Architects carefully calibrate their relationship to the earth, adjusting foundations to soil, groundwater, climate, risk, and culture. Driven timber piles, rammed-earth platforms, and poured concrete slabs are each a response to a specific set of ground conditions, and each shapes the architecture that rises from it. The way a building meets the earth determines its durability and its limits because foundations are among the most consequential design choices an architect makes.

With its large gallery overlooking the river and its majestic metal roof, Le Grand Bercail evokes a sense of timelessness. A contemporary Quebec house, it is as comforting as it is astonishing. Built to benefit from the sun's energy in winter and increase views in all seasons, it uses its large roof overhangs to reduce overheating during summer heatwaves. The gentle layout among the trees and the palette inspired by boreal tones make it seem as if it has always existed.

From April 21 to 26, the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile.Milano returns to Rho Fiera Milano, bringing together over 1,900 exhibitors across more than 169,000 square meters of sold-out exhibition space. Yet beyond its scale, the 2026 edition signals a more structural shift through collaborations with figures such as Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten (OMA) and Formafantasma, the Salone continues to reposition itself as an evolving cultural infrastructure rather than a conventional trade fair. This year introduces new curatorial and strategic layers, most notably the preview phase of Salone Contract and the debut of Salone Raritas, alongside immersive installations and exhibitions, while the Salone's footprint across Milan grows further through city-wide interventions during Milan Design Week.

Surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea, NOT A HOTEL's newest resort – NOT A HOTEL Setouchi – is now open on the remote island of Sagishima. The three distinct villas are made of soil directly from the site using the traditional rammed earth technique, carved into the island's mountainous terrain. Made up of three villas, a beachfront restaurant, and a private beach, NOT A HOTEL Setouchi is set on a 30,000-m2 site on the southwestern cape of Sagishima. Designed by BIG with construction taking less than two years, fractional ownership was offered through NOT A HOTEL's shared ownership model, building upon the brand's network of luxury vacation homes across Japan.