(Photo: Wallmakers )
When Earth Day 2024 is near the call to an awakening into a good change, it doesn't bring a sleeping world but a look straight to care for a world in poor health. In birds, properly functioning lungs perform key functions like extracting oxygen from one's blood to dispose of carbon dioxide. Thus, the organism can adequately get the required oxygen levels for normal functioning. In birds, lungs are organisms tailored to serve a dual task where one, they absorb oxygen into their blood, and, two, they expel carbon dioxide from the blood to enable the organism to get sufficient levels of oxygen required for the proper functioning of the cells. This process attempts to construct the culture of design boom, through which the latter clarifies the level of projects of passive architecture in the whole year, indicating examples of not only those that demonstrate good practice but those that could shape the building history of the next century.
Sustainable architecture has the potential to help reduce energy use. Still, it is an entire system where buildings are integrated into their physical environment, giving rise to a mutually beneficial relationship. These traditions and new technology mix in these projects, which shows that thoughtful design can create spaces that are not only pleasant visually but also environmentally responsible.
Oberoi Villa by Arkana Architects
(Photo: © Indra Wiras)
A spectacular work of architecture, the Oberoi Villa by Arkana Architects is a green building in the midst of Indonesia's verdant and natural surroundings. The room's open layout and two-story ceiling allow for plenty of natural light in addition to air circulation, eliminating the demand for excessive unneeded artificial lighting and air conditioning units. This villa is purpose-built for living in the tropics, as it maximizes the positive aspects of its location by blending the indoor and outdoor spaces, letting the seasons in. Therefore, it is no wonder the villa feels comfortable and connected with nature.
Breathing House by Karm Architecture Lab
(Photo: © Farah Faheem, Hala Makhlouf)
While on the sun-soaked shores of Marsa Alam, Egypt, the Breathing House surfaces as a haven of sustainability. Designs from the local coral limestone stones are used as a natural temperature regulator. Implementing passive task strategies, like bamboo fences and proper layout design, increases the system's independence because Mother Nature knows that only she can provide comfort even in the harshest environments.
Kalyon Energy Workspace by Bilgin Architects
(Photo: © Egemen Karakaya)
In the arid expanse of Karapınar, Turkey, the Kalyon Energy Control Building stands as a beacon of innovation. Its reflective stainless steel facilitates heat gain and visually integrates with the surrounding solar panel field. A central courtyard adorned with native plants serves as an oasis, connecting occupants with nature while reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems.
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Casa Quinchuyaku by Emilio López
(Photo : © Andres V. Fotografia)
On Ecuador's Ilaló volcano slopes, Casa Quinchuyaku celebrates sustainability in its truest form. The residence embodies a commitment to community and conservation by utilizing recycled materials and engaging local workers in its construction. Rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and a dry bath system further underscore its eco-friendly ethos, proving that sustainable living is within reach even in remote locales.
G+D House by Guimpert Atelier Architecture
(Photo: © Aryeh Kornfeld)
In the windswept landscapes of Canela, Chile, the G+D House rises as a symbol of resilience. Its wooden, stilted structure not only withstands the region's harsh elements but also harnesses them to create dynamic living spaces. Movable panels and blocks adapt to changing conditions, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor beauty.
32° East Arts Center by New Makers Bureau
(Photo: © Timothy Latim)
In Kampala, Uganda, the 32° East Arts Center represents the design of skills to preserve the environment and nourish the people. Conceived from Earth and reclaimed materials, it depicts an art-ecology community that is ecologically sustainable and socially inclusive. Thermal Management provides an agreeable working condition for artists and audiences, revealing the community's deep roots in nature.
Innovations in Sustainable Materials
The sequence of a green future is reinforced with stunning structures and the move towards eco-friendly materials. From CornWall's life-based bio-bricks to the sustainable architecture matrix's algae-based bio-concrete, these discoveries challenge the concept of sensible building science. The ability to turn waste into a valuable, usable material is the secret behind the success of food waste to energy plants, as they always provide a glimpse into a society where waste is reduced to the minimum and resources are fully utilized and carefully managed.
In the process of practicing sustainability, architecture transcends the building science expression to become a manifestation of our devotion to the Earth and its habitats. As the Day is marked, we look to these pioneering efforts, which teach a lesson, and commit ourselves to bringing flowers and fruits of collaboration between nature and design where harmony exists.
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