Architects For Change

In this episode of the Architects for Change Podcast, Jay sits down with Pierre Bidaud, a master stonemason and creative director of the Stone Masonry Company. With a deep passion for sustainable building practices, Pierre shares his journey from joining a journeyman guild to mastering the art of working with natural stone. Together, they explore why stone should be seen as a commodity rather than a luxury and how the disconnect between architects, engineers, and the materials they use has impacted the industry.

Pierre delves into the challenges facing the construction world today, including the invisibility of craftsmen in the building process, the importance of respecting raw materials, and how stone, despite being centuries old, can be a sustainable, low-carbon alternative to modern materials. They also discuss innovative ways to reintroduce stone as a structural material in affordable housing projects and rethink its role in the broader construction industry.

This episode is a must-listen for architects, builders, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable architecture and the role of traditional materials in modern design.

#stone #architecture #politics

Useful links :

15 clerkenwell close Amin Taha: https://www.architecture.com/awards-and-competitions-landing-page/awards/riba-regional-awards/riba-london-award-winners/2018/15-clerkenwell-close?srsltid=AfmBOor6N7Z6X-yY08XqZkMGZHIvqhITay6Fj8A8mLwWye5g32fU0rDC

The stone masonry company : https://www.thestonemasonrycompany.co.uk

In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay sits

Join us as we explore what it takes to create healthier,

Find out more about Gil and 8 80 cities here:

#Architecture

#Architectsforchnage

#politicsofspace

#poltics

#canada

#toronto

#urbanplanning

#housing

In this episode, Jay continues the conversation with Patrik Schumacher, principal of Zaha Hadid Architects, delving into the intersections of politics, architecture, and technology. Patrik shares his insights on the Libertarian experiment in Liberland, the future impact of the Metaverse on urban design, and the evolving role of AI in architecture. Known for his controversial views, Patrik offers a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Some interesting kinks to explore:

Liberland: https://liberland.org/

#Architecture #zahahadid #politics #metaverse #metatopia #Ai #Liberland

In this episode, Jay talks to Rafe Bertram, an Architect and

#sustainability #architectsforchange #climatechange

The book Rafe mentions is titled- Not the End of the World: How We Can Be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet by Hannah Ritchie.

link here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-first-generation-the-past-present-and-future-of-humanity-s-relationship-with-the-environment-hannah-ritchie/7447333?ean=9781784745004

In this episode, Jay talks to the Architects Action for Affordable Housing campaign (AA4AH), a group dedicated to addressing the UK's housing crisis. The campaign, spearheaded by Luke Tozer, aims to influence government policy to ensure the delivery of more affordable homes. With insights from various experts, including Alex Ely, Chloe Phelps, and other industry leaders, the discussion covers the campaign's key priorities, the challenges in the housing sector, and the role of Architects in shaping policy and creating sustainable communities. Join us as we delve into the future of affordable housing and urban development.

For more details on the campaign, visit: 5 Affordable Housing Priorities.

For information on PassivHaus: PassivHaus Trust.

Marmalade Lane is a project that has been mentioned a few times on the podcast. See info here: Marmalade Lane.

Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Communities: TCB Garden Community.

#AffordableHousing #Politics #Architecture #Housing #Sustainability #Passivhaus #MAE #PitmanTozer #Grounded #Assael #MikhailRiches #HTA

In this episode, Jay speaks to Russell Curtis, a founding director of architecture practice RCKA. Russell has also launched several campaigns addressing how we use land in the UK, including the controversial topics of repurposing golf courses and re-evaluating the greenbelt. His argument is that these designations need to be readdressed to build the homes we need, offering solutions to the housing emergency.

Jay and Russell dive into the origins of Russell's campaign to repurpose golf courses during the lockdown, the public and governmental response, and the potential for developing the greenbelt. They discuss the complexities and possibilities, and the need for pragmatic, evidence-based policy changes. Additionally, Russell shares his thoughts on the importance of socially responsible architecture and the role architects can play in advocacy and pushing for a more equitable and sustainable future.

If the polls are correct, we will have a new government next week who are intent on planning reform, including looking at the greenbelt and grey belt. Russell's ideas have clearly cut through.

Rural stations: https://ruralstations.russellcurtis.co.uk/index.php/homes-for-britain-planning-for-growth/

For the Fabians:

https://lghfabians.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Homes-for-Britain-Web.pdf

In this episode, Jay talks with Jas Bhalla, an architect and town planner, about the concept of 15-minute cities and what makes a great neighbourhood. Jas shares insights from his work, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and the integration of economic and artistic considerations in urban planning. They discuss challenges faced by local authorities, the impact of car-centric development on high streets, and the potential for urban greening and better resource management.

Join us as we explore the complexities of urban development and discover how strategic planning and thoughtful design can create vibrant, livable neighbourhoods.

For more information about Jas Bhalla Architects, see: https://www.jasbhalla.com/

In this episode, Jay talks with Keir Regan Alexander, founder of ARKA Works, about the intersection of AI and architecture. They discuss the potential of AI to transform the design industry, the risks it poses to architects and creative fields, and the irreplaceable value of the human touch in design. Keir shares insights on how AI tools can empower architects, the importance of maintaining a human-centered approach, and the need for architects to adapt and embrace AI as a complementary tool rather than a threat.

Join us as we explore the future of AI in architecture, the challenges and opportunities it brings, and the strategies architects can adopt to remain resilient and relevant in an evolving landscape.

For more information about ARKA works see: https://www.arka.works/

#AI #Architecture #Urbanplanning #technology #ARKA #Design #politics #Architectsforchange

In this episode of "Architects for Change," host Jay Morton speaks with Emma Dent Coad, an architectural writer and former Labour MP for Kensington and Chelsea, known for her advocacy on architectural and urban issues.

The conversation delves into Emma's journey from architectural journalism to politics, highlighting the critical need for built environment expertise in Parliament. Emma shares her firsthand experiences and frustrations with the lack of architectural knowledge among policymakers, particularly in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire.

Emma discusses the cultural and systemic differences in how architecture and politics intersect in the UK compared to countries like Spain, where architects are more politically engaged. She emphasizes that politics should not be seen as a separate discipline but as a toolbox to make everything else work, including the built environment. The discussion also covers the stigma around social housing and the urgent need for high-quality, aspirational living spaces for all.

Through their conversation, Jay and Emma advocate for more architects and built environment professionals to step into political roles to address the pressing issues affecting our cities and communities.