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Inspirational Projects
Thematic Design in Action
What it's about
This urban structure is made entirely from recycled bricks by StoneCycling. This company sources the materials needed for its bricks from a multitude of products usually found in desolate landfills.
Why it matters
Pollution from human garbage is a daunting challenge for the natural ecosystem. Plastic and other wastes ( often associated with the built environment ) constantly taint the habitats of wildlife and threaten crucial resources for people. Future buildings striving for Net Zero impact on the environment must promote designs conscious of minimizing pollution.
What it's about
This ten story mixed use building in Toronto will be North America's largest cross laminated wood timber structure once
completed. The engineered wood structure is extremely adaptable and can be disassembled, and the materiality choice
contributes much less to global carbon emissions as compared to concrete or steel.
Why it matters
This is a reassuring sign when a heavy timber structure like this can work in a cold climate such as Toronto. This proves that all cities can begin to use wooden super structures to mitigate the negative environmental impacts behind steel and concrete production.
Rotterdam Skinny House by Architectuur Maken
T3 Bayside by 3XN
Diamond Monolith by Tom Wiscombe
Why it matters
This theoretical project explores the forms that might comprise future architecture. As digital fabrication processes and
material science advances, how will our built environment change into structures like those found in popular science
fiction?
What it's about
This temporary tent structure provides a place for refugees to gather while utilizing structure and cladding system
that's dynamic and changeable.
Why it matters
Climate Change refugees will soon overwhelm developing regions. Many built structures responding to this dilemma do
not sufficiently provide spaces that allow for the healthy continuation of lives. How can architecture facilitate meaningful
moments in the most challenging circumstances?
Why it matters
This striking modern interior of a Chicago high-rise penthouse uses a clean organizational scheme with dynamic
lighting to create a true residential destination.
Why it matters
This winery uses a tessellated wood slat cloud and similar wall paneling to create aesthetic amenities for this winery.
The multifunctional patternicity behind these interior cladding elements represent the rolling rows of a vineyard while
also serving as acoustical dampers and shelving opportunities. These various functions combine through a similar
style to create a truly breathtaking interior.
Why it matters
Utility structures can often be complete eyesores, and this is especially true of power plants for large building complexes
such as hospitals. How can the machines that power our built environment be celebrated architecturally rather than
hidden behind obstructive penthouse shells that detract from the value of the rest of the built structure?
What its About
This building catalyzes activation in an underutilized region of Cornell's campus through a dramatic form which uses
permutations in its metal cladding and a consistent color palette to dazel patrons of the site. The design benefits from
sustainable principles, such as integrated daylighting. It also celebrates technology in the built environment through
it's dramatic forms made possible by advancements in computational modeling software.
Why it matters
Digital design processes combined with sustainable systems create a recipe for future architecture. Combing these two
principles allows buildings to be multi-functional and capable of place-making. How can the construction industry
promote designs that are forward thinking through the adoption of these incredible technologies?
Toronto Distillery District Development by ODA
What its About
This highrise development began with a traditional skyscraper volume. Permutations to its form then followed to
better represent the human scale while providing new opportunities for unobstructed views and enhanced daylighting.
A supplemental "podium" development of street level landscaping and programmatic networking allows this complex
to maximize its ability to be multi-functional and effective.
From the description on ODA's website, the design process is evident. Each form change responds to a set of
principles behind design (views, daylighting, urban connectivity, etc.) Why doesn't all architecture have a clear
and concise process of creation to prove its legitimacy as a beneficial habitat for human prosperity?
Why it matters
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