Aedas proposes a new landmark for Shenzhen with its newly unveiled Huanggang Skyscraper. Standing tall at 247 meters, the tower will stand as a symbolic gateway to the Greater Bay Area and Huanggang Port — an entry point between Shenzhen and Hong Kong — and will play an important role in the Chinese region’s development. The design team hopes to integrate the landscape surrounding the city into the architecture, drawing inspiration from stacking stones and flowing rivers. The fluid volumes and nesting rooftops are planned to resemble cascading water, while the cantilevered canopy at the entrance evoke the image of splashing water.
Stepping into the Huanggang Skyscraper, visitors are greeted by a thirteen-meter-tall, sunlit lobby, designed by Aedas with transparent glass. The layout follows a rigorous, symmetrical form with four stacked circles defining the facade. This optimizes space utilization, offering stunning views and vibrant visuals for the city. The interiors allow for diverse workspace programming with a flexible floor plan divided into four quadrants. Each section offers office depths ranging from ten to fourteen meters, accommodating companies of various sizes. Open office spaces near the crown promote communication and interaction, further enhanced by the inclusion of indoor-outdoor areas. Meanwhile, landscaped ‘sky lobbies’ and gardened rooftop terraces allow space for employees to relax and connect.
Shenzhen’s new landmark will redefine the skyline with inspiration from stacked stones and flowing water
sustainable goals by aedas
Aedas notes that it designs its Huanggang Skyscraper for Shenzhen with sustainability at the forefront. Vertical fins provide shade, reducing energy consumption, while low-reflection panels on the curtain wall minimize the building’s carbon footprint. Integrated ventilation solutions seamlessly blend into the tower’s aesthetics, ensuring a low-carbon design without compromising visual integrity. Executive Director Chris Chen comments: ‘Built based on the principles of ‘high quality,’ ‘customisation’ and ‘sustainability,’ we envision a harmonious layout of simple geometric shapes together formed by the tower and Huanggang Port, that contributes to the development of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cooperation Zone.’
the project is defined by its nested forms and stepping rooftops sky gardens and rooftop terraces will promote wellness in the workplace the 247 meter-tall tower will replicate the fluid forms of nature
Architizer’s Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects — from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
In the realm of architectural design, “the plan” is considered one of the two fundamental drawings for creating space. It is primarily an organizational drawing that considers a plethora of factors to shape spaces through creative processes. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in architectural planning has emerged as a transformative force, revolutionizing traditional approaches and ushering in a new era of innovation.
AI brings a multifaceted set of capabilities that not only expedites the design process but also augments the overall efficiency and sustainability of architectural proposals. From generative design that explores a multitude of creative possibilities to sophisticated simulations predicting energy performance, AI empowers architects to make informed decisions and optimize their designs without however sacrificing their capacity for imaginative exploration.
Without further ado, here are the top seven AI tools that unlock unprecedented capabilities in architectural planning.
Best AI Tool for Creating Office Plans
qbiq is an AI software that is suitable for producing efficient planning layouts for office spaces. Acting as the architect’s co-pilot for office designs, qbiq delivers a full-suite planning solution. Architects follow the process of uploading a simple “shell” of their building, showcasing the overall usable space in each floor.
qbiq produces three ‘Test fit’ alternatives in the form of analytical furniture plans as well as immersive 3D virtual tours. Furthermore, each solution is accompanied by a performance analysis report that breaks down the properties in each space. Factors such as privacy, daylight access, density ratios and open versus enclosed spaces are the primary data used to evaluate each layout scenario, helping architects to quickly reach the most optimal solution.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Collaborative Planning
Hypar is considered the best AI tool for design automation and collaboration. Performing as a cloud platform, Hyper allows architects to efficiently collaborate with other construction industry professionals and accelerate both the design and construction process. The software includes a library with preset building systems such as plumbing, mechanical and electrical schematics as well as structural charts that can be integrated in a project. Being a web-based accessible tool, Hypar allows architects, engineers and contractors to easily integrate their respective designs and building systems through real-time rendering and produce highly coordinated plans that are ready for construction.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Creating Urban Plans
TestFit is among the top AI tools for feasibility studies and urban planning projects. Its main goal is to eliminate the more tedious aspects of a large-scale project, such as counting housing units or parking spots, thus allowing architects to truly delve into the creative aspect of their project. The software uses site data such as topography, flood maps and building regulations as well as additional parameters set by architects, to generate layout options for a plethora of building typologies: multi-housing projects, retail stores, hotels, industrial sites and even parking lots. TestFit’s most innovative asset is its real-time rendering capabilities and rapid iterations as well as its ability to integrate with some of the most popular design programs on the market.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Site Analysis Plans
Prior to designing, architects usually spent a significant amount of time analyzing their project site. Form historic data to environmental conditions and even public transport maps, Aino transforms site analysis data into actionable and insightful maps. Architects can use the software to ask questions about their site by simply typing a few words into a search bar. The spatial data can then become visually represented through graphs, charts and geo-referenced locations placed on a map.
Aino allows architects to choose from multiple visualization style options and uncover connections between data sets. The software is also ideal for collaboration, offering an interactive interface that can be smoothly embedded on countless web platforms.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Data-driven Plans
Finch’s primary goal is the production of data-driven, optimized architectural plans. More specifically, it allows architects to make correlations between factors such as CO2 efficiency and material selection or circulation areas and occupancy ratios. By using advanced algorithms, Finch calculates the most optimized combinations and generates an array of possible layout scenarios. The architectural plans are instantly reconfigurable through real-time processes. Every plan is backed up with instant numbers and figures as well as a built-in error prevention tool, which ensures that each design is compliant with building regulations and sustainability requirements.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Creating Residential Plans
CONIX.AI offers a cutting-edge solution for optimizing residential plans. Architects simply draw their land on Google Maps and input the necessary building requirements. The program suggests multiple design proposals and layouts, starting from basic zoning diagrams that eventually become detailed, furnished residential plans. In fact, architects are able to set additional presets for each design by selecting specific housing typologies, such as villa or apartment, as a blueprint. Recognizing the power of human ingenuity, CONIX.AI also offers the ability to manually customize each drawing, promoting a true synergy between architects and AI tools.
It is important to note that CONIX.AI was developed for the Saudi market and includes tools specific for the Saudi Building Codes. Nevertheless, it allows architects to input their own, custom requirements, offering better control over their designs.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Creating Zoning Layouts
Laiout is one of the most promising AI software tools for early-stage design projects. Architects upload their initial floor plans, and the program starts generating an array of zoning diagrams, accompanied by detailed statistical data. Using a set of preferences, the zoning layouts can be tweaked to match the desirable plan of the space. Laiout also offers a Freeze/Regenerate tool, in which certain areas can remain intact while others are modified, eventually producing a more intentional and controlled result. Finally, the software has the option of turning the zoning diagrams into furnished plans.
Learn more and review this tool >
How to Better Leverage AI Tools in Architecture
The following tips and considerations will help you maximize the potential of AI in architectural design, as well as avoiding common pitfalls associated with this fast-emerging technology.
Adopt a Critical Approach: Using AI software for inspiration and assistance, especially for completing the more mundane aspects of architectural planning, is a great way to utilize such tools. Still, it is imperative to not fully rely on them and approach each design iteration with a critical attitude. Depending too heavily on AI software, might lead to architectural plans that fail to address the more delicate and human-centric aspects of design and potentially ignore context-specific nuances.
Validate Every Result: AI tools are based primarily on specific databases. In other words, their results are as valid as the data they are trained on. As a result, false or outdated information may lead to unrealistic designs that, for example, do not comply with current building regulations or even produce incorrect site analysis maps. By regularly reviewing AI-generated designs, architects can ensure that the drawings align with the relevant project requirements. As an additional precaution, architects who have access to the primary databases can regularly update them, minimizing any potential risks for false results or biases.
Set up Streamlined Workflows: AI software is becoming an integral part of an architect’s toolkit. Nevertheless, incorporating it in a pre-established workflow often poses a challenge. Choosing AI tools that easily “plug-in” with existing architectural programs will drastically boost performance and reduce any assimilation issues. Admittedly, a tailored workflow is every architect’s bread and butter and therefore, seamless integration practices encourage architects to try new, innovative tools that elevate their design process.
Join AI Forces: In the past couple of years, countless options for AI tools have been developed. This is an opportunity to try different combinations of multiple AI programs in order to collectively elevate the efficiency of architectural planning endeavors as well as cross-check the resulting designs. By combining different types of generative design algorithms with machine learning capabilities, architects gain the power to explore an extensive array of creative solutions. Combining AI tools for data analysis, site evaluation, compliance checking and speedy iterations streamlines workflows, mitigates risks and stretches out the possibilities of AI technology even further.
Architizer’s Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects — from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
MVRDV and LOLA plan new green district in Düsseldorf
MVRDV has collaborated with landscape architects LOLA to conceptualize the Grüne Mitte project in Düsseldorf, prioritizing open communication, negotiation, and compromise in urban development. Initiated by Cube Real Estate, the project aims to introduce nearly 500 new apartments, with 50 percent allocated to social or affordable housing. Additionally, the development incorporates community spaces to enhance the overall well-being of the neighborhood. The proposed site in Flingern-Süd currently hosts an underutilized shopping center, supermarket, and car park complex built just 11 years ago. The neighboring Kiefernstraße, known for squatting since the 1980s and vibrant street art, adds a unique aspect to the community dynamics. To ensure community involvement and support, the team engaged in a participation process, collaborating to align development objectives with the diverse needs of the community. This approach has facilitated the integration of social and affordable housing and the creation of community spaces that contribute positively to the neighborhood.
MVRDV (see more here) and LOLA (see more here) conducted a series of workshops to involve residents in the development process. Interviews were held, and brainstorming sessions took place to gather ideas. Through this collaborative process, key requirements emerged, including the importance of retaining the supermarket as a social meeting spot, improving connectivity to neighboring city districts, and incorporating public spaces for an inclusive social environment. Designers presented three outline proposals for residents to discuss, with the Grüne Mitte design, featuring blocks around a central green space, being the most popular choice. The central park-like space within the block reduces paved or built surfaces from 98 percent to 62 percent, serving as a community hub accessible through various passages. This green area features amenities like kiosks, sports facilities, and playgrounds, contributing to increased biodiversity and a pleasant microclimate.
the green open space contributes to increasing the biodiversity in the neighborhood
To economically support this large green space, a spatial compromise led to the inclusion of an office high-rise on the southwestern corner. Despite not aligning with the city’s high-rise plan, community support prompted special approval. The design team, considering community preferences, presented three proposals for the high-rise. The final 17-story design incorporates stacked blocks, with the lower one aligning with the Grüne Mitte, and the upper block twisted to complement the neighborhood’s features. Sustainability measures include green roofs, photovoltaic panels, cross-laminated timber floors, and an urban mining approach. The building’s façades celebrate diversity, with different treatments for each block, and some walls proposed for street art collaborations with Kiefernstraße residents.
the lower block of the 17-story building aligns with Grüne Mitte, while the upper block is twisted to complement the features of the neighborhood
different façade treatments for each block celebrate diversity and make the building more inviting
green roofs, photovoltaic panels, and cross-laminated timber floors contribute to the project’s sustainability
These so-called Gnizdo Houses are unveiled as the latest project by Ukrainian architecture firm MAKHNO Studio. The eco-lodges are designed to occupy the studio’s planned village resort, envisioned for the remote and scenic landscapes of the countryside. Embracing a commitment to rest and recovery amid natural forms and meanings, these boutique holiday houses epitomize a unique blend of modern architecture and ecological harmony. The architects aimed to create a dwelling type whose very walls of hempcrete contribute to healing. Every aspect of the Gnizdo Houses, from materials to architectural solutions, reflects an holistic approach to sustainable living.
Guided by the principle of naturalness, the team at MAKHNO Studio designs its Gnizdo Houses with a focus on natural materials, architecture as an extension of the landscape, and design embodying natural forms. The result is a set of buildings that eschew urban aesthetics, resembling futuristic caves or rocks shaped by the elements, blending fluidly into their natural surroundings. The structures are constructed with ‘hemp firewood concrete’ or hempcrete, a lightweight eco-absolute featuring hemp bark admixture. With this materiality, Gnizdo Houses stand out for their exceptional sound and heat insulation, moisture absorption, and resilience against rodents, insects, and mold. This innovative material facilitates air exchange with the surrounding space, contributing to the houses’ ability to ‘breathe.’ The exterior can be further enclosed with a reed screen, enhancing natural climate control.
the Gnizdo Houses are designed as a unique and futuristic series of eco-lodges
MAKHNO Studio infuses Tradition with Futurism
By incorporating elements such as a reed roof, clay walls, and a traditional Ukrainian oven, MAKHNO Studio’s Gnizdo Houses represent the DNA of Ukrainian architecture in the third millennium. Tradition is reimagined to shape a modernized vision for rural architecture that aligns with contemporary living. Inside, a spacious hall welcomes visitors with a fireplace, a designer sofa, and a cast-concrete family table surrounded by unique designer lamps. The space is flooded with natural light to create a sunny yet intimate atmosphere. Gnizdo Houses embody MAKHNO Studio’s vision of a modern Ukrainian house in the countryside. With a focus on ecological sustainability, loyalty to rural architectural tradition, and a futuristic vision, these houses are designed to offer a unique and remote oasis away from the city.
designed for rest and recovery, the eco-friendly walls of Gnizdo Houses contribute to a holistic sense of well-being MAKHNO Studio integrates architecture with the landscape, creating structures that are both futuristic and natural the dwellings will be built with hemp bark ‘firewood concrete’ and reed screens
UNStudio team: Ben van Berkel, Hannes Pfau with Erica Fang, Matt Burdalski, Judy Wong, Xiaorong Mo, Rafael Yoon, Zhengda Hou, Chengyang Liu, Cheng Tan, Chris Liu, Albert Yen, Craig Yan, Jon Espinosa Molano, Dongbo Han, Ami Nigam, Joanna Wang, Ray Wong, Haodong Hu, Yu Zhao, Junya Huang, Andres Monis Rodriguez, Ruijie Xu, Yufeng Tu, Joy Li, and Tony Hu, Antoine Muller, Shail Patel, Wei Huang, Biqin Li, Lawrence Ma, Bin Fu, Pedro Manzano Ruiz, Richard Stewart, Arturo Revilla Perez, Maya Calleja Calvo, Dongjie Qiu, Tsung-Yen Hsieh, Harsh Arora, Zhenyu Yang
Danish toymaker Lego has abandoned its pilot programme to make recycled plastic bricks from discarded bottles after projections suggested that, adopted at scale, the material would ultimately have a higher carbon footprint.
But after two years of testing, Lego has now scrapped the project as calculations indicated that retooling its factories to process rPET – instead of the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) used to form 80 per cent of its bricks – would ultimately generate more emissions over the product’s lifecycle.
Lego scrapped efforts to make its bricks from recycled plastic bottles
“It’s like trying to make a bike out of wood rather than steel,” Lego’s head of sustainability Tom Brooks told the Financial Times, which broke the story.
“In order to scale production, the level of disruption to the manufacturing environment was such that we needed to change everything in our factories. After all that, the carbon footprint would have been higher. It was disappointing.”
The rPET also requires large amounts of energy for processing and drying, Brooks explained, as well as additional chemicals so it can rival the durability of normal Lego blocks.
Instead of repurposing plastic bottles, Lego says it is now looking to find bio-based and recycled substitutes for the individual chemicals that make up ABS, as well as investigating alternative solutions.
“We remain fully committed to making Lego bricks from sustainable materials by 2032,” a spokesperson for the company told Dezeen.
“We are currently testing and developing Lego bricks made from a range of alternative sustainable materials, including other recycled plastics and plastics made from alternative sources such as e-methanol.”
The prototype bricks were made from recycled PET (rPET)
The company is also exploring the potential of bioplastics, which has formed some of the flora found in Lego kits since 2018 as well as the company’s recent Botanical Collection.
However, Lego CEO Niels Christiansen told the FT he believes no single material will be a silver bullet solution.
“We tested hundreds and hundreds of materials,” he said. “It’s just not been possible to find a material like that.”
Instead, part of Lego’s solution will be a focus on incremental emissions reductions as well as a takeback scheme, which the company is hoping to develop over the next few years so that unwanted bricks can be directly reused in new sets or recycled if they are no longer functional.
The news comes only a month after the company pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Previously, Lego had only committed to a 37 per cent emissions reduction by 2032 compared to 2019.
the netherlands pavilion: exploring the power of water
The Netherlands has recently announced its participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, set to take place from April 13th to October 13th, 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The pavilion will be characterized by its unique circular design and integration of clean, anthropogenic energy creation. This innovative structure promises to showcase the Netherlands’ creative solutions to global energy challenges, particularly in the realm of sustainable power generation through water-based technologies — visitors to the Netherlands Pavilion will discover new technologies that can harness the power of water.
‘Making clean, renewable energy accessible to everyone is the key to a sustainable society and a sustainable economy,’ says Netherlands Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Liesje Schreinemacher. ‘The Russian war in Ukraine has put energy security higher on many countries’ agendas. I’m proud of the Dutch design, which showcases the innovative solutions that the Netherlands has to offer and introduces visitors to the possibilities of a zero-emission future driven by circularity.’
a luminous ‘rising sun’ symbolizes circular design
The Netherlands Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka will addresses one of humanity’s most critical challenges — the recognition that finite resources are not sustainable. Embracing this principle, a circular design will incorporate renewable materials and zero-emission energy sources as the foundation of the structure. Water, as an abundant and clean energy source, plays a prominent role, elegantly reflected in the facade and roof of the circular structure. An important element of the design is its ability to be dismantled and reassembled as needed.
The theme of the Netherlands Pavilion is ‘Common Ground: creating a new dawn together.’ This vision explores new technologies which harness the power of water to produce emission-free energy, providing access to clean power for all. The illuminated sphere, or abstracted ‘rising sun’ will shine brightly at the center of the architecture to symbolize infinite clean energy, sustainability, and circularity.
the architecture symbolizes a rising sun over rippling waters
dutch design to arrive in japan
To be built in time for Expo 2025 Osaka, the Netherlands Pavilion is the result of a collaboration between RAU Architects, engineering consultancy DGMR, experience design studio Tellart and Japanese construction company Asanuma.
‘We are nearing the end of materials and fossil resources,’ says the team at RAU Architects. ‘Our solution is the circular design, with circular materials and zero-emission energy sources. As the pavilion has water as its theme, this is reflected in the design of the facade, the roof and the fact that we consider water as emission-free energy. The entire pavilion is designed to be reassembled and is circular. All materials are registered in a material passport on the Madaster platform. Inside, guests take an interactive journey that builds to an immersive show that brings these transformative ideas to life.’
the fluid facade shades the interiors and lends irregular shadows
expo 2025 osaka: the master plan by Sou Fujimoto
The overall master plan for Expo 2025 Osaka has been designed by Sou Fujimoto. In a recent interview with designboom (see here), the Japanese architect describes the project: ‘The biggest project I am working on is the master design of the Expo Osaka 2025. For this, I proposed a huge ring-shaped roof that serves as a circulation map. The roof not only protects people from sunlight and rain but is also enormous, with a diameter of almost 700 meters. We are designing it using a wooden structure, which presents unique challenges due to the scale and materials involved. However, Japan has a wonderful tradition of historical wood construction, and I aim to draw inspiration from it and blend it with new technology in the construction process.
the pavilion will include interactive exhibits to explore the power of water
‘This work is not only a wonderful trial for working on such a large scale but also an exciting challenge in terms of innovative construction techniques,‘ Sou Fujimoto tells designboom, describing his master plan for the Expo. ‘On the rooftop, visitors can go up and experience a lifted surface that resembles a bank, allowing them to appreciate the sky above and feel completely immersed in the environment. As the location is in the middle of Osaka Bay, no tall structures are around, offering a clear view of the sky in a pure circle. And that must be a very impressive experience that people will look up at the same circle in the sky. And you can imagine we are really sharing this precious nature, and everybody is under it. It’s not just about technical construction but also about creating unforgettable experiences for everyone to cherish.‘
Architizer’s Vision Awards is a global awards program for architectural media and representation, recognizing the world’s best architectural photographs, videos, visualizations, drawings and models, and the creators behind them. The inaugural edition opens for entries this spring: Register now.
Elon Musk, everybody’s favorite eccentric billionaire, has done it again. This time, he’s set his sights on the infamous Alcatraz island, which he plans to transform into a futuristic new Twitter headquarters. Yes, you read that right. The prison, once home to some of the country’s most dangerous criminals, will soon be home to some of the country’s most passionate Twitter employees.
A mock up rendering of Musk’s proposal; image courtesy of MJ.
According to Musk, the move is all about efficiency. “We need our most dedicated employees working around the clock to monetize Twitter,” he declared in a recent press conference. “And what better place to do that than a former prison? The isolation, the lack of distractions, it’s perfect.”
But certain details of Musk’s plan aren’t as dystopian as you might fear, given the project’s controversial context. He’s promised to outfit the entire island with the latest and greatest technology, including self-driving golf carts and robot chefs. “All employees who are willing to sign their life over to me deserve the best,” he said. “And that’s what we’re going to give them.”
A sketched sectional drawing for the dramatic structure overlooking San Francisco Bay; image courtesy of MJ.
Not everyone is on board with Musk’s plan. Critics have raised concerns about the historic preservation of the island, and have questioned whether or not it’s appropriate to turn a former prison into a corporate headquarters. But Musk isn’t worried. “Look, Alcatraz has been closed for years. It’s just sitting there, unused. Why not put it to good use?” he argued.
As for the prisoners who once called Alcatraz home? Musk has promised to honor their legacy by turning their old cells into luxury offices. “We’re going to keep the bars on the windows, of course,” he joked. “But we’ll add some beanbag chairs and free snacks to make it more comfortable.”
Mock up renderings of the proposed interiors for the new Twitter HQ; images courtesy of MJ.
Perhaps the most interesting part of Musk’s proposal is his plan for employee incentives. Every time an employee comes up with a new monetization strategy that proves successful, they will be given a “get out of jail free” card that will allow them to leave work early that day. And if an employee comes up with a particularly brilliant idea, they may even be able to earn a day off from work altogether.
In the end, the success of Musk’s proposal will depend on whether or not he can strike the right balance between innovation and preservation. Alcatraz is a place with a complex history, and it will take a careful touch to turn it into something that everyone can be proud of.
Elon Musk toured the interior of Alcatraz last week to size up the changes that will be needed to transform the historic building into Twitter’s new HQ; images courtesy of MJ.
What will Musk come up with next? Maybe he’ll buy the moon and turn it into a giant amusement park. Or maybe he’ll finally unveil his plans for a flying car. Whatever it is, you can bet it’ll be out of this world.
Architizer’s Vision Awards is a global awards program for architectural media and representation, recognizing the world’s best architectural photographs, videos, visualizations, drawings and models, and the creators behind them. The inaugural edition opens for entries this spring: Register now.
Spotted: Reducing emissions is a top priority in every industry, and doing so as fast as possible is essential. Now, innovators everywhere are grappling with how to turn great ideas into working concepts, and then industrial-scale solutions. Canadian property technology experts at Audette have built an artificial intelligence (AI) platform that does in a few hours what it would ordinarily take humans years to do – analyse a full portfolio of commercial real estate for decarbonisation opportunities and build a plan to retrofit every building in the most cost-efficient manner.
From renewable energy opportunities to carbon-negative materials and low-carbon technologies, Audette can build a carbon-transition plan for any building. The platform layers operational data with capital planning and a breakdown of costs and energy usage of each piece of equipment and location, as well as forecasts of emissions. This allows for effective, efficient retrofitting and long-term planning for a carbon-negative future.
Property managers can add data to the platform and test out various ideas themselves. The AI projects return on investment, helping teams identify the higher priority changes to make. The platform recognises and suggests methods for maximising efficiencies across an entire business, not just a single building. Audette also connects users to a building scientist to ensure that the AI-backed decisions make business sense.
Audette recently raised $9.5 million (approximately €9.14 million) to support the launch of its technology across 150 North American cities. The initial rollout is planned for 2023 and 2024.
Springwise has spotted other means of decarbonising buildings on a sizeable scale, including a platform that allows real estate investors to monitor and reduce waste and emissions across their properties, and smart technology that prevents excessive use of heating and lighting in office buildings.
The Fourth Annual One Drawing Challenge is open for entries! Architecture’s most popular drawing competition is back and bigger than ever, including larger prizes. Get started on your submissionand hurry — the Main Entry Deadline of October 21st is fast-approaching.
Are you interested in improving your architectural drawing technique? Follow along as the Founder of 30X40 Design Workshop and One Drawing juror Eric Reinholdt designs and draws an architectural lighting plan showing the necessary fixture types, switching, receptacle locations and all electrical devices and equipment. Designing such details in coordination with the other essential building systems — architectural, structural, mechanical and plumbing — affords the architect more control in the final outcome by anticipating how these systems will work in conjunction with invisible elements such as beams, ductwork, vent stacks.
Drawing and overlaying each helps to identify conflicts on paper where it’s much more efficient and cost-effective to make changes. In this video, you’ll see how the abstract concepts of ambient, task and accent lighting are accounted for and applied in a real-world design of a remote, off-the-grid residential project in Maine, USA.
Want to get your drawings in front of industry experts like Eric Reinholdt? Consider entering architecture’s biggest drawing competition, which Eric will judge along with other architectural figures such as Bob Borson, Dan Hogman and more!
Eric Reinholdt is an architect, founder of the residential architecture practice, 30X40 Design Workshop, author of Architect + Entrepreneur, innovator of progressive practice models, and the creator of the eponymous YouTube channel, 30X40 Design Workshop. From his remote island studio, Erc makes videos about architecture, designs simple, modern homes, and shares his process online.
images © Aedas | @aedas_architects
visualizations © MAKHNO Studio
visualizations © 
the architecture symbolizes a rising sun over rippling waters
the fluid facade shades the interiors and lends irregular shadows
the pavilion will include interactive exhibits to explore the power of water
