Students at the University of Stuttgart in Germany have developed a hybrid flax fibre/cross-laminated timber (CLT) roof for a prototype pavilion in Germany which enables column-free spans and demonstrates the structural application of a bio-based alternative to timber. This system forms the wave-like roof of an experimental building designed for a garden show on the … Read more
Biophilic design is characterized by an intrinsic connection to nature, whether that be lush walls of plants, open-air space, or organic, flowing forms. This farmhouse in India draws on these harmonizing principles by wrapping around a small mango grove. The Mumbai-based architects designed a curved building made of stone and brick that seems to hug … Read more
The United Nations Development Program is planning to utilize advanced 3D printing equipment from WASP (World’s Advanced Saving Project) in Colombia, to help address housing shortages. They will use the Crane WASP that can print directly using natural resources like agricultural waste and nearby dirt instead of requiring concrete. This equipment is versatile and mobile, … Read more
On the coast of British Columbia, Ryan Leech and Krysta Powers are building their two-story post-and-beam family home using light straw/clay for insulation. They are hoping to inspire change in the construction community, to build as ecologically ethically as they can. They have used as much recycled and reclaimed material as possible. The owners have … Read more
Sacramento-based architects Bronwyn Barry, founder of residential design firm Passive House BB, and Andrew Turner, CEO of GoodSpace High Performance Builders, have collaborated to convert an 82-year-old bungalow in Sacramento, CA into a larger living space for the family since they’d outgrown the home, as well as safeguard them from environmental hazards such as heatwaves, … Read more
This strawbale home on Australia’s coast is designed for passive solar and features reclaimed timber and ocean views. Joe, a plumber, and his wife Frances say, “We wanted to minimize our environmental impact by building a sustainable home that required minimal heating and cooling, had high insulation value, and used reclaimed building materials.” The couple … Read more