Casa Morena | © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG In the coastal enclave of Lagos, Portugal, Mário Martins Atelier has crafted Casa Morena. This residence quietly asserts itself as an ode to the dialogue between architecture and its natural setting. Completed in 2024, this project demonstrates a considered response to its environment, where the interplay of light, material, and landscape defines a sense of place rather than architectural imposition. Casa Morena Technical Information Architects1-5: Mário Martins Atelier Location: Lagos, Portugal Project Years: 2024 Photographs: © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG A simple house, one that wishes to be discreet and to be influenced by its location, to become a house that is pleasant with thoughtful landscaping. – Mário Martins Atelier Casa Morena Photographs © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG © Fernando Guerra / FG+SG A Contextual Response to Landscape and Light The design of Casa Morena finds its genesis in the site itself, a pine-scented plot overlooking the expanse of a bay. The pine trees, longstanding witnesses to the landscape’s evolution, provide the project’s visual anchor and spatial logic. In a move that both respects and celebrates these natural elements, Mário Martins Atelier structured the house’s reticulated plan to echo the presence of the trees, creating a composition that unfolds as a series of volumes harmonizing with the vertical rhythm of the trunks. The solid base of the house, built from locally sourced schist, emerges directly from the terrain. These robust walls establish a tactile continuity with the ground, their rough textures anchoring the architecture within the landscape. In contrast, the upper volumes of the house adopt a distinctly lighter expression: horizontal planes rendered in white plaster, their smooth surfaces catching and refracting the region’s luminous sun. This duality, earthbound solidity, and aerial lightness establish an architectural narrative rooted in the elemental. Casa Morena Experiential Flow Casa Morena’s spatial arrangement articulates a clear hierarchy of public and private domains. On the ground floor, the house embraces openness and transparency. An expansive entrance hall blurs the threshold inside and out, guiding inhabitants and visitors into a luminous social heart. The lounge, kitchen, and office flow seamlessly into the garden, unified by a continuous glazed façade that invites the outside in. This deliberate porosity extends to a covered terrace, an intermediary space that dissolves the boundary between shelter and exposure. The terrace, framed by the garden’s green canopy and the swimming pool’s long line, becomes a place of repose and contemplation. The pool itself demarcates the transition from a cultivated garden to the looser, more rugged landscape beyond, its linear form echoing the horizon’s expanse. Ascending to the upper floor, the architectural language shifts towards intimacy. The bedrooms, each with direct access to terraces and patios, create secluded zones that still maintain a fluid relationship with the outdoors. A discreet rooftop terrace, accessible from these private quarters, offers a hidden sanctuary where the interplay of views and light remains uninterrupted. Material Tectonics and Environmental Strategy Casa Morena’s material palette is rooted in regional specificity and tactile sensibility. Schist, extracted from the site, is not merely a structural element but a narrative thread linking the building to its geological past. Its earthy warmth and rugged surface provide a counterpoint to the luminous white of the upper volumes, an articulation of contrast that enlivens the building’s silhouette. White, the chromatic signature of the Algarve region, is employed with restraint and nuance. Its reflective qualities intensify the play of shadow and light, a dynamic that shifts with the passing of the day. In this interplay, architecture becomes an instrument for registering the ephemeral, and the environment itself becomes a participant in the spatial drama. Environmental stewardship is also woven into the project’s DNA. Discreetly integrated systems on the roof harness solar energy and manage water resources, extending the house’s commitment to a sustainable coexistence with its setting. Casa Morena Plans Basement | © Mario Martins Atelier Ground Level | © Mario Martins Atelier Upper Level | © Mario Martins Atelier Roof Plan | © Mario Martins Atelier Elevations | © Mario Martins Atelier Casa Morena Image Gallery About Mário Martins Atelier Mário Martins Atelier is an architectural studio based in Lagos and Lisbon, Portugal, led by Mário Martins. The practice is known for its context-sensitive approach, crafting contemporary projects seamlessly integrating with their surroundings while prioritizing regional materials and environmental considerations. Credits and Additional Notes Lead Architect: Mário Martins, arq. Project Team: Nuno Colaço, Sónia Fialho, Susana Jóia, Mariana Franco, Ana Graça Engineering: Nuno Grave Engenharia Landscape: HB-Hipolito Bettencourt – Arquitectura Paisagista, Lda. Building Contractor: Marques Antunes Engenharia Lda.

In case you haven't checked out Archinect's Pinterest boards in a while, we have compiled ten recently pinned images from outstanding projects on various Archinect Firm and People profiles. Today's top images (in no particular order) are from the board Houses. Tip: Use the handy FOLLOW feature to easily keep up-to-date with all your favorite Archinect profiles. ↑ San Angel House in Querétaro, Mexico by Miguel Concha Arquitectura ↑ Sylvan Lake House in Alberta, Canada by Actual Architecture Co.; Photo: Bruce Damonte ↑ Trancas House 2.0 in Malibu, CA by Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects [LOHA]; Photo: Paul Vu ↑ Poplar Grove in Washington, DC by BLDUS; Photo: Ty Cole ↑ Black Fox Ranch in Jackson, WY by CLB Architects; Photo: Matthew Millman, Kevin Scott ↑ Casa Patios in Mexico City, Mexico by Ricardo Yslas Gámez Arquitectos; Photo: Jaime Navarro ↑ Anna Maria House in Anna Maria, FL by Halflants + Pichette; Photo: Bill Speer Photography ↑ Jardim do Sol House in Porto Alegre, Brazil by Hype St...

In today’s homes, the boundaries between indoors and outdoors are becoming beautifully blurred, and courtyard design plays a key role in that transformation. No longer just decorative pockets of greenery, modern courtyards are fully integrated living spaces that bring natural light, fresh air, and a sense of calm right into the heart of the home. Whether you live in a city apartment or a suburban retreat, a well-designed courtyard can create flow, function, and serenity. It becomes more than an outdoor space, it becomes a natural extension of your daily life. In this guide, we’ll explore practical, creative courtyard design ideas that help you connect your interior with the outdoors. From lush garden rooms to cozy side patios, each idea is crafted to inspire a home that feels open, grounded, and alive. 1. Open-Plan Layouts That Frame the Courtyard Image Source: The Architect Diary An open-plan layout that wraps around a courtyard transforms the entire home experience. By strategically positioning living areas,like the kitchen, living room, or dining space,around an open-air courtyard, the outdoors becomes an organic extension of your indoor life. Floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding doors allow natural light and garden views to flow freely. This setup not only maximizes the courtyard’s visibility but also encourages daily use, blurring the lines between inside and outside. It’s especially effective in warmer climates, where fresh air and sunlight can be enjoyed year-round. This courtyard design creates a social hub and a serene retreat in one integrated space. 2. Use Vertical Space for Planting Image Source: HomesandGardens When square footage is limited, think upward. Using vertical space in your courtyard lets you enjoy lush greenery without compromising walkability or functionality. Wall-mounted planters, trellises, living green walls, and tiered shelves can host herbs, flowers, or trailing vines. This strategy not only maximizes planting room but also adds visual depth and texture. It’s ideal for urban courtyards or narrow side patios, where ground planting space is scarce. Vertical gardening also draws the eye upward, creating a sense of openness and scale. With thoughtful positioning, these green walls can mirror or complement interior design features, further connecting your indoor and outdoor worlds.  3. Water Features to Add Tranquility Image Source: Houzz A water feature, whether a bubbling fountain, koi pond, or minimalist wall cascade,adds peace and movement to your courtyard design. The gentle sound of flowing water soothes the mind and masks urban noise, turning the space into a true sanctuary. Water also reflects light and greenery, adding a dynamic visual layer. Compact courtyards benefit especially from wall-mounted or vertical designs, which save floor space while enhancing ambiance. Water features pair well with lush plants and stone elements for a naturalistic setting. Plus, they bring an added cooling effect in warmer climates. It’s a small feature with big sensory benefits. 4. French-Style Courtyard Image Source: The Spruce A French-style courtyard adds classic romance and timeless charm to your home. These courtyards often feature symmetrical layouts, gravel pathways, wrought iron furniture, climbing vines, and a central focal point like a fountain or statue. Boxwood hedges and potted lavender or citrus trees evoke the ambiance of a Parisian garden café. Ideal for homes with European-inspired architecture, this courtyard design feels elegant yet grounded. French-style courtyards blend effortlessly with interiors that favor neutral palettes, antiques, and organic materials. Even in modern homes, this style offers a sophisticated counterpoint to sleek lines. It’s a refined yet welcoming space that makes every day feel like a getaway. 5. Don’t Overcomplicate Your Space Image Source: HomesandGardens When it comes to courtyard design, simplicity often wins. Trying to incorporate too many features, like oversized furniture, mixed themes, or excessive décor,can make even a spacious courtyard feel cramped or chaotic. Instead, focus on clear, functional zones: a place to sit, a patch of green, perhaps one focal point like a water feature or tree. Neutral tones and natural textures help create a calm, cohesive atmosphere. Minimalism doesn’t mean boring, it means intentional. By keeping the design clean and uncluttered, your courtyard becomes a restful extension of your home, not an overstimulating departure from it. Simplicity creates harmony and usability. 6. Introduce Outdoor Lighting Image Source: HomesandGardens Outdoor lighting is essential for enjoying your courtyard after dark and for enhancing safety, mood, and aesthetics. Use layered lighting: overhead string lights or sconces for ambient glow, path lights for navigation, and accent lights to highlight plants or architectural details. Solar-powered options make installation easy and eco-friendly. Smart lighting systems let you control brightness or color temperature from your phone. Choose fixtures that echo your home’s interior style,modern, rustic, or industrial,for cohesion. Well-designed lighting doesn’t just extend courtyard use into the night,it also turns the space into a visual feature from inside, contributing to a seamless indoor-outdoor design. 7. Use Exaggerated Verticals to Maximize Space Image Source: Living get In courtyards with limited square footage, exaggerating vertical elements can dramatically expand the visual experience. Tall hedges, statement sculptures, narrow water walls, or climbing plants draw the eye upward, giving a sense of height and airiness. This is particularly useful in enclosed or urban settings where lateral space is tight. Pair vertical lines with mirrored surfaces or slim lighting fixtures for added effect. Inside, echo this verticality with tall windows or vertically stacked shelves that overlook the courtyard. These upward design cues establish continuity and give the entire area a modern, architectural flair while making it feel larger and more open. 8. Side Patio Courtyard Image Source: The Spruce A side patio courtyard is a smart solution for homes with narrow or awkwardly shaped outdoor areas. Tucked alongside the house, this type of courtyard can become a cozy, private retreat or a secondary dining and lounge zone. Maximize the space with slim furniture, vertical planting, and clean lines. Use glass doors or large windows to open interior rooms,like a kitchen or hallway,directly onto the courtyard, improving light flow and visibility. Even modest side courtyards can feel spacious when thoughtfully designed. With the right layout and materials, they become stylish outdoor rooms that serve as peaceful escapes or vibrant entertaining spots. 9. Built-In Benches or Daybeds Image Source: BetterHomes&gGardens Built-in benches or daybeds are functional and beautiful additions to any courtyard. These features maximize space and invite relaxation without cluttering the area with bulky furniture. Often integrated into low walls or along garden beds, they offer a clean, minimalist look while providing ample seating. Top them with weather-resistant cushions and fabrics in colors that echo your interior for design harmony. A daybed turns your courtyard into a sunlit lounge, ideal for reading or napping. Built-ins also make cleaning and maintenance easier and can be customized to fit awkward corners. Their permanence gives your courtyard design a polished, intentional finish. 10. Backyard Turned Courtyard Image Source: Living get If your backyard feels underused or too open, consider transforming a portion of it into a courtyard. You can define the space by adding partial walls, fencing, or tall plantings like bamboo or hedges to create a sense of enclosure. Incorporate a central feature such as a tree, water fountain, or fire pit to anchor the space. Add comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, and potted plants to bring warmth and purpose. This approach turns a generic backyard into a functional, intimate zone,perfect for reading, relaxing, or hosting. A backyard courtyard offers structure while preserving openness, giving your outdoor area new life. 11. Bring the Inside Out Image Source: HomesandGardens To achieve true indoor-outdoor harmony, replicate the feel of your interior design in the courtyard. Choose outdoor furnishings that mirror your indoor color palette, materials, and style. For example, use similar wood tones, textiles, and decorative elements like lanterns or throw pillows. Outdoor rugs, weatherproof sofas, and even coffee tables can make your courtyard feel like a living room under the sky. Add art, mirrors, or bookshelves with planters to soften the transition. This strategy helps the courtyard feel like a true continuation of your home rather than a separate zone. It enhances comfort, flow, and everyday livability. 12. Indoor Courtyard Turned Private Garden Image Source: Architectural design An indoor courtyard can become a hidden garden sanctuary with the right design approach. Enclosed or semi-enclosed by glass or open ceilings, these courtyards are perfect for curated greenery, from ferns and moss to small trees or flowering vines. Add gravel paths, benches, or a water feature to create a peaceful retreat visible from multiple rooms. This setup is especially useful in dense urban homes, where privacy is valued. The garden becomes a quiet core for reflection and relaxation, away from the outside world. It not only improves aesthetics but also enhances indoor air quality and emotional wellness. 16. Multipurpose Courtyard Space Image Source: Architectural design Why settle for just one use? Design your courtyard to serve multiple functions,such as a morning coffee nook, a kids’ play zone, or an evening yoga space. Use movable furniture, foldable tables, or modular seating that can be reconfigured as needed. Zone the area with rugs or planters to subtly divide uses without crowding the space. This flexible approach makes the courtyard dynamic and relevant to all members of the household. It’s especially useful in smaller homes where every square meter matters. A multipurpose courtyard adapts with your day, making it not just beautiful, but deeply practical. 17. Courtyard with Kitchen Access Image Source: Decorpad One of the most functional courtyard design ideas is positioning it directly off the kitchen. This setup makes alfresco dining a breeze and encourages more frequent use of the outdoor space. Add a BBQ grill, outdoor sink, or even a full mini kitchen with countertop space. For seamless service, consider installing a pass-through window or fold-up bar. It’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet breakfast outside. This courtyard becomes a social hub and culinary extension, combining practicality with pleasure. With the right setup, your kitchen and courtyard will work in tandem to elevate daily life. 18. Rustic Mediterranean Courtyard Image Source: Houzz Create the warm, welcoming feel of a Mediterranean escape by combining textured walls, clay pots, terracotta tiles, and flowering plants like bougainvillea or rosemary. Wrought-iron furniture, mosaic tables, and rustic wooden beams bring that sun-soaked, timeless atmosphere to life. Use soft, earthy tones, like sand, stone, and rust, to match your interior and make the courtyard feel grounded. This style blends perfectly with both traditional and bohemian interiors. With some soft lighting and olive trees, your courtyard becomes a rustic retreat that feels far away, even when it’s just a step from your living room. 19. Create a Spa-Like Feel With a Bathroom Courtyard Image Source: Living get Transform your daily routine into a wellness ritual by connecting your bathroom to a serene courtyard. A small, private outdoor space just off the bath or shower instantly adds a spa-like vibe. Think smooth stone pathways, tropical plants, soft lighting, and perhaps a water feature to enhance tranquility. Frosted glass doors or large windows maintain privacy while allowing natural light to pour in. Even a compact courtyard can elevate a bathroom into a peaceful retreat that feels worlds away from daily stress. This seamless connection between your indoor sanctuary and outdoor calm fosters relaxation, mindfulness, and luxurious everyday living Wrap Up  Great home design isn’t just about what happens inside four walls, it’s about how your living spaces connect, flow, and breathe together. Whether it’s a peaceful garden retreat, an alfresco dining space, or a flexible zone for work and play, the right courtyard design creates harmony between indoors and out. At Home Designing , we believe the best homes are the ones that reflect how you live, and how you want to feel. These courtyard ideas are just one way to craft spaces that are not only functional, but deeply personal and inspiring.

When summer rolls around or the weather just won’t chill out, staying cool outdoors can feel like an impossible dream. Whether you’re at a backyard cookout, a sandy beach, or deep in the woods for a weekend campout, beating the heat is always on the to-do list. Enter the Windchill 47 Cooler: a game-changing gadget that brings ice-cold refreshment and real air conditioning to any adventure. Forget everything you think you know about coolers. Engineered by the folks behind the world’s most popular smokeless fire pit, the Solo Windchill 47 is a whole new breed of outdoor gear. More than just a place to stash your drinks, it’s a high-tech cooling station with built-in A/C and misting. Imagine chilling with friends and having a blast, with a cold breeze on demand and your favorite beverages icy for days. Designer: Solo Stove The Windchill 47 stands out as the world’s first cooler with three different ways to keep things frosty. It starts with traditional ice storage, but that’s just the beginning. Flip a switch and the cooler pulls in hot air, sending it through a high-efficiency heat exchanger and powerful fan, and then pumps out a dry, refreshing chill you can actually feel. There’s even a misting feature to keep things extra comfortable when the sun is relentless. This cooler isn’t just about keeping your cans cold, though with space for up to 65, there’s plenty of room for the whole crew. It runs on a rechargeable battery that powers the Max A/C feature for more than three hours per charge. On top of the air conditioning, the Windchill 47 delivers serious ice retention, holding chill for days so your food and drinks stay fresh throughout your trip. Windchill is packed with features that make outdoor adventures easier and more enjoyable. Built into the lid are the heat exchanger, high-powered fan, and misting pump, all the tech you need to keep cool, cleverly hidden away. The vent hose is stored underneath the lid and can be rotated to aim the breeze exactly where you want it, making it perfect for tailgates, patios, and campgrounds alike. No more worrying about dead batteries, either. With integrated USB-A and USB-C ports, you can charge up your phone, speakers, or camera right from the cooler. Rugged all-terrain wheels and a telescoping handle mean the Windchill 47 goes wherever you do, from rocky campsites to sandy beaches, and the built-in bottle opener is always there when you need it. If you’re ready to upgrade your next outdoor gathering, the Windchill 47 Cooler proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for adventure. With this powerhouse in tow, you’ll have icy drinks, a refreshing breeze, and all the power you need to keep the fun going, no matter how hot it gets. The post Windchill 47 Portable Cooler Puts Real A/C in Your Outdoor Adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

Building with Communities: Rural Schools That Integrate Local Techniques and Materials in Latin AmericaSave this picture!Jerusalén de Miñaro Primary School / Semillas. Image © Eleazar CuadrosIn an effort to foster a sense of belonging among its inhabitants, to value ancestral cultures, and to preserve identity, the Latin American region embraces an architecture rich in nuances and regional characteristics. The use of local materials and construction techniques, or the dialogue between modular and vernacular approaches, among other aspects, reflect the intention to promote the involvement of native communities, students and their families, Iindigenous peoples, and local builders in the design and construction processes of a wide variety of rural schools throughout Latin America.According to the World Bank report, "Indigenous Latin America in the Twenty-First Century", it is estimated that around 42 million people belonging to indigenous communities live in Latin America. Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, and Bolivia are among the countries with the largest Indigenous populations, together accounting for over 80% of the regional total. From an architectural perspective, maintaining a dialogue that understands and respects the cultural and spiritual particularities of Indigenous peoples enables projects that preserve their identity and reflect their cultural heritage. La Piedra School by Correa 3 Arquitectos in Chile, for example, is designed for the Mapuche community of Galvarino, incorporating elements such as the circle, the cardinal points, and orthogonality, along with the integration of the sun, moon, and earth, and a space dedicated to ceremonies with the sacred Canelo tree. Beyond fulfilling educational needs, the aim is to promote equality and a connection with nature and spirituality, reflected in the circular arrangement of the classrooms and the admission of the first ray of sunlight. In this way, the fundamental elements of their worldview are embedded in the project's conception. Save this picture!Continuing within the educational context, practices such as the Semillas association in the Peruvian jungle combine community engagement and participation with the implementation of bioclimatic strategies and the use of local resources, aiming to create an architecture that is connected to its natural environment and cultural history. Understanding the role of educational infrastructure as more than just school buildings, but as versatile and multifunctional spaces with a meaningful impact on community learning and development, collective collaboration practices seek to transmit concepts and knowledge about vernacular architecture while also meeting essential needs. The use of earth, wood, bamboo, brick, caña brava, and other materials reflects the diversity of construction methods and local identities found throughout Latin America’s varied geographies. Related Article Inhabited Landscapes: 20 Cultural and Community Centers in Rural Areas Save this picture!Below, discover a selection of six rural schools located in Mexico, Peru, and Brazil that have developed initiatives to involve local communities, along with their students and families, at different stages of the design and construction process. Lightweight structures, sloped roofs, flexible enclosures, and open-plan layouts are common elements shared among these six case studies, which demonstrate a broad range of community-driven responses and interventions suited to different conditions and environments. In fact, the use of wood and bamboo stands out in both interior and exterior spaces for its application in structures, furnishings, and finishes.Rural School in Oaxaca / Territorio EstudioSan Andrés Huayapam, MexicoSave this picture!After reflecting on the nature of contemporary educational spaces, the Rural School in Oaxaca uses recycled construction materials or materials sourced from within the local community in an effort to strengthen the bond between students, their environment, and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the program becomes entirely educational by involving students in the regenerative processes taking place in the school’s open areas, such as a wetland for water treatment, a community garden, composting, and enclosures for sheep and chickens, all of which are part of the educational approach. In this way, the mostly local teaching staff aims to promote a closer social relationship between the local population and the school space.Save this picture!El Huabo Primary and Secondary School / SemillasPeruSave this picture!In the jungle of northern Peru, the primary and secondary school for the village of El Huabo was developed through a participatory design and construction process involving the community and students. Through a carpentry workshop, students built school furniture during “Education for Work” classes (a course in the national curriculum), while landscaping workshops were held to improve the school gardens in cooperation with the La Agencia Agraria de San Ignacio. Moreover, an educational coffee farm was established thanks to collaboration with the company Volcafe. All these actions enabled multiple educational projects to run in parallel with the school’s construction, resulting in what the project team calls a “living school,” where the beneficiaries are also the creators.Save this picture!Ecoara Waldorf School / Shieh Arquitetos AssociadosValinhos, BrazilSave this picture!The Waldorf Ecoara School is an associative school where parents play an active role. As a result, a construction activity was created to foster a sense of belonging within the group. The walls were built using the traditional taipa de mão technique, which involves weaving vertical and horizontal wooden slats into the main structure to form large panels that are then filled with compacted clay. This activity, carried out by both parents and children, was both playful and symbolic. In addition, specialists in rammed earth provided hands-on training for the Ecoara community and construction workers. The idea was to promote the use of this technique, largely forgotten in its traditional form and still rarely used in its modern variant, while incorporating appropriate technological controls for the material mix.Save this picture!Jerusalén de Miñaro Primary School / SemillasSan Martín de Pangoa, PeruSave this picture!In the district of Pangoa, the project proposes an integrated work methodology involving cooperation among various national and international institutions and the community’s participation in every phase. During the diagnostic and design stages, workshops were held with students, parents, and teachers to identify the community’s needs, daily dynamics, and aspirations for the future school. Construction was guided by master builders and local workers, enabling the transfer of knowledge through on-site experience as well as training workshops throughout the process. In this way, the project initiates processes that foster knowledge exchange, revalue local material and human resources, and promote flexible spaces aligned with new educational approaches.Save this picture!Grow your School / Lucila Aguilar ArquitectosTuzantán, Chiapas, MexicoSave this picture!Aiming to improve the conditions of a school in the Unión Mexicana community in Tuzantán, Chiapas, the project combined pre-existing elements with new additions. Community volunteer participation was fundamental, as many of the construction tasks were carried out by locals. Children also took part in the rehabilitation activities by painting a mural on one of the facades. The goal was to nurture the children’s potential while fostering a sense of unity among community members, who were actively involved from the planning phase through to construction.Save this picture!Children Village / Rosenbaum + Aleph ZeroFormoso do Araguaia, BrazilSave this picture!The Children Village project advances efforts toward transformation, cultural preservation, the promotion of local building techniques, Indigenous beauty and knowledge, and the construction of a sense of belonging, vital for the development of the children at the Canuanã School. Interactive spaces such as a TV room, reading areas, balconies, patios, and hammocks make up the complementary facilities co-designed with the students to enhance quality of life and strengthen their connection to the school. In addition to housing more children, the new “villages” aim to boost the children’s self-esteem through the use of local techniques, building a bridge between vernacular methods and a new model of sustainable living.Save this picture! This article is part of an ArchDaily curated series that focuses on built projects from our database grouped under specific themes related to cities, typologies, materials, or programs. Every month, we will highlight a collection of structures that find a common thread between previously uncommon contexts, unpacking the depths of influence on our built environments. As always, at ArchDaily, we highly appreciate the input of our readers. If you think we should mention specific ideas, please submit your suggestions. Image gallerySee allShow less About this authorAgustina IñiguezAuthor••• Cite: Iñiguez, Agustina. "Building with Communities: Rural Schools That Integrate Local Techniques and Materials in Latin America" [Construir con las comunidades: escuelas rurales que integran técnicas y materiales locales en Latinoamérica] 24 May 2025. ArchDaily. (Trans. Piñeiro, Antonia ) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1030260/building-with-communities-rural-schools-that-integrate-local-techniques-and-materials-in-latin-america&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Submitted by WA Contents ADEPT selected to transform former Karstadt warehouse into a cultural hub in Braunschweig Germany Architecture News - May 22, 2025 - 14:57   html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd" Copenhagen and Hamburg-based architecture office ADEPT has won an international competition to transform a former Karstadt warehouse in a historic area of Braunschweig (DE) into the "Haus der Musik". Called Haus der Musik, the 18,000-square-metre cultural hub will house a new concert hall, a public music school, and other community-oriented programs.The winning project is founded on adaptive reuse principles rather than demolishing the current structure. The old building's architectural rhythm and load-bearing structure are preserved and reactivated. On top of the existing volume is a brand-new, precisely calibrated performance hall, and street level provides direct access to music school activities. From a commercial hub to a cultural hub, the design embodies a daring urban metamorphosis grounded on continuity."The Haus der Musik is a dream project – not just because of its scale, but because it allows us to bring together everything we care about: transformation, sustainability, as well as social and urban social value," said Martin Krogh, founding partner at ADEPT. "This is the largest project in our studio’s history, and undoubtedly one of the most meaningful," Krogh added.The "Third Place"—that vague, largely unplanned area between activities that creates a vast possibility for a new identity emerging from the neighborhood—is the focal point of the transformation. Arrival, music school, and concert hall are all connected by this multi-layered social landscape of performance, instruction, and gathering. Because the music school is integrated into the existing framework, it fosters a vibrant, all-day rhythm of instruction, practice, and casual conversation. Below it, the Klangkeller provides an unpolished and adaptable platform for underground scenes and experimental music. With meticulous consideration for acoustic clarity and spatial intimacy, the new music hall is built as a traditional shoebox typology and is situated in the top levels of the building to retain as much of the old structure as possible. Adjustable ceiling components enable custom tuning based on the performance situation, including organ music and amplified events, while sound-reflective wall and ceiling panels distribute sound uniformly around the room. Both the main floor and the upper balconies provide direct sightlines and engulfing sound to the audience. Rehearsal rooms and backstage areas flank the hall, facilitating a smooth transition between rehearsal and performance. The music hall is further reinforced as a municipal venue by the 270-degree panoramic terrace that encircles the foyer and provides public views of the city."With equal measures of caution and courage, the winning proposal transforms the existing building through adaptive reuse into an important component for Braunschweig's city centre, as well as for the city’s musical landscape," the jury stated."The difficult balancing act between preservation, transformation and innovation has been convincingly achieved." "Even if the interpretation and conceptual reuse may seem surprising at first glance, the contextual integration is comprehensible, sensitive and convincing," the jury added.Site planUrban Presence: A Cultural Link Within the Historic CityThe Haus der Musik acts as an essential urban connection between Altstadtmarkt and Kohlmarkt, two important public squares in Braunschweig, and is located along one of the city's main pedestrian thoroughfares. The project creates a new cultural hub in the urban fabric by reactivating the ground floor with a completely transparent façade and opening up to the city through spacious patios and foyers. It extends beyond its plot to create sightlines, pathways, and gathering spots across the city. The design adds a new public vitality that enhances the old town's civic life while honoring the scale and rhythm of its historic surroundings. Ground floor planThe building's articulated façade and stepped form blend in with Braunschweig's urban profile while quietly indicating its new function as a gathering place for people to enjoy music and social interaction.First floor planUsing a Modern Language to Interpret the PastRedesigning the facade as a reinterpretation of the current building while honoring the historic setting and its distinctive buildings to create a new identity is a crucial architectural gesture. The new facade reworks the original's modular rhythm to create a tactile, sculptured enclosure. Views into the activity within the building are made possible by the dynamic interplay of light and shadow created by the cascading pieces. The ground floor's transparency invites the public in by blurring the lines between the interior and the city.Second floor planWarm timber interiors frame the building's social center, while the structured facade echoes Braunschweig's medieval roofscapes. Materiality is crucial in defining atmosphere and character. In order to preserve important sightlines and blend in with the surrounding urban fabric, the new volume gently recedes from the original cornice lines.Third floor planBuilding on What Already ExistsIn this initiative, sustainability starts with what currently exists. By preserving and reusing the Karstadt building's structural grid and core, demolition and the resulting carbon effect are avoided. With little alteration to the existing foundations, a lightweight music hall made of steel and wood is constructed above. Cross-laminated wood (CLT) components that are prefabricated enable low-emission and rapid installation.Fifth floor planBy incorporating rooftop photovoltaics and utilizing Braunschweig's low-emission district heating network, the building runs with exceptional energy efficiency. Comfort is maintained while energy consumption is reduced through the use of passive cooling techniques and intelligent ventilation. Demand is further decreased by localized heating systems and water-saving devices.Basement floor planThe result is not merely a monument for music and culture – but a showcase of how architecture can be both ambitious and responsible, rooted in the past and ready for the future.Elevation BrabandstraßeElevation JakobstraßeElevation PoststraßeFacade section existingFacade section ADEPTSection AASection BBSection CCAxonometric drawingConcept, existing as starting pointConcept, community functions as connectorsConcept, concert hall in new constructionConcept, concert hall constructionADEPT and LYTT Architecture completed visitor points reframing largest landscape park in Copenhagen, Denmark. In  addition, ADEPT and Karres en Brands revealed plans for a new masterplan, called WoodHood – Garden City 2.0, in Köln, Germany. Project factsProject name: Haus der MusikArchitect: ADEPTClient: Friedrich Georg Knapp w. Stadt BraunschweigEngineers: Assmann Beraten und Planen, Corall Ingenieure, AvissplanAddress: Poststraße Braunschweig, DESize: 15,000m2 + 3,000 under groundAll images © Aesthetica Studio.All drawings © ADEPT. > via ADEPT

The Vessel Glass Balustrade in NY | © Benny Rotlevy via Unsplash Designing a modern home depends heavily on choosing the correct details. Architects, designers, and homeowners have shown a dramatic increase in their interest in glass balustrades. Glass balustrades are safe, stylish, and sleek, and they modernize any part of your home, whether inside or outside. If you aim to modernize your home’s appearance during renovations, the features and benefits of glass balustrades make them your prime consideration. Unmatched Visual Elegance Glass balustrades are the epitome of minimalist design. The transparency of the construction of glass balustrades allows for unrestricted views and, together with the feeling of freedom, outlines rooms as open and airy. In contrast to historic materials, including wood or metal, glass railings keep views clear and harmonize with the rest of the design scheme. If you have a staircase, balcony, or terrace, using a glass balustrade will update the room with a modern look. Maximized Natural Light High-quality, bright, natural light is highly prized in modern spaces, and glass balustrades are designed to allow it. Penetration of sunlight into the region helps reduce daytime artificial light and provides a pleasant, airy ambiance. Such a feature is handy in multi-level houses, as the enclosed balconies or staircases look very narrow and dim. Low Maintenance One of glass balustrades’ significant advantages is the simplicity of care they demand. Unlike wood or wrought iron, glass does not need sealing and staining to retain its looks. Taking care of glass is easy: Just use glass cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe it off. Because glass is not scratched or tinted, these balustrades will remain as pristine as possible after several years. Increased Property Value Glass Balustrade | © Quentin Basnier via Unsplash Details | © Gregoire Jeanneau via Unsplash A home that looks contemporary, offers plenty of space, and is brightly lit is sure to draw buyers’ attention and increase in worth. Using glass balustrades as a design feature is a luxury, as they can quickly give a home a contemporary feel. For homeowners, sellers, and renters alike, a glass balustrade is a worthwhile investment to increase curb appeal and marketability. Personalized Designs  Glass balustrades offer a wide range of configurations and styles. Choose either a frameless or semi-frameless style or framed alternatives to match your home’s style and privacy needs. Tinted or frosted glass also offers an extra touch of style and privacy considerations, along with the ability to use hardware finishes that will fit nicely with your home’s overall look. Ideal for Indoor and Outdoor Use Glass balustrades are adaptable and can fit in a range of spaces. Indoors, they work best on staircases, landings, and mezzanine levels. Externally, they also grace balconies, patios, decks, and pools. For homes Sydney residents looking to renovate, the use of glass complements contemporary and coastal aesthetics common in the region. If you’re going to spruce up your home, installing a glass balustrade can serve as both decoration and functionality. It fulfills all demands, such as a great look, guaranteed safety, versatility, and simple maintenance. Whether you want to make small changes or larger overhauls, the use of glass balustrades can add a dramatic impact to any environment. From luxury penthouses to coastal retreats, glass balustrades are redefining modern living one clear panel at a time. Glass by ArchEyes Team Leave a comment

Florencia House / Taller MACAA (Misión de Arquitectura, Construcción y Arte en los Andes)Save this picture!© Rafael Ortiz SantosHouses•Taray, Peru Architects: Taller MACAA Area Area of this architecture project Area:  85 m² Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2025 Photographs Photographs:Rafael Ortiz Santos Lead Architect: Rafael Ortiz Santos More SpecsLess Specs Save this picture! Text description provided by the architects. Hogar Florencia is part of KUSKA, a space designed for living and sharing in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, in the Andes Mountains. The home consists of two main areas: the Studio and the Workshop.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The temperate mountain climate, with rainy summers and a dry season in winter, has guided the design toward optimizing thermal efficiency. The project is inspired by Andean architecture, utilizing the same load-bearing adobe wall system (40 cm thick) with stone foundations.Save this picture!Save this picture!The Studio, located on the eastern side in a long strip, serves as the façade facing the “outside.” It is divided into two sublevels due to the terrain’s slope: -The upper level includes an entrance, pantry, and dry toilet. -The main level is dedicated to cooking, eating and living, featuring an independent patio.Save this picture!In the main sublevel, the western-facing earth wall has been expanded to absorb solar energy. This configuration allows for tall doors and windows, flooding the space with natural light throughout the day. The openings are strategically aligned, enabling visibility from one end to the other, breaking the wall barrier and creating a continuous visual connection.Save this picture!Adjacent to the upper sublevel, connected by adobe arches, the Workshop is a double-height space designed for creation and production. This is where all the furniture in Florencia was crafted. The Workshop extends north and south with stone terraces, serving as semi-open pathways and outdoor work areas.Save this picture!Save this picture!The roofs, inspired by the traditional Andean house, have two slopes: one over the Studio and another over the Workshop. The Studio’s fragmentation into two sublevels generates a third volume without altering the structural logic. The ridge beams, aligned with the route leading to the Vilcanota River, rest on an 80 cm-thick wall, which both delimits and connects the spaces. This wall supports two of the three ridge beams: one for the Workshop and one for the Studio’s entrance sublevel.Save this picture!The project forms an L-shaped module with a central plaza surrounded by patios, creating a private core that defines an intimate space for KUSKA’s permanent residents.Save this picture!The material palette visible throughout the space includes adobe, stone, wood, reeds, and tiles—all traditional local materials—along with iron frames and doors painted yellow, harmonizing with the retama flowers and surrounding cornfields. The windows not only illuminate but also frame the Inca landscape.Save this picture!This design reinterprets Andean architecture, respecting its core principles while adapting to modern conditions. With a focus on sustainability and integrating the natural environment, Hogar Florencia offers a balanced, functional, and harmonious space in tune with the landscape that surrounds it.Save this picture! Project gallerySee allShow less About this officeTaller MACAAOffice••• Published on May 19, 2025Cite: "Florencia House / Taller MACAA (Misión de Arquitectura, Construcción y Arte en los Andes)" [Hogar Florencia / Taller MACAA (Misión de Arquitectura, Construcción y Arte en los Andes)] 19 May 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1030131/florencia-house-taller-macaa-mision-de-arquitectura-construccion-y-arte-en-los-andes&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Element Labs at University Research Park / Perkins+WillSave this picture!© Mark Herboth•Madison, United States Architects: Perkins+Will Area Area of this architecture project Area:  147000 m² Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2022 Photographs Photographs:Mark Herboth Manufacturers Brands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers:  USG, 9Wood, Coldspring, Kawneer, Mosa Tile, Otis, Panda Windows & Doors, Vetterstone, Wausau Tiles Lead Architects: Jerry Johnson Acoustics: Talaske More SpecsLess Specs Save this picture! Text description provided by the architects. University Research Park in Madison, WI, designed by global architecture and design firm Perkins&Will, introduces a new model of research park typology. This site challenges the tradition of research park planning by integrating natural habitats amongst mixed-use buildings to create a vibrant community that is walkable and prioritizes the wellbeing of wildlife. Element Labs, the new gateway to the campus, sitting prominently at the Northeast corner of the park, will house multiple research companies, including Invenra, a Madison-based lifesciences company. The building is the centerpiece of the emerging Element Collective district, which will contain apartments, a hotel, a fitness center, and restaurants.Save this picture!Built using Living Design principles, Element Labs is a mixed-use building with office and lab space, a public event space, and, eventually, a restaurant – all within a 147,000-square foot building with five stories of flexible office and lab space above ground and three stories of underground parking. The building is flanked by a new walkable district streetscape, and a series of naturalized district stormwater ponds, paths, and dense native plants wrap the other faces.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The multi-tenant building is framed by a soaring glass curtain wall expressing the transparency of scientific inquiry. A series of setbacks break up the massing and align the building's scale with its surrounding location. Vertical fins along the exterior glass add detail, create a sense of rhythm, and help to provide shade and regulate temperatures inside.Save this picture!The ground floor provides amenity spaces for lifescience tenants and the community alike, with a variety of informal gathering areas and Element Hall, a community space with stadium seating, warm wood finishes, advanced AV, and meticulously engineered acoustics for formal presentations, casual meetings, movie nights, or hanging out. The dramatic space connects to large exterior patios and ponds with two-story glazing. Extending to the east, the terrace connects to the district streetscape, creating overlooks and views of the dynamic changing landscape.  Materials, products, and design respond to Element Lab's natural setting and the commitment to sustainable design.Save this picture!As a world-class laboratory building, Element Labs is designed with enhanced HVAC, electrical, and plumbing features to support modern lab environments, including the capacity to prevent air recirculation between floors, sufficient exhaust to support fume hoods and cooling, germicidal UV light system, separate electrical metering by floor, vibration control, and backup power generation. Adhering to bird-friendly building standards, a frit pattern was bonded into the interior of the curtain wall to deter bird impact.Save this picture!The primary goal of the site was to balance stormwater storage needs with a design approach that made this an immersive experience for the public and building tenants alike.  As part of a larger district stormwater approach, the Element Labs site features two stormwater ponds and a bioretention area that stores water for the entire district. The tiered overflow of cut stone blocks includes stone that is salvaged and reused from the site. These ponds are planted with a mixed native prairie, while native trees frame views to the terrace from the street.Save this picture!Save this picture!Element Lab is home to Invenra's headquarters and R&D labs on the 3rd and 4th floors. Invenra develops novel therapies for cancer treatment, part of a growing portfolio across a variety of disease categories in the pursuit of treatment innovation. Their work demonstrates a drive for discovery, lending to an architectural project that is open in nature and creates space for creative collaboration. The project's flexibility and multi-purpose modularity allow for the plan to seamlessly connect the labs and office space, creating spatial equity for all users as well as 360-degree views. The materiality of the project is calm and playful, highlighting a modern assembly of neutrals layered in with warm blues, wrapped in a glassy skin connecting to the activated landscape beyond.   Save this picture!Element Lab's remaining space will be occupied by R&D laboratories for multiple UW-Madison schools, agencies, and research institutes, including a 2,500sf BSL3 laboratory. All told, the project creates opportunities for an immersive experience in the landscape for employees and visitors, highlighting the site and building as a gateway and reinforcing the entry experience to the University Research Park.Save this picture! Project gallerySee allShow less Project locationAddress:Madison, Wisconsin, United StatesLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officePerkins+WillOffice••• MaterialsMaterials and TagsPublished on May 18, 2025Cite: "Element Labs at University Research Park / Perkins+Will" 18 May 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1029964/element-labs-at-university-research-park-perkins-plus-will&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream