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.
Solar Control and Sustainability in Hot Climates with Ceramic Textiles
THALLO Boutique Hotel Cluster / BUZZ/ Büro Ziyu Zhuang
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Architects: BUZZ/ Büro Ziyu Zhuang
- Area: 4000 m²
- Year: 2023
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Manufacturers: Kesheng Construction Engineering, TG Wuhan Architectural glass, Zhaoqing Asia Aluminum Factory
Boulder House / HabitArt Architecture Studio
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Architects: HabitArt Architecture Studio
- Area: 2400 ft²
- Year: 2024
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Manufacturers: Fenesta, Hindware, Jaquar, Modern Clay, Rave Global Tiles
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Professionals: HabitArt Architecture Studio
Norwegian Ski Museum / Snøhetta
Maayer Anchol Residence / INDESOL architects + Neoformation architects
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Architects: INDESOL architects, Neoformation architects
- Area: 12285 m²
- Year: 2022
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Manufacturers: DBL Cermaics, Light scope, Mirpur Ceramics, PMG, RAK, +2
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Professionals: NSL [Next Spaces Limited], ESI, INDESOL architects, JRC
A Vertical Neighborhood in China and a Science Center in New York: 8 Unbuilt Projects by Established Firms
Exploring unbuilt architectural projects by established firms offers a glimpse into the forefront of design innovation and future-thinking concepts. In fact, studying up-and-coming projects provides an opportunity to get ahead of emerging trends and envision the future of the built environment, fostering dialogue around new ideas. With the looming climate crisis in a post-COVID world, this week’s selection of unbuilt projects submitted to the ArchDaily community showcases the scale of problem-solving through city-making and contextual spatial activations.
Whether it’s a vertical neighborhood in Kunming, a life science facility in Manhattan, or a cultural center in Veneria Reale, these unbuilt projects capture the diverse spectrum of architectural visionaries’ progression. Each of these proposals represents a unique narrative, whether seeking to redefine residential living or revitalize urban space. Through these projects, architects can offer the environment a glimpse into the transformative potential of design when used in a problem-solving capacity.
Chonburi Multi-Purpose Building / SUPHASIDH
Smarter Pods For a Smarter Office: New Smart Work Pods Mark a Digital Evolution for Hybrid Offices
After becoming used to the comfort and autonomy of remote work, experts predict that workplace culture will never completely return to the way things were. Companies can maximize the productivity of their workforce by blending the flexibility of remote with the creative collaboration of in-person work in a hybrid system; but while spare rooms and kitchen tables have been sacrificed to carve out comfortable workspaces at home, the office space—originally designed around a 100% in-person system—needs to accept change too.
BIG and A+ Architects Reveal Design for Mass Timber Transport Hub in France
Bjarke Ingels Group and A+ Architects have revealed the design for the 12,000-square-meter Marengo Multimodal Transport Hub in Toulouse, France. The project will expand the functionality of the city’s central station, Gare Matabiau, strengthening the area’s public transport networks by creating a hub for bus, railway, and metro, all connected under one roof. The design of the new hub takes cues from the city’s distinctive roofscape and the traditional use of the rose-colored “foraine” brick, employing a mass timber structure and low-carbon concrete to ensure a sustainable intervention adapted to its environment. The Hub is set to begin construction in 2026.
Residence Chez Léon / Quinzhee Architecture
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Architects: Quinzhee Architecture
- Area: 129 m²
- Year: 2023
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Professionals: KEVLAR Habitations, Boreas Construction, MA-TH Solutions d'ingénierie
3XN/GXN Presents "Aware: Architecture and Senses" at the Danish Architecture Center
3XN/GXN has just opened its exhibition “Aware: Architecture and Senses,” hosted at the Danish Architecture Center until September 15th, 2024. The display invites visitors to explore, comprehend, and interrogate their relationships with architecture. In collaboration with the Danish Architecture Center, 3XN/GXN delves into the conversation between individuals and spaces, showcasing six life-sized installations.