This guide covers a workflow that moves from project parameters to generated floor plans, 3D perspective views, exterior design exploration, and site context visualization, using AI tools in place of preliminary CAD and rendering work.
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How to Develop a Residential Design Concept
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“Earth as Ancestral and Future Technology”: An Interview With Gabriela de Matos and Paulo Tavares, Curators of the Brazil Pavilion and Winners of the Golden Lion at the 2023 Venice Biennale
Questioning the canonical history of architecture and shedding light on long-invisible spatial practices, Gabriela de Matos and Paulo Tavares propose the exhibition “Terra” [Earth], at the Brazilian pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2023. "It's our way of shaking things up," say the curators, who turn their attention to ancestral ways of dealing with the land, aiming for more fair and complete possibilities for the present and future.
Addressing "earth" in all its meanings, the curators overlay issues related to soil and territory with the planetary problems. They propose an approach to reparations and decoloniality - emerging in Brazil - with broad topics such as decarbonization and the environment, decisive in the contemporary global debate. The Brazilian Pavilion titled Terra [Earth], won the Golden Lion for Best National Participation at the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale, on Saturday 20th of May, selected by a jury comprising Italian architect and curator Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli as president, Nora Akawi, Thelma Golden, Tau Tavengwa, and Izabela Wieczorek.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001311/earth-as-ancestral-and-future-technology-an-interview-with-gabriela-de-matos-and-paulo-tavares-curators-of-the-brazil-pavilion-and-winners-of-the-golden-lion-at-the-2023-venice-biennaleRomullo Baratto e Victor Delaqua
3D Printing Lightweight, Insulated Walls Using Cement-Free Mineral Foam
Harnessing the power of moldless manufacturing through large-scale robotic 3D printing, research at ETH Zürich in collaboration with FenX AG delves into the use of cement-free mineral foam made from recycled waste. The objective is to build wall systems that are monolithic, lightweight, and immediately insulated, minimizing material use, labor requirements, and associated costs.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000867/3d-printing-lightweight-insulated-walls-using-cement-free-mineral-foamJosé Tomás Franco
Norman Foster Foundation and Holcim Present New Concept for an “Essential Home”
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Currently at 103 million, the number of people forcibly displaced from their homes is continuously growing. Many seek shelter in settlements that are meant to be temporary, but where displaced people end up living years, even decades.
The Norman Foster Foundation and Holcim, global leader in sustainable building solutions, came together to form a response to this problem based on two firm beliefs: everyone has the right to a home, and everyone should have access to sustainable building.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000718/norman-foster-foundation-and-holcim-present-new-concept-for-an-essential-homeRene Submissions
The 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale as a Healing Experience: In Conversation with Curator Lesley Lokko
Onsite, in Venice at the 18th International Architecture Exhibition, ArchDaily had the chance to meet with the curator Lesley Lokko to discuss the first impressions and the main themes of this edition of the Biennale, following up on the previous interview recorded before the opening of the event. Featuring 63 National Pavilions, 89 Participants, and 9 collateral events in the city, the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale represents one of the most important international events for the architectural profession. The conversation addressed Lesley Lokko’s approach to curating the theme and focus of the event, understanding Africa as “The Laboratory of the Future,” the desire to bring both authenticity and empathy to the architectural discourse, while creating a space for voices not typically heard in global exhibitions.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001394/the-venice-architecture-biennale-as-a-healing-experience-in-conversation-with-curator-lesley-lokkoMaria-Cristina Florian
The Pavilion of the Czech Republic for the 2025 Osaka Expo Explores Movement and Spirituality
TheCzech Republic Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Osaka embodies the concept of life energy and continuous growth through its thoughtful architectural design. Created by Apropos Architects, the pavilion is centered around the motif of a spiral. Visitors experience a 260-meter-long pathway that wraps around the building, ascending gradually across four floors before culminating on the observation roof. This dynamic journey reflects the passage of time, individual development, and broader themes of personal and social progress.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001035/the-pavilion-of-the-czech-republic-for-the-2025-osaka-expo-explores-movement-and-spiritualityNour Fakharany
Learning From Manaus: Getting to Know the Work of Laurent Troost Architecture
Architecture involves mobilizing several aspects of the environment where the building is located: the socio-cultural, political and economic context, aesthetics, legislation, and functionality. Functionality includes use efficiency, occupancy, and comfort. Laurent Troost's work has shown the articulation between these various factors, with particular attention to comfort, especially thermal comfort. His projects prioritize natural ventilation over artificial air conditioning, which has become almost mandatory in current city models.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000666/learning-from-manaus-getting-to-know-the-work-of-laurent-troost-architectureHelena Tourinho
The Story of the World's Largest Floating Plastic Island (and What to Do With It)
Environmental issues urgency and increasing temperatures on the planet are nothing new. There are many factors contributing to environmental degradation. However, two can be viewed as representative of critical points in the current world system: plastic and waste disposal, better known as garbage.
The environmental crisis cannot be attributed solely to these two examples. They are used here as examples to mobilize issues involving multiple agents, materials, and diverse methods. These issues lead to devastating consequences, increasingly irreversible.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001032/the-story-of-the-worlds-largest-floating-plastic-island-and-what-to-do-with-itHelena Tourinho
Arquitectas.mx: The platform seeking to empower, mobilize, and bring visibility to women in Mexican architecture
Nearly three years ago, the platform arquitectas.mx was launched as an initiative by Mexican architects Mónica Suberville and Laura A. Gómez. Born from the desire to find ways to support, mobilize, and bring visibility to women in architecture, the platform offers a gathering space for professionals across different practices within the field, aiming to steer the profession toward inclusion, equity, and the improvement of cities through a gender perspective.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136469/arquitectax-the-platform-seeking-to-empower-mobilize-and-bring-visibility-to-women-in-mexican-architectureMónica Arellano
How to Organize a Commercial Space? Distribution and Circulation Strategies in the Design of Stores and Premises
Within the realm of commercial architecture, the design of spatiality can adopt multiple approaches, conceiving proposals that achieve a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Taking into consideration that various cultural variables, social tensions, and economic interests are involved, the construction of these spaces directly involves the interaction between users, brands, and their products, participating in the experience on-site from colors and materials to lighting, climate control, sounds, aromas, and more.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000661/how-to-organize-a-commercial-space-distribution-and-circulation-strategies-in-the-design-of-stores-and-premisesAgustina Iñiguez
Norman Foster Designs Display Cases for Retrospective at the Centre Pompidou
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The largest exhibition of Norman Foster’s work to date, hosted by the Centre Pompidou, explores six decades of the architect’s illustrious career through a host of revealing sketchbooks, drawings, images, original models, and videos. The exhibition was designed by Norman Foster and executed with Foster + Partners and the Norman Foster Foundation. A custom-made series of modular display cases was designed by Norman Foster and a team from the Norman Foster Foundation and engineered by Goppion, world leader in the manufacture and installation of museum display cases, to display the architect’s sketchbooks and transparencies.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000932/norman-foster-designs-display-cases-for-retrospective-at-the-centre-pompidouRene Submissions
David Adjaye Unveils the Design for India’s Largest Art and Culture Center during the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale
The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) has revealed an architectural model of its new building during the 18th International Architecture Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia, as part of the Curator’s Special Projects, titled Mnemonic, presented at the Arsenale - Artiglierie in Venice. The building, designed by Ghanian-British architect Sir David Adjaye in collaboration with S. Ghosh & Associates as the local architect of record, is set to become India’s largest cultural center. The project is scheduled to open in Delhi in 2026.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001326/david-adjaye-unveils-the-design-for-indias-largest-art-and-culture-center-during-the-2023-venice-architecture-biennaleMaria-Cristina Florian
What Is Mass Timber?
Wood is the concrete of the future. As timber construction becomes increasingly popular, you have probably heard this phrase. However, we are not talking about traditional construction techniques using timber, but rather about this well-known material combined with cutting-edge technology.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000668/what-is-mass-timberCamilla Ghisleni
A Luxury Safari Resort in Africa and an Eco-Lodge in Rural Greece: 8 Unbuilt Resorts Submitted by the ArchDaily Community
The history of architects designing resorts is intertwined with the development of the hospitality industry and the concept of leisure travel. The origins can be traced back to ancient times when the Romans built luxurious villas and bathhouses as retreats for the wealthy. However, the modern notion of resorts emerged during the 19th century with industrialization and the growing middle class seeking recreational experiences.
At a very high standard of luxury, resort hotels provide an immersive and rejuvenating vacation experience. These resorts are frequently rooted in beautiful landscapes in remote locations, often containing full-service accommodations, offering escapism and complete disconnection. Architects have continued to shape the resort landscape in recent decades with their designs. Sustainability and integration with natural surroundings have gained importance as architects strive to create environmentally conscious and immersive resort experiences.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001313/a-luxury-safari-resort-in-africa-and-an-eco-lodge-in-rural-greece-8-unbuilt-resorts-submitted-by-the-archdaily-communityNour Fakharany
Region in France pays residents to harvest rainwater
Île-de-France, one of the 18 administrative regions of France, is committed to helping its residents save water. With the arrival of spring in the European country on March 20, authorities are concerned about potential water shortages. The solution? Offering up to €20,000 in subsidies to those who install rainwater harvesting systems on their properties.
The financial support is available to those who plan to install or have already installed water storage tanks within the last three months. The subsidy covers underground or above-ground installations—including the filtration collector, pump, connection kit, earthworks, and mains connection, among other components.
https://www.archdaily.com/1135936/region-in-france-pays-residents-to-harvest-rainwaterMarcia Sousa
Why the Global South Needs Different Sustainability Benchmarks
As world governments grapple with environmental crises, the construction industry rushes to reevaluate sustainable design and develop new ways of measuring its efficiency. Consequently, green building certification systems (GBCS) started gaining traction in the 20th century to evaluate and promote sustainable construction practices. The Global South faces distinctive challenges in building sustainable cities. Its developing nations demand an exclusive approach to designing an appropriate, economical, and inspiring architecture for their promising futures.
https://www.archdaily.com/997062/why-the-global-south-needs-different-sustainability-benchmarksAnkitha Gattupalli
The Second Studio Podcast: The Livability of Designer Homes
The Second Studio (formerly The Midnight Charette) is an explicit podcast about design, architecture, and the everyday. Hosted by Architects David Lee and Marina Bourderonnet, it features different creative professionals in unscripted conversations that allow for thoughtful takes and personal discussions.
A variety of subjects are covered with honesty and humor: some episodes are interviews, while others are tips for fellow designers, reviews of buildings and other projects, or casual explorations of everyday life and design. The Second Studio is also available on iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube.
This week David and Marina, Partners at FAME Architecture & Design discuss the livability of designer homes. The two cover designing for function and aesthetics, material resilience, lifestyle changes, space efficiency, designing based on reference images, and the benefits of adapting to design-forward living environments.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001273/the-second-studio-podcast-the-livability-of-designer-homesThe Second Studio Podcast
Everything you need to know about Zero-Emission Zones
The need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation sector is urgent, and implementing measures to this end represents both a challenge and an opportunity for local governments. This is the case with Zero-Emission Areas (ZEAs), urban sectors where pollutant emissions are neutralized. This measure primarily benefits those who will enjoy healthier urban spaces and more vibrant commercial activities. However, ensuring its success—or at least mitigating public backlash—requires deep social engagement and effective communication with the population.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136419/everything-you-need-to-know-about-zero-emission-zonesITDP Brasil
Overcoming Barriers: Social Justice in Latin American Architecture
February 20th marks a new edition of the World Day of Social Justice. The theme, "Overcoming barriers and unlocking opportunities", is a perfect occasion to reflect on the importance of equity in all areas of society - and especially from architecture and urbanism. And yes: they both have a fundamental role in building accessible cities and are important tools for addressing the challenges of economic inequality and social exclusion.
https://www.archdaily.com/997064/overcoming-barriers-social-justice-in-latin-american-architectureFabian Dejtiar
Brazil Wins the Golden Lion for Best National Participation at the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale
The Brazilian Pavilion titled Terra [Earth], curated by Gabriela de Matos and Paulo Tavares won the Golden Lion for Best National Participation at the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale. Selected by a jury comprising Italian architect and curator Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli as president, Nora Akawi, Thelma Golden, Tau Tavengwa, and Izabela Wieczorek, the winning intervention at the 18th Venice Architecture Biennale "proposes to rethink the past in order to design possible futures, bringing to the fore actors forgotten by the architectural canons, in dialogue with the curatorship of the edition, Laboratory of the Future".
Broadcasted live on the Biennale’s official page, the ceremony taking place at Ca’Giustinian, the headquarters of La Biennale di Venezia, also awarded the Golden Lion for Best Participant in the International Exhibition The Laboratory of the Future", to DAAR (Alessandro Petti + Sandi Hilal), while the Silver Lion for a promising young participant in the International Exhibition The Laboratory of the Future went to Olalekan Jeyifous. Other recognitions included a special mention to Thandi Loewenson, to Wolff Architects, Ilze Wolff, and Heinrich Wolff, to Twenty Nine Studio / Sammy Baloji, and to the national pavilion of Great Britain, titled "Dancing Before the Moon" curated by Jayden Ali, Joseph Henry, Meneesha Kellay, and Sumitra Upham.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001305/brazil-wins-the-golden-lion-for-best-national-participation-at-the-2023-venice-architecture-biennaleChristele Harrouk
"As architects, we can impact people's development": Interview with Paulo Moreira
No País dos Arquitectos is a podcast created by Sara Nunes, who also runs the architectural film production company Building Pictures. The podcast aims to profile the professionals, projects, and stories behind landmark contemporary Portuguese architecture. With just over 10 million inhabitants, Portugal is a highly compelling country in this professional field, producing architecture that punches far above its weight relative to its population and territorial scale.
In this episode of the fifth season, Sara talks with architect Paulo Moreira about the Kapalanga School in Luanda, Angola. Listen to the conversation and read an excerpt of the interview below.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136491/as-architects-we-can-impact-peoples-development-interview-with-paulo-moreiraRomullo Baratto
IDOM presents the new La Romareda Stadium in Zaragoza, Spain
With a capacity of 42,500 spectators, the first images of the new La Romareda Stadium, home of the Spanish soccer club Real Zaragoza, have been released. Spanish architecture firm IDOM is in charge of the preliminary design of the future stadium, addressing a series of factors considered key in modern sports venues today. These include creating a vibrant soccer atmosphere to enhance the spectator experience, hosting major international competitions, becoming a benchmark in sustainability, utilizing advanced safety and broadcasting technologies, and establishing a landmark for the city, consolidating a stadium for the club, Zaragoza, and the wider Aragon region.
https://www.archdaily.com/1135845/idom-presents-the-new-la-romareda-stadium-in-zaragoza-spainAgustina Iñiguez
Open House Rosario 2023: The architecture festival will have a residential focus and open the doors to 98 buildings
From May 20 to 21, 2023, the Open House architecture and urbanism festival will take place in the city of Rosario, opening the doors of 98 architectural works alongside 8 urban tours to discover and rediscover the city's architecture and urban design. For its sixth edition, this year's festival aims to venture deep into the heart of the city—the home—applying an urban approach committed to the individual and collective memory of the city and its residents, merging tangible built heritage with the traces of time.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136003/open-house-rosario-2023-the-architecture-festival-will-have-a-residential-focus-and-open-the-doors-to-98-buildingsAgustina Iñiguez
What are the Spatial Possibilities for Enclosures Within the Highway Interchange?
Highway interchanges have evolved from important infrastructures that help distribute traffic to unique landmarks that define cities. As multiple road networks embrace and form distinctive sculptures, these road intersections range from singular bridge connections and roundabouts to numerous, layered and multi-layered interchanges. They twist, turn, loop, and wrap around sparse land, vegetation, or existing structures in a bid to transfer travelers from one roadway to another. However, they also create a moment of enclosure, forming partially bounded areas and a sense of space. These spaces could be viewed as liminal and transitional, with no fixed typology able to be hosted. But that blurring character calls for ideas of urban intervention to disrupt the notion of what these spaces can be. They can be readapted from car-dominant sculptures into more human-friendly places and re-integrated as extended schemes of the city's architecture.
https://www.archdaily.com/1001083/what-are-the-spatial-possibilities-for-enclosures-within-the-highway-interchangePaul Yakubu
Balancing Form and Function: The Art of Designing a Good Chair
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Designing a good chair is a much more challenging task than we might think. To begin with, several factors must be addressed, such as ergonomics, aesthetics, materials, functionality and durability. In addition, it is essential to define the purpose for which it will be used: an office chair has different requirements than a reading armchair or a dining chair, for example. Only when all these elements are carefully balanced and thought-out can you achieve a truly excellent chair. And often, a good design can end up triggering many other variations throughout the years.
https://www.archdaily.com/1000788/balancing-form-and-function-the-art-of-designing-a-good-chairEduardo Souza