Kategorie: Publications

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Publications

Bioregional Architecture and Design Practice

Niklas Fanelsa*, Laurens Bekemans*, Summer Islam*, Henriette Waal*

 

This publication presents the Bioregional Architectural Practice Methodology, a framework for creating regenerative built environments rooted in the ecological, geological, and socio-cultural characteristics of a specific bioregion. It explores how architecture can connect local resources, knowledge, and communities to strengthen regional resilience and well-being.

 

Structured in four modules—Understanding the Bioregion, Activating Resources, Weaving Networks and Systems, and Implementing and Scaling—the methodology combines place-based research, hands-on experimentation with local materials, and community-driven governance. Guided by an ethics of care, it highlights how architecture can support both ecological health and social cohesion through regenerative materials, shared economies, and collaborative practices.

 

Link publication:

https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/1554/1/012162/pdf

Kategorien
Publications

The Architecture Changemaker

Theresa Zschäbitz*, Laurens Bekemans*

 

Convinced that the modern dichotomy between architects and ‘experts’ obstructs an ecological building culture, BC redefines the architect’s role within the planning process, often revisiting the idea of the master builder. The Architect Changemaker master studio at RWTH Aachen questions the architect’s impact at all levels, prioritizing a regenerative design practice.

 

Behind the scenes of experiential learning

 

https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010556

Kategorien
Publications

Bond behaviour of wood reinforcement in a clay matrix

Theresa Zschäbitz*, Selina Vaculik*, Thomas Matschei*, Alex Seiter*, Martin Trautz*, Ken De Cooman*, Laurens Bekemans*.

 

This research focuses on developing sustainable building solutions by replacing conventional steel and concrete systems with hybrid composite materials from clay, natural fibres, and wood. The aim is to create resource-efficient, load-bearing components while reducing carbon emissions through biological materials with fast regrowth and long sequestration.

 

The study explores clay as a binder for horizontal structural components, integrating natural fibre reinforcements and profiled wooden rods to optimise material use, minimise wood consumption, and enhance the performance of the composites. Through prototyping and testing, the project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of these earth and biofiber-based composites in construction, highlighting their potential for efficient, low-carbon, and cost-effective solutions.

 

Link Paper:

https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010758/files/1010758.pdf

 

https://www.taylorfrancis.com/reader/download/748fe9a1-47f6-4d96-b84c-311df8198acf/book/epub?context=ubx

 

Link Poster:

https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010418/files/1010418.pdf

Kategorien
Publications

(un-)learning architecture

Theresa Zschäbitz, Yohann Hubert, Laurens Bekemans

 

Current architectural practice faces critical challenges in responding to environmental and social transformations. This essay

explores an emergent regenerative design paradigm that transcends traditional boundaries between theoretical and practical

approaches. By examining innovative pedagogical models, particularly those developed by BC architects & studies & materials, the

text argues for a holistic educational approach that integrates material exploration, situated learning, and ecological consciousness.

The research highlights how architectural education can be reimagined as a dynamic, interdisciplinary practice that responds to

resource constraints, climate challenges, and the need for sustainable design methodologies. Through experiential learning

strategies that emphasize direct engagement with materials, local contexts, and collaborative processes, architects can develop a

more responsive and adaptive approach to design education.

Links paper:

https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010424/files/1010424.pdf

Link conference:

https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010422/files/1010422.pdf?version=1

Kategorien
Publications

aob Yearbook 03 – Collective Learning

Link Book: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X0XKip4Z5aCgRJsb26iSIpUZ3kfsnF9J/view?usp=sharing

 

Kategorien
Publications

aob Yearbook 02 – Prototyping Architecture

Link Book: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AhYN4VH9l1tHgfYX3uCDxMyaSOWNKdt1/view?usp=sharing

Kategorien
Publications

aob Yearbook 01 – Material Agencies

Link Book: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eLaviAvwpT41_TZCj1odzCU5ADYXn_BV/view?usp=sharing

 

Kategorien
Publications

Designing for a world in transition: on hands-on practice studios in architectural education

Catherine Mengé, Laurens Bekemans

 

This publication presents the work of the 2022 design studio On circular materials and processes at KU Leuven, Faculty of Architecture, Campus Sint-Lucas Brussels. Responding to the construction sector’s major CO₂ impact, the studio explored local raw and waste materials, developed experimental prototypes, and tested context-sensitive approaches to circular and low-carbon design. The results aim to equip future architects with essential knowledge for sustainable building and to inspire broader adoption of climate-friendly and circular practices in the built environment.

 

Link Book:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MCMZFg_it7yIpjkgDsBy4W7apY6FrG8E/view?usp=sharing

Kategorien
Publications

Architecture of Prototyping

Ken De Cooman, Laurens Bekemans

 

With the long-term and multifaceted project, The Persistence of Questioning: Critical reflections for the future, on architecture and more, Archined wants to stimulate discussion about key aspects of architectural practice and culture. In addition to written and visual essays, both online and in print, the project includes podcasts and in-person gatherings. The questions posed by Archined in The Persistence of Questioning are not easy to answer, yet that does not make them any less important. How relevant will the profession be in the future? How do design and ethics relate to each other? When can we speak of architecture and with what criteria do, we assess it? And what is the state of architectural culture? Within the framework of the project, and in response to the question ‘What is architecture?’, Ken De Cooman and Laurens Bekemans argue for systematic and cultural change across the construction sector.

 

Link article:

https://www.archined.nl/2022/06/architecture-of-prototyping/

 

Link reader:

https://www.archined.nl/content/uploads/2023/06/09062023-Archined-Reader-A4-Enkel.pdf