Desertification & The Artificial Microclimate

As we struggle to cope with climate change, we are confronted with images of towns and villages being swallowed up by the ever-encroaching desert. In response, many communities are taking cues from the longstanding agricultural technique of imposing a new topography over the landscape composed of peaks and depressions to shelter crops during the establishment period. This technique of superimposing topographies provides much inspiration for the future of sustainable design and the implementation of passive systems which require less power. How might we reimagine the design of urban areas and places for recreation?

Images and photos include work by Yann Arthus Betrand, Magnus Larsson, Niels Aha, and PhotoLeet

The Elevated Plane

The roof plane provides another canvas for architectural expression, and while the union of architecture and landscape on an elevated plane is in some ways one of the ultimate expressions of modern architecture, it simultaneously references longstanding vernacular traditions. With the ability to passively regulate building temperatures, reduce the heat island effect in urban settings, and provide critical habitat for birds and insects, the rooftop garden also stretches our notions of the interplay of the built and the natural. In this journal entry, we wanted to highlight the remarkable work of several designers.

Projects include Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial Museum by the Tongji Architectural Design and Research Institute, Staedel Museum extension by Schneider+Schumacher, Metal footbridge in Czech Republic, Intercontinental Sanya Resort by WOHA Architects, Can Ras by Fran Silvestre Arquitectos, Hyunam House by IROJE Architects & Planners, Cretto di Burri by Alberto Burri, The Apartment House by Formwerkz Architects, Antinori Winery by Archea Associati, Apfelhotel by noa*, 'Aloni' Residence by DECA, and Hilltop Gallery by Deep Architects

The White Garden

Happy New Year! Always in search of inspiration, we are exploring the use of white and neutral colors as a canvas or backdrop for pops of vibrant color. Not only do muted colors exude a sense of calm, the play of light and shadow is exaggerated, and the intensity and color of the sunlight throughout the day transforms the hue and saturation of the walls and paving in dramatic fashion. Here's to a bright and colorful new year!

Projects include Cap de Barbaria Villa by LUV Studio, Casa Grande by Lado Blanco Arquitecturas, Casa Maiora by Studio Andrew Trotter, Parque Natural Huentitan by SPRB Arquitectos, Grotta e Carrubo by Margherita Rui, and pool mosaic by Pierre Mesguich