At the end of 2011, after deciding to go to France for a “gap year”, Australian Karen Stride arrived in the country with a 12-month long stay visa with nothing but a desire to soak in the sights and sounds of her favorite European destination. “I didn’t come to France with the intention to buy … Read more
As a renewable and often local material, wood and bamboo are top contenders for low carbon buildings that consider a sustainable future. The works below explore some designs that employ these materials, by architects from around the globe pushing the material to some interesting possibilities. Knarvik Community Church, Knarvik, Norway, 2014. Photo: Hundven-Clements Photography Nestled … Read more
Kiran Amati and his father, Prakash, spent most weekends farming, and experimenting with dairy and cow dung products on Prakash’s farm outside of Mumbai, India. At some point, Amati and his father chanced upon “Geeli Mitti,” an organization that leads workshops on natural buildings. Eventually, with the help of Geeli Mitti and a group of … Read more
This thatch-roofed tea house supported on bamboo pillars was built in 1986. The 510-square-meter (5490 sf) structure with its high arched roof was inspired by traditional rural residences in the Yangtze River Delta. After undergoing a major, two-year restoration project, it has now reopened to the public. It was designed by Feng Jizhong (1915-2009), who … Read more
Termites are master engineers who can build enormous, complex nests that stand several meters tall. They build intricate tunnels that have natural air conditioning. But how do these tiny creatures coordinate to create such impressive structures? A study by researchers at the IMT School for Advanced Studies in Italy has cracked the mystery. Termites focuse … Read more
The Cape is a residential community located in southern Victoria, Australia that boasts 130 homes that all feature passive solar, solar power and rainwater harvesting, as well as EV charging infrastructure. The residences are purposely designed for year-round comfort, oriented to maximize natural light and ventilation. Strait House (pictured above) is designed for the Australian … Read more