easier and faster solution to facilitate the design and preparation of prototypes, and reviewed how to take advantage of the Japanese experience in the use of paper and invent new ideas to improve life and exploit it optimally and revive traditional crafts.
Eng. Ashraqat Abdel Hakim Jouda, a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented a research paper entitled "Towards the integration of biophilic design and smart technologies to face environmental degradation and climate change", and recommended the need to support and encourage civil society and investors and guide politicians and decision-makers to the seriousness of the construction industry.
The paper presented by Eng. Iman Helmy, a researcher at Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Engineering, dealt with the impact of using smart materials on the environment and how to use building facades to implement the idea of smart buildings, reduce environmental problems and reduce cost to balance the internal and external environment of the building and reduce the consumption of internal and external energy.
The paper presented by Dr. Mahmoud Abu Al-Anwar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, entitled "Shaping Islamic Architecture as a Tool to Combat Climate Change", discussed the aspects of sustainable development and contemporary applications of formations in Islamic architecture, highlighted the idea of sustainable buildings and their evaluation systems, and called for the need to take advantage of serious practices aimed at maximizing the values of Islamic architecture in order to preserve the environment.
Mostafa Mahmoud Ali Al-Sayed Fouda, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Girls of Al-Azhar University, presented a paper entitled "The impact of climate change on buildings in Egypt and methods of technological maintenance", stressing the importance of activating the role of maintenance for buildings and how to use modern technology, and making organized plans of specialists to face climate change and preserve the environment.
In his paper entitled “The Role of Value Engineering in Determining the Economic Impact of Climate Change ”, Eng. Mohamed Abdel Raouf Aboul Fotouh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University, presented theses to develop a methodology for designing the outer shell of buildings and how to use value engineering to accurately calculate the cost, function and environmental status of buildings and how to benefit from them.
The second day of the conference will discuss the economics of climate adaptation, the role of Arab and African universities and research institutions in the field of environment and climate change, pollution and control of carbon emissions, climate change and biodiversity scenarios, climate change and agriculture, sustainable development and its relation to climate change, environmental sustainability mechanisms, effective adaptation, policies and legal actions to combat climate change.
The conference sessions and events will be held over three days (Saturday, Sunday and Monday), from 18 to 20 December 2021, in Al-Manara Hall in the Fifth Settlement, starting from Al-Azhar Al-Sharif's efforts to hold a number of conferences, seminars and workshops in preparation for, and in support of, the United Nations Conference COP27 to be hosted by Egypt in Sharm El-Sheikh in November 2022.
Leave a comment and read the comments of the readers.
No comments on the news.
Leave a comment
Your comment will appear after the review.

Japan's economic boom era inspired architects to envision new futures.

Title:

Content: The future envisioned by architects during Japan ’ s economic boom
Lifestyle
After World War II, especially as the country shifted from reconstruction to entering a period of accelerated economic growth, Japan saw the construction of many unique buildings based on the revolutionary ideas of young architects.
Among them was Metabolism, an architectural movement in the 1960s and 1970s that sought to imagine a new Japanese civilization.
The most famous example of this movement is the Nakagin Capsule Tower by architect Kurokawa Kisho, built in 1972.
Now, almost half a century later, as we face degradation and population decline, many buildings are on the verge of disappearing.
In this article, French photographer Jeremy Sutterat documents the history of these architectural buildings in the context of their surroundings.
World War II destroyed many forms of life in Japan.
The country embarked on reconstruction during the first decade after the war, changing paths as it entered a period of high economic growth that lasted from the late 1950s until the 1973 oil crisis.
During those years, a new generation of architects emerged who played an important role in urban development by creating many architectural projects that had a bright future ahead.
Under the guidance of renowned architect Tangi Kenzo (1913 – 2005), this group of young architects designed buildings and other gigantic structures, launching a movement (Metabolic Architecture) that included the biological principle of regeneration.
From the heart of these young people came the world leaders in architecture.
Its two former members, Maki Fumihiko (1928 –) and Izuzaki Arata (1931 –), each received the prestigious Pritzker Prize for Architecture in 1993 and 2019 respectively.
This article addresses many of the projects that have emerged from this experimental movement.
One of the buildings embodying metabolic architecture is the Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo's Ginza district.
It is close to popular tourist attractions and in a location that is easy for the media to cover, which has helped it stay for long periods.
But due to its deteriorating condition, the owners were under pressure to rebuild.
A model of the Nakagin Capsule Tower is displayed in a room owned by Seken Takayuki inside the building.
Designed by Kurokawa Kisho and built in 1972, the tower is one of the few remaining buildings of the metabolic architecture movement that still stands in 2021.
Photo taken on July 23, 2016.
Most of these privately owned buildings built during the period of the Metabolic Architecture movement have already been demolished because of the prohibitive costs of maintaining them as a result of their gradual deterioration.
The number of public buildings built has also dwindled as Japan ’ s population has declined.
This prompted me to start working on my Metabolic Architecture Documentation project in 2016, and some of the buildings I photographed have already been demolished.
The rest will almost certainly disappear soon.
Although the metabolic architecture movement is future-oriented, it was based on the concept that the destruction of the old allows the construction of the new in the cycle of renewal, an idea similar to the old Shinto tradition.
Through the accompanying images of the remaining structures of metabolic architecture from all over Japan, I strive to portray their final form in the context of their surroundings.
The images were selected from my recent book:
(L ’ architecture du futur au japon: utopie et metabolisme), published by the French publishing house Le Lizar Noire in November 2020.
What is Metabolic Architecture?
The movement originated when a group of young Japanese architects and designers released a statement entitled “Metabolism: Proposals for New Urbanism ” at the World Design Congress held in Tokyo in 1960.
The group included architects Kurokawa Kisho, Kikutaki Kyunori, Maki Fumihiko, and Otaka Masato with designers Ikona Kenji and Azawa Kiyoshi and art critic Kawazuae Noboru.
The concept of organic growth of cities and buildings was announced in response to social development and population growth, similar to the metabolism of biological cells.
Their creations are known all over the world as distinct, non-Western style architectures.
Nakagin Capsule Tower
Design: Kurokawa Keshio (1934 – 2007)
Location: Ginza District, Zhuo City, Tokyo
Year of construction: 1972
The residential building has 140 “capsules ” of 10 square meters each.
At the time of its creation, it was described as a “haven ” for the entrepreneur, and was marketed through supermarkets.
One capsule room owner, Sekini Takayuki, bought one unit with his wife in 2005 for 4 million yen and was closely involved in efforts to preserve and renovate the building.
In 2007, the capsule owners voted to replace the tower, but the investment company that headed the project later declared bankruptcy.
After that, some owners purchased other capsules and engaged in actions aimed at conservation and regeneration.
However, in the spring of 2021, the building was sold to a real estate company that plans to redevelop the site.
Demolitions are now scheduled to begin in March 2022.
To the left, Nakagin Capsule Tower.
View from below the Tokyo Highway.
Photo taken on October 6, 2016.
On the right, Sekini Takayuki is inside his capsule.
Photo taken on July 23, 2016.
Kyoto International Conference Center
Design: Otani Satchiu (1924 – 2013)
Location: Sakyo District, Kyoto
Year of construction: 1966
This was the first national conference facility built in Japan, and was the site of the signing of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997.
The complex is located on a sprawling land of 156,000 square meters with gardens and Takaragaiki Lake.
The roof integrates traditional gasho style construction (a style of traditional Japanese building styles) with modern architecture.
The main building was completed in 1966.
Subsequent additions include the Ballroom (1985) and the Annex Hall (1998).
They were all designed by Otani Satchio and his colleagues.
Photos taken on June 14, 2016.
Yamanashi Cultural Hall
Design: Tange Kenzo (1913 – 2005)
Location: Kovo City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Year of construction: 1966
The hall houses the offices of local media groups (Yamanashi Niichi Niichi Newspaper, Yamanashi Broadcasting Network and Sunniichi YPS Group).
The roof features a distinctive transmission tower dating back to the age of analog broadcasting.
The structure is supported by columns and beams, where there is no need for interior walls, allowing for flexible use of interior space.
The building was later renovated, increasing its floor area from 18,000 to 21,900 square meters, proving the value of the concept of metabolic architecture.
Photo taken July 7, 2016.
Tokuen!
Design: Kikutaki Kyunori (1928 – 2011)
Location: Yanago City, Tottori Prefecture
Year of construction: 1964
This residential facility is located in the famous hot spring resort (Kaiki Onsen) on the coast of the Sea of Japan.
The Tokoine facility was built as a recent addition to an existing hostel.
The accommodation is located on the top floor above six giant main pillars, evoking the image of the Shintoi Temple (Shintoi Temple) (Hall of God).
Each of the main columns is supported by reinforcing columns and beams, with the reinforced concrete structure forming the appearance of traditional wooden construction.
Designer Kikutaki Kyunori was a founding member of the Metabolic Architecture movement.
Photographs taken on September 9, 2016.
Izumo Temple Administration Building
Design: Kikutaki Kyunori
Location: Izumo City, Shimani Prefecture
Year of construction: 1963
This building houses the administrative offices of the Izumo Temple, replacing the former wooden structure, which burned down in 1953.
The structure included the idea of shelves used by Izumo farmers to dry rice packets after harvest.
The magnificent building had two massive pillars connected by a 40-meter beam.
Although it included modern construction methods using reinforced concrete to ensure fire resistance, it was designed to match the ancient and sacred atmosphere of the temple.
Unfortunately, the building was demolished in November 2016.
Photographs taken on September 9, 2016.
Noa Building
Design: Shirai Seichi (1905 – 1983)
Location: Azabu District, Minato District, Tokyo
Year of construction: 1963
The office building, located at the Ikura junction near the Tokyo Tower, is famous for its distinctive black oval tower.
It is the headquarters of several corporate offices and the Embassy of the State of Fiji.
Architect Shirai Seichi studied Gothic philosophy and architecture in Berlin before World War II.
Design is a philosophical expression of the interaction between light and darkness.
The picture is a view of the ceiling of the entrance hall.
Photo taken on October 13, 2016
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Design: Tange Kenzo
Location: Naka District, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Year of construction: 1954
The Japanese government decided in 1949 to build this 10-hectare memorial park near the center of the atomic bomb that destroyed Hiroshima.
A design competition was held that year, attracting about 140 participants.
The winning design went to Tange Kenzo and three members of the Tange Lab at the University of Tokyo: Asada Takashi, Otani Satchie and Kimura Norikoni.
In the Tang design, the Peace Hall (now the Peace Memorial Museum), the Memorial and the Nuclear Bomb Dome (Ganbaku Dome) are aligned perpendicular to Hiwa Street, which runs from east to west through the city.
It was one of the first big projects by Tange, “the father of the idea of metabolic architecture, ” which preceded the movement by a few years.
Photo taken on September 10, 2016.
Embassy of Kuwait in Tokyo
Design: Tange Kenzo
Location: Meta District, Minato District, Tokyo
Year of construction: 1970
The Embassy of Kuwait was built 16 years after the completion of the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, demonstrating the international recognition of Tang, which in turn led the architect to be commissioned with projects in various Gulf countries.
Plans to rebuild the embassy were announced in 2017, with the project tentatively scheduled for completion in April 2020.
So far, however, demolitions are still pending, and reconstruction plans appear to have been delayed.
Photo taken July 7, 2017.
Miyakongo Civic Center
Design: Kikutaki Kyunori
Location: Miyakongo City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Year of construction: 1966
Located in the second largest city in Miyazaki Prefecture, this building has hosted civic and cultural events for 40 years, but was closed in 2007 due to the increasing maintenance costs of the aging structure.
Kikutaki's unique design was a symbol of the metabolic architecture movement, leading to calls for its preservation.
However, the building was demolished in 2019.
Photo taken on May 8, 2017.
Sky House
Design: Kikutaki Kyunori
Location: Otsuka District, Bunkyu District, Tokyo
Year of construction: 1985
Kikutaki Kyunori designed this building as his own house (the building in the center of the lower picture with a car parked outside).
It features four reinforced concrete columns that support the walls, creating a square-shaped interior living space.
At the time it was built, there were no high-rise buildings nearby.
As a reflection of the application of the idea of   metabolism to residential spaces, it has undergone renewal and expansion in response to the changing surroundings and family structures residing.
Photo taken on July 6, 2017
K-Howie.
Design: Kurokawa Kisho
Location: Kitakasu District, Nagano Prefecture
Year of construction: 1973
Construction work near Karuizawa Resort was done by designer Kurokawa to be his holiday home.
It features a reinforced concrete base column that houses stairs and extends from the entrance to the living room above.
Four capsules, the same as those used in the Nakagin capsule tower, are connected to the construction center.
Two of them are used as bedrooms, one is for the kitchen, and the fourth is a tea room.
It is scheduled to be leased for holiday accommodation starting in the fall of 2021.
Photo taken on April 4, 2017.
Shizuka Press and Radio Center
Design: Tange Kenzo
Location: Ginza District, Zhuo City, Tokyo
Year of construction: 196
This 57-meter-high 12-storey building, near Shinmbashi Station on the Yama no Teh train line, is located at the intersection of Sutopuri Streets with Nishi Ginza.
It carries the concept of metabolic architecture, and its unique shape consists of a cylindrical heart with prominent box-shaped offices.
In the lower left of the second picture, we see the detour of the Tokyo Highway in front of its corner.
The surface of the rusty red Nakagin capsule tower is slightly visible on the right, heading towards the Shiodomi area.
Both were the tallest buildings in the area when they were built.
Photo taken July 7, 2017.
(The original text was published in Japanese, and the translation is from English.
Photo: Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo's Chuo City.
The building is scheduled to be demolished in early 2022.
Photo taken on July 23, 2016.
All photos: Jeremy Sutterat)
Tokyo Architecture Architecture

World War II devastated Japanese life but inspired new urban forms.

The Nakagin Capsule Tower, designed by Kikutaki Kyunori—a Metabolic Architecture pioneer—features modular living units and was then unmatched in height.

Kurokawa Kisho designed the core reinforced concrete column with integrated stairs.

Different capsules serve as living, kitchen, and tea spaces.

Tange Kenzo designed another prominent building in Tokyo’s Ginza District in the 1960s.

The Tokyo Highway detour highlights these developments' urban integration.

These structures were local height records at the time of building.

The Nakagin Capsule Tower was set for demolition in early 2022.

Dalia Abdul Rahim leads the editorial board.

Title:

Content: Monday 08 July 2024
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editors
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editorial Board
Abdurrahim Ali
Editor-in-Chief
Dalia Abdul Rahim
Gate Light
Engineering students invent a new system to charge electric cars with solar energy
Follow the latest news through the app
A group of students from the Faculty of Engineering and Advanced Technology at the Arab Academy for Science and Technology, Cairo branch, designed new fast charging systems for electric cars with the benefit of solar energy, which enhances the efficiency and sustainability of fast charging operations in less than half an hour through the design and implementation of advanced electronic circuits that enable accurate control of power outputs to ensure a safe and fast charging process.
Youssef Hossam Mohammed, 22, a graduate student at the Faculty of Engineering and Advanced Technology at the Academy, spoke about the nature of the project, saying: “This project contributes to the preservation of the environment by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions by using solar energy as an additional source of energy.
This project is also unique in Egypt, where this advanced technology has not been used in any of the Egyptian electric car charging companies before to implement a solar powered car charging station that can efficiently meet the needs of charging cars through the continuous work of all the students involved.
The idea has been with us for a long time, especially with the beginning of the world ’ s trend to replace traditional energy sources with renewable energy sources that support the environmental balance, which is in line with the university ’ s approach, which adopted a new approach that promotes sustainability and reduces pollution in order to develop the environmental industry, which will be required by labor markets in the coming years.
The idea is to take advantage of solar energy, enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the charging process and reduce dependence on fossil fuels and carbon emissions to create new and clean energy that contributes to environmental changes.
In recent decades, the technology of solar cells has witnessed a great development, where they have become more efficient and less expensive, which gave birth to the idea to be used in the design of cars, many of which have developed during recent decades, and have been improved and increased efficiency, and some of them are able to walk long distances and withstand daily use.
The design process began with the development of a general plan and the selection of materials used in the construction. These materials include aluminum, fiberglass, reinforced plastic, carbon fiber, silicon and other materials, then the construction of the structure, tools, safety and various electronic systems. These cells include a large number of individual cells that are converted into electrical energy and stored in batteries inside.
After the completion, we tested performance control and improved efficiency in different conditions to ensure that it is able to withstand and perform in harsh and different conditions in partnership with the team consisting of (Youssef Hossam - Omar Wael - Mahmoud Helmy - Mennallah Mohammed - Omar Sarhan) and under the supervision of Professor “Ibrahim Abdel Salam - Mostafa Marei ” from the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Arab Academy for Science and Technology in Cairo Branch.
The system aims to rely on a clean and renewable energy source: where the car uses solar energy, which reduces dependence on fossil fuels and the use of another type of energy is electric energy, where the car charger is connected in less than half an hour.
This contributes to low cost of operation as running the vehicle does not require conventional fuel, resulting in reduced complex operation and maintenance costs.
Low carbon emissions: There are no carbon emissions, which helps to preserve the environment and reduce pollution. This type of car contributes to the improvement of sustainability and energy savings, which can be used in places where there are strong sources of solar energy, such as desert areas and areas with high energy consumption, and improve the power generation performance in different weather conditions and able to perform well in different weather conditions including cloudy and rainy days.
Consumer awareness: by raising awareness of the benefits of solar energy and improving awareness of the damage to the environment from the use of ordinary fuels to improve energy efficiency, increase storage capacity and improve solar charging technologies.
In addition to improving the electric charging infrastructure and expanding it to include more regions in general, it is necessary to develop and improve its technologies to meet the needs of consumers and the environment, improve performance efficiency, reduce costs and develop new and advanced technologies in the future.
Youssef stressed that we must learn more about solar energy technology and convert it into electric energy to run cars and know how to design and improve its efficiency and reduce energy consumption to see the model we have designed and consider it a model that can be developed.
I would also like to thank the teaching staff of the university for sharing with us and giving us the most accurate information and help us throughout the implementation of the project and through the submission of suggestions, which made us avoid some mistakes in addition to being constantly updated with the latest technologies and innovations to improve the design to increase attention to the preservation of the environment and the use of alternative and clean energy sources.
He concluded: We hope that this will be a national project adopted by all, as preserving a clean environment is the future of future generations and all thanks and praise to all those who facilitated the implementation of the idea, which was just a dream and contributed to turning it into a reality on the ground.

The construction process starts with master planning and material selection.

A new car system utilizes solar and electric energy, decreasing fossil fuel reliance and enabling rapid charging.

Youssef stressed the need to harness solar energy technologies and improve energy use for clean transportation.

He hopes such innovations will be widely adopted for environmental preservation.

Five global buildings exemplify the fusion of beauty and sustainability.

Title:

Content: 5 buildings around the world that are environmentally friendly and beautiful | Oasis of Culture | DW | 03.06.2023
1.
Inhalt
2.
Navigation
3.
Weitere Inhalte
4.
Metanavigation
5.
Suche
6.
Choose from 30 Languages
Oasis of Culture
5 buildings around the world that are environmentally friendly and beautiful
There are various futuristic ideas that architects around the world are developing.
But they have something in common: precise knowledge of the location, and the use of the resources available in the region. It is essential to adopt effective methods to keep our planet habitable.

Learning from nature’s ecology allows architects to apply 3.8 billion years of evolutionary wisdom in sustainable design.

Title:

Content: Learning from nature ’ s ecology to unlock 3.8 billion years of evolutionary wisdom
Font Size:
Bionics provides a window for inventors, scientists, architects and designers to draw inspiration from nature ’ s ecology and apply the mysteries of the existence of all things in various environments to find answers to climate change.
The wrinkles of elephant skin have nothing to do with beauty or ugliness, and nature does not care about the survival of the fittest.
The wrinkled skin allows elephants to survive for generations in harsh tropical environments.
The texture of the Namib Desert beetle shell is not decorative, but its inherent "water storage" device, so that it can also take water in the desert to survive.
The wisdom of the survival of the fittest evolved over billions of years.
BioSEA, a local consulting firm that consults on ecological and bionic design, asks why humans don ’ t learn from them to help us survive all the wonders of global warming.
BioSEA has received funding from the Singapore Design Council ’ s Good Design Research programme to launch a tool book, Biomimicry for Tropical Building Skins – A Design Toolkit to Manage Thermal Comfort Using Nature ’ s Genius, on how to draw knowledge from biological structures to handle and address thermal comfort in tropical buildings.
Anuj Jain, 38, co-founder of bioSEA and one of the book ’ s editor-in-chief, said: “The cement forest we live in is very easy to heat up, the whole city is warming up, in the next few decades, will increase by two degrees Celsius, we need to use passive cooling to reduce the temperature, carbon and energy saving. ”
Nature can give us inspiration to solve complex problems.
We want this book to be like a seed, planted in the minds of builders, slowly blossom and let them learn to observe nature and draw inspiration from it to solve problems.
It is not new for inventors, scientists, and designers to draw inspiration from nature and biology for new inventions and designs.
The familiar devil sticker (also known as Velcro) was inspired and designed by Swiss engineer George de Mestral when he found burdock burrs attached to his clothes on a hunting trip home in the 1950s.
Medical scientists have also observed that large gecko feet are constructed so that they can stick to the wall to crawl and get inspired to design new ways to stitch wounds without needles.
The engineer observed that the beak of Kingfisher designed a maglev bullet train, which successfully increased the speed of the train while reducing the sonic boom effect.
Advancing Bionics Globally
However, we now classify intelligence drawn and imitated by nature as biomimicry, thanks to American biology author Janine Benyus.
In 1997, she interviewed scientists, engineers, and inventors to turn their observations of functional strategies for biological survival into stories of innovative technology, which became her seminal book, Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature.
Prior to her invention of the term biomimicry, similar biomimetic concepts were known as bionics, bio-engineering, and biomimetics.
In 1998, Jenny started Biomimicry 3.8, a bionics consulting company, to provide consulting services to multinational companies such as Nike, Boeing, IDEO, P & G.
The “3.8 ” in the company ’ s name refers to the 3.8 billion years of evolution that Earth ’ s creatures have undergone. In 2006, she co-founded the Biomimicry Institute, a non-profit organization that encourages people to incorporate biology into design as a natural part of design.
Her organization organizes a global bionics design competition every year, mobilizing tens of thousands of students and practitioners of the global bionics network to use bionics thinking to solve sustainable development problems, and allows participants to use her, the world's most comprehensive bionics database "Ask Nature" (AskNature).
Anuk, who was studying ecology at the National University of Singapore, flew to the United States to study with Jenny and obtained a professional certificate in biomimicry.
He said: “Each year, the Bionics Institute selects 16 students from all over the world to study with Jenny.
There were very few Asians in the class, and I was the only representative of Singapore that year.
Saloni Swaminathan, 24, a design and research ecologist at bioSEA, another editor-in-chief of “The Bionic Wisdom of the Skin of Tropical Architecture, ” pointed out:“ There are a lot of ideas and designs that are linked to biology today, but people don ’ t know the terms, but they have specific meanings and can ’ t be used interchangeably. ” design refers to most of the architectural space design through aerial gardens, indoor gardens, vertical gardens, etc., to increase the ecological connection between the occupants and nature.
The Parkroyal Collection Pickering hotel and Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore are among the best. “biomorphic ” refers to an abstract form that points to or provokes the imagination of a creature, plant or human body.
Biomimetic architecture design draws on biological ecology
This 150-page book lists more than 50 examples of bionic architectural design from around the world, explaining the concept of bionic design in depth, and enumerating how bionic architectural design can be inspired by the survival and growth characteristics of elephants, beetles, fish, owls, algae, termite mounds, cacti, pine nuts, etc., and applied to building materials and building skins.
The electronic tool book is priced at S $18 and can be purchased at https: / / biomimicry.biosea.sg / order /
Three cases — the elephant, the Namib desert beetle, and the termite mound — reveal how architects have used the traits of these creatures to cool buildings.
BioSEA also uses 3D printing to print their characteristics on small bricks and tiles, allowing architects to conceive how to use them on the building ’ s exterior.
She said that the termite mound has a special structure, with a series of exhaust chestnuts higher than the white ant nest, and the small holes on the mound absorb hot gas and then exhaust it through the exhaust chestnuts to create a natural "air conditioning" system.
African Zimbabwean architect Mick Pearce applied the termite mound concept to the design of the local Eastgate Centre shopping mall office building, creating a natural air conditioning system for the entire building through vent holes and exhaust chutes.
It is also the modern building that has so far applied the concept of natural ventilation so thoroughly and wonderfully.
Anuk also took inspiration from termite mounds to design porous wall tiles that are more permeable and increase the cooling effect of the walls by trapping the air.
The Namib desert beetle "mastered" a unique method of taking water during its evolution.
Rows of convex textures on their shells have superhydrophilic functions; grooves have superhydrophobic functions.
In 2006, Michael Rubner, a scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Oxford University, used a layer of nanoparticles to develop a wonderful material that can absorb water from fog or dew for people to drink. And...
BioSEA imitates the shell of the Namib Desert Beetle, 3D printing 24 ceramic tiles with different densities and tilting them at 35 to 45 degrees to test the function of condensing water droplets.
Anuk believes that the Namib desert beetle can give designers tips on how to increase the water collection function of buildings and how to cool tropical indoor spaces.
Shaloni pointed out that the elephant this behemoth walked through the hot sun of the grassland, exposed for a long time, naturally there are many ways to reduce body temperature and keep cool, and the wrinkles on its skin are a good helper born to control the temperature.
She said: "Just as the hair on the primitive human body has the function of keeping the air trapped and cooling down, so do the wrinkles and crevices on the elephant's skin."
Elephants like mud baths and like to splash water on their bodies because their skin is like a sponge, which traps moisture and distributes it evenly throughout the body to achieve a cooling effect. ” BioSEA also prints cracks and wrinkles on the skin of elephants on bricks to test whether such biomimetic design materials can achieve the same cooling effect if used on building surfaces.
Anuk listed two architectural designs that successfully applied the concept of bionics at home and abroad.
The natural ventilation design of the Votu Hotel in Brazil is based on the Prairie Dog (also known as Prairie Dog) and the cactus. The smart Prairie Dog was born knowing the fluid mechanics of Bernoulli ’ s Principle.
When they dig a hole, they will dig a higher cave at one end, and the high and low air pressure caused by two caverns of different heights will promote a continuous flow of air circulation.
The designer of Votu Hotel imitated the prairie dog and mouse, and designed the ceiling of each room of the hotel with different heights of inclination, and the gaps at the two ends of the ceiling can ensure the natural circulation of air in the room.
The arrangement of wooden strips in the appearance of the room mimics the structure of the cactus to achieve a cooling effect.
The concave-convex shape of the cactus allows it to be exposed to sunlight and shadow on one side during different sunshine periods.
Anuk said a team at the Dynamic Assemblies Lab, part of the University of Technology and Design (SUTD) in Singapore, took inspiration from Starfish Larvae in 2020 to assemble the Knit Pattern Flow Pavilion: “Starfish larvae change the direction of their hair to control the swirl of the water flow, enabling them to move around the water. ” The water moves.
The team used the structure of starfish larvae to make a pavilion, and simulated the intermittent wind speed of nature. They found that the wind, which constantly adjusts the flow, is more comfortable and cool than the artificial wind, which blows continuously at a fixed speed.
He also pointed out that pine cones shrink when wet and open when exposed to heat; mimosa shrinks when stressed; flowers open and close due to sunlight, and the interaction of these plants with cold, hot and light can also be applied to the external design of the building, so that the building shell and skin can be switched according to sunlight to achieve a cooling effect.
Anuk said: “What we are most happy to see in the end is that architects and designers can apply these different bionic research and ideas to the same building and put them together. ”
In this way, the world can witness in the same place how the ancient wisdom of nature is applied to the contemporary space through human wisdom to solve the problem of climate change facing mankind.
LIKE Our official Facebook page for more information

Features such as the wrinkles of elephant skin and the water-harvesting techniques of the Namib desert beetle inspire innovative building solutions.

Designers like Anuk use termite mounds to create porous wall tiles, which trap air and promote cooling for greater thermal comfort.