The Architecture Foundation’s Post

Jerry Elengical: "Mixed-use commercial architecture is undergoing a metamorphosis whose roots can be traced back decades, to when considerations about public space, urban infrastructure and private development became increasingly intertwined. At present, these concerns are often reconciled through cross-disciplinary collaborations which aid in conceptualising multifaceted approaches to building in sensitive contexts. Recently, this approach has gained another tangible argument for its effectiveness in a project that blends mixed-use functionality and coastline protection measures in the municipality of Middelkerke, within Belgium’s West Flanders province." STIR I Gemeentebestuur Middelkerke I ZJA I Architects & Engineers I DELVA Landscape Architecture / Urbanism I OZ architect I Bureau Bouwtechniek NV I Debuild Services I Bouwbedrijf Furnibo-Democo I Cobe I VK Engineering I Beersnielsen Lichtontwerpers I Witteveen+Bos I Plantec I MINT I Sertius | Environmental and Safety Services

During the pandemic, we saw a rise in clients selecting architects through a (usually) poorly paid design competition. Although this process was lamented as hurting the industry, we recently read an interesting article written by Gethin Davinson which offered an intriguing counter-point. In his article “‘Beauty’ in architecture can’t be enforced – but design competitions could help architects strive for it” written for The Conversation, Davinson makes a case for the design competition. Initially drawing on precedents in the English planning system, which include ‘beauty’ as an explicit objective in an attempt to reduce NIMBY-ism – a key factor holding back crucial housing developments – Davinson suggests that design competitions could be a way to move forward. How does one design beautifully though? Who could be a fair judge of this subjective trait? In Sydney, although beauty isn’t mandated, the design process is and the pursuit to find ‘design excellence’ is highly regulated… but is it working? We think most would argue that it’s not. Davinson says: “Design competitions have a reputation for being costly and unpredictable, but they don’t need to be. The UK government wants to better enable communities to take control of their housing future. Competitions are a proven way of engaging members of the public in debate about the relative merits of different designs for a site or area. There’s no reason why those members of the public couldn’t also be part of the judging process.” Importantly, I wonder what effect this would have on architects, how can we ensure the increased time and effort are rewarded fairly? Here's a link to the article written by Gethin Davinson: https://lnkd.in/gmvPTx6e #TheArcAgencyAU #ArchitectureCommunity #NetworkingEvents #AustralianDesign #AustralianArchitecture

During the pandemic, we saw a rise in clients selecting architects through a (usually) poorly paid design competition. Although this process was lamented as hurting the industry, we recently read an interesting article written by Gethin Davinson which offered an intriguing counter-point. In his article “‘Beauty’ in architecture can’t be enforced – but design competitions could help architects strive for it” written for The Conversation, Davinson makes a case for the design competition. Initially drawing on precedents in the English planning system, which include ‘beauty’ as an explicit objective in an attempt to reduce NIMBY-ism – a key factor holding back crucial housing developments – Davinson suggests that design competitions could be a way to move forward. How does one design beautifully though? Who could be a fair judge of this subjective trait? In Sydney, although beauty isn’t mandated, the design process is and the pursuit to find ‘design excellence’ is highly regulated… but is it working? We think most would argue that it’s not. Davinson says: “Design competitions have a reputation for being costly and unpredictable, but they don’t need to be. The UK government wants to better enable communities to take control of their housing future. Competitions are a proven way of engaging members of the public in debate about the relative merits of different designs for a site or area. There’s no reason why those members of the public couldn’t also be part of the judging process.” Importantly, I wonder what effect this would have on architects, how can we ensure the increased time and effort are rewarded fairly? Here's a link to the article written by Gethin Davinson: https://lnkd.in/gzpybcCt #NetworkingEvents #TheArcAgencyAU #AustralianArchitecture #ArchitectureCommunity #AustralianDesign

Designed for disassembly, the Braunstein Taphouse by Copenhagen-based ADEPT architects, welcomes more than 15,000 yearly visitors to the nearby microbrewery while serving as an open, flexible space for the local community. With no paint, grout, or unnecessary composites, its materials remain pure, mechanically joined with with removable bolts and screws for seamless reuse. The CO₂-neutral Accoya wood façade meets the highest sustainability certifications, while large polycarbonate roof panels click together effortlessly. Every element is built to be dismantled, relocated, or repurposed, minimizing waste without compromising durability. Anchored at the harbour of Danish city Koege, the Taphouse is both a gateway and a living experiment in adaptable architecture. For the next decade, it will function as a hub for Braunstein Brewery and community initiatives, but if the city’s evolving climate strategy demands change, the entire structure can be taken apart—its components reassembled elsewhere or repurposed for new projects. Built for now, engineered for the future. Read more about bolts at tsamouris.gr/en/news. Images by ADEPT. These images are used solely for non-commercial purposes and remain the intellectual property of their owners.

Local Knowledge, Global Challenges: Rethinking Architectural Practices Source: MDPI The study investigates how architectural typologies influence a community's sense of belonging and relationship with their environment. It highlights a shift from traditional designs to contemporary forms driven by political and globalized construction trends. This transition has created a conflict between modern architecture and the community's historical and customary living patterns, resulting in disconnection and a subtle erosion of cultural identity and heritage. The study advocates for sustainable design approaches that integrate local construction knowledge and preserve cultural, historical, and environmental connections while meeting modern demands.

Ever seen buildings that make you go "Wow!"? 🏰 Check out this list of the world's coolest and most unique buildings that will blow your mind. #amazingarchitecture #archlovers #architect #architecture #architectureanddesign #architecturelovers #architecturaldesign #buildingbetterfuture #architectureinnovation #futureofdesign #modernarchitecture #designInnovation

This made me think. Sustainability in architecture isn't just about recycling, repurposing, incorporating urban oasis, etc. Boring buildings are not eco-friendly in the long run. Structures that are made well and age well in terms of design are the ones that will live for a century or more. Yet the average lifespan of a house in the United States is between 50 and 63 years, from construction to demolition. Is this in part because they are boring? “A pervasive concern of our curriculum is how we can be more responsible stewards, given that the sector of architecture, engineering, and construction is accountable for 40% of global carbon emissions,” says Adriana Giorgis, Master of Architecture from MIT. “The continued use of a building conserves the investment of embodied carbon, and prevents unnecessary expenditure of time and labor.” There's more to design than meets the eye - it's an important environmental factor too. #sustainability #architecture #realestate #environment

Canada’s public architecture has lost its ambition, focusing on cost over creativity. Growing up in Europe, I saw how thoughtful design can define a nation’s identity. Adopting design competitions, like in Quebec or my home continent, could revive Canada’s approach, creating spaces that inspire future generations. #Architecture #Design #Canada