Building with Earth: Traditional Knowledge in Contemporary Architecture

In recent years, earthen construction has gained renewed attention in architecture. Materials such as adobe, rammed earth, and compressed earth blocks, once mainly associated with vernacular traditions, are increasingly being explored by contemporary architects. Rather than representing a simple return to the past, this renewed interest reflects a broader reconsideration of how architecture engages with materials, local resources, and environmental conditions.

Ananda House / Thought Parallels

Madhu and Mandy, a couple based in Dallas, USA, approached thought parallels to design a residence adjacent to their ancestral home in India. They sought a contemporary architectural interpretation of the region's vernacular style. Both of them, being aesthetically astute and well-traveled, ideated a refined vision of what a home should embody. They broke a stereotype of usually cliched project requirements.

Orms Appointed to Lead Redevelopment of London’s BT Tower into Hotel

BT Tower, one of London's most recognizable postwar landmarks, is set to be converted into a hotel. London-based architecture practice Orms has been appointed to lead the redevelopment following the acquisition of the Grade II–listed tower by the American hospitality company MCR Hotels in early 2024. The project was initially expected to be led by Heatherwick Studio, though the practice is no longer involved; Orms will now advance the scheme and is expected to present its initial proposals during a first round of public consultations scheduled for May. Construction cannot begin until the decommissioning and removal of telecommunications equipment by BT Group, a process currently expected to conclude around 2030.

Nursery School in Muro / BOS Arquitectes

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The Muro nursery school, in Mallorca, is located on elevated ground within a transitional area between the urban fabric and agricultural fields. In its immediate surroundings, landmarks of the landscape and collective life can be identified, such as an old marés stone windmill, the stands of the football field, and the built urban skyline. From its position, the site offers wide views of the area and its main references, including the Church of Sant Joan Baptista and the Convent of Santa Anna.

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