The use of contrast is an essential practice in both cuisine and architecture, whether it's harmonizing different aromas and flavors or integrating buildings from different eras. This principle comes to life in a striking way at the top of the imposing Austrian Alps, where the Steirereck am Pogusch restaurant strives for culinary excellence, architectural mastery and the fusion of tradition and innovation. Under the guidance of PPAG architects, the establishment has undergone a revitalization and expansion marked by a deep respect for nature, while making a bold statement of contemporary design.

Water is fundamental to human life on several levels, and encompasses a spectrum of meanings that transcend the biological sphere, reaching the cultural and spiritual spheres. Biologically, it is indispensable, making up approximately 70% of our bodies and playing a central role in our physiological functions, from temperature regulation to vital cellular processes. Culturally and spiritually, water has deep significance, symbolizing purification, renewal and spiritual rebirth in a multitude of rituals and ceremonies performed in different cultures over the centuries.

In architecture, the presence of water is equally important, going beyond its basic cleansing function to encompass a rich diversity of meanings and influences. From the majestic Roman baths, where water was used for hygiene and also represented social status, offering moments of entertainment and relaxation; to contemporary bathrooms, where water is skillfully integrated to create luxurious and invigorating spa experiences. Its presence goes beyond the functional aspect and is also deeply symbolic. Evoking feelings of purification, renewal and serenity, water enriches architecture with an emotional and aesthetic dimension that transcends the boundaries of time and culture.

Milan Design Week is a celebration of creativity, innovation and excellence in design, captivating audiences from all over the world. It is an event that encompasses various design-related exhibitions and activities in Milan, while Salone del Mobile is Milan Design Week's main trade fair focused specifically on furniture and interior design. Every year, the city is transformed into a vibrant hub where designers, architects, artists and enthusiasts converge to explore the latest trends, ideas and innovations in the world of design. The instance is a catalyst for inspiration, promoting dialogue, collaboration and discovery across a range of design disciplines, from furniture and interior design to architecture, fashion and more.

In 2024, the event witnessed a strong presence of Spanish brands among the many exhibitors. This impact was fostered by ICEX (Spain Trade and Investment), a Spanish government agency responsible for promoting the internationalization of companies and the expansion of the country's exports, providing support and services to companies looking to enter or expand in international markets. In addition, the institution organizes trade missions, participates in international fairs and exhibitions and provides training and consultancy services to Spanish companies looking to succeed in the global market. Here is a summary of the exhibitions and activities of seven outstanding Spanish brands at the various events that took place during the week of April 15-21, 2024 in Milan.

Architectural awards serve as a fundamental platform within the profession and the wider community. They recognize and celebrate outstanding achievements in architectural projects, promoting excellence and innovation, while also providing visibility and exposure for architects and companies, highlighting projects that might otherwise go unnoticed. This impact is particularly evident in collective housing projects, which face a range of challenges, from issues of cost and compliance with urban planning legislation to the need to create welcoming and functional environments for residents. By highlighting diverse initiatives and approaches, awards inspire and educate, stimulate dialogue and the exchange of ideas, and contribute significantly to the advancement of architecture by recognizing projects that address specific themes such as sustainability or social impact.

ZEB Living Lab is a research building that stands out for its pioneering initiative among zero-emission buildings, seeking to have a significant impact on the future. Located in Trondheim, Norway, it is much more than just a building; it is a tangible manifestation of the global commitment to sustainability and innovation. Conceived as an advanced research laboratory and a practical example of sustainable construction practices, it represents the point of convergence between architecture, technology and environmental awareness. Managed in collaboration between NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) and SINTEF (Scandinavian Institute of Technology), this center of scientific excellence is a platform for living experimentation, where innovative materials and solutions are developed, tested and demonstrated in direct interaction with the building occupants.

Among the "Five Points of New Architecture" formulated by Le Corbusier, terrace gardens figure as a way to take advantage of a building's so-called fifth facade, either as leisure areas or landscaping spaces. Thanks to technological advances in reinforced concrete in the mid-twentieth century, usable flat roofs are far from new. There are traces in Mesopotamia and vernacular architecture from Greek and Arab civilizations. However, problems that frequently arise relate to infiltration and leaks. Water is relentless in finding a place to drain, and flat roofs are exposed to this when execution and design are not carefully thought-out. In fact, as documented in several letters, this was a source of disagreement between the owner and the Swiss-French architect in the case of the influential Villa Savoye. Today, nonetheless, there are good waterproofing options on the market that provide durability, resilience, adaptability and, above all, avoid headaches and fights between builders and owners. Elevate is built on 40 years of history in the production of roofing membranes, as well as insulation and vapor barriers, and develops solutions for waterproofing flat roofs with a low inclination.

Marble held profound significance in Greek and Roman architecture due to its abundance, luminous surfaces, and subtle veining. Its durability ensured structures' longevity, while its cultural symbolism of purity and divine favor made it ideal for temples, theaters, and amphitheaters. As a symbol of perfection, marble facilitated intricate craftsmanship for decorative elements, inspiring architectural marvels and exquisite art, leaving a legacy of sophistication and refinement. 

Today, marble remains a symbol of excellence and refinement, prevalent in contemporary architecture and art. Its timeless beauty and durability continue to captivate clients and designers alike. In sculptures, furniture, and decorative pieces, marble's natural elegance elevates any environment. Companies like antoniolupi integrate marble into their designs, combining creativity and meticulous craftsmanship to redefine the possibilities of this natural stone in innovative projects. The Italian company—a leading designer and manufacturer of high-end products—has ventured beyond conventional boundariesin a quest for innovation, embarking on projects that redefine the possibilities of this naturalstone.

The desire for fluid integration between spaces has become increasingly relevant in contemporary architecture. This reflects a search for more connected and harmonious living experiences, especially in urban environments, where the cityscape can saturate us. By transcending conventional boundaries and blurring the lines between interior spaces and the vast outdoors, living environments can be created to celebrate connectivity, sustainability and the well-being that comes from being alongside nature. These types of integration not only make it possible to unite spaces with their surrounding contexts, but also to segment indoor environments when necessary, maintaining a visual connection while keeping them functionally separate. By creating these integrations, architects and designers allow spaces to merge with each other or with nature, promoting a sense of tranquillity, balance and rejuvenation, as well as integration and fluidity—a seamless transition that blurs the distinction between the two. This is achieved through architectural elements such as large windows and doors, which dissolve barriers through the simple action of opening and closing.

When considering traditional brick facades, we usually conjure up images of solidity and robustness. Solid ceramic blocks, recognized for their ability to withstand compression and offer strength and durability to structures, are materials frequently used in architecture. However, innovation in construction materials has made space for solutions that combine tradition and modernity, transforming the use of materials such as brick. In contemporary construction, the integration of solar control measures has become essential to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, especially in hot climates where the need to mitigate the effects of solar radiation is critical. This is one of the areas in which brick can play a significant role, aided by new technologies.

Each piece of furniture, be it a table, a chair, or a sofa, is much more than just a functional element. It is a bearer of stories, a keeper of memories, and a reflection of the craftsmanship of those who brought it to life. When it comes to wooden furniture, this connection with history and skill is even deeper; every grain, knot, and shade tells the story of the tree it came from, and the craftsmanship of the artisans is manifested in the curves and joints. In the contemporary context, where mass production and fast-paced trends tend to standardize the world around us, furniture making remains a beacon of authenticity, and wood continues to be highly prized. It's a haven where exclusivity and connection with the natural are celebrated, resisting the passage of time.

In nature, zinc is mainly found as zinc sulphide ore or zinc carbonate, which is mined to obtain the metal. Once refined, it is used in a variety of applications, including metal alloys, battery manufacturing, medicines and supplements, as well as in the fabrication of pigments, chemical compounds and coatings. In the latter, which is used in architectural applications, zinc is well known for its weather resistance and self-healing properties and is highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 100 years, requiring minimal maintenance. In addition, because it is 100% recyclable and has a low environmental impact during its production, zinc is a sustainable choice for construction projects.

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Flooring plays a fundamental role in defining the ambiance and atmosphere of a space. Among the variety of options on the market, solid wood plank flooring stands out as a timeless choice. Known for their classic beauty and enveloping textures, these floors not only enhance the visual aspect of a room but also provide exceptional thermal comfort, resistance, and resilience, able to withstand wear and tear and heavy traffic. Their easy maintenance and durability are further markers of their quality, making them one of the favorite choices of architects, designers, and homeowners in search of long-lasting elegance and functionality for their projects.

When we look at a meticulously installed floor, we often forget that it was once part of a tree that was taken through a series of processes to eventually become the flooring product beneath our feet. The round trunk of the tree naturally results in boards of different dimensions, from the wide widths of the central core to the narrower dimensions of the outer layers. Various methods can be used to optimize the use of these trunks, each with its advantages and disadvantages.