Articles tagged with "sustainable-architecture"
New algae system cuts building's energy cost by absorbing indoor heat
Researchers at Murdoch University in Western Australia are developing microalgae-filled photobioreactors to integrate into buildings and urban structures, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and environmental health. These systems leverage microalgae's rapid carbon fixation and heat-absorbing properties to reduce indoor overheating, thereby lowering reliance on air conditioning and cutting energy costs. Western Australia's sunny climate is particularly suitable for cultivating microalgae, which can fix carbon dioxide at rates 10 to 50 times faster than terrestrial plants. A notable prototype, the Urban Algae Tree, mimics natural trees by providing shade, capturing rainwater, and operating on solar energy. This 1,500-liter system can scrub 1,000 kg of CO2 and release 700 kg of oxygen annually. The research is moving toward real-world applications, especially targeting rural mining accommodations ("dongas") where photobioreactors would offer passive cooling, air purification, and mental health benefits through nature-inspired design. Beyond remote sites, the technology could be
energysustainable-architecturemicroalgaephotobioreactorscarbon-capturebuilding-efficiencyrenewable-energyPhotos: These kinetic solar crown clusters could generate 210,000 kWh of energy annually
The Fiji Solar Crown, developed by MASK Architects in collaboration with TesserianTech, is an innovative solar-integrated living system designed to address energy and water challenges in island nations like Fiji. This system features a Dual-Axis Concave Mirror Crown that transforms residential units into self-sustaining power plants, combining cultural respect with advanced engineering. Inspired by traditional Fijian bure architecture, the design replaces the roof apex with a parabolic solar mirror that tracks the sun with dual-axis rotation, optimizing solar energy capture while also harvesting rainwater and providing shading to create a cooled microclimate. The system is modular, available in three sizes—3, 5, and 7 meters in diameter—each tailored to different community needs, from localized agricultural power to residential use in floating villas or hilltop homes. The flagship 7-meter module, arranged vertically over three levels, supports residential living with communal, domestic, and observation spaces. Clusters of these units can generate substantial energy, with ten
energysolar-energyrenewable-energysolar-powerenergy-harvestingsustainable-architecturedual-axis-solar-trackingSweden launches wind-powered car park built from old turbine blades
Sweden has launched the Niels Bohr car park in Lund’s Brunnshög district, a pioneering facility constructed using 57 recycled wind turbine blades from the decommissioned Nørre Økse Sø wind farm operated by Vattenfall. These blades, typically difficult to recycle due to their composite glass and carbon fiber materials, were repurposed as non-load-bearing “curtain walls” covering much of the building’s façade. The five-story car park offers 365 spaces, including 40 electric vehicle charging points, and features sustainability elements such as solar panels on the roof and pollinator-friendly plants on the façade. Architect Jonas Lloyd emphasized the project’s role as a symbol and practical example of sustainability and circular economy principles. For Vattenfall, one of Europe’s largest wind energy developers, the project demonstrates that large-scale circular solutions can meet cost, safety, and scheduling demands. The company has committed to recycling 100% of its turbine blades by 2030 and has banned
energyrenewable-energywind-turbine-bladesrecyclingsustainable-architecturesolar-panelselectric-vehicle-chargingThis self-sufficient modular house was 3D-printed in just one week
The Tiny House Lux, designed by ODA Architects in Luxembourg, represents a pioneering advancement in 3D-printed modular housing. This non-towable tiny house, spanning 47m² with a narrow and elongated layout, was constructed with remarkable speed—the core 3D printing took just one week, and the entire project is expected to be completed within four weeks. The design emphasizes functional efficiency, featuring a living area, kitchen, bathroom, technical space, and bedroom, all arranged to maximize usability within its compact footprint. Sustainability and self-sufficiency are central to the project. The house employs solar-powered underfloor heating using film technology, with solar panels on the roof supplying electricity for heating and other energy needs. The 3D-printed walls incorporate eco-friendly insulation, reducing emissions compared to traditional construction methods. Its modular design allows for assembly, disassembly, and potential relocation, minimizing demolition waste and supporting circular construction practices. Additionally, the house is designed to integrate harmoniously
energysolar-power3D-printingmodular-constructionsustainable-architectureunderfloor-heatingeco-friendly-materialsGerman students grow igloos from mushrooms for sustainable shelter
A team of architecture students at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences (Frankfurt UAS) in Germany has developed MyGlu, a sustainable, mushroom-based igloo designed for hot, dry climates. The dome-shaped prototype is constructed entirely from mycelium—the root-like structure of fungi—grown on wood waste. This lightweight, modular, and fully biodegradable structure offers natural insulation, water resistance, and sound-dampening properties, making it suitable for climate-affected regions, humanitarian crises, or areas with material shortages. The design draws inspiration from traditional Arctic igloos but is specifically tailored to provide cooling and shelter in arid environments. The project, led by Florian Mähl, PhD, aims to establish mycelium-based construction as a key research focus at Frankfurt UAS, with plans to improve production processes and expand applied studies. MyGlu demonstrated promising thermal and acoustic performance during testing, showing potential as a low-cost, climate-neutral housing solution. Recognized with the university’s Sustain Award in
materialssustainable-materialsmyceliumgreen-buildinginsulationbiodegradable-materialssustainable-architectureFukushima football club unveils Japan's first circular timber stadium
Fukushima United FC, in collaboration with architecture startup VUILD, has unveiled plans for Japan’s first circular timber stadium in Fukushima Prefecture. The 5,000-seat venue is designed with sustainability and circular construction principles at its core, using laminated wood sourced locally from Fukushima forests. The stadium’s components are engineered for disassembly and reuse, promoting recycling of local resources. Its seating is distributed into four separate volumes with individual entrances, maintaining a human scale and fostering community accessibility. The design draws inspiration from Japan’s Shikinen Sengu tradition of ritual shrine rebuilding, emphasizing cycles of resources, community, and craftsmanship. This includes reforestation efforts, woodworking education, and participatory construction to regenerate local skills and materials. Structurally, the stadium features hyperbolic paraboloid timber shells forming the roof, allowing for cantilevered spans and referencing the steep thatched roofs of historic Ōuchi-juku. Passive energy strategies address Fukushima’s climate by optimizing shading, ventilation, insulation,
materialssustainable-architecturetimber-constructioncircular-economyenergy-efficiencypassive-energy-designrecyclingSpaceship-style LA museum to launch in 2026 with sci-fi treasures
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, designed by MAD Architects, is set to open in Los Angeles in 2026 after years of delays and a relocation from its originally planned Chicago site. The futuristic, spaceship-like structure in Exposition Park features over 300,000 square feet across five floors, including galleries, theaters, and event spaces. Its façade is composed of more than 1,500 curved fiberglass-reinforced polymer panels and glass, with green landscaping and elevated public areas. The museum’s collection spans global narrative art and media, showcasing works by artists such as Norman Rockwell, Frida Kahlo, and Gordon Parks, alongside props and artifacts from George Lucas’s film legacy, including Star Wars. George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson envisioned the museum as a tribute to illustrators and narrative art, emphasizing its role in inspiring imagination and achievement, particularly in science fiction. The museum aims to honor often overlooked visual storytellers and serve as a cultural landmark blending architecture, art, and
materialsenergysustainable-architecturefiberglass-reinforced-polymereco-friendly-technologygreen-buildingrenewable-energy-systemsWorld’s largest solar mural turns 34,500 sqft wall into power generator
The SunRise residential building in Alberta, Canada, has set a Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural, covering 34,500 square feet and generating 267 kW of solar capacity to power the building’s common areas. This project integrates building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) with vibrant artwork by Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal, honoring First Nations and Chinese cultures. The installation transforms a 1970s high-rise into a sustainable landmark, combining cultural expression with cutting-edge solar technology developed by Toronto-based Mitrex in collaboration with Avenue Living Asset Management, MBC Group, and Chandos Construction. Originally planned as a smaller 60 kW solar system, the project expanded to meet Canada’s Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative requirements for at least 50% decarbonization. The innovative BIPV retrofit uses solar cells embedded behind custom artwork on an aluminum honeycomb core, incorporating integrated rainscreen, insulation, and sub-framing systems compatible with existing building workflows. This approach reduced installation complexity
energysolar-energybuilding-integrated-photovoltaicsBIPVsustainable-architecturerenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyWorld's first net-zero energy mosque breaks ground in Abu Dhabi
energysolar-powersustainable-architecturenet-zero-energypassive-coolingeco-friendly-designrammed-earth-wallsLiving tattoos for buildings might turn urban walls into air purifiers
materialsenergypollutioncarbon-capturesustainable-architecturebioactive-surfacesurban-innovation