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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
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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...
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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...
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