INNOVATIVE DESIGN ’s Post

Thank you, Martha Thorne, for emphasizing the importance of independent voices. There's undoubtedly a structural challenge when it comes to fostering social innovation from the ground up. Self-organized, independent initiatives like ours often operate outside traditional market or state frameworks. By moving beyond "business as usual," we focus more on intangible values rather than rigid KPIs and measurable outcomes, making it difficult to quantify Return on Investment. As we look to scale, we often face the dilemma of relying on government subsidies or shareholder interests. While Dark Matter Labs has proposed several alternative business models, the real challenge lies in applying them effectively in practice. I look forward to exploring strategies to reallocate resources—not only toward iconic architecture and star architects, but also to support emerging, impactful practices operating within the informal economy.

"There are several ways in which architecture can blend different perspectives. Let me briefly describe just four of them,   First of all, we must foster a healthy dialogue among the actual participants in the architectural process. I don’t mean only the skilled architects themselves, but also those who collaborate with them - clients, community leaders, public officials, educators, and the builders, designers, and craftsmen who help realise their plans. Our Master Jury for this cycle paid close attention to this dimension, looking at qualities such as leadership, cooperation, and openness - qualities that help produce creative dialogue. A second dialogue that advances the best in human architecture is an open dialogue between the past and the future. This means more than simply copying the past - or merely tacking some ancient arch or minaret or calligraphy onto a new building. On the other hand, it also means more than a heedless modernistic approach that ignores our rich heritage. Our realisation, more than 40 years ago, that architectural practice in Muslim societies had recently been forgetting its own history, helped us to shape the nature of this Award.  The dialogue we seek is one that will blend the inspiration of the past with the demands of the future. The demands are many: environmental, social, technological, and economic, not to mention the challenges of political polarisation. In all of these respects, looking back can help us look ahead - and vice versa.   A third dialogue that commands architectural attention is the dialogue between nature on the one hand and human creativity on the other. Both the natural world and the world of human capacities are divine gifts, but it is tempting sometimes to embrace one without thinking much about the other.  The Holy Quran asks Muslims not to be passive recipients of our Natural Habitat but instead to be faithful stewards of divine creation; we need to expand our commitment in all directions. This means not merely conforming to the power of nature but actively engaging with its challenges. At the same time, we must be careful not to exaggerate human mastery capacities—trying to defy nature is counterproductive in many ways. A reflective dialogue between natural realities and human capabilities is also at the essence of architectural excellence.  Fourth and finally, I would emphasize the importance of intercultural dialogue in meeting the Architectural opportunities of our time. I have mentioned how this Award grew out of a concern with the deterioration - what some of us called the “hibernation” - of rich Muslim architectural traditions. But honoring one’s own historic identity, should not imply some sort of narrow isolation. " Aga Khan speech at the Aga Khan Award for Architecture Ceremony in Kazan on 13 September 2019.

FROM REVIEWS OF 'ARCHITECTURE IN BRITAIN AND IRELAND, 1530-1830 ‘When his (Summerson’s) book was commissioned, one critic highlighted the good fortune that someone with his ‘special qualities as an architectural historian should have been at hand’ to take on the task. Much the same can be said of Steven Brindle,  author of the present work: a historian and writer of rare knowledge and ability, and no shortage of courage.  He is one of the few who could have risen to the challenge of succeeding Summerson… The essential question is whether this is a worthy successor, a ‘Summerson’ for the future.  The answer is yes, undoubtedly. It is an exhaustive account, reflecting recent developments in architectural history, and for decades to come will offer a stimulating point of departure for those wishing to go further.’ Colin Thom, The Burlington Magazine. ‘The only way to broaden the Summerson narrative was to take his book and rewrite it.  This is what, with commendable courage and considerable brio, Brindle has done.  The inevitable drawback is that his version is much bulkier than his predecessor, and difficult to read without a book-stand, but it is worth the effort because it opens huge and important vistas of social and economic history, embodied in a built environment, now fully peopled with patrons, craftsmen, builders, and the bulk of the ordinary population. This is essential because, unlike literature or painting,  architecture is by necessity collaborative. It impinges on everyone….’ Rosemary Hill,  The London Review of Books. A decade in the making, and covering three centuries of social, material, economic and cultural development….  this major new publication looks set to enter the canon of architectural history…. Academically rigorous though it is, this book is filled with countless enlightening details and illustrated examples that any interested reader will enjoy.’ House and Garden Magazine. ‘Based on John Summerson’s 1953 survey, this book offers an updated and revised account through a new emphasis on factors including social context, building production, technology and the importance of early nineteenth-century developments in British architectural culture. As its title suggests Brindle’s book also deploys an expanded notion of Britishness with coverage for Scottish and Irish architecture throughout the period. The judges praised its interweaving of individual case studies and themes within the broader historical narrative which combine to produce a compelling account of early modern British architecture.’ Citation for the 2024 Alice Davis Hitchcock Medallion,  Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain. 

There's only one day left until the major architectural event in Bulgaria’s capital, the SHARE Bulgaria Forum 2024. And since there's so little time left until then, let's remind ourselves of the event's agenda, that will take place at the Toplocentrala Center for Contemporary Arts: BUŞRA AI, founder of PLUG, Turkey, will base the presentation on four case studies under the common theme: the interaction between architectural scale and urban scale. Next, Galina MILKOVA, Founder Architect of Think Forward, Bulgaria, will introduce us to the design process of public spaces that promote health—physical, emotional, and social. Egzon DANA, Partner Architect at MADEN GROUP, Kosovo, will discuss how modern architecture redefines facades beyond traditional expectations, and Ivalyo PETKOV, Founder of DESET Architects, Bulgaria, will discuss a unique hybrid project for Bulgaria that redefines hospital care. In his presentation, Davide Macullo, founder of Davide Macullo Architecture, Switzerland, will focus on a conscious design approach that emphasizes the power of space in raising emotions and connecting humans to nature. Andras Borbely, Project Manager at KOZTI, Hungary will explain the connection between a building and the anatomical drawings of Michelangelo. Based on three case studies, Sergiu Petrea, Founder of TECTO Architectura, Romania, will illustrate his firm's commitment to a sustainable approach in all design phases. Drawing from three projects completed by the famous ZAHA HADID Architects, UK, Yevgeniya POZIGUN, one of the firm's associates, explores innovative design and development methodologies. The next presentation, "A Just Transition to Net Zero through Architectural Design," will be given by Judit KIMPIAN, Chairman of the Architects’ Council of Europe’s (ACE) Sustainable Architecture Group, UK. Under the intriguing title "Looking back to the past, another way of looking into the future", the last two presentations will be given by two other great names in world architecture: Peter PICHLER, Founder of Studio Pichler, Italy, and Arne EMERSON, Partner at the well-known American architecture firm Morphosis. Are there will be a lot of innovative solutions presented by the representatives of our partners and sponsors: Viktor Kerchev, Sales Supervisor Şişecam, Bulgaria Alexandru Ciucă, Technical Manager Isopan, Romania Daniella Ivanova, R&D manager Knauf Bulgaria Shuaib Mehmedali, Senior Design Engineer - ETEM, Bulgaria Ciprian Oprea, CEO MCA Grup Romania Florin Georgescu, technical Manager Bose in Romania Georgi Georgiev, project manager GROHE, Bulgaria *For other details from the event agenda, you can visit here: https://lnkd.in/dCrzQD-B **If you haven't registered yet, you can do so here: https://lnkd.in/dM_tiAmi

𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟 𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗨𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗛𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗧 Recently, I had an insightful discussion with my friend Ravi Panse exploring the diverse roles architects play. A crucial insight that emerged from our discussions is the importance of understanding the value architects bring to a project beyond mere aesthetics and spatial planning. As architects, we do more than create visually appealing spaces; we are economic strategists, cultural interpreters, and sustainability experts. We adeptly weave a client's vision into the physical and cultural fabric of their environment, transforming abstract ideas into physical structures that are animated by moving light, creating 'experiences' for residents. Our approach extends beyond meeting social or familial expectations; we navigate and incorporate complex factors such as financial constraints, cultural contexts, micro and macro climates, and site specifics. This holistic perspective enables us to transform visions into functional liveable buildings. Moreover, our role is crucial in defining the character of a building. We strive to root our designs in the personal histories and memories of our clients—using materials, colors, and elements that evoke their childhood memories, from courtyards to playgrounds to their grandparents' homes. These elements are not merely aesthetic choices; they are bridges to personal histories and deep sources of joy. One of the critical responsibilities of architects is to design not only with creativity and vision but also with a keen understanding of budget management. It’s our duty to ensure that projects are not just architecturally sound and aesthetically pleasing, but also economically feasible. In my 25 years in this creative field, I've seen firsthand that our greatest contributions come from our unique ability to integrate a comprehensive understanding of context, climatology, sustainability, and client needs into cohesive, functional solutions. It's not just about designing functional buildings; it's about crafting spaces that resonate on multiple levels, both practically and emotionally. Architects possess a distinct capability to analyze and synthesize various elements into integrated solutions that address today's needs while anticipating tomorrow's challenges. This unique value is what we bring to the table, something that I believe sensitive clients deeply appreciate when they experience the spaces we create. Looking forward to insights from Ken Yeh Brian Kenny Andrew Russin Mahesh Daas Gary Coates Professor Jaffer AA Khan B.Arch (Madras)., M.Sc Arch (Bartlett UCL,)., PhD (RMIT, Melbourne) Nikita Morell #Architecture #Sustainability #Budgetdesign #EconomicStrategy #DesignThinking #DRDesignIndia #DesignMatters #ArchitectsValue #FutureBuilding #BengaluruDesign

Join our RIBA "House of Architecture" Inclusion and Accesability Panel 📢 An exciting opportunity for people (architects and non-architects) to improve accesability and inclusion for RIBA HQ and our digital and online services. ✔ We’re creating an Access and Inclusion Panel to help shape our extensive transformation programme “The House or Architecture Programme” There will be three panel meetings of 1.5 hours with a mix of virtual and hybrid and we’re aiming to make these as accessible as possible so if there is an adjustment we can make for you – get in touch. The panel will provide input across our redesign of our building at 66PP, our digital and online services, and our collections. The panel will meet with the RIBA teams leading the work and share their thoughts and experiences with us to inform the plans. 📆 Our first workshop will be on 10 June 2024 from noon to 1:30pm. The workshops will be no longer than 90 minutes and will involve a short presentation before the panel are asked to consider a series of questions, individually and as part of breakout groups. More information here https://lnkd.in/epnSuw9R ---------------------- How can I register? ✉  Register your interest by emailing houseofarchitecture@riba.org. Please include: your name, your postcode, and a few sentences (up to 200 words) as to why you would like to join our panel. If we receive more interest than there are spaces, we would be pleased to still keep you involved in our process through our surveys and ongoing consultation programme. ⏰ Please register your interest by Friday 16 May 2024. The House of Architecture programme aims to improve accessibility and inclusion across RIBA - including at our 66 Portland Place London headquarters and for our online platforms and services To this end, we would like to involve people in groups that are often under-represented in buildings and digital programmes - particularly those with a disability. We also know there are many other reasons why people may feel marginalized in these settings so we want to hear from as diverse a group as possible as we develop our proposals.

Lines & Curves Throughout history, architecture has mirrored the societal values and ideologies of its time. Brutalist architecture, with its emphasis on solid, imposing forms, reflected the need for strength and resilience in post-war societies and was often adopted by regimes seeking to convey power and authority. Conversely, the organic, flowing forms of Rococo and Gothic architecture expressed periods of creativity, exuberance, and a connection to the natural world. These architectural choices reveal much about the cultures that produced them, highlighting how design choices are influenced by the prevailing psychological and cultural currents of each era. Understanding this context allows architects today to draw on these historical lessons, using curves and lines to evoke specific emotions and messages within their designs. https://loom.ly/ooW7ufo #architecture #design #organic

Harmony in Contrast: E. L. Lutyens and the Checkerboard of Progress E. L. Lutyens, the renowned architect, stood at the threshold of a burgeoning era, where industry's relentless march forward promised a cascade of technological enlightenment. His architectural vision mirrored not only the present but also anticipated the future, like a symphony conductor sensing the crescendo before it arrives. Lutyens' ethos was one of duty-bound expression, a commitment to embody the zeitgeist of his time and to project it into the future. In his designs, Lutyens encapsulated the duality of progress, much like the checkered pattern he so admired. Black and white, symbolizing contrasts, coexisted in harmony under his meticulous gaze, reflecting the binary essence of computational logic. His architectural language wasn't just about erecting structures; it was about orchestrating a dialogue between tradition and innovation, between the tangible and the abstract. In the checkerboard motif, Lutyens found a metaphor for the evolving landscape of his era. Just as each square in the pattern harmonized with its opposite, Lutyens sought to blend the dichotomies of his time – tradition with modernity, craftsmanship with industrialization. His checkerboard designs weren't just aesthetic choices; they were architectural allegories, telling stories of adaptation and evolution. As industry surged forward, Lutyens didn't resist change; instead, he embraced it with open arms. His designs reflected the industrial pulse of his time, incorporating elements that hinted at the mechanized future awaiting humanity. But amidst the steel and concrete, Lutyens never forgot the human touch. His structures weren't just feats of engineering; they were vessels of human experience, inviting occupants to navigate the labyrinth of modernity while anchored in timeless principles. Lutyens' Page Street Housing in London stands as a testament to his foresight and diligence. In its checkerboard patterns, one can discern the echoes of a culture on the cusp of technological enlightenment. Each square, meticulously placed, tells a story of progress – a story of a world hurtling toward a future where industry and technology would reign supreme. But Lutyens' genius lay not just in reflecting the present but in shaping the future. His checkerboard designs weren't mere echoes of the industrial age but harbingers of a new era, where architecture would become a symphony of technology and tradition, each note harmonizing with the next to create a timeless melody. In the grand symphony of architecture, E. L. Lutyens played the role of the visionary composer, weaving together threads of tradition and innovation, industry and craftsmanship. And as his structures endure the test of time, they stand not just as monuments to his genius but as beacons guiding us toward a future where the checkerboard patterns of progress continue to shape our world. #ArchitecturalHarmony #LutyensLegacy

Tomorrow at SHARE Serbia 2024 - International Architecture Forum, we’ll dive into a series of fascinating case studies, engaging debates, and technical presentations from our partners. Here’s a quick preview of what’s on the agenda: Moderated by Dr. Bojana Jerković - Babović, Teaching Assistant at the Univerzitet u Beogradu - Arhitektonski fakultet / University of Belgrade - Faculty of Architecture, the first Session opens with three case studies presented by Nemana Zoric, Chief of Construction at Kapaprojekt. He’ll guide us through the development of large-scale projects like Nikola Tesla Airport Belgrade, Belgrade Center Main Railway Station, and the Atlantic-Stark New Food Factory. Next, Gizem Güngör Erkiliç, Architectural Projects Supervisor at Şişecam, our Main Partner, will explore balancing quality and sustainability, followed by a presentation on Slovenia’s largest wooden building – Overall Winner at the SHARE Architecture Awards in Athens on October 8th. This project, by Slovenian firm InnoRenew CoE, will be presented by Eva Prelovšek Niemelä, Head of the Research Department for Creativity & Society at InnoRenew CoE. The session concludes with Joe Morris, Founder of Morris+Company (UK), speaking about ”Crafting a Modern Legacy" with the Norton Folgate case study. Moderated by Dr. Mila Mojsilovic, Teaching Assistant at the Univerzitet u Beogradu - Arhitektonski fakultet / University of Belgrade - Faculty of Architecture, the Session 2 begins with a keynote by Vladimir Milenkovic, Co-Founder of Neoarhitekti (Serbia), followed by a presentation about the road "From Trash to Treasure" by Andrei Simion, Product Manager at TeraPlast. Next, Sebastian Savescu, Founder of SAM Ideas (Romania), will present a case study on the Diagnostic Center for the Regional Oncological Institute of Iași. The great French architect Anouk Legendre et Nicolas Desmazières, Founder of XTU architects, will then delve into the story of the iconic La Cité du Vin - Fondation pour la culture et les civilisations du vin and two major projects: the City of Sciences in Iraq and Amiral Offices on La Réunion Island. To wrap up, we’ll enjoy an exceptional presentation by Sherif Tarabishy, Associate Director at Foster + Partners (UK), on "Streamlining Collaboration Through Technology". Finally, Nataliya Kuznetsova, Senior Architect and Associate at UNStudio, will discuss the sensational Southbank by Beulah project in Melbourne, Australia, which is currently under construction. It’s a packed day that you won’t want to miss tomorrow at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Old Mill Belgrade!