LAU architecture students assemble emergency shelter with plastic crates + ties

Jordanian/Canadian designer Abeer Seikaly developed 'weaving a home,' a disaster relief shelter for refugees that draws inspiration from the temporary huts historically used by nomadic tribes. This innovative concept employs structural fabric, echoing ancient weaving techniques that transform linear fibers into complex three-dimensional forms. The project highlights a novel system that integrates technological advancements with contemporary assembly methods. It envisions a structure composed of durable plastic members that are interthreaded to create a cohesive unit. These flexible envelopes are designed to fold along a central axis, and their hollow structural skin facilitates the passage of essential services such as water and electricity, similar to the functionality of a conventional stud wall. The design of 'weaving a home' prioritizes adaptability and environmental control. Users can manipulate the units to achieve different scales and adjust the exterior skin to regulate exposure to the surrounding elements, allowing for both open and closed configurations. This lightweight, structural fabric is intended to provide not just physical shelter but also a symbolic means for individuals to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of disaster. The mobile components are designed for easy construction, enabling quick establishment of a temporary dwelling. Illustrations accompanying the project demonstrate various aspects of the design. These include views of the tent structures in both closed and open states, showcasing their appearance during different times of day and night. An interior view of an open tent highlights how its layered skin can create pockets for storage, maximizing functional space within the shelter. Additional illustrations provide detailed insights into the construction and flexibility of the shelters. These include conceptual drawings of both single-layer and double-layer fabric skins, an assembly diagram that visualizes the construction process, and models demonstrating how the structure can collapse for portability. Further model studies illustrate the use of cut and scored paper to develop a flexible pattern, underscoring the design's material exploration and innovative form-finding methodology. 'Weaving a home' was recognized for its innovative approach, being shortlisted for the 2012 LEXUS DESIGN AWARD. This achievement underscores the project's potential and its contribution to the field of humanitarian design. The design marries traditional textile practices with modern material science and architectural principles, offering a practical and aesthetically thoughtful solution for temporary housing in crisis situations. The emphasis on user control over the environment and the integrated utility pathways represent key features that differentiate this concept from more conventional emergency shelter designs, offering a more dignified and functional living space for displaced populations. #AbeerSeikaly #DisasterRelief #RefugeeShelter #StructuralFabric #NomadicArchitecture #FlexibleDesign #LexusDesignAward #HumanitarianDesign #SustainableArchitecture

The increasing frequency of tsunamis and rising sea levels present a significant challenge to homeowners in coastal regions globally, raising concerns about the future viability of many seaside communities. In response to these environmental shifts, San Francisco-based Studio Peek Ancona has conceptualized and developed the 'Flood-Proof House.' This innovative dwelling offers a practical, cost-effective, and adaptable architectural solution aimed at safeguarding homes situated in areas susceptible to flooding. At its core, the 'Flood-Proof House' incorporates a prefabricated metal moment frame, which is structurally supported by a hybrid system of concrete and steel columns and foundations. This design significantly reduces the material and space required on the ground floor by 30%, while simultaneously providing robust resistance against high tides and floodwaters up to 12 feet. The primary structural system is engineered for ease of construction, transportation, and installation, allowing for its deployment in diverse geographical locations. This flexibility also enables the integration of local building materials, ensuring that each home can reflect a site-specific aesthetic and character. The design features a truss assembly that includes a cantilever, serving not only as the access point for the stairs but also as a foundational element for future expansion or combination with other units. Notably, this cantilevered section extends over an existing heritage beach house, offering a degree of preservation to the older structure. The ground floor of the 'Flood-Proof House' provides 600 square feet of versatile space, designed to be partitioned and utilized in various configurations to suit the needs of its occupants. Above this, the upper level encompasses 450 square feet of interior acclimatized living space, complemented by an additional 350 square feet of exterior decking. This outdoor area can seamlessly integrate with the interior program, effectively expanding the usable living space. The exterior of the home is clad with local western red cedar panels, forming a ventilated wall system. This system is crucial for providing essential ventilation, enhancing insulation, and acting as a rainscreen, thereby contributing to the home's durability and energy efficiency. Inside, the aesthetic is characterized by a subtly contrasting dark bamboo floor, equipped with radiant heating for comfort. Strategically placed overhangs are incorporated into the design to mitigate direct sunlight exposure during the summer months, contributing to a cooler indoor environment and reducing energy consumption. Overall, the 'Flood-Proof House' represents a thoughtful and resilient approach to residential architecture in the face of escalating environmental challenges, providing a secure and adaptable living solution for at-risk coastal communities. #FloodProofHouse #CoastalArchitecture #PrefabricatedDesign #ResilientHousing #SustainableDesign #StudioPeekAncona #ModularConstruction #ClimateChangeAdaptation

The article presents an interview with Saxon Hall, founder of Saxon Hall Architecture, focusing on his firm's first prefabricated project, the Standup Cabin. Hall, based in Tasmania, Australia, developed an interest in prefabricated buildings after observing a need for transportable, low-maintenance homes capable of withstanding the region's extreme temperatures. The Standup Cabin, a two-module, 968-square-foot structure, serves as shared dining, bathing, and cooking facilities for a coastal campsite on the Tasman Peninsula. The primary goal of the project was to design a sustainable, transportable dwelling that minimizes site disturbance and allows for easy relocation, while also offering a functional living space connected to the surrounding landscape. The owners appreciate the cabin's design elements, particularly the picture frame windows offering ocean views and the light touch of the structure on the ground, which avoids the extensive disruption of conventional construction. They also value the asset's relocatability and reusability. A key distinguishing feature of the Standup Cabin is its use of the Mega Anchor footing system. This contemporary foundation technology minimizes site disturbance, reduces construction time, and can be removed and reused. It eliminates the need for significant excavation and drainage, particularly on sloped terrains, preventing erosion and allowing the structure to conform to natural contours. The Mega Anchor is quick to install, immediately load-bearing, and does not require inspection or drying time. External cladding for the cabin is Western Red Cedar, chosen for its durability and stability. This material is resistant to warping, shrinking, and cupping, and its natural chemicals provide inherent protection against moisture damage, making it suitable for a weather-prone region. The cabin was constructed offsite in Victoria, Australia, and then transported and assembled on the Tasmanian site within two days, a process made feasible by the lead contractor Space Cube's previously tested transportable design system. This system involved transporting a prototype 400 miles across the Bass Strait, demonstrating its viability. The design of the Standup Cabin is robust enough to handle a wide range of temperatures, from 32° to 95° Fahrenheit, making it adaptable to various global environments. Saxon Hall is currently collaborating with Davies Construction on a new brand called Fortifab, which focuses on modular buildings and panelized building envelopes, incorporating passive house standards for longevity, health, and comfort. While none of his designs are currently pre-permitted in U.S. municipalities, the typical project timeline from deposit to handover for a Fortifab project is 150 days, excluding approval delays, emphasizing speed and reduced unforeseen costs through offsite construction. Saxon Hall Architecture manages the design, consultant coordination, statutory approvals, and building contract preparation. Clients can customize external claddings, roofing finishes, window and door placements (depending on views, heating loads, and privacy), and internal cabinetry, door hardware, and appliances. Optional add-ons include solar panels, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, and Starlink services. The Standup Cabin stands out from typical Australian campsite buildings by combining functionality with thoughtful design, exemplified by its floor-to-ceiling windows and durable materials. #PrefabricatedArchitecture #ModularConstruction #OffGridLiving #SustainableDesign #TasmanianArchitecture #StandupCabin #MegaAnchorSystem #WesternRedCedar #TransportableHomes #CampsiteDesign

Two engineering students, Peter Brewin and Will Crawford, who met at the Royal College of Art studying industrial engineering, developed an innovative inflatable concrete shelter for refugee relief. This concept, inspired by the compressive strength of an eggshell, was their entry in a British Cement Association competition to discover new uses for cement. The shelter addresses the critical need for safe, semi-permanent housing for refugees and displaced persons worldwide, a necessity underscored by the 33 million individuals currently in such situations. The core innovation of their design, which they term "concrete canvas," consists of two key components: a cement-impregnated cloth and inflatable formwork. The structure is packaged with a cement-impregnated fabric bonded to the outer surface of an inflatable plastic liner. To deploy the shelter, the sack is filled with water, which hydrates the cement. After approximately 15 minutes, the sack is cut open to form the ground sheet for the structure. Subsequently, a chemical pack is activated, releasing a controlled volume of gas that inflates the entire structure. Once inflated, the concrete begins to cure. After the curing process is complete, areas of the plastic skin that are not covered by the fabric are cut open to create doorways and ventilation points. This design allows for rapid deployment and provides a robust, weatherproof shelter that can withstand harsh conditions. Brewin and Crawford founded Concrete Canvas in Pontypridd, Wales, to further develop, manufacture, and market these new structures. Their primary focus remains on humanitarian applications, aiming to provide these shelters to aid organizations as cheaply as possible. Their personal experience visiting a refugee camp in Uganda during a tropical storm offered firsthand insight into the urgent need for such safe, semi-permanent shelters. This technology offers a practical and efficient solution for temporary housing in disaster zones and refugee camps, significantly improving living conditions for vulnerable populations. The simplicity of deployment, combined with the durability of concrete, presents a substantial advancement in humanitarian aid infrastructure. The students' commitment to humanitarian causes is central to their business model, prioritizing impact over profit in their sales to aid organizations. Their invention stands as a testament to how innovative material science and engineering can directly address pressing global challenges. #InflatableShelters #ConcreteCanvas #RefugeeRelief #HumanitarianAid #SustainableConstruction #EngineeringInnovation #EmergencyHousing

Knowhow Shop, a design/build firm based in Los Angeles, has created an experimental micro-office named Lighthouse in Highland Park. This 154-square-foot structure serves as both their office and a showcase of their innovative design and construction capabilities. The firm, founded by Kagan Taylor and Justin Rice, sought to challenge their skills by constructing a modern office that deviates from traditional architectural practices. The project aimed to free up space in their main fabrication and machine shop while also demonstrating their expertise in experimental design. The Lighthouse draws inspiration from various sources, including boatbuilding techniques, and centrally features custom-built structural insulated panels (SIPs). These SIPs, combined with a lightweight, prefabricated construction system and oversized glazed openings, contribute to the building's moniker. Taylor and Rice personally undertook the entire construction process, including tasks they had no prior experience with, such as installing glazing, fiberglass, and a topcoat, as well as the interior fit-out and finishes. This hands-on approach allowed them to bypass conventional architectural production methods and fully leverage their design/build model. Operating with an approximate budget of $50,000, including labor time, the project was completed entirely in-house between other client projects. The design emphasized fundamental architectural elements—door, window, and skylight—approaching the construction more like crafting a piece of furniture than a conventional building. The custom front door features an August Smart Lock and eschews right angles, reflecting the project's unconventional aesthetic. A custom-made skylight integrates traditional boatbuilding materials with elements inspired by car sunroofs. The interior worktops are made from Formica 2297 Terril, and a custom Douglas Fir bookshelf echoes the angular geometry of the office. Flexibility and mobility were key design considerations. The micro-office is not set on a traditional foundation but rather on industrial casters, similar to those used for roll-off dumpsters, allowing it to be easily moved around the shop-yard. Its asymmetrical wedge shape was partly influenced by the need to accommodate forklift clearances for transporting plywood into their adjacent shop. The flooring is Douglas Fir with an OSMO finish, while the angled walls and ceiling are constructed from Douglas Fir Marine Grade Plywood with a whitewash finish. Taylor and Rice envision Lighthouse as more than just an office; it functions as a testament to their craftsmanship and a practical example of rethinking architectural design and construction methods. They hope that future iterations of "Lighthouses" could inspire a movement towards smaller, sustainable buildings that incorporate contemporary architectural principles. The project includes detailed floor plans and wall sections, highlighting the innovative construction. It was published in October 2018, emphasizing its relevance to small spaces and modern workplace design. #MicroOffice #ExperimentalArchitecture #DesignBuildFirm #StructuralInsulatedPanels #PrefabricatedConstruction #LosAngelesDesign #SmallSpaces #ModernDesign #MobileArchitecture

Ample, an offsite manufacturing business founded in 2021 by Greg Adshead and Aaron Shields, specializes in high-quality, fully transportable, small homes and saunas. The Melbourne-based company, in partnership with Agents of Architecture, aims to provide customizable prefabricated structures that offer an alternative to larger, more expensive traditional housing in Australia. Their design philosophy is inspired by the pragmatic aesthetic of the Australian shed, featuring galvanized metal exteriors complemented by wood and steel interiors. One of Ample's notable projects is 'Stella the Stargazer' and its accompanying Sauna Bathhouse, created for Visit Victoria. This transportable tiny cabin and bathhouse system is designed to encourage younger demographics to explore regional Victoria. Stella is a luxury, fully off-grid accommodation that is relocated every few months. It incorporates unique features like a roll-out sleeping platform for stargazing, where a glazed gable end opens on gas struts, allowing the bed to extend and the glazed section to become a glass roof. The project prioritizes a 'slow living experience,' likened to an adult 'cubby house' (Australia's term for a children's playhouse). Ample's base model, 'The Little Fella,' is a transportable studio pod starting at approximately $49,000 AUD. This price includes a complete, fully insulated building with double-glazed blackbutt timber windows and doors, galvanized tin cladding, hardwood plywood interior lining, and a basic electrical package. Clients can choose to fit out the interior themselves or have Ample customize it to their specifications. The Little Fella is versatile, suitable for use as a backyard studio, bedroom, office, or compact cabin. What distinguishes Ample's prefabs is their unique design style, blending the 'humble Aussie shed' exterior with rich, textural interiors crafted by Agents of Architecture and interior designer Aimee Gleeson. The focus is on using raw, natural, and often repurposed hardwearing materials that are expected to age gracefully and develop a unique patina. Ample also emphasizes custom finishes, fixtures, and fittings, even manufacturing them in-house if suitable options are unavailable. Currently, Ample's products are available only within Australia, though the company expresses interest in future partnerships in the U.S. and Europe. The timeline for a project, from deposit to completion, typically ranges from 4-6 months for a single small pod, depending heavily on local council approvals and the project's size and complexity. Ample operates as a design and manufacturing business, offering remote assistance for site teams but not directly engaging in site work. Clients have a significant degree of customization, ranging from accepting the standard design to being heavily involved in detailing or requesting unique, one-off projects, all contingent on their budget and brief. #PrefabHomes #TinyCabins #AustralianDesign #ModularArchitecture #OffGridLiving #StellaTheStargazer #SaunaDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomPrefab

The article explores the innovative Adaptive P/Re-use studios at the USC School of Architecture, part of their one-year Master of Advanced Architectural Research Studies (M.AARS) postgraduate program. Led by instructors Julia Sulzer and Sascha Delz, these studios aim to address pressing social and environmental challenges, particularly the crises of affordable housing and accessible urban services in Los Angeles, by rethinking the design and construction of built environments. The program’s core philosophy is to consider environmental and social sustainability as interconnected aspects, promoting a shift from traditional design briefs that prioritize new construction to approaches centered on reuse and future adaptability. The M.AARS program, specifically the City Design + Housing concentration, challenges students to design cities based on principles of 're-use' and 'pre-use.' Re-use involves the recirculation and repurposing of materials, existing buildings, social structures, and environmental settings. Pre-use focuses on designing with future adaptation, transformation, reassembly, and disassembly in mind, acknowledging continuous social and environmental change. Furthermore, the program integrates non-speculative economic models, such as Limited Equity Housing Cooperatives (LEHCs) and Community Land Trusts (CLTs), to foster inclusive economic principles. These models empower community members from the bottom up, enabling alternative ways to organize, produce, own, manage, and design urban housing, infrastructure, and services more collectively and equitably. This approach reverses the typical top-down design process, positioning designers as proactive agents who use their creative skills to support bottom-up initiatives and create sustainable spaces, prototypes, and systems. The curriculum is structured around research seminars and three design studios. The fall 'city design' studio (ARCH-705) focuses on fieldwork, mapping, and the design of open and public spaces, infrastructure, and urban services. The spring 'housing design' studio (ARCH-793a/b) delves into affordable housing models and innovative housing designs. The summer 'synthesis design' studio (ARCH-705L) consolidates research and design activities into a report and involves the collective construction of a 1-1 intervention using adaptive p/re-use design ideas. Project examples from the ARCH-705 studio include 'Alleys for All' by Hunter Barnett, which proposes transforming Koreatown's underutilized back alleys into multi-functional public spaces with open structures for commercial use, ADUs, and energy infrastructure. 'Revitalizing Wilshire' by Tristan Lindner addresses vacancy along Wilshire Boulevard by reusing materials from demolished buildings to create architectural palimpsests that offer affordable retail, transit, green spaces, and housing. From the ARCH-793a/b (2023) studio, 'Zoup(ing) LA' by Joshua Ryan suggests zoning law changes to facilitate flexible use of urban gaps, promoting co-operative housing, mixed-use developments, and the use of repurposed materials in Venice. 'From Forest to Framework' by Ellie Selzer, also from ARCH-793a/b (2023), explores sustainable mass timber products within a closed-loop system for flexible and deconstructable affordable housing in Venice Beach, emphasizing sustainable land management and updated building codes. The ARCH-793a/b (2024) studio featured 'Open Source Housing' by Boyuan Wu, which proposes an open-source, decentralized housing toolkit integrated with CLT and LEC models to create an incremental, decommodified, and circular housing delivery scheme, where building materials are leased and reused. 'Practopia' by Amir Bolourchi, also from ARCH-793a/b (2024), outlines a pragmatic yet utopian vision for urban transformation in Koreatown, using the CLT model to introduce affordable multifamily housing, community spaces, and micro-commercial programs to foster a resilient and equitable neighborhood. Finally, the ARCH-705L studio's 'Recycle, Food, Learn, Play' project, a collaborative effort by multiple students, involved a 1-1 scale design-build intervention in Koreatown. This pavilion was constructed using scavenged and reclaimed materials to address neighborhood challenges related to affordable food, recycling, and leisure spaces, establishing a 'waste for food' concept with a local youth center. #USCSchoolOfArchitecture #AdaptiveReuse #SustainableHousing #AffordableHousing #UrbanPlanning #LosAngeles #ArchitectureEducation #CommunityLandTrusts #LimitedEquityCooperatives

Kathryn and Rodney Woods, residents of Naples' Port Royal, have transformed their already impressive backyard into a cutting-edge outdoor living space with the addition of a Renson Camargue pergola from GWT Outdoors. The couple, who previously had a beautiful waterfront pool and expansive lanai, sought to enhance their outdoor area with technology that could adapt to the local climate. Their primary goal was to create a comfortable and stylish space that would encourage more outdoor activity, as their previous setup, limited to a gas grill, saw little use. The newly installed 17-by-14-foot Renson pergola is a sophisticated, powder-coated aluminum structure designed for durability and functionality. It features automatic louvers that can rotate 150 degrees and close to become watertight, effectively shielding the area from rain. A clever design ensures that when the louvers reopen after precipitation, water is redirected into built-in gutters, preventing splashing. The pergola also includes automatic solar shades on its sides, which can be adjusted to control airflow and sunlight, making the space comfortable regardless of weather conditions. These features are controllable via phone, remote, or a smart home system. This tech-enabled pergola now serves as the home's main outdoor dining area, accommodating a custom table with handpainted Gervasoni ceramic bases and eight JANUS et Cie chairs. Box planters, relocated from the main lanai, integrate greenery into the dining space and define its perimeter. An additional 6-by-4-foot Renson structure houses a German-made Cook-N-Dine teppanyaki grill, which boasts both aesthetic appeal and advanced engineering. The grill appears as a sleek stainless steel surface when off, but its center depresses to form a wok-like cooking area when heated. This section is clad with Renson's Linius louvered material, and its front columns feature integrated LED lighting. For entertainment, a television, similarly clad, is available for viewing sporting events. Interior designer Chandra Payne of CPayne Interiors conceptualized the modern lines of the pergola to contrast with the home’s traditional architecture, drawing inspiration from I.M. Pei's Louvre Pyramid, which modernizes without detracting from its historical surroundings. Beyond dining and entertaining, the pergola functions as a "garden room," providing an optimal environment for Kathryn's orchids. With adjustable light coverage and two open sides, the space helps her orchids thrive year-round, a significant improvement from their previous wilting during the summer months. Custom racks between the pergola and lanai, along with a rolling herb garden and potted ferns, further enhance the botanical aspect of the area. The outdoor living space is completed by two Philippe Starck-designed Kartell Bubble Club chairs, offering views of the backyard, dock, pool, and water. The entire setup seamlessly connects to a pool deck that extends across the backyard, featuring a wood pergola for partial shade over Sutherland loungers. The pool's sun shelf can be covered with Plexiglas for parties, further illustrating the versatility of the Woods' renovated backyard, designed to accommodate all seasons and occasions. #OutdoorSpaces #DesignInspiration #SmartHome #LuxuryLiving #HomeImprovement #Pergola #NaplesFlorida #GWTOutdoors #OutdoorKitchen

The Design for Impact Challenge, a collaborative event bringing together students from George Fox University's interior design program and Portland State University's architecture program, showcased real-world design experience. Held at BORA Architects' Portland office, the event partnered students with industry leaders and higher education design programs. The challenge required teams, each comprising interior design and architecture students, to design a new entry and classroom space for a high school in Southern California. Each team was also paired with an industry mentor, a practicing architect or designer, who provided guidance throughout the five-hour design process. The prompt specified that ideas from the student proposals would be incorporated into the high school's upcoming renovation, adding a significant layer of real-world impact to the exercise. Students engaged in an intensive five-hour session, sketching, modeling, and refining their concepts. The focus was on balancing aesthetic innovation with practical application, demonstrating the students' creativity and problem-solving skills. Following the design period, each team presented their proposals to a panel of professional jurors from the architecture and design industries. This provided students with valuable experience in communicating their design vision and receiving expert feedback. The winning team included George Fox interior design seniors Ava Heflen and Kali Braukmiller, mentored by Shawn from VIDA Design. Their design was lauded for its strong understanding of biophilic design, which integrated native and location-specific plants to promote wellness and environmental harmony within the classroom space. Furthermore, their proposal incorporated trauma-informed design principles. This involved providing choice and flexibility in furniture arrangements and seating, careful attention to classroom acoustics, and the implementation of open sightlines complemented by AI-powered security systems. These elements aimed to create safe and calming environments conducive to learning. The design was further enhanced by curved elements in finishes and furnishings, adding softness and approachability, culminating in a thoughtful and forward-thinking solution. Ava Heflen highlighted the memorable nature of the experience, particularly the opportunity to collaborate with architecture students, which provided valuable insight into real-world design scenarios. She also emphasized the crucial role of the industry mentor in offering helpful feedback and encouragement throughout the process. Heflen noted that the collaborative environment fostered refreshing interactions and sparked numerous creative ideas. The event also served as an inspiration, allowing her to witness the diverse and thoughtful designs developed by other participants in the challenge. Another team, featuring George Fox interior design students Sam Kinsman and Michaela Vega, and mentored by Melissa from Gensler Portland, received the 'Best Concept' award. This recognition acknowledged their visionary approach and compelling presentation. The Design for Impact Challenge provided students with a unique platform for inter-institutional collaboration, direct mentorship from industry professionals, and constructive feedback from respected jurors. For the George Fox students, this experience underscored the practical application of design thinking in real-world contexts and highlighted the transformative power of intentional, human-centered design in shaping future educational spaces. #InteriorDesign #DesignChallenge #GeorgeFoxUniversity #PortlandStateUniversity #BiophilicDesign #TraumaInformedDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #StudentCollaboration #RealWorldExperience

This article explores the significant role that architectural color palettes, even those not strictly historically accurate, have played in preserving roadside architecture and historic districts in American cities. It highlights two case studies: the Columbus Storefront Restoration Project in Indiana and the Pastel Palette of South Beach, Miami. The article originates from a 2018 symposium titled "Are We There Yet? Preserving Roadside Architecture and Attractions." The concept of architectural color palettes in America dates back to 1842 when Andrew Jackson Downing proposed six exterior colors for cottages and villas, offering detailed guidance on their use. Over time, paint manufacturers popularized more color palettes through advertisements, a practice that continues today with numerous color collections, including "Historic Color Palettes" claiming to represent various architectural styles and periods. While some historic color palettes, like those used in Colonial Williamsburg, are based on extensive architectural paint research and historical documents, others emerged from creative imagination and still profoundly impacted the aesthetic quality and preservation efforts of their respective areas. The Columbus Storefront Restoration Project, initiated in 1961, aimed to beautify storefronts along Washington Street in downtown Columbus, Indiana. Designer Alexander Girard created a palette of twenty-six colors, which he believed were historically appropriate for the Victorian commercial buildings. His approach focused on using color to accentuate architectural details and create a unified streetscape in conjunction with new signage and lighting. Girard's palette, which drew inspiration from Victorian house colors, was not based on scientific paint analysis but rather a mid-20th-century interpretation of early 20th-century color schemes. Despite this, it successfully transformed the appearance of the street, making the old buildings more appealing and fostering community involvement in their preservation. The project became a national model for street transformation, attracting visitors and promoting Columbus as an "archi-tourism" center. The Pastel Palette of South Beach, Miami, is another compelling example. In the 1970s, the Art Deco Historic District faced neglect and demolition threats despite being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Interior designer Leonard Horowitz, a member of the Miami Design Preservation League, developed a pastel color palette to highlight the intricate Art Deco features of the buildings and create a sense of continuity. His palette, inspired by the natural surroundings of Miami—the sun, sky, sand, and ocean—transformed the dull, dilapidated buildings into vibrant structures, attracting public attention and eventually saving many hotels from demolition. This new aesthetic, which became iconic, played a crucial role in the revitalization of South Beach and led to current regulations in the historic district mandating the use of light pastel colors. Both the Columbus and South Beach color palettes, while not always historically accurate, proved to be inexpensive, easy-to-apply tools for preservation. They demonstrated how creative and aesthetically pleasing interventions could generate appreciation for historic buildings, prevent their demolition, and contribute to the economic and cultural revitalization of their respective areas. These initiatives effectively created new aesthetics that, in turn, became recognized as historic, highlighting the value of historic buildings to local communities and serving as accessible tools for historic preservation. #ColorPalettes #HistoricPreservation #ArchitecturalConservator #ArtDeco #RoadsideArchitecture #MiamiDesignPreservationLeague #AlexanderGirard #LeonardHorowitz #SouthBeach #ColumbusIndiana #NationalRegisterOfHistoricPlaces

The Quad Space House project, located in Buffalo's Black Rock neighbourhood, serves as a compelling example of student-led architectural innovation addressing urban housing challenges. Initiated by four students from the University of Buffalo's School of Architecture and Planning—Michael-John Bailie, Paul Dudkowski, Ernest Ng, and Dan Stripp—the project transformed a dilapidated house, purchased for a modest $6,500, into a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. This undertaking not only provided the students with housing but also showcased their entrepreneurial spirit and design skills in the face of America's ongoing housing crisis. Originally a brick-built, two-storey structure spanning 700 square feet, the house presented a significant design challenge due to its small footprint, particularly by European standards. The students meticulously remodelled the property to maximize living space, ensure privacy, and enhance functionality within the limited area. A key design element involves creating four distinct sleeping areas, each measuring 7 x 7 x 7.5 feet. This dimension adheres to New York State's minimum requirements for bedroom size, demonstrating a practical approach to spatial efficiency. These sleeping areas are conceived as 'cubes,' which are architecturally articulated by protruding through the original brick façade, making their presence visible from the exterior. Inside, the house is characterized by a high level of craftsmanship, utilizing low-cost materials to achieve a sophisticated interior. The students sourced fixtures and fittings from Buffalo ReUse, a local nonprofit salvage yard, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness. Furthermore, local businesses contributed materials and labor free of charge, reflecting a community-wide effort to support the university project and revitalize the neighborhood. This collaborative approach underscores the project's embeddedness within its local context and its contribution to community development. Despite its modest size, the Quad Space House achieves a sense of spaciousness through thoughtful design choices. Open-plan living areas, high ceilings, minimal detailing, and expansive windows contribute to an airy and uncluttered interior. The integration of underfloor heating further enhances the clean lines of the design, avoiding bulky radiators. The project received guidance from four thesis advisors, including Mehrdad Hadighi of Studio for Architecture, ensuring academic rigor and professional oversight. The Quad Space project exemplifies how architectural education can actively engage with and contribute to local communities, ensuring that design innovation is applied to real-world problems and remains accessible rather than confined to academic discourse. #QuadSpaceHouse #StudentArchitecture #BuffaloHousing #UrbanRenewal #SustainableDesign #CommunityProject #ArchitecturalInnovation #SmallSpaceLiving

Kimley-Horn, a consulting firm, organized the Kimley-Horn/FIU Design Collab, an all-day landscape architecture design workshop for students at Florida International University (FIU). The initiative aimed to provide students with practical experience that simulates real-world industry processes and parameters. The event was orchestrated by five Kimley-Horn employees: Gregory González, PLA; Michelle Latte, PLA; Sami Trinchetto; George Puig, PLA; and Maggie Giraldo, PE. To further enhance the realism of the workshop, representatives from various governmental entities were invited, including two members from the City of Miami Environmental Resources group, one member from the Miami-Dade County Planning Department, and one member from the Miami-Dade County Transportation Department. This multidisciplinary collaboration allowed students to engage with diverse experts, mirroring the complexities of actual professional projects. The workshop commenced with a detailed presentation outlining the project, which was based on an authentic design criteria package developed by the Kimley-Horn team in 2022. This initial phase established the project's scope, expectations, and deadlines for the student participants. A notable aspect of the workshop was a hand-drawing session, where the team instructed students on the use of bases, overlays, and paper for manual design creation. This was a unique learning opportunity for the students, as their academic training predominantly involved digital design tools. Following the introductory and instructional segments, the twelve participating students were divided into three groups to begin developing their designs. Throughout this design phase, Kimley-Horn's landscape architects and other invited design experts circulated among the groups, offering personalized guidance and insights. These one-on-one discussions emphasized critical considerations such as civil engineering, environmental impact assessments, and urban planning issues. The experts provided practical tools and tips, helping students integrate these diverse elements into their designs. This mentorship aimed to broaden the students' understanding beyond purely aesthetic landscape design to include the practical and regulatory aspects of the profession. The culmination of the workshop involved each student team presenting their designs to the panel of multidisciplinary experts. During these presentations, the judges posed questions and highlighted potential challenges associated with the proposed designs. This required students to articulate and defend their creative and technical decisions, an experience that directly mirrored the real-world review processes for landscape architecture projects. The objective was to prepare students for the rigorous scrutiny and collaborative problem-solving inherent in professional practice. At the conclusion of the presentations, an $800 prize was awarded to the winning team, recognizing their exemplary design and presentation skills. The event concluded with a networking dinner, allowing all participating students to interact informally with the judges and other industry professionals. Gregory González, PLA, commented on the workshop's efficacy, stating that it provided students with a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be a landscape architect in professional practice, moving beyond theoretical knowledge. The initiative represented a significant investment in the professional development of aspiring landscape architects, offering them invaluable hands-on experience, direct connections with professionals, and the opportunity to work on a relevant, real-world project. #LandscapeArchitecture #StudentWorkshop #RealWorldDesign #FIUStudents #KimleyHorn #DesignCollaboration #ProfessionalDevelopment #EnvironmentalPlanning

The Raleigh Campsite in Guizhou, designed by the Architectural Design Institute of South China University of Technology in 2018, is a non-profit youth development facility located in a mountain village in Pingqiao, China. The project aims to integrate youth camping activities with rural development initiatives, fostering a sustainable model that empowers both youth and local communities. The campsite was funded through corporate donations, attracted by the design proposal, and constructed collaboratively by Raleigh companions and local craftsmen, ensuring that its ongoing operation supports non-profit youth development activities. The architectural team included Zhenhui Zhang, Weilu Chen as lead architects, with contributions from Haoteng Yang, Qijie Sun, Xiaobo Yang, Yuanzheng Zhu, and Hao Su. The landscape design was handled by Zhisheng Guo, structural engineering by Fan Wang, Zerong Lai, Chen Ning, and Zhifeng Luo, and floodlighting by Yanju Ji and Sengjie Ma. Water supply and drainage were managed by Fan Jiang and Weile Huang, and electrical systems by Weibin Chen and Wencheng Cai. The client for the project was Raleigh, with the Sheng Ye group serving as the donor. The construction management was overseen by Lifeng Song, Weiqiang Lu, Yijing Zhang, and Feng Lu. The campsite's design and construction process reflect a commitment to local engagement and resourcefulness. The collaboration between international volunteers (Raleigh companions) and skilled local artisans was central to its realization, helping to transfer knowledge and build capacity within the community. This approach ensured that the architecture was not only functional but also culturally and environmentally sensitive to its mountainous Guizhou setting. The involvement of various technical specialists, from structural engineers to floodlighting designers, underscores the project's comprehensive planning and execution. The project emphasizes sustainability and community involvement, leveraging donations and volunteer efforts to create a lasting impact. The integration of the campsite within the existing village context aims to create a symbiotic relationship, where youth development activities contribute to the social and economic vitality of the rural area. The design seeks to provide spaces that are conducive to learning, outdoor activities, and community interaction, making it a hub for youth empowerment and regional growth. The overall effort highlights a model of development that prioritizes social benefit alongside architectural innovation. #YouthDevelopment #CampsiteDesign #RuralDevelopment #CommunityEngagement #ArchitecturalDesignInstituteOfSouthChinaUniversityOfTechnology #ChinaArchitecture #NonProfitProject #SustainableArchitecture #EducationalArchitecture

This article showcases ten architectural and design projects developed by students at My ArchiSchool as part of a Dezeen school show. My ArchiSchool, based in Hong Kong, provides architectural education and digital design skills to young people aged six to eighteen, preparing them for future careers in architecture and urban planning. The curriculum ranges from beginner levels to advanced stages, covering 3D modeling, writing, and portfolio development, culminating in an exhibition of student work for the most comprehensive packages. Among the featured projects, Albus Oscar Chung's "The Rage" is a painting inspired by childhood dreams, depicting a landscape with large trees to symbolize the importance of harmony among all living forms. Abigail Shih's "Escape" project, part of her book "Runaway to the Forest," addresses the impact of pollution and advocates for sustainable design, integrating buildings with natural environments like woodlands. Quinten Fan's "Designing a Green Resort" proposes a mountain-based eco-resort with simple geometric structures and transparent glass walls, allowing guests to experience panoramic views while ensuring easy transport and assembly of components in remote areas. The resort features tent-like buildings centered around a communal courtyard. Sean Lee's "Designing my Animal Hotel" envisions a hotel surrounded by wildlife, designed to facilitate learning about animals while providing protection for guests within a tall, reinforced structure. The hotel includes an observation deck, guest accommodations, and a ground floor for management and as a physical buffer. Aidan Chan's "Designing my Futuristic House" presents a modular, pyramidal structure designed for desert environments, built to withstand extreme weather and unstable foundations through a roof's hanging system. Terrance Sun's "Designing my Future House" combines a mobile home with a food truck, reflecting his passion for travel and community engagement through food sharing, aiming to contribute to global food security. Chua Chung Hei's "Designing my Future House" conceptualizes a forest dwelling inspired by lightweight tents, featuring a self-supporting, curved structure that minimizes environmental impact by avoiding deep foundation construction. The design incorporates indirect lighting to prevent disturbance to forest animals. Valerie Zhang's "Designing my Winter Resort" draws inspiration from snowflakes, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere with wooden structures and locally sourced timber to offer guests dramatic views of nature and promote environmental friendliness by reducing transportation of materials. Vivian Tam's "Designing a Green Airport" applies the 15-minute city concept to an airport layout, separating arrival and departure halls with a landscaped waiting area and a glass roof system with shading devices to control natural light and heat. David Ma's "Designing my Winter Resort" utilizes parametric design to create a resort on a snowy, mountainous site. The design features an undulating roof supported by a triangular truss system made of steel and timber, designed to withstand fluctuating temperatures and echo the organic forms of mountains. These projects collectively demonstrate the students' innovative approaches to architectural challenges, their engagement with environmental and social issues, and their development of practical design skills through My ArchiSchool's programs. #MyArchiSchool #ArchitecturalDesign #StudentProjects #SustainableArchitecture #EcoResort #DesertArchitecture #GreenAirport #MobileHome #ForestDwelling #WinterResort

The conceptual housing project by alber+grandits proposes a hybrid structure for the Technical University of Vienna's architecture department, seamlessly integrating academic studies with students' private lives. This design reimagines student accommodation by combining studios and residences into a single, cohesive environment. The core idea is to create a living and learning space where the demanding nature of architectural education can be fully embraced within a constructively tailored home setting. The multi-story complex is designed with several key areas to facilitate this integration. A large working space is situated in the basement, providing direct access to Vienna's subway system and the Danube Canal, emphasizing connectivity and practical urban living. Above this, the building centers around a large atrium, which extends through all floors except the basement, creating a continuous, open volume that promotes interaction and a sense of community. The circulation within the building is conceived as a spiral movement upwards, enhancing the dynamic flow through the different levels. Alongside the central atrium, an ongoing collection of book-filled shelves is incorporated, underscoring the academic focus and providing readily accessible resources for students. Private dormitories are also part of this integrated design. Each residence within the complex is characterized by an open-layout plan and features movable elements and shelving, allowing students to customize their living spaces according to their individual needs and preferences. This flexibility supports various living and working arrangements, accommodating the diverse requirements of architecture students. This project by alber+grandits is more than just a dormitory; it is a holistic environment engineered to allow architect-hopefuls to immerse themselves completely in their everyday training. By merging living and learning functions, the design aims to foster a constant engagement with architectural principles and practices, extending beyond traditional classroom settings into their personal space. The intention is to create an ecosystem where students can live and breathe their studies, making the educational journey an integral part of their daily existence in a supportive and adaptable home environment. #ConceptualHousing #StudentAccommodation #ArchitectureDesign #TechnicalUniversityVienna #HybridLiving #OpenLayout #UrbanConnectivity #ArchitecturalEducation

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offers a distinct first-year housing experience at its Hive complex, a significant departure from traditional college dormitories. Unlike the varied, traditional-style options at institutions like RISD, the majority of SCAD's first-year students are accommodated in the Hive, a modern, co-ed facility designed with a boutique hotel aesthetic rather than a typical student residence. The complex is composed of eight identical four-story buildings, each bearing a bee-themed name, such as Apiary, Bumble, and Honey. While Colony is reserved for upperclassmen and Dance for transfer students, the remaining buildings primarily house freshmen. Each suite within the Hive is designed for four students and features two double-occupancy rooms. A notable aspect of the design is the thoughtful layout that addresses common dormitory inconveniences. Specifically, the shower, toilet, and main bathroom sink are strategically placed in separate rooms, mitigating congestion and allowing multiple students to use facilities simultaneously. Additionally, a small kitchen sink adjacent to the bathroom offers an alternative for tasks like teeth brushing, further enhancing functionality. Each suite also includes a living room furnished with a couch, end tables, a coffee table, and a wall-mounted shelf suitable for a flat-screen TV. Individual residents are provided with an extra-long twin-size bed, a desk and chair, and a wardrobe with drawers, ensuring personal space and storage. Beyond the individual suites, the Hive complex boasts a comprehensive array of amenities. Every building is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all students. Common facilities include a dining hall and a coffee shop, catering to students' culinary needs. For recreation and convenience, the complex features an on-site fitness center, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities with both SCAD Card and coin-operated machines. Vending machines for drinks and snacks are also available. Recognizing the importance of connectivity and modern services, the rooms are equipped with wireless internet access and cable television service. Furthermore, given Georgia's climate, all rooms are air-conditioned, and the Hive even functions as an Amazon Locker location, adding an extra layer of convenience for package deliveries. On-site security measures are in place to ensure a safe living environment for all residents. This meticulous attention to design and a wide range of amenities positions the Hive as a residential complex that prioritizes both functionality and comfort, offering an elevated living experience for SCAD's first-year students that aligns with contemporary living standards rather than conventional dormitory expectations. #SCAD #StudentHousing #DormDesign #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CampusLife #DesignEducation #ResidentialAmenities

Hollaender Manufacturing Company offers a diverse range of architectural hand railing systems suitable for educational institutions, encompassing non-welded aluminum rails and stainless steel structural glass options. The company's railings are designed to meet both fall protection requirements and accessibility standards, making them a practical choice for school environments. Key applications include general railing and handrail use, specifically within educational settings. Among Hollaender's prominent railing designs are Speed-Rail® and Newman by Hollaender™ (formerly Newman Brothers Railing). The Interna-Rail® aluminum railing system, which can be configured with metal infill panels such as wire mesh or perforated metal, is particularly popular across various school types due to its versatility and durability. Infill materials for these railing systems are available in a broad selection and are rigorously tested to comply with IBC codes. Options include monolithic and laminated tempered glass, as well as robust resin panels made from PETG and acrylic. Metal infill panels are offered in mesh, perforated, or more intricate patterns, with material choices spanning aluminum, e-coated steel, and stainless steel. The use of acrylic resin panels can enhance aesthetic appeal, offering translucency and solid surfaces that are less fragile than glass, making them a safer option for spaces frequented by children. For schools requiring glass railings, Hollaender provides laminated, tempered glass systems, which offer enhanced safety compared to single-sheet monolithic glass. In high-traffic areas, particularly for handrails, Hollaender offers anodized aluminum and stainless steel options. Stainless steel provides superior durability for very heavy-traffic applications compared to anodized aluminum. Finishes for the handrails and railing systems are available in an extensive range of patterns, colors, and textures. Aluminum systems can be anodized in clear or bronze, or powder-coated in nearly any color. Steel infill panels are e-coated for corrosion protection before being finished in a wide array of colors. Stainless steel rail systems can feature a directional or circular brush finish, and panels can also be supplied with a bright dip. These railings are suitable for both interior and exterior applications and possess anti-corrosion properties, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. They are characterized by their aesthetic appeal, low maintenance requirements, cost-effectiveness, and resilience, making them ideal for commercial projects within schools. #SchoolArchitecture #RailingSystems #HandrailDesign #ArchitecturalRailings #SafetyStandards #DurableMaterials #EducationFacilities #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign

Wickes provides a comprehensive range of high-quality building materials, catering to both professional tradesmen and DIY enthusiasts. The offerings span essential construction components such as timber, including treated sawn, planed square edge, and CLS studwork, and sheet materials like plywood, MDF, OSB, and loft boards. For foundational work, the company supplies various cement and aggregates, including ballast, sand, and gravel. Plastering and plasterboard supplies cover everything from plasterboard sheets and plaster to coving and plastering adhesives. Insulation products are available for lofts, cavity walls, and general use, alongside a variety of roofing materials such as PVC and bitumen corrugated sheets, roof felt, and roof tiles. Essential fasteners like nails, screws, and fixings, along with sealants, are also part of the extensive inventory. Additional building materials include guttering and drainage solutions, offering round and square line guttering, soil pipes, and channel drainage. A selection of bricks, blocks, and lintels, including concrete lintels and block paving, is provided for structural and decorative applications. Builders' metalwork, protective sheeting, and cladding options are also available. Wickes also offers specialized products like trade paint, water and damp proofing solutions, rubble sacks, and builders' buckets. For exterior home improvements, a range of fascias and soffits, mouldings, and scaffolding equipment are supplied. Furthermore, the company stocks various cleaning products and supplies, from vacuum cleaners and cleaning tools to car and window cleaning products and general cleaning fluids. A dedicated section for building materials clearance offers discounted products. Beyond product sales, Wickes offers practical advice and guides to assist customers with their home improvement projects. For instance, a detailed guide on how to plaster a wall provides step-by-step instructions, emphasizing careful preparation to achieve a smooth finish, making it accessible for those who prefer to undertake such tasks themselves. Another guide focuses on how to unclog a drain, providing simple solutions using common household items or specialized drain cleaning products, helping homeowners address blockages effectively. These resources underscore Wickes' commitment to supporting customers through their various building and decorating endeavors, ensuring they have access to both the necessary materials and the knowledge to complete their projects successfully. #BuildingMaterials #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #Timber #Insulation #Plastering #Roofing #DrainageSolutions #ConstructionSupplies