The Nubian Vault: Reviving Ancient Techniques for Modern Solutions

The colorful houses of Aswan in the south of modern-day Egypt attract tourists who venture that far up the River Nile. Accessed by small river boats, islands like Suheil West are the homes of Nubian communities, some of whom had had to relocate after the building of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s. Behind the picturesque views of plastered walls covered in murals and motifs, perched on rocky hills overlooking the Nile, is a construction technique used locally for centuries. It uses locally sourced materials, conserves nature, and regulates internal temperatures against the heat in the day and the cold at night.

Houses in Argentina: Green Roofs That Blend Architecture and Landscape

Seeking to create a fluid dialogue between architecture and its surrounding landscape, the study of topography embodies an awareness and exploration of the use of materials, self-sufficient strategies, low-maintenance solutions, and landscape designs that integrate into the natural environment and minimize the environmental impact of projects. Beyond recording variations in elevation, sun orientation, prevailing winds, or drainage slopes of the terrain, several architects in Argentina demonstrate a strong interest in developing architectural solutions capable of adapting to natural geographies and restoring the bond between nature and the human being.

Pirelli 35 Office Building / Park Associati + Snøhetta

Park and Snøhetta have joined forces to transform Pirelli 35, a 1960s office block in the heart of the Porta Nuova district in Milan, into a dynamic, accessible, and environmentally sustainable urban landmark. The project, commissioned by COIMA, redefines the relationship between architecture, landscape, and public space, creating a new focal point for urban regeneration. As a testament to its strategic and architectural relevance, Pirelli 35 has already been chosen as the Italian headquarters of both Adidas and Condé Nast. The international design competition for Pirelli 35 led to an unexpected yet visionary collaboration. Initially presenting two distinct yet complementary proposals, Park and Snøhetta were invited by COIMA to merge their expertise into a unified project. This partnership -Snøhetta's first in Italy- exemplifies how architectural quality and sustainability can coexist in a mutually enriching collaboration.

Fayssal Residence / Studio Paul Kaloustian

Elegant Duplex Overlooking the Beirut Hippodrome – Nestled in the tranquil neighborhood of Badaro, this sophisticated duplex apartment offers a harmonious blend of modern design and natural vistas. Strategically positioned along the perimeter of the structure, it enjoys uninterrupted views in all four directions, including the lush greenery of the Hippodrome.

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