A symposium considering the impact of vernacular construction materials and methods on the future of architecture.
May 17th & 18th
NJIT’s Hillier College of Architecture and Design
“/imagine a collage of biogenic and geogenic architecture” prompt, Midjourney, Discord, 14 Oct. 2023, https://discord.com/.
Position
Toward a New Carbon Negative Architecture Now.
Vernacular architectural technologies have developed through thousands of years of human experimentation. These technologies made use of locally available biogenic and geogenic materials to create shelter and provide thermal comfort. Then, mechanized heating and cooling, reliable electric lighting, and the oil to fuel these systems, seemingly eliminated the need for this knowledge.
Over the course of the last decade, recognizing the need to create a more sustainable future, we focused on building performance, forming ever better performing plastic solutions, increasing architecture’s embodied carbon, and inadvertently accelerating climate change.
Our focus on the future prevented us from seeing the wealth of knowledge we had left behind. Now, facing a climate crisis, we acknowledge that in order to move forward we must look back, not as historicists, but as innovators.
What are the contemporary technological opportunities of traditional building materials and methods and how can they be applied en masse? How might this diverse vernacular knowledge shape a new carbon negative architecture now?
“/imagine a woodblock print of a wind turbine prompt, Midjourney, Discord, 14 Oct. 2023, https://discord.com/.
Foundation
Vernacular Technologies?
Many industries are returning to the use of vernacular technologies in order to build a more sustainable future:
Windmills have had a resurgence around the globe, relabeled as wind turbines.
‘The first’ wind powered freight ships sailed the seas this year. A return to technologies used by the East India sailing ships that once populating the seas, moving cargo around the world.
In the building industry, foam replaced straw as primary building insulator, seen as clean, despite its toxic off-gassing, and safe, despite its deadly flammability, we now know the dangers of foam insulations. And we also know, that if we were to use all of the waste straw produced around the globe as building insulation, we would offset all the carbon footprint of all concrete production worldwide.
Presenters
Ace McArleton talking with José de la Cruz Rodriguez about the day's work at Bread & Butter Farm
Ace McArleton /
New Frameworks
Ecologically-minded building practices and comprehensive, full-service systems design make New Frameowork’s buildings at home on earth while providing state-of-the-art comfort and efficiency for the people that rely on them. New Frameworks practices high performance natural building towards the construction of climate justice and regeneration in their region.
Homegrown by After Architecture, installed at the Knoxville Museum of Art in Tennessee last fall. Photography courtesy After Architecture.
Kyle Schumann & Katie Macdonald
After Architecture is an architecture studio named to convey the built environment's impact on cultures and ecologies. Schuman and Macdonald respond to and confront the environmental crisis.
Register
Discover the Power of Vernacular Architecture Technologies: Connect, Collaborate, and Learn!
We invite you to join us for lectures, conversation, and workshops at the Future View: Vernacular Technologies symposium. This symposium, held on May 31st & June 1st 2024, will bring together a vibrant community of professionals, experts, and students who are passionate about vernacular architecture, sustainability, and the intersection of vernacular knowledge and future technologies.
Why should you register?
1. Innovative Research: The symposium offers a unique platform to explore the innovative potential of vernacular architecture technologies within a R1 research institution. Learn how traditional building methods, combined with advancements in materials science, contemporary research tools, and design thinking, can revolutionize the way we construct and inhabit space.
2. Meaningful Connections: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for vernacular architecture and its sustainable, culturally-rich practices. Forge lasting relationships with architects, engineers, researchers, and industry professionals who believe in the opportunities for vernacular knowledge to contribute to resilient and inclusive communities, address climate change, and shape a more sustainable future.
3. Collaborative Learning: Engage in inspiring discussions, workshops, and presentations led by experts at the forefront of vernacular architecture technologies. Collaborate and exchange ideas with fellow attendees, fostering cross-disciplinary knowledge sharing and exploring new perspectives on research, design, and construction techniques.
4. Practical Applications: Discover real-world applications of vernacular architecture technologies through case studies and success stories. Gain valuable insights into how these technologies can be applied to address challenges ranging from climate change to housing shortages, making a tangible impact on the communities we belong to and serve.
5. Fun and Engaging Environment: Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere where learning is enjoyable. From our fast-paced lecture/conversation format to opportunities to connect over coffee or lunch to hands-on workshops, we have designed the symposium to provide an interactive and memorable experience for all attendees.
Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity to be part of the vernacular architecture revolution. Register now for the Symposium on Vernacular Architecture Technologies and help shape the future of sustainable, culturally-rich, climate positive architecture. We look forward to welcoming you to this inspiring gathering of visionaries and collaborators. Together, let's explore, connect, and propel the future of vernacular architecture technologies forward!
Contact Us
For a Sustainable Future
“/imagine “a two dimensional map of the new york city area in screenprint style biogenic geogenic including newark, New Jersey --ar 20:8” prompt, Midjourney, Discord, 14 Oct. 2023, https://discord.com/.