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Better With Age: 5 Projects Positioning Patina as a Dominant Design Detail

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There is no desperation in building decay, no sadness in the natural process of aging — only a quiet, knowing elegance, creating a place that can abandon any vanity of youth and instead lean fully into the grace that only time can bestow.

A limestone balustrade, once a gleaming marvel, softened by decades of caresses—each hand that has passed over it leaving an indelible mark. A copper dome, once a brazen beacon in its youth, now wearing a dignified cloak of verdigris. Cracks in lime plaster have spread like fine spider silk, delicate yet determined, each line beginning to record the countless seasons that have come and gone.

Patina is the result of interaction — with nature, humanity and time. It happens through processes such as moisture interacting with minerals, oxidation in the air, or the gradual build-up of natural materials like moss or algae. Patina doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a slow, organic process determined by the unique conditions of a building’s environment— rain, wind, pollution, sunlight — all leaving their mark in subtle and unpredictable ways.

Rather than masking the effects of aging, patina enhances character, adding texture and depth to a surface. For architecture, patina brings warmth, richness and a sense of history to a building, making it feel lived-in and connected to its surroundings. It also acts as a form of natural preservation, protecting any underlying materials from further decay. The following A+Award-winning projects cherish and celebrate the authenticity patina brings and serve as a reminder that perfection lies not in pristine surfaces but in the graceful acceptance of change and age.

Liminal House

By McLeod Bovell Modern Houses, West Vancouver, Canada

Jury and Popular Choice Winner, Residential Interiors (>3000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards

Photographs by Hufton and Crow

Liminal House’s concrete surfaces react subtly to their coastal environment. Salt carried by the strong ocean breezes will pit the surface, while carbonation — a process where carbon dioxide in the air interacts with calcium hydroxide in the material — will give the concrete a denser, more resilient finish. Over time, the once grey façade will shift to earthier hues as rain leaves mineral streaks that slowly soften its color, allowing the family home to blend better with the rugged shoreline. Surprisingly the evolving patina actually helps to protect the structure, reducing porosity while visually anchoring it to the landscape.

River Bend Residence

By Lake|Flato Architects, New Braunfels, Texas

Popular Choice Winner, Private House (M 2000 – 4000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards

Photograph by Casey Dunn

Around the façade of River Bend Residence, Lake|Flato Architects used weathered Corten steel that will continue to oxidize with exposure to the elements. Not only a visually interesting design choice, the pre-rusted surface, a result of oxidation, has a stable layer that will protect the underlying metal as it deepens in tone thanks to the moisture in the surrounding air. Inside, a use of Douglas fir allows for more evolution as the golden timber shifts to a silvery-grey over time. Together, these materials will age naturally, allowing the building to mature comfortably in its dense woodland environment while helping it to withstand the pressures of time.

Madrone Ridge

By Field Architecture, Sonoma County, California

Jury Winner, Private House (L 4000 – 6000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards

Copper cladding at Madrone Ridge offers a striking example of how the correct material choice can allow a building to synchronize with its environment. Initially bright and reflective, over time, the copper will begin to oxidize on contact with the air, creating a protective patina that shifts from coppery tones to deep greens and browns. This natural aging process shields the metal from further corrosion and will result in the home becoming integrated more comfortably into the surrounding valley.

Casa Lohr

By Veinte Diezz Arquitectos, Mérida, Mexico

Jury and Popular Choice Winner, Residential Renovations and Additions, 12th Annual A+Awards

Photographs by Manolo R. Solis

At Casa Lohr, the exposed plasterwork reveals the structure’s colonial origins. The rough texture, left intentionally unfinished, allows the passage of time to play a visible role in the building’s aesthetic. Cracks and weathering expose layers of stone and brick beneath, with each imperfection marking the history of the structure. As the plaster continues to age, the façade will gradually soften, embracing the rawness of its materials and creating an ongoing dialogue between the architecture and the forces that shape it.

Murka Hotel (Phase II)

By Thinking Design, Wenzhou, China

Popular Choice Winner, Hotels and Resorts, 12th Annual A+Awards

Thinking Design’s use of local stone and reclaimed timber at Murka Hotel initially helps the building blend with the natural landscape. Its raw texture and color palette pay homage to the traditional culture of the area. However, it is the use of biophilia here that will drastically alter the south-facing hotel’s appearance over time. As the stone weathers, its surface will darken and roughen, and the abundant plant life will grow on and around it. The wild grass-covered roofs will grow into the valley, allowing the buildings to be increasingly absorbed into its environment becoming a living habitat.

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The Future of Architecture: “Form Follows Function” in the Age of AI

Architizer is thrilled to announce the world' best architecture firms in 2024, all winners of the 12th Annual A+Awards! Want to get your firm in the running next season? Stay up to date by subscribing to our A+Awards Newsletter. 

Architectural forms often draw inspiration from a variety of sources, whether organic or inorganic, such as natural elements or abstract concepts like movement or light. However, their true success lies in revealing a building’s function, particularly in spaces intended for public use where circulation and purpose must be clear. Distinct forms also have the power to embody the identity and philosophy of the organizations they house, transforming buildings into symbols that reflect the missions and values of the communities or institutions they represent.

In contemporary practice, architects are continuously exploring how form and function can coexist harmoniously, building on Louis Sullivan’s famous principle, “form follows function,” which emphasizes that a building’s design should emerge from its purpose. For instance, modern buildings often incorporate innovative shapes, materials and structural features that are both visually striking and highly functional. Simultaneously, the use of cutting-edge technologies like AI-driven design or parametric modeling allows for the creation of fluid, non-traditional forms that still serve their intended purpose efficiently.

This harmonious balance between creative architectural forms and building function is evident in the remarkable case studies featured below. These projects showcase how architects integrate innovative design with practical requirements, achieving a synthesis of aesthetic vision and usability. By examining these case studies, we can gain deeper insights into how modern architecture continues to push boundaries while remaining rooted in purpose.

Harmonizing Form and Function: Case Studies in Contemporary Architectural Design

Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters

Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters

Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters by OLI Architecture, Suzhou, China | Photos by Xiaobin Lv; Shen Zhonghai

Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters is a 1.58 million square foot (146,786 square meter) modern R&D and manufacturing complex for a Hong Kong-listed pharmaceutical company. Symbolizing Ascentage’s cutting-edge cancer research, the state-of-the-art campus was created using advanced digital design and fabrication tools. The site’s 15-acre layout features high-tech labs and advanced manufacturing facilities, all illuminated by abundant natural light through its translucent roof.

Seven curvilinear buildings are elevated above a glass base, floating over a reflecting pool. The 262-foot (80-meter) tall R&D and Administration building stands as an iconic symbol at the busy southwest corner near a new subway station. The design of the complex draws inspiration from the benzene ring, a chemical molecular formula representing the planar bonds of six carbon and hydrogen molecules.

The hexagonal form is intricately integrated into the façade of each building, where it is parametrically folded around the seven distinct volumes. The façades, crafted using Ultra High Strength Concrete panels and custom anodized aluminum nodes and extrusions, reflect this molecular structure, achieving an optimal balance of visual transparency and privacy. This unique design establishes a new identity for Ascentage and highlights its promising future.

Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience Museum.

Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience Museum

Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience Museum by EskewDumezRipple, New Orleans, Louisiana | Popular Choice Winner, Architecture +AI, 12th Annual A+Awards

The 120,000-square-foot (11,148 square meter) Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience Museum celebrates New Orleans’ musical legacy at a prime Downtown location across from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Designed as a state-of-the-art cultural hub, the museum will feature exhibit spaces, a performance theater, research archives, a rooftop terrace, event areas, a lobby, a museum store, classrooms, a music club and a restaurant. Positioned as the anchor of the $1 billion River District redevelopment, it aims to revitalize a former industrial area near the Convention Center and Central Business District.

Unlike regional museums that focus on specific genres, this museum will offer a unified narrative of Louisiana’s diverse musical traditions, from jazz and zydeco to hip-hop and rock, celebrating the cultural richness shaped by the State’s history and people. The design draws directly from musical instruments, using AI tools like Midjourney to create conceptual vignettes from images of musical instruments and lighting descriptions. By experimenting with the profiles and forms of these instruments, the team developed architectural elements that capture the interplay of light and shadow, translating musical intricacies into the building’s design.

Still in the concept phase, the museum is gathering community support and conducting feasibility studies. Advocates like Kirk Joseph of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band highlight its significance in honoring New Orleans’ profound global influence on music.

Transforming Architecture: How AI Tools Shape Form and Function

Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Center

Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Center

Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Center by Zaha Hadid Architects, Zhuhai, China | Photos by Virgile Simon Bertrand

AI tools are transforming how architects approach form generation by offering unprecedented flexibility and creativity in design. Traditionally, manual design processes, material capabilities and time constraints limited the shaping of architectural forms. However, with AI-driven platforms like Midjourney, Grasshopper or generative design software, architects can now rapidly explore and experiment with innovative and complex forms that are visually striking and functionally efficient, like the examples featured above.

These tools enable architects to input parameters like building function, environmental factors, structural constraints and aesthetic preferences. Based on these criteria, AI generates a diverse array of unique, intricate forms, opening up new possibilities for creative expression.

010 Building

010 Building

010 Building by Clouds Architecture Office, Fukuoka, Japan | GION, Yashiro Photo Office

The 010 Building in Fukuoka is a striking example of how form and function are seamlessly integrated to achieve successful architectural design. Its distinct geometry responds to the building’s internal programs and frames the surrounding views, creating a dynamic and varied spatial experience. Designed to reflect the city’s vibrant energy, the building’s central element — a multi-purpose immersive theater — is elevated, allowing the ground level to connect seamlessly with the urban landscape and riverside. Its form, made up of symmetrically stacked square masses rotated 45 degrees, is wrapped in a spiraling stainless steel curtain, giving the structure no defined front or back. The curtain exposes the interior from every angle, evoking a sense of fluid motion. Its reflective metal surface amplifies this effect by shifting with the weather and light, enhancing the experience for both passersby and those within the building.

Whether drawing inspiration from organic or inorganic forms, AI tools can translate these inspirations into functional architectural forms. AI tools have ultimately opened new possibilities in form generation, pushing the boundaries of contemporary architecture and leading to structures that are distinct, expressive, and aligned with a building’s identity and purpose.

Achieving a Balance Between Artistic Expression and Functional Efficiency

AI is fundamentally transforming building design, influencing every stage from concept generation to material selection and user experience. Tools like Midjourney and parametric design software enable architects to craft unique forms that not only embody the identity and philosophy of the organizations they serve but also push the boundaries of contemporary architecture.

While some critics argue that a focus on striking architectural forms may compromise functionality, proponents counter that innovative designs, when thoughtfully executed with advanced technology, can result in structures that are visually striking and functionally efficient. Case studies like the Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters, the Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience Museum, the Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Center, and the 010 Building illustrate how AI tools can achieve a successful balance between creativity and practicality to achieve a harmonious and effective architectural outcome.

Architizer is thrilled to announce the world' best architecture firms in 2024, all winners of the 12th Annual A+Awards! Want to get your firm in the running next season? Stay up to date by subscribing to our A+Awards Newsletter. 

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Renovation Redefined: How Neri&Hu Rewrites the Rules of Adaptive Reuse

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

Neri&Hu is a practice that reimagines architectural reuse and renovations. Co-founded by Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu, the firm operates out of its dynamic base in Shanghai, China, with an additional office in London. Their work is characterized by a meticulous approach to materiality, context, and storytelling, blending traditional and modern elements to create spaces that resonate with cultural and historical significance.

This year, Neri&Hu has been honored with a prestigious Architizer A+Award in the Best Adaptive Reuse and Renovation Firm category. This accolade recognizes their exceptional ability to breathe new life into existing structures, transforming them into spaces that are both functional and deeply meaningful. Their projects are celebrated for their sensitivity to heritage and their innovative reinterpretation of space, making them leaders in the field of adaptive reuse.

Neri&Hu’s portfolio is a testament to their versatility and commitment to thoughtful design. From chapels to cultural institutions, their work spans a diverse range of typologies and geographies, each project reflecting a deep understanding of its specific context. By integrating the old with the new, they create environments that honor the past while embracing the future, solidifying their reputation as a firm designing holistic environments for daily life.

Lao Ding Feng Beijing

Beijing, China

Jury Winner, Architecture +Renovation, 11th Annual A+Awards

Neri & Hu transformed a former cotton textile warehouse in Beijing’s industrial Langyuan Station into the main office and retail store for the historic Beijing pastry brand Lao Ding Feng. The original brick structure, composed of a main warehouse and annex buildings, was reimagined with a cast concrete form molded within the old brick shell, symbolizing the brand’s traditional pastries shaped by decorative molds.

This new concrete object, softened by bush-hammering, forms the main retail, gallery, and office spaces, while gaps between the new and old structures create flexible areas for a café and multipurpose lobby. The design connects past, present and future, offering Lao Ding Feng a modern yet historically rooted home.

The Relic Shelter | Fuzhou Teahouse

Fuzhou, China

Jury Winner, Architecture +Preservation, 10th Annual A+Awards

Inspired by Fuzhou’s iconic Jinshan Temple, Neri & Hu’s Relic Shelter teahouse encapsulates the city’s rich heritage amidst rapid modernization. The design preserves and elevates a relocated Qing dynasty official’s wooden residence, making it the centerpiece of the teahouse. The structure, set atop a rammed concrete base and crowned with a sweeping copper roof, mirrors traditional earthen dwellings and evokes a sense of raw monumentality.

Visitors are greeted by the teahouse’s striking silhouette and its reflection in a surrounding pool, while contrasts of light and dark, heavy and light, play throughout the space. Natural light enters through sky wells, illuminating the ancient artefact, and a mezzanine level allows for close inspection of intricate carpentry. Below, a basement with a rotunda, sunken courtyard, and tasting rooms features an oculus that filters sunlight through a thin layer of water, creating captivating reflections.

Waterhouse South Bund

Huangpu Qu, Shanghai, China

The Waterhouse in Shanghai’s South Bund District is a four-story, 19-room boutique hotel, built within a renovated 1930s Japanese Army headquarters. Fronting the Huangpu River and facing the Pudong skyline, the hotel’s design by Neri & Hu emphasizes a striking contrast between old and new.

The original concrete structure was restored, while new additions were crafted from corten steel to reflect the area’s industrial history. The interior design blurs the lines between inside and outside, as well as public and private spaces, creating a unique and disorienting yet refreshing experience that connects guests to Shanghai’s urban fabric through unexpected visual corridors.

The Garage

Beijing, China

Popular Choice Winner, Factories & Warehouses, 5th Annual A+Awards

In Beijing, where traffic congestion is a daily reality for millions, Neri & Hu’s renovation of an old army weapons factory into an Automobile Repair Shop seeks to rekindle the lost allure of cars. The design incorporates a café and offices, transforming the space into a dynamic workshop with a blend of raw industrial elements and refined touches.

The existing brick structure is preserved, while a new steel frame adds a third level to meet capacity needs. The façade features a striking combination of the original brick, steel frame, and a white volume, with black metal frames and mirrored glass enhancing the building’s modern industrial aesthetic. Custom signage and raw steel-edged glass garage doors guide visitors along the building’s length.

Design Republic Design Commune

Shanghai, China

Jury Winner, Mixed Use, 3rd Annual A+Awards

Design Republic Design Commune in central Shanghai serves as a design hub, blending a flagship store for modern furniture retailer Design Republic with a mix of design-focused retail spaces, including books, fashion, and accessories. Housed in a renovated 1910s British-built Police Headquarters, the project by Neri & Hu carefully restores the original red brick structure while adding modern elements, such as a glassy street-level façade, to breathe new life into the historic building.

The interior features strategic architectural modifications that reveal the building’s history while creating a cohesive and engaging experience for visitors. The Commune also includes a design gallery, event space, café, restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton, and a one-bedroom apartment.

Junshan Cultural Center

Beijing, China

Located near the Miyun Reservoir outside Beijing, the Junshan Cultural Center is a transformed two-story sales building reimagined by Neri & Hu as an iconic clubhouse and sales center. The design embraces the building’s courtyard typology, creating interlocking journeys for members and guests that connect with nature through layered courtyards and gardens.

The architecture blends traditional northern elements with contemporary language, featuring a brick structure with carved-out spaces and warm-toned wood-patterned aluminum panels that soften the façade. The center offers a range of amenities, including a 100-person multi-purpose hall, business lounge, feature library, children’s reading room, art gallery, and rooftop deck with views of the surrounding mountains.

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

The post Renovation Redefined: How Neri&Hu Rewrites the Rules of Adaptive Reuse appeared first on Journal.

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From Displacement to Dignity: Rethinking the Architecture of Shelter as Essential Homes

The jury and the public have had their say — feast your eyes on the winners of Architizer's 12th Annual A+Awards. Subscribe to our Awards Newsletter to receive future program updates.

What are your property priorities? Which non-negotiables guide you when designing homes? What do we actually need in a house?

For 1.6 billion people worldwide, the answer is startlingly simple — better shelter than the inadequate accommodation they currently have. Not least the 103 million globally displaced through war, famine, natural disasters and economic crises living in makeshift homes, from run-down British hotels to frontline refugee camps. A figure that’s growing by the day as humanitarian flashpoints from Afghanistan to South Sudan, Palestine to Ukraine, Venezuela to Rakhine continue to force innocent civilians to abandon all they know and move in the hope of finding safety.

Architects have long been trying to develop alternatives to the temporary accommodation solutions that define refugee camps. Many of these settlements surpass their limited intended shelf life, with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees [UNHCR] reporting on generations being born into hastily erected villages, which quickly swell into towns. Countless adults have now spent decades without a permanent place to call their own. Kutupalong, Bangladesh, currently the world’s largest refugee camp, is now home to over 785,000 people.

Entrance to the prototype for Essential Homes by Norman Foster Foundation and Holcim

The Jury Winner in Architecture + Innovation at the 2024 Architizer A+ Awards, the Norman Foster Foundation and Holcim‘s Essential Homes research project is the latest blueprint hoping to change conditions for the better. Presented for the first time at least year’s Venice Architecture Biennale as a full-scale prototype, each 580 square feet (54-square meter) home costs €20,000 to complete, can be adapted to suit a variety of situations, and is created from lightweight, low-cost materials that are easy to produce and transport, and are easy on the environment.

Low-carbon, rollable concrete sheets serve as the external shell, providing robust protection from the elements outside. Modular in design, the concept can be adapted and expanded in response to a multitude of changing needs, with foundations made from recycled construction aggregate materials. A combination of used and decommissioned bits from other projects, putting circularity front-and-centre — a major win given waste from camps is an ecological disaster in itself.

The social and humanitarian impact of the Essential Homes research project is undoubtedly impressive, as are the eco top lines. Each structure will produce 5.9 tonnes of CO2 emissions, a significant reduction — no less than 70% — on the 19.9 tonnes created from an average brick-and-mortar home. Insulation adds to the efficiency rating, with boards and low-carbon aerated concrete foam helping bring down noise pollution and manage interior climate, particularly thermal retention.

But ultimately, where Essential Homes really shine is in their less tangible properties. The zeitgeist of what makes a house a home, and a shelter something more personal. These rightly award-winning designs call to mind numerous iterations of the tiny home, many of which were not conceived to answer demand for emergency refuge following devastating events.

When erected en masse, Essential Homes masterplans begin to look like more familiar suburban residential neighborhoods, permeable pathways connecting each individual residence. Their light-absorbing properties emitting natural luminosity at night, another aspect bringing energy consumption down while contributing towards camp safety after dark — sadly a major issue in many of these self-contained diaspora societies.

Prototype of Essential Homes in a suburban setting with external greening and permeable pathways by Norman Foster Foundation and Holcim

The concept has already evolved from a single occupancy iteration to row house version, proving it could be appropriated for both urgent response needs and the more malignant slow creep of low cost housing shortages evident everywhere from Europe to the Far East, US to sub-Saharan Africa. And it won’t be long until we begin to see what the impact looks like at scale.

Less than two years after its debut in Venice, and following this summer’s working prototype at the Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition in London, Essential Homes are now about to be used in practice. A roll out is planned for South America in 2025, bringing with it an opportunity to turn the dream of a more sustainable, durable and — crucially — dignified place to live for hundreds of thousands of the world’s most vulnerable people into a reality. Perhaps not a cause for celebration — we are still failing to address the root causes catalysing this design — nevertheless this is a shining example of architecture focused on the good of humanity.

The jury and the public have had their say — feast your eyes on the winners of Architizer's 12th Annual A+Awards. Subscribe to our Awards Newsletter to receive future program updates.

The post From Displacement to Dignity: Rethinking the Architecture of Shelter as Essential Homes appeared first on Journal.

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Icons of Innovation: 6 Cultural Catalysts Bridging People and Place

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters.

Cultural projects serve as more than just physical spaces; they embody collective identity, history and the evolving narratives of our communities. From the grand halls of theaters to the intricate layouts of museums, these spaces reflect the diversity of human experience and the role architecture plays in shaping how we engage with art, history and culture. The significance of such projects has never been greater as they continue to inspire, educate and bring people together across boundaries.

For this year’s A+ Awards, architects and designers have again been recognized for exceptional cultural designs pushing the boundaries of form, function and innovation. This year’s winners showcase an array of projects that redefine the cultural landscape, elevating the experience of art and how to engage with the community. Across cultural centers, concert halls, theaters and museums, major trends are emerging that emphasize sustainability, inclusivity and accessibility. This year’s award-winning designs highlight how cultural architecture can lead the way in fostering a deeper connection between people and place.

Prepared Rehmannia Root Crafts Exhibition Hall

By LUO studio, Xiuwu County, Jiaozuo, China

Jury Winner, Cultural and Expo Centers, 12th Annual A+Awards

Xiuwu County in Henan Province, historically known as Huaiqing Prefecture, is renowned for its production of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, including the highly valued Rehmannia root (“Shu Di Huang”). In Houyanmen Village, the county has prioritized rural industrial revitalization, with the Ice Chrysanthemum Plantation and the Prepared Rehmannia Root Crafts Exhibition Hall serving as key examples.

Supported by government funding, these facilities employ local red bricks and engineered wood frames, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques to create durable, spacious structures that honor the village’s architectural heritage. LUO studio’s innovative design for the exhibition hall integrates local materials and ecological considerations, challenging conventional industrial park construction methods while promoting the integration of agriculture, tourism and education in the region.

Skamlingsbanken Visitor Centre

By CEBRA, Kolding, Denmark

Popular Choice Winner, Cultural and Expo Centers, 12th Annual A+Awards

The visitor center at Skamlingsbanken, a historic site in southern Denmark, is designed to blend seamlessly with its glacial landscape, reflecting the area’s rich history of democratic events and natural beauty. Built into the rolling hills, the center serves as both a gateway to the surrounding nature and a space for exhibitions on Skamlingsbanken’s past.

The architecture, inspired by the landscape, features local materials like wood and terrazzo, creating an earthy, introspective environment. A collaborative effort expanded the protected area around the center, ensuring the preservation of local biodiversity with a custom grass mixture to support native species.

Théâtre de Verdure

By Lemay, Montreal, Canada

Jury Winner, Hall / Theater, 12th Annual A+Awards


The redevelopment of the Théâtre de Verdure, originally opened in 1956, has transformed it into an inviting, year-round venue that harmoniously blends architecture and landscape. The project includes a new building, redesigned stage, amphitheater, and public spaces, all using modern materials that honor the theater’s original modernist design.

The structure’s transparent, open design creates a seamless connection between the theater and its natural surroundings, allowing it to comfortably host up to 2,500 people for major outdoor events while remaining sensitive to the enchanting site it inhabits.

Perelman Performing Arts Center

By REX, New York City, New York

Popular Choice Winner, Hall / Theater, 12th Annual A+Awards

The Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) is a key cultural landmark and the final public element of the World Trade Center master plan. This dynamic venue hosts music, theater, dance, opera and film, with a design that enhances artistic creativity and offers patrons ever-changing experiences. The building’s elegant form, wrapped in translucent marble, appears solid by day and reveals its vibrant interior at night.

PAC NYC features three adaptable theaters with seating configurations ranging from 90 to 950, allowing for diverse stage formats. The structure, designed to overcome complex underground constraints, is supported by seven super columns and protected from external vibrations, ensuring uninterrupted performances. The façade’s 4,896 marble-glass panels, arranged in a biaxially symmetric pattern, add to the building’s striking aesthetic.

Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation

By Studio Gang, New York City, New York

Jury Winner, Museum, 12th Annual A+Awards

The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation at the American Museum of Natural History in New York enhances public understanding of science through experiential architecture. The design creates over 30 connections among 10 buildings, improving functionality and visitor flow with a new accessible entrance on Columbus Avenue. The building’s central five-story atrium, inspired by natural geologic formations, opens to natural light and invites exploration.

The Center features an insectarium, butterfly vivarium, the Collections Core with over 3 million specimens, and immersive exhibits like Invisible Worlds. The Gilder Center’s vertical design reduces energy use, with a high-performance envelope and passive cooling strategies that reflect the Museum’s commitment to the natural world.

Qujiang Museum of Fine Arts Extension

By Neri&Hu Design and Research Office, Xi’An, China

Popular Choice Winner, Museum, 12th Annual A+Awards

The Qujiang Museum of Fine Arts in Xi’an, located near the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, was designed by Neri&Hu as a monolithic urban monument. Serving as an architectural icon and cultural anchor at the museum’s East Entry, the design carefully integrates with the surrounding urban fabric.

The building consists of four parts: a partially sunken concrete base that retains original museum spaces and adds new retail functions, a Sculptural Walk enclosing circulation, an elevated podium platform, and a monumental structure. Escalators within a sculptural form lead visitors from the ground plaza to the underground museum, creating a dramatic entry experience.

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters.

The post Icons of Innovation: 6 Cultural Catalysts Bridging People and Place appeared first on Journal.

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Groundbreaking Design: The Belgian Architecture Firm Rewriting the Future of Subterranean Dwelling

Underground living holds many negative connotations. Obscurity, claustrophobia, darkness. Yet, despite the premium we put on natural light and fresh air, there are benefits to subterranean habitation. Underground spaces benefit from thermal insulation against heat and cold, and building beneath the earth’s surface could help preserve ecosystems in the open air. What if we could embrace the benefits of subterranean dwelling while ameliorating the shortcomings? The Belgian design firm Claerhout–Van Biervliet Architects has a radical plan to do just this. The craziest part? Their prototype for the Periscope House could become a reality.

The project’s intricate complexity almost defies conventional design descriptions; it not only challenges common expectations of what architecture can and should do but also asks us to rethink the utility of imposing a dichotomy between physical and virtual realms, which are already merged in our lived realities. In short, the Periscope House — which is built completely below terrain level yet features a large central patio and a contour of outdoor space —  addresses common issues associated with underground environments by introducing a dynamic system of movable double mirrors. These mirrors, functioning as periscopes, can be adjusted to bring natural light and expansive views into the heart of the subterranean dwelling, transforming the typically dark and oppressive atmosphere into a verdant oasis.

During the day, solar-powered mechanisms elevate the mirrors, while at night, they retract, blending back into the landscape. This dual-purpose design also supports sustainability by utilizing gravitational energy, which is converted into mechanical energy to generate power (the upper mirror doubles as a plant container for hanging vegetation), integrating green infrastructure with cutting-edge technology. Most crucially, the project’s thesis is that the periscope system is “more than a reflection of reality. It revolutionizes our perception by entirely displacing it.”

In this exclusive interview, Architizer’s Managing Editor, Hannah Feniak, sits down with with Xaveer Claerhout, cofounder and architect at Claerhout–Van Biervliet Architects, to uncover the ideas, inspirations and details behind the visionary design and to explore how a radical proposal is also a buildable reality and a plausible vision for the future.

Hannah Feniak: Congratulations on winning your first A+Award! What does this kind of recognition mean for your firm, and how does it aid in developing your practice?

Xaveer Claerhout: It is an important endorsement for us. Our architectural firm Claerhout – Van Biervliet is engaged daily in designing and realizing architectural projects. These projects are continuously tested against reality. With Metamorphic Art Studio — our artistic and creative studio, which operates from within our architectural firm — we, together with our son and visual artist Adriaan Claerhout, conceive and develop innovative concepts such as the Periscope project on our own initiative. The common thread here for nearly two decades now has been our conviction that artifacts in the near future will partially be able to physically metamorphose, meaning that they will have the capacity to transform and adapt.

In 2008, we launched the principle of this ‘Metamorphic Architecture’ in conjunction with an exhibition of our first manifest movie, ‘Kinetower,’ and the first metamorphic prototypes of transforming lamps in Verona (Italy). Today, this A+Award indicates that the Periscope project is relevant and appreciated by both a specialized architectural jury and a global audience of architecture enthusiasts.

View over landscape on level -1: upper mirror up/lower mirror up 

No view over landscape: upper mirror down/lower mirror up | PERISCOPE – reality displacement as space enhancer and energy storage device by Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects, Concept | Popular Choice Winner, Unbuilt Private House (L > 3000 sq ft) | Visualizations by Adriaan Claerhout

HF: Your portfolio largely consists of context-driven residential designs with striking geometric and textural elements. How would you define your firm’s architectural approach and design philosophy?

XC: This is true for our specific architectural assignments we have realized so far with our architectural firm Claerhout – Van Biervliet. We have clients who approach us for a tailor-made building for their specific program and context. We create their house, apartment, retreat or office with an organic and flowing feeling and functionality, where light and space play the key role. Our driving force is creating spaces that inspire happiness and well-being.
Within Metamorphic Art Studio, we are looking for more archetype-driven solutions and innovations. The aim is not only to conceive but to also effectively realize these innovations as much as possible through integration into context-driven architectural designs.

We have become convinced through designing and developing many transformative prototypes, metamorphic light fixtures, buildings and artworks that there is an archetypal relationship between open forms and a lot of light and air — and vice versa. Some of our metamorphic artifacts, such as the artwork named ‘Cuts’ and the lamp named ‘New York,’ make part of the permanent collection of the Museum Centre Pompidou in Paris since 2016. Artifacts that can transform and metamorphose their shape in order to adapt to the needs of the moment are often intuitively and universally understood. Buildings come to life and open up in order to receive light and air where and when needed and can then close up again as if they were an organism.

Right: Upper mirror down, building closed | Left: Upper mirror up, building accessible

Upper mirror up; view over the landscape | PERISCOPE – reality displacement as space enhancer and energy storage device by Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects, Concept | Popular Choice Winner, Unbuilt Private House (L > 3000 sq ft) | Visualizations by Adriaan Claerhout

HF: Your A+Award-winning project, PERISCOPE, imagines a semi-subterranean structure that uses retractable mirrors to bring light and atmosphere below grade to create a microclimate. What inspired — or, led you to develop — this project?

A combination of several elements:
• The primal idea of retreating and being protected by a hole in the ground is a typically pandemic thought that triggered our imagination.
• The COVID-19 crisis gave us time to conceive and develop this innovative concept.
• The increasing scarcity of building land often results in enormous basements that nevertheless need to house primary living and working functions but always suffer from dreary ‘basement architecture’ with a lack of light and view.
• By extrapolating the idea of retractable periscope mirrors on an architectural scale, light and view can be brought to underground levels, solving the above issue.
• The basic fascination of finding solutions to discreetly nesting a building in a valuable natural environment.
• The challenge of reactivating a Roman or Palladian building scheme by making it four-dimensional and adaptive.
• Finally, the intriguing challenge of combining the centuries-old periscope system to bring light and view to a subterranean level with a gravity battery.

We have tried to bring all these elements together in a synergetic way. The short film, featured at the top of this article, illustrates how an underground building can come to life.

Left: Upper mirror down/lower mirror up, providing a view over the inner gardens | Center: Upper mirror rising  | Right: Upper mirror up

Upper mirror up/lower mirror -2, providing a view over the landscape for level -2 | PERISCOPE – reality displacement as space enhancer and energy storage device by Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects, Concept | Popular Choice Winner, Unbuilt Private House (L > 3000 sq ft) | Visualizations by Adriaan Claerhout

HF: With its dynamic solar-powered framework, imagined as a “space enhancer,” PERISCOPE presents an architecture that blurs the distinction between the physical and virtual realms — a phenomenon we experience daily. Why do you think it is important that architects explore this concept?

The physical reality is increasingly cannibalized by virtual reality. The latter tries more and more to compete with the ‘static’ physical world. It is Metamorphic Art Studio’s aspiration to provide a counterbalance by focusing on virtualizing the physical reality. Hence our fascination to make this physical reality four-dimensional cinematographic or metamorphic through art, design and architecture. This opens up a new truly dynamic world. Architecture designed and functioning as a living organism where all parts will have to interact extremely sparingly and efficiently. The tools are already available: Parametrics to design skin and bone architecture and by implementing mechatronica, Metamorphics to make this architecture smart.

HF: Conceptual projects are key for firms to hone their design approaches and fine-tune visualization styles. What role do “paper projects” like this one play in your studio’s culture?

In our view, Periscope is not a ‘paper project’ that fits within a utopian tradition. It is a visual 4-dimensional manifesto that opens up a world of possibilities and longs to be built in order to prove its case. The project goes beyond being an innovative concept, since the technical aspects and feasibility have already been elaborated quite extensively. Our goal is to find a client with vision, combined with a skilled team of executors in order to create magic, push boundaries and bring this project to life in this shape or another.

Left: Lower mirror descending | Right: View over the landscape, lower mirror down

Angle view of the upper mirror up and the lower mirror up, reflecting the inside | PERISCOPE – reality displacement as space enhancer and energy storage device by Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects, Concept | Popular Choice Winner, Unbuilt Private House (L > 3000 sq ft) | Visualizations by Adriaan Claerhout

HF: What are some of the key aspects of the process of creating PERISCOPE that will impact your built output moving forward?

A periscope is bidirectional. From underground, the view over the landscape suddenly comes inside. But what is underground is suddenly also displayed above ground. Art or car collections can be stored underground and displayed above ground when desired. Geologically interesting layers or archaeological findings can be made visible at a higher level. The mirrors can also be tilted, varying the field of view. We are currently designing a ritual building where the mirrors transition from the earthly to the heavenly. The mirrors can also become screens and bring digital content. In other words, architecture in the sharp middle between the virtual and the physical world, or in Platonic terms the Periscope as a cave explores the difference between reality and shadow. Within a broader context, the Periscope project indicates that we are always looking to discover new design paths so we can create interesting buildings.

HF: If you had one piece of advice to architecture firms considering entering the A+Awards next year, what would it be?

An opportunity not to be missed!

To see more of Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects’ visionary work, visit the firm’s in-depth Architizer profile, and be sure to explore the work of Metamorphic Art Studio and Adriaan Claerhout Studio as well.

This article was produced in partnership with Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects as part of an A+Awards special feature series. Top image: PERISCOPE – reality displacement as space enhancer and energy storage device by Claerhout – Van Biervliet Architects, Concept | Popular Choice Winner, Unbuilt Private House (L > 3000 sq ft) 

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Material Matters: LUO Studio’s Outside-the-Box Approach to Modern Craftsmanship

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

In the last few decades, there’s been a growing disconnect between what architects design and what people actually want (or need). The shiny, statement-making buildings that once dominated skylines are starting to feel out of touch. But maybe it’s on us as architects to bridge that gap. After all, our work should serve people, not just make a statement. Still, it’s easy to feel limited by what’s realistic. We can’t just start building everything out of cardboard to be more sustainable, right?

Well, this firm begs to differ.

Meet LUO Studio. The Beijing-based firm, led by Luo Yujie, is quietly but confidently redefining what architecture can be. Their projects don’t scream for attention with flashy designs or towering glass façades. Instead, they focus on sustainability, cultural preservation and real community impact while also pushing the boundaries of creativity and functionality. Whether it’s reimagining traditional techniques or experimenting with unconventional materials, LUO Studio is challenging the status quo by asking a simple question: How can architecture do better?

The answer, it seems, lies in embracing context, connecting buildings with their history and recognizing that using local materials and techniques is more important than ever.

So, what exactly are they doing to shake things up? Let’s take a closer look.

Innovating with Tradition: The Fusion of Past and Present

Prepared Rehmannia Root Crafts Exhibition Hall by LUO studio, Xiuwu County, Jiaozuo, China | Jury Winner, Cultural & Expo Centers, 12th Annual A+Awards

Prepared Rehmannia Root Crafts Exhibition Hall by LUO studio, Xiuwu County, Jiaozuo, China | Jury Winner, Cultural & Expo Centers, 12th Annual A+Awards

In an era where technology often overshadows tradition, LUO Studio takes a different approach. They believe history isn’t just something to remember but a foundation to build on. This philosophy shines through in one of their latest A+Award-winning projects — the Prepared Rehmannia Root Crafts Exhibition Hall in Xiuwu County.

Once an herb-processing factory, the space has been transformed into an exhibition hall that celebrates the region’s rich history and craftsmanship. The design draws inspiration from traditional Rehmannia root preparation methods, particularly the ancient practice of “nine steaming and nine sun-drying,” which emphasized the importance of sunlight. LUO Studio incorporated this concept by creating a circular layout that optimizes natural light, allowing it to play a central role in the building’s atmosphere. The structure itself uses local materials like red brick and timber with modern construction techniques, honoring the area’s cultural heritage while addressing contemporary needs.

Timber Bridge in Gulou Waterfront by LUO studio, Jiangmen, China | Jury Winner, Architecture +Wood, 10th Annual A+Awards

Timber Bridge in Gulou Waterfront by LUO studio, Jiangmen, China| Jury Winner, Architecture +Wood, 10th Annual A+Awards

Another project that exemplifies their commitment to innovation rooted in tradition is the Timber Bridge in Gulou Waterfront. Constructed from natural pine wood using time-honored Chinese arched techniques, the bridge is designed with three large curved beams, assembled on-site using a combination of traditional joinery and modern steel-strengthened bolts. This method, rooted in historical practices, provides both strength and flexibility, essential for accommodating varying boat sizes beneath.

A key feature of the bridge is its covered corridor, a nod to ancient Chinese bridge designs. Traditionally used to protect wooden structures from the elements, this corridor not only shields the bridge from heavy rainfall but also enhances the experience for visitors. The careful spacing of smaller wooden components creates a stable framework, while gaps between the layers allow natural light to filter through, offering glimpses of the water below.

Beyond Conventional Materials: Designing With Cardboard

Corrugated Cardboard-Formed Exhibition Space by LUO studio, Shanghai, China | Popular Choice Winner, Sustainable Interior Project, 12th Annual A+Awards 

Learning from the past and using traditional materials might be essential, but a few of LUO Studio’s projects that really stand out are not made from traditional, but rather unconventional materials.

The studio created a series of cardboard-formed exhibition spaces, taking a highly creative approach to a material often overlooked in architecture and transforming it into something both impressive and surprisingly functional.

Beginning with Version 1.0 for the “Back to the Future: Breaking the Time Barrier” exhibition in 2021, LUO Studio took on the challenge of using corrugated cardboard as the primary material for an entire exhibition space. This initial experiment was more than just a test of material — it was a statement about sustainability and creativity in architecture.

Cardboard-formed Exhibition Space 2.0 – Xinyang Book Market: Books ‘N Tea by LUO studio, Xinyang, China

Building on the success of their first attempt, Version 2.0 emerged in 2023 at the Xinyang Book Market. Here, they refined their approach, creating a space that was not only structurally sound but also visually engaging. The project demonstrated that cardboard, when used thoughtfully, can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Two Paper Houses by LUO studio, Zhengzhou, China | Popular Choice Winner, Sustainable Interior Project, 12th Annual A+Awards 

The latest evolution, Version 3.0, saw LUO Studio taking this concept even further with the creation of two “paper houses” for the Båt Odes to the Land exhibition in Zhengzhou. These structures were designed to be stable and durable despite the inherent challenges of using cardboard. The circular design of the spaces, combined with careful engineering, ensured that the buildings were not only practical but also conveyed a sense of ritual and purpose.

The result across all three versions is a series of spaces that defy expectations, showing that even a material as humble as cardboard can be transformed into a viable, sustainable option for architectural design.

Community-Centric and Adaptive Design: Building with a Purpose

Jiulongfeng Children Learning Center for Conservation by LUO studio, Huangshan City, China | Popular Choice Winner, Architecture +Joy, 12th Annual A+Awards

From reviving ancient techniques to pushing the limits of material use, LUO Studio’s approach is both innovative and grounded. But their work doesn’t stop there. The studio is also deeply committed to building with a purpose, ensuring that their designs make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.

A perfect example of this commitment is the Jiulongfeng Children’s Learning Center for Conservation, this year’s A+Awards Popular Choice winner in the Architecture +Joy category. The project goes beyond preserving traditional Huizhou carpentry techniques; it focuses on empowering the local community. Located in the heart of Shangling Village, the renovation was a collective effort, bringing together villagers, master carpenters and LUO Studio’s team. Community involvement was central to the project’s success, with residents participating in every stage, from site clearance to construction.

The outcome is more than just a learning center, but a space that reflects the community’s spirit, offering a welcoming environment where children can play and learn. The unique, cabin-like structure serves as a place for education and a source of pride and cultural identity for the village. By prioritizing community engagement, LUO Studio has created a project that not only meets functional needs but also reinforces the social fabric and collective ownership of the space.

Redefining the Role of the Architect

Jiulongfeng Children Learning Center for Conservation by LUO studio, Huangshan City, China | Popular Choice Winner, Architecture +Joy, 12th Annual A+Awards

LUO Studio’s work is a reminder that architecture can — and should — be more than just eye-catching structures. Their projects encapsulate a commitment to tradition, material innovation, sustainability and, perhaps most importantly, community engagement. By merging historical craftsmanship with modern needs, experimenting with unconventional materials like cardboard and centering their designs around the people they serve, LUO Studio is setting a new standard for what architecture can achieve.

At the heart of their work is a holistic approach that refuses to separate design from purpose. Whether it’s reviving ancient carpentry techniques or rethinking what’s possible with recyclable materials, LUO Studio consistently demonstrates that meaningful architecture is not about following trends but about understanding and responding to context — cultural, environmental and social. Their projects are as much about the process as the finished product, engaging communities and fostering a sense of shared ownership and pride.

Looking forward, LUO Studio’s approach offers a compelling model for the future of architecture. As the industry grapples with the challenges of sustainability, cultural preservation and social responsibility, their work provides a blueprint for how architects can create designs that are not only innovative but also deeply rooted in the communities they serve. In doing so, LUO Studio is redefining what it means to be an architect in the 21st century — one who listens, learns and builds with purpose.

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

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Rethinking School Design: How Education Architecture Reflects Changing Views on Childhood

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters.

For decades, school design was synonymous with rigidity. Rows of identical classrooms, harsh lighting and long, narrow corridors created environments that felt more like factories — or worse, prisons — than places for nurturing young minds. This comparison isn’t entirely accidental. While it may be more legend than the fact that many schools were designed by the same architects who built prisons, the underlying principles guiding their design were strikingly similar. The focus was on efficiency, control and uniformity — goals just as relevant to prisons as early educational institutions.

Large institutional architecture firms, often responsible for designing schools, libraries, hospitals and prisons, employed similar principles across these different building types. These designs prioritized managing large groups of people, keeping them orderly and minimizing disruption. The result was monolithic, drab and often devoid of warmth or inspiration — structures that, like prisons, organized people and their activities in ways that stripped away individuality and creativity.

But the world has changed. And so has our understanding of childhood and adolescence. Society now sees children as individuals with unique needs and ways of learning. The rigid designs of the past are giving way to spaces that embrace creativity, exploration and a more holistic approach to education. This shift is clearly reflected in the A+Awards winners and finalists in the education categories, where innovative designs redefine how we think about learning environments. With that in mind, this article explores the child-centric principles shaping the design of contemporary educational spaces.

Scale and Sensory Experience

Shanghai Blue Bay Kindergarten by EAST CHINA ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & RESEARCH INSTITUTE | STUDIO DINGSHUN, Shang Hai Shi, China

When it comes to early education (kindergartens and elementary schools to be more precise) the environment plays a critical role in shaping a child’s experience. For young children, scale and sensory engagement are particularly important. Spaces that are too large or overwhelming can create feelings of anxiety or discomfort, while environments that are thoughtfully scaled and filled with sensory richness can inspire curiosity and joy.

The Shanghai Blue Bay Kindergarten exemplifies this principle by carefully tailoring its environment to the needs of young children. Located on a small site surrounded by high-rise buildings, the design uses a staggered layout to break the building into smaller, child-friendly volumes, ensuring the space feels welcoming rather than overwhelming.

The inclusion of themed courtyards and open activity rooms that connect indoor and outdoor spaces creates diverse sensory experiences, encouraging exploration and play. These design choices not only make the environment more engaging and nurturing but also support the holistic development of young learners, setting a new standard for early education spaces.

Familiar, Home-like Environments

École de l’Étincelle (Lab-école) by BGLA architecture | urban design, Agence Spatiale inc., APPAREIL Architecture, Chicoutimi, Saguenay, Canada | Popular Choice Winner, Primary and High Schools, 12th Annual A+Awards

Another noticeable shift in educational architecture is a one towards creating more familiar, home-like environments, especially in primary and high schools. This approach aims to move away from the rigid, institutional designs of the past and instead focus on making schools more welcoming and supportive spaces for students.

L’école de l’Étincelle in Chicoutimi is a prime example of this principle. The school is designed as a series of small, house-like units around a central courtyard, creating a village-like atmosphere that mirrors the warmth and comfort of home. The use of locally sourced wood and a design that intertwines with the residential surroundings reflect this new direction in school architecture.

Inside, classrooms are grouped to foster collaboration and a sense of community, while outdoor spaces offer safe, inviting areas for social interaction and exploration. This shift towards less rigid, more nurturing environments marks a significant evolution in how educational spaces are designed to support the holistic development of students.

Flexible and Personalized Spaces

Jinshan No.2 Experimental Primary School by LINEWORKS STUDIO, Shanghai, China

Apart from creating familiar, home-like environments, there’s also a noticeable shift towards flexibility and personalization in educational spaces. Schools are increasingly designed to adapt to the varying needs of each student, moving away from rigid, traditional layouts that restrict how and where learning takes place.

The Jinshan No.2 Experimental Primary School in Shanghai exemplifies this approach. The design focuses on creating spaces where learning can occur anywhere, not just in conventional classrooms. Transparent folding doors replace solid walls, allowing spaces to adapt based on the activity at hand. Public areas have been transformed into informal learning environments that encourage interaction and inquiry-based exploration.

Vibrant, locally inspired colors and child-friendly design elements make the school both engaging and responsive to students’ needs. By prioritizing flexibility and personalization, the school supports a dynamic educational experience, reflecting the diverse ways children learn today.

Cultivating Imagination Through Playful Design

Comprehensive renovation and extension of the Kindergarten, U?enjak unit by OD-DO architecture and Navor, Ljubljana, Slovenia | Popular Choice Winner, Sustainable Adaptive Reuse or Renovation Project, 12th Annual A+Awards

Playfulness and creativity are increasingly recognized as essential components of early education. Spaces that stimulate imagination can significantly improve a child’s ability to explore, learn and grow. This principle is beautifully embodied in the Kindergarten Pedenjped U?enjak Unit.

Originally a rigid, boxy structure with little to inspire curiosity, this kindergarten has been reimagined into a vibrant and imaginative space. The design introduces organic shapes, vibrant colors and playful forms, creating child-friendly spaces that move away from traditional classroom layouts. Curving corridors lead to shared playrooms that double as learning zones, fostering a sense of exploration and wonder. The renovation also prioritizes natural light, transforming the previously drab interiors into a bright and welcoming environment.

This shift from a utilitarian structure to a dynamic, imaginative space highlights how thoughtful design and sustainable renovation can profoundly impact a child’s learning experience. By embracing creativity and interaction, this kindergarten sets a new standard for how existing buildings can be adapted to foster growth, creativity and sustainability, turning everyday education into an adventure.

Integrating Nature and Learning

LYCEUM School by DL Atelier, Guangxi, China

While the benefits of exposure to nature have long been recognized, modern schools are increasingly weaving natural elements directly into their architecture. This approach is especially important in fostering holistic growth in children, as interaction with nature has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce stress and promote well-being across all stages of development.

The LYCEUM School embraces this principle by making nature an integral part of its design. The school’s layout features interconnected courtyards filled with trees and plants, creating spaces where students can interact with nature throughout their day. Classrooms open directly to these courtyards, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor learning. This integration allows students to move freely between environments, encouraging exploration and reinforcing their connection with the natural world.

By prioritizing natural elements in its design, the this school not only strengthens academic learning but also nurtures students’ emotional and physical development, demonstrating how essential nature is in a well-rounded education.

Engaging Multiple Senses in Learning

Ehrman Crest Elementary and Middle School by CannonDesign, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

Building on the principle of creating diverse and engaging environments, there’s a growing emphasis on designs that activate multiple senses, making learning more immersive and interactive.

Ehrman Crest Elementary and Middle School exemplifies this by transforming its entire environment into a multi-sensory learning space. Collaborating with the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, the school integrates museum-like elements—artwork, tactile exhibits and interactive displays—throughout its design, encouraging exploration beyond traditional classrooms.

This approach allows students to engage in ways that resonate with them individually, whether through visual, tactile, or collaborative experiences. By activating every corner of the school, Ehrman Crest redefines how educational spaces can engage students, making learning a holistic, dynamic experience.

Valuing Time and Space for Unstructured Learning

Huizhen High School by Zhejiang University of Technology Engineering Design Group, China

In the high-pressure environment of high school, it’s rare to find spaces intentionally designed for unstructured learning. However, Huizhen High School in China boldly challenges this norm by reimagining how time and space can be used to foster personal growth and well-being.

The school’s design embraces a unique approach by prioritizing areas where students can escape academic pressures and engage in self-directed exploration. The inclusion of a “floating forest,” a serene and natural retreat within the campus, offers students an unconventional sanctuary for relaxation and reflection — an approach that stands in stark contrast to the traditional rigidity of high school layouts.

This innovative design goes beyond merely breaking away from standard classroom arrangements. By creatively dispersing classrooms and incorporating winding paths, Huizhen High School disrupts the typical efficiency-driven mindset that often governs educational architecture. Instead, the school fosters an environment where students can balance academic demands with moments of tranquility and introspection. This recognition of the value of unstructured time for teenagers is both refreshing and vital, acknowledging that learning and personal development are deeply intertwined and often occur outside the confines of scheduled classes.

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters.

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Sustainable Practice: The Chengdu Panda Pavilions and the Architecture of Immersive Conservation

The jury and the public have had their say — feast your eyes on the winners of Architizer's 12th Annual A+Awards. Subscribe to our Awards Newsletter to receive future program updates.

The problem with news media, particularly in the social age, is the propensity to focus on negatives. This is rarely more obvious than coverage of climate and the environment. 

On the one hand, denialist tendencies are exhibited by some corners of the press, usually in the form of scathing critiques taking aim at arguments based on modeling and estimates rather than “hard facts.” A disparaging light in which to cast any scientific study, let alone those relating to a crisis we are now watching happen in real-time.

On the other side of the fence, green-aligned journalism is the stuff of nightmares. Unless we choose a different path, we are essentially on a collision course with searing temperatures, the collapse of vital natural systems, the disappearance of most species and, eventually, the complete exhaustion of resources. 

This blunt object narrative is clearly necessary, considering the academic consensus that climate change is definitely taking place and poses an existential threat to life on Earth. Yet, we’re not actually doing very much about it at any reasonable pace. Shock and awe is an obvious tactic.

Nevertheless, it’s also important to celebrate and trumpet the victories that have come from our painfully slow movement towards more environmentally conscious attitudes. If everything is doomed there might not be much point in trying. If policies are working to mitigate and restore, telling people about it means there’s more chance of them taking an interest in getting involved.

Inside The Panda Pavilions at The Chengdu National Giant Panda Research and Breeding Center by Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch, Chengdu, China

Conservation is one of the biggest shifts in how we view the planet and all its inhabitants. The fact we’re losing species faster than at any other point in recorded history is a product of how bad things have been allowed to get for centuries, and how difficult wildernesses are to police, not a lack of effort to stop the decline today.

Bald eagles, California condor, the swift fox, and licking river mussels are all examples of US wildlife success stories. Species that were driven almost to the point of extinction, before clawing their way back from the brink with some human assistance. Outside the United States, there are many more cases like these.

The Giant Panda is one. By the 1980s, just 1,100 or so of these incredible creatures were thought to still exist in China. A decade ago, new estimates put this closer to 2,000 and rising. In response, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) removed them from the Red List of Threatened Species. 

The Chengdu National Giant Panda Research and Breeding Center has played an integral role in this recovery, and while there is still a very long way to go before we can consider pandas ‘safe’, the institution is already preparing for the future of its vital work. The world’s leading site of study for this type of bear has recently expanded with an Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch-designed series of structures made from wood-grained aluminum and bamboo.

External view of The Panda Pavilions by Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch, Chengdu, China

Aesthetically made to reflect the vast prairie landscapes beyond the sprawling city of Chengdu-proper, the four ring-shaped pavilions complement the sloped parklands outside the walls. Some elements sink beneath the ground or tree line, and others rising above them, and offer both behavioral research labs for the scientists and the living habitats of the pandas themselves. 

Outdoor terraces and indoor areas provide spaces for the animals to play, sleep and eat. Administrative offices and rooms for preserving and storing the bamboo that plays such a dominant part in panda diets, and interactive educational and exhibition spaces are also located within the same structures. This means the third stakeholders — visitors — quickly find themselves fully immersed in both the human-led studies and the daily life of bears. 

Breaking down the fourth wall, in a manner of speaking, and offering a seamless integration between bears, researchers and members of the public is essential to create a sense of participation in the preservation and research process. An important win when we need to engage with far wider numbers on issues such as species decline, and just how precious living things are. 

“The design of the panda pavilions concerns with the integration of human experience, architecture and environment. It is intended as a convergence of architecture, landscape and land art. While the project provides a pedestrian friendly navigation experience for the visitors, it prioritizes an animal-friendly environment to minimize the alienation of ecology, promoting biodiversity conservation,” Jiang says of the project. Looking at the results, it would seem there’s another environmental success story worth celebrating. 

The jury and the public have had their say — feast your eyes on the winners of Architizer's 12th Annual A+Awards. Subscribe to our Awards Newsletter to receive future program updates.

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Sky High Standards: The New Era of More Sustainable and Passenger-Friendly Airports

The jury and the public have had their say — feast your eyes on the winners of Architizer's 12th Annual A+Awards. Subscribe to our Awards Newsletter to receive future program updates.

How can we transform our airport experience, which marks the beginning of our journey, into something more seamless and enjoyable? Facing the challenges of airport logistics, passport control and security checkpoints, we naturally wish for a smoother, more pleasant experience. This growing desire is driving a transformative shift in airport design, guided by two crucial imperatives. First, there is a pressing need for energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable facilities, reflecting a global commitment to reducing carbon footprints and lessening the impact of large-scale infrastructure. Second, airport design increasingly prioritizes enhancing the traveler experience, creating functional, comfortable and engaging spaces.

This dual approach acknowledges that airports are more than just transit points; they are complex ecosystems where environmental responsibility and passenger comfort must harmoniously coexist, turning what used to be a source of anxiety into a peaceful prelude to your journey. Let’s explore lessons from three cutting-edge before discussing the new, future directions of global airport design.

Garden City Spirit at Kempegowda Airport

Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru — Terminal 2

Kempegowda International Airport, Terminal 2

Kempegowda International Airport, Terminal 2 by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Bengaluru, India | Photos by Ar. Ekansh Goel from Studio Recall | Jury Winner and Popular Choice Winner, Sustainable Transportation Project, 12th Annual A+Awards

Inspired by Bengaluru’s reputation as India’s “garden city,” Terminal 2 (T2) at Kempegowda International Airport redefines the airport experience by integrating nature into the 2.7 million-square-foot (255,000-square-meter) bustling international hub. The complex, clad in brick, engineered bamboo, and glass, comprises interconnected buildings linked by outdoor landscaped areas.

The main terminal block, which includes check-in, immigration, security, retail, arrivals and baggage claim, is separated from the gates at Terminal 2 by a 29.5-foot-wide (90-meter-wide) “forest belt” featuring indigenous flora, meandering paths and bamboo-clad pavilions. Bridges, outdoor pathways and large skylights create a calming, immersive experience that contrasts with the bustling airport activity. Plants hanging from the bamboo ceiling and green walls further enhance the terminal. The nature-themed design responds to the horticultural heritage and climate of Bengaluru while also promoting sustainability.

A Multi-Sensory Oasis at Changi Airport

Changi Airport Terminal 2

Changi Airport Terminal 2

Changi Airport Terminal 2 by BOIFFILS Architectures, Singapore | Photos by Fabian Ong for Changi Airport Group | Popular Choice Winner, Transport Interiors, 12th Annual A+Awards

The expansion and renovation of Terminal 2 at Singapore’s Changi Airport, spanning 1,291,670 square feet (120,000 square meters) across three levels. This redesign aims to enhance the traveler experience through spectacular visual, auditory, and interactive elements, transforming the terminal into a serene, multi-sensory indoor landscape. Water features, rock formations, and lush vegetation blur the boundaries between architecture and nature. Immersive installations like Wonderfall and Dreamscape offer a relaxing retreat for layover passengers. The Departure Hall’s check-in islands create a spacious feel and ensure smooth circulation. Green walls, vibrant carpeting, and organic design elements enhance the environment. Artisanal materials and handcrafted features, like organic-shaped counters and blown glass chandeliers, add to the human experience. Together, these elements contribute to a stress-free journey for all travelers.

Sustainable Expansion at Boston Logan

Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E

Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E

Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E by AECOM, Boston, Massachusetts | Photos by Ema Peter Photography.

Terminal E at Boston Logan International Airport has expanded by 320,000 square feet (29,730 square meters) and renovated 70,000 square feet (6,500 square meters) to accommodate eight million passengers annually. The design integrates extensive daylighting, photovoltaic glass panels, and electrochromic glass to create a bright, comfortable environment. Features like the multi-story great hall and clerestory windows add to the aesthetic appeal, making the space more enjoyable for travelers.

Moreover, the terminal prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability using hybrid energy recovery systems, efficient fixtures and recycled materials. The all-electric terminal and electrification of apron vehicles reduce carbon emissions and power consumption, contributing to a net-zero strategy. Additionally, the terminal’s design includes measures to withstand extreme weather events and serves as a noise barrier, further enhancing the travel experience. It also serves as a noise barrier, powering airplanes at the gate to cut hydrocarbon use. Critical buildings are raised above the floodplain to enhance resilience.

Balancing Aesthetics, Comfort and Security

LaGuardia Airport Terminal B by HOK, New York City, New York | Popular Choice Winner, Transportation Infrastructure, 12th Annual A+Awards

These three examples demonstrate how thoughtfully soothing design and careful analysis to streamline the various operations can significantly enhance the overall travel experience. They also underscore the importance of understanding travelers’ behavior and stress levels during their airport journey.

We can enjoy our journey in a relatively stress-free land side zone, leisurely exploring shopping, food and beverage areas or moving through moving walkways on the way to our gate. But, as much as the airport might try to keep things calm, there’s always a mix of excitement and uneasiness that creeps in well before we arrive at the airport. Our stress peaks at the security checkpoint, widely recognized as the most anxiety-inducing process of the journey for many travelers, closely followed by passport control. These stages can significantly overshadow the relative ease felt in the calmer areas of the airport. But how much say do architects and designers have in these areas, where security is at its height, full attention is required, and fewer distractions are preferable?

From a design perspective, security and passport checkpoint zones must adhere to strict regulations that prioritize security and efficient traveler flow, leaving limited room for design expression. On the other hand, even within these constraints, shouldn’t these areas still reflect the overall theme of the facility — albeit on a smaller scale and with less emphasis — to achieve a cohesive environment and enhance travelers’ experience? Integrating calming design elements, such as natural lighting, greenery and clear signage, can reduce stress and create a more pleasant environment. Additionally, incorporating efficient technology and streamlined processes can minimize wait times and enhance overall comfort, making these areas less intimidating and more user-friendly without compromising security.

From Check-In to Departure: How Technology Elevates the Airport Journey

San Francisco International Airport, Boarding Area E

San Francisco International Airport, Boarding Area E designed by Gensler, San Francisco, California | Photo by Joe Fletcher

Technology significantly enhances efficiency and reduces stress at check-in, security and passport checkpoints by cutting wait times and streamlining processes. Self-check-in kiosks empower travelers to swiftly check in, print boarding passes, and tag their luggage. Biometric verification methods, including facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, expedite identity checks, ensuring a seamless transition. Mobile apps and digital passes keep travelers informed with real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and security wait times. At security checkpoints, smart screening technologies such as automated tray return systems and body scanners make the process quicker and less intrusive.

The integration of these technological processes into airport design ensures that efficiency and traveler convenience are seamlessly woven into the facility’s infrastructure, enhancing the overall passenger experience. Gensler’s renovation of San Francisco International Airport’s Terminal 3 Boarding Area E (T3BAE) exemplifies innovative design and interactive technology within a thoughtfully curated soothing environment, creating a space where travelers will truly enjoy spending their time.

From Green Design to Traveler Comfort: The New Standard in Airports

By integrating energy-efficient features and sustainable practices, airports like Boston Logan’s Terminal E and Bengaluru’s Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport demonstrate a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Simultaneously, thoughtful design elements and advanced technologies ensure a stress-free, enjoyable journey for travelers. The future of airport design lies in this delicate balance, where aesthetics and functionality coexist to create efficient, comfortable and eco-friendly transit hubs that prioritize both the planet and the people.

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