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Inspirational Projects
Thematic Design in Action
This project is along the same line as ones found in BIG Architecture and Helmut Jahn which all challenge conventionality in certain utility typologies. How can some of these necessities in infrastructure be seen as more of place-making assets who can use sustainable systems and heightened aesthetics to better serve people and the environment?
Ecolock Urban Storage by McLennan Design
What its About
This forward thinking solution to a future full of minimalist living challenges a utility- focused typology's ability to be net-
positive in energy production while serving a vital functionality for urban dwellers.
Why it matters
Heydar Aliyev Center by Zaha Hadid
What its About
This symbolic masterpiece uses a flowing concrete form to identify a change to Azerbaijan's previous soviet culture. The
dramatic flowing forms were accomplished through a combined space frame with an innovative fiber infused concrete
mix capable of higher levels of plasticity.
Why it matters
New material science discoveries will allow buildings to boast dramatic forms through the combination of parametric software and digital manufacturing hardware. Engineered wooden structures will soar to the skies while amorphous concrete forms will begin to shape through the influence of 3D printing technologies.
Sietch Nevada by Matsys Design
What its About
This design draws inspiration from the underground water oases known as "sietches" to theorize future desert human
habitats stricken by lack of surface water availability. This fully autonomous community network would feature all
aspects of modern day life including shops and restaurants.
Why it matters
Many cities are now experiencing so-called day zero events signifying the imminent water shortage for large urban
populations. How will architecture and urban planning respond through entirely new ways of living in a dramatically
different future in the coming centuries?
Nine Elms Bridge by Studio Roland Stooks
What its About
This concept blurs the lines between the traditional divisions of structural components to explore the capabilities of a
dynamic flowing series of parametrically configured members. This new flowing structure focuses on the quality of
experience thus elevating its overall value.
Why it matters
Powerful programs can liberate the traditional definitions we instate on architectural components to create spaces focused on enhancing the lives of its patrons. How can civic amenities and buildings use these processes to create more value for society through adaptable generative forms?
MultiPly by Waugh Thistleton Architects
What its About
This modular CLT design provides affordable housing through simple forms bound together through intuitive notched
edges. The flat pack kits can easily be transported to urban sites and are incredibly simplistic yet elegant.
Why it matters
Steel and concrete currently dominate the modern urban built environment. Engineered timber solutions have less embodied energy associated with them and also provide more flexible construction opportunities with minimal waste through off-site fabrication processes.
Adaptive Re-use by Honglin-li
What its About
This modular CLT design provides affordable housing through simple forms bound together through intuitive notched
edges. The flat pack kits can easily be transported to urban sites and are incredibly simplistic yet elegant.
Why it matters
Steel and concrete currently dominate the modern urban built environment. Engineered timber solutions have less embodied energy associated with them and also provide more flexible construction opportunities with minimal waste through off-site fabrication processes.
Maggie’s Yorkshire by Heatherwick Studio
What its About
This welcoming center for a hospital brings tremendous amounts of nature into this urban environment by using a
cantilevered structure to bring greenery over the various circulation paths between programmatic regions. This example
of Biophilic design explores how nature's integration into this healing space can better the experiences of people currently
experiencing extreme hardship from medical misfortunes.
Why it matters
There's a clear correlation between nature and healing in medical facilities across the world. If the built environment provides the right atmosphere, patrons of healing facilities can recover faster. How can architecture create the right phenomenological experience to promote recovery and healing?
Block 136 by Mithun
What its About
This urban infill development between buildings in Portland's growing Pearl District region provides a beautiful third place
environment that gives added civic value to people transitioning between attractions in the city.
Why it matters
Third places are immensely important for citizens of dense urban environments. Providing gathering spaces, cultural identity, and place-making qualities to these interstitial spaces allows a city like Portland to become more identifiable
as a desired attraction.
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