Dezeen School Shows: a self-sufficient tower built on a beach in Barcelona is featured in Dezeen’s latest school show by students at UIC Barcelona.

Also included is a series of biomaterials that can be 3D printed and a mixed-use scheme in the Poblenou neighbourhood of Barcelona that emphasises sustainability.

UIC Barcelona

Institution: UIC Barcelona
School: School of Architecture
Tutors: Alberto T Estévez, Yomna Abdallah, Maria I Gabarró, Iñigo Ugalde, Carmen Mendoza Arroyo, Allison Koornneef, Lorenzo Chelleri, Valeria Rijana, Pere Vall Casas, Marta Benages and Álvaro Cuéllar

School statement:

“UIC Barcelona School of Architecture stands as a pioneer in Barcelona, being the first private institution of its kind in the city.

“Over two decades, it has evolved into a hallmark of quality education in the field. Our mission is to cultivate architects with an international outlook, critical thinking skills and a passion for societal engagement.

“Through personalised support and a focus on innovation, we prepare our students to navigate the challenges of the future. Committed to both our students and society, we offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes mandatory courses in cooperation, sustainability and accessibility.

“Our dedication to contemporary architecture extends beyond the classroom, as we foster close collaborations with industry leaders and provide ample opportunities for real-world experience.

“Located within our expansive Barcelona Campus, our state-of-the-art facilities offer everything from spacious lecture halls to cutting-edge workshops, ensuring that our students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

“Join us at UIC Barcelona School of Architecture and embark on a journey to shape the future of architecture.”

Developing biosystems and biomaterials by Victoria Olivia Roznowski, Abd Al Qader Al Jaafari and Jonathan Lim

“This project aimed to develop biosystems and biomaterials to produce bio-catalysed functional products including bioelectricity, food, enzymes and materials.

“Research was conducted within the BioLab, where the students learn basics of biotechnology, including culturing of useful non-pathogenic microorganisms including algae, bacteria and edible fungi.

“The BioLab integrates the latest technology in biological processes in the design process including every type and scale of 3D printing with various materials, from clay to engineered living materials.”

Students: Victoria Olivia Roznowski, Abd Al Qader Al Jaafari and Jonathan Lim
Tutor: Professor Yomna K Abdallah
Emails: victoria_Roznowski[at]uic.es, abd.aljaafari[at]gmail.com and jonlimwj[at]gmail.com

VitalSpaces – Rethinking Urban Health: Streetscapes Built for Life by Karen Niyonizeye, Sara Kaso and Yara Naji

“The design of healthy cities is based on the creation of sustainable and self-sufficient environments that minimise waste generation.

“The cities of the future must be resilient spaces, capable of meeting the needs of their inhabitants without compromising the wellbeing of future generations.

“VitalSpaces implements strategies that promote energy efficiency by reducing consumption through the use of renewable energies, responsible water management and promoting sustainable mobility.”

Students: Karen Niyonizeye, Sara Kaso and Yara Naji
Tutors: Pere Vall, Marta Benages and Álvaro Cuéllar
Emails: niyonkaren[at]gmail.com, sarakaso31[at]gmail.com and yara.n99[at]live.com.

EcoUbia: a green, technological and sustainable urban community in Barcelona by Fathimath Shahyn

“EcoUbia stands as a visionary urban project that redefines the concept of urban living – it is developed in three blocks located in Poblenou, a neighbourhood in Barcelona.

“This transformative urban microcosm integrates residences, stores, offices and facilities, creating a space where technology, sustainability and human wellbeing blend in perfect harmony.

“Residents will enjoy shared green spaces, urban gardens and an innovative agricultural centre that encourages local production and responsible consumption.”

Student: Fathimath Shahyn
Tutors: Pere Vall, Marta Benages and Álvaro Cuéllar
Email: fshahyn[at]gmail.com

Alternative Housing Processes: Collective Action in the city of Barcelona by Georgia Manousogiannaki

“Manousogiannaki analyses alternative housing production in her research paper in contrast to the traditional, speculative practices that increase and perpetuate unequal access to housing.

“The formation of urban gardens, cooperative housing, alternative economies and consumer cooperatives all introduce new approaches t0 the urban fabric.

“Her thesis points out the necessity for these alternatives as a tool for new urban development through the lens of the de-growth movement.

“Studying the case of housing alternatives in Barcelona, the research aims to map the urban patterns in the city that led to these collective transformations.”

Student: Georgia Manousogiannaki
Tutor: Emilio Hormías Laperal
Email: zp094739[at]uic.es

Assessing Disaster Risk Reduction in Refugee Camp Design in Jordan by Abdel Rahman Ghalib Al Zoubi

“Rapid population increases in Jordan as a result of the migration from neighbouring countries have put a strain on existing social and urban infrastructures.

“The need to mitigate disaster risk is essential to protect the most vulnerable, whether that is in informal urban settlements or emergency planned camps.

“The findings from this research show that refugee camp design parameters do not adequately integrate disaster risk reduction strategies, specifically in the informal camps, and argues that including the local knowledge of disasters from the initial stages would improve sustainable urban upgrading and improve their preparedness and risk mitigation profile.”

Student: Abdel Rahman Ghalib Al Zoubi
Tutor: Dr Carmen Mendoza Arroyo
Email: abdelrhmanzoubi[at]uic.es

Group project: A Heatwave Resilience Roadmap for the City of Sitges

“Using a multidisciplinary approach, the focus of the workshop was to present guidelines relating the heatwave emergency response with longer-term integrated planning and governance resilience strategies.

“Students undertook multiple site visits, engaging with both the community and key technical staff of the Municipality of Sitges in order to understand the current situation.

“Our mission was to create a framework for resilience to heat and prepare a roadmap whereby Sitges can further understand the vulnerabilities of the community and work towards a long-term resilience strategy.”

Students: Rose Dagg, Louise Demortier, Koen Dobbelaar, Federica Lisa, Armando Natingue Jr, Mara Owen, François Dubreuil, Manhoor Fatima, Darina Hyun, Claudia Laumans, Mrinal Patil, Cato Pos and Mailin Walther
Tutor: Lorenzo Chelleri
Emails: mkowen18[at]gmail.com, alice.bazzica[at]gmail.com, f.dubreuil[at]hotmail.fr, bertrand.grimm[at]hotmail.com, armandojnatingue97[at]gmail.com, louisedemortier[at]hotmail.fr, catopos[at]icloud.com, walther.mailin[at]t-online.de, koen.dobbelaar[at]gmail.com, mahnoor.fatima11[at]outlook.com, federicalisa[at]gmail.com, mrinalpatil510[at]gmail.com, rose.dagg[at]live.com.au, darinagesheva[at]gmail.com, claudia[at]clccompany.nl, erika.sbarbati[at]gmail.com and varma.aditya97[at]gmail.com

Group project: Towards a Resilient Ciutadella Knowledge Campus

“This report aims to propose robust strategies in response to Pompeu Fabra University’s request for designs for a development at the Ciutadella campus in Barcelona, Spain.

“The workshop focused on key questions: how should resilience be integrated into campus planning, design and management? And, how can sustainability extend beyond technological aspects, addressing the district scale and surpassing new campus buildings?

“Additionally, it explores how a campus can actively contribute to and lead a city district, fostering culture, knowledge, quality of life and equity.

“Specifically, it delves into the UPF Campus’ potential role in implementing the knowledge district and enhancing the overall urban environment.”

Students: Allison Ahern, Elena Luongo, Federico Villar Silva, Jared Sluss, Jhade Azzougagh, Małgorzata Kamińska, Manon Dangelser, Marli Roberts, Maxime Pierson, Nelson Nolan, Rafael Sosa, Rima Alsammarae, Steph O’Connor and Valeria Rijana
Tutor: Lorenzo Chelleri
Emails: allisonahern1[at]gmail.com, ralsammarae3[at]gmail.com, j.azzougagh[at]gmail.com, manon.dangelser[at]hotmail.com, luongo.ele[at]gmail.com, malgorzata1117[at]gmail.com, nnolan[at]ualberta.ca, steph.k.oconnor[at]gmail.com, piersonmaximejp[at]gmail.com, valrijana[at]gmail.com, marli.roberts[at]gmail.com, jaredsluss[at]gmail.com, rsosa9496[at]gmail.com and fedevillars[at]gmail.com

Designing living, breathing headquarters by Carlos González, Cindy Susantino, Elisa Estrada and Mahmoud Ghoussainy

“The living building challenge was established by the International Living Future Institute, a team of green-building experts and thought leaders committed to creating resilient, living systems that are healthy, vibrant and beautiful, but that also strengthen local economies and communities.

“Because of that, the project aims to create a well-rounded working space based on sustainable and human wellness-oriented design.”

Students: Carlos González, Cindy Susantino, Elisa Estrada and Mahmoud Ghoussainy
Tutors: Architect Maria Isabel Gabarró, David Moreno and Gabriel Rocafort

Biodigital tower in Barcelona Seafront for socio-ecological balance by Abdul Harib

“In the 20th century, architect Le Corbusier stated that “the house is a machine for living”, and talked about “the functional city” – in the 21st century, professor Alberto T Estévez urgently said that “the house is a machine for activating planetary sustainability”, and that “the city will be 50 per cent biological and 50 per cent digital, or it will not be”.

“This project, which centres on the construction of self-sufficient towers, involves solving socio-ecological imbalances.”

Student: Abdul Harib
Tutor: Alberto T Estévez
Emails: abdulharib[at]gmail.com and boalharib[at]hotmail.com

Developing Biodigital Towers by Frank Henderson and Iliya Mela

“This project centred on developing biodigital towers and islands for complex multifunctional use by self-sufficient micro-communities, as a healthy extension of the growing city of Barcelona.

“The towers aim to address the increased need for residential social units in the densest city of Europe, while complying with the integral ecology 17 sustainability development goals of the United Nations, geared towards both social and ecological planetary rebalancing.

“The project sees houses as machines to activate sustainability.”

Students: Frank Henderson and Iliya Mela
Tutor: Professor Alberto T Estévez
Emails: frankhendersont[at]gmail.com and melailiya[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and UIC Barcelona. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post Ten architecture and urban design projects by UIC Barcelona appeared first on Dezeen.

Architecture practice Studio Locomotive has completed Tree O’Clock, a “communal hub” topped by rooftop gardens for an upcoming housing development in Thailand.

Located in Phuket City, the centre provides the Villa Qabalah housing – which is due to complete at the end of 2024 – with a restaurant, bar, gallery, workshop, health studio and gardens, open to residents and the surrounding community.

“The venue design challenges the conventional value quality of housing development, often gated and self-contained,” said Studio Locomotive.

Tree O’Clock comprises three blocks that intersect at their corners, with the L-shaped spaces where they meet used to shelter gardens, raised terraces and areas of stepped seating.

Inside, the central block contains a sculptural, ziggurat-like staircase, mirroring the external forms and lit by high-level windows and a skylight that look out to the rooftop planting.

A bar is tucked behind this staircase, framed by the inverse of its stepped form, and on either side sits a small gallery space and additional seating area.

In addition to providing an amphitheatre-style seating area, the central staircase leads up to a rooftop terrace and a yoga studio, offering views out over the development and a nearby forest.

While the internal spaces were conceived with certain functions in mind, Studio Locomotive designed the centre to be easily adaptable according to the community’s changing needs over time.

“Alternative entryways and paths, amphitheater staircases, divisible space, and furniture arrangements favour Tree O’Clock’s regular use and productive repurposing,” explained Studio Locomotive.

“Programming for indoor-outdoor interactions sparks social connectivity and enriches a sense of belonging.”

Externally, the three blocks are enlivened by a variety of finishes, with a base of rough stone and white render and upper levels clad in vertical planks of black timber.

Inside, the space’s intended flexibility is echoed in the simple, white-wall finishes and wood-lined ceilings, with full-height windows providing views out across the surrounding gardens.

In line with plans for the rest of the Villa Qabalah development, Tree O’Clock is topped by numerous planters and trees, for which residents will manage the upkeep.

“Rooftop planters perform as the organic insulation and solar filter, benefiting from year-round tropical rain while providing green shading, evapotranspiration cooling, and moisture storage,” said the studio.

Elsewhere in Thailand, IDIN Architects recently completed Harudot, a cafe with open-topped gabled forms, and Looklen Architects has createn a sunken glass cafe surrounded by a stepped circular landscape.

The photography is by Beer Singnoi.

The post Studio Locomotive completes garden-topped community centre in Thailand appeared first on Dezeen.

This month’s Dezeen In Depth newsletter features a piece on the regeneration of social housing estates and an interview with Dune: Part Two production designer Patrice Vermette.

The latest piece in our Social Housing Revival series explores the tough challenges that UK councils face in addressing the urgent housing crisis.

The redevelopment of social housing estates, involving the demolition of existing properties and their replacement with new housing, has stirred controversy in Britain due to its tendency to decrease the availability of homes designated for social rent.

December’s Dezeen in Depth also featured an interview with production designer Patrice Vermette on his set design for the film Dune: Part Two and an opinion piece by Edwin Heathcote on “urbicide” taking place in Gaza.

Dezeen In Depth

Dezeen In Depth is sent on the last Friday of every month and delves deeper into the major stories shaping architecture and design. Each edition includes an original feature article on a key topic or trend, an interview with a prominent industry figure and an opinion piece from a leading critic. Read the latest edition of Dezeen In Depth or subscribe here.

You can also subscribe to our other newsletters; Dezeen Agenda is sent every Tuesday containing a selection of the most important news highlights from the week, Dezeen Debate is sent every Thursday featuring a selection of the best reader comments and most talked-about stories and Dezeen Daily is our daily bulletin that contains every story published in the preceding 24 hours on Dezeen.

The post Dezeen In Depth investigates the fate of UK social-housing estates appeared first on Dezeen.

Rather aptly named the JOAT, or Jack Of All Trades, this modular multitool holds the unique distinction of being the perfect EDC to have on you for practically any sort of crisis. Whether it’s gear that needs fixing or beer that needs opening, the JOAT’s uniquely equipped to help. Made from titanium and with modular elements that stack together magnetically, the JOAT has its own fold-out scalpel blade, set of hex-wrenches, pry-bar, portable saw, magnetic screw-bit holder, and a bottle opener… all in one thumb-sized form factor that fits around your keychain. The magnetic modules snap apart, making them easy to use individually, and they’re all crafted from titanium, so they’ll practically last a lifetime.

Designer: Fetos Studio

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $89 (22% off) Hurry! Only 5 Days Left!

While most multitools try to cram as much functionality into the tiniest form factor (we’re looking at you, Victorinox), the JOAT’s approach is a tad bit different. It uses magnetic modules that let you pull different parts of the EDC apart, giving you individual tools that are easier to use without any of that bulk associated with larger multitools. Need a knife? Just take the knife module out. Need a wrench? You don’t have to worry about any of the other tools while you’re working the wrench.

The scalpel knife is perhaps the JOAT’s most standout feature. Unlike most knives that have fixed edges, the JOAT uses a standard removable/replaceable scalpel blade that you can attach to its folding arm. You can easily attach any standard scalpel blade to the JOAT, removing it during travel (so the multitool is TSA-friendly), or replacing just the blade when its edge wears out. Standard scalpel blades are ridiculously sharp, giving your EDC multitool a great outdoor or tactical advantage. The pointed tip and deadly-sharp edge are perfect for piercing, cutting, slicing, carving, shaving, or doing anything you’d require a portable knife for. That means easily being able to navigate any outdoor situations that require a cutter, or any potential self-defense scenarios where a tactical blade could prove to be handy. The blade’s replaceable design makes maintaining your JOAT easy, allowing you to just swap out old blades for new ones instead of sitting and sharpening your knife like you would with most other multitools.

Any good multitool needs to have a bit-driver, and the JOAT takes its name and reputation seriously. Really a jack of all trades, the multitool packs a bit driver and holder in one of its three modules, allowing you to store as many as two standard 1/4″ hex bits of your choice. Although most people recommend having an Allen-bit and a flathead bit handy at all times, the JOAT lets you choose exactly which bits you want to carry along with you, letting you either stick to traditional picks or go super obscure if you’re fixing things like tech or any special gear. When in need, just take the bit you want and dock it into its holder and you have a makeshift screwdriver for any sudden emergencies when your regular toolkit isn’t around.

Got some nuts and bolts that need tightening, the JOAT packs an entire bunch of hex wrenches in its third module, along with a bottle-opener for good measure. Ranging from an M2 wrench to an M6 wrench, the standalone module is grippy and easy to maneuver, allowing you to quickly tighten or loosen bolts. The fact that the JOAT’s modules are detachable and independently usable means you can potentially use the hex wrench and the screwdriver as separate tools, allowing you to hold and tighten with the same multitool.

Finally, the JOAT’s base platform comes with its own pry tool, along with a blunt serrated edge that doubles as a nail file or even a primitive saw for buffing/filing down wood, plastic, or even soft metals. That titanium build proves rather handy here, given its status as the strongest metal known to humankind.

At just 80mm (a little above 3 inches) in length, the JOAT’s exceptionally pocket-friendly. It weighs 1.8 ounces (51.5 grams) and comes with its own loop that lets you secure it to a carabiner or even to your keychain. The all-titanium multitool starts at $69, and for another $7 you could get yourself the leather strap and titanium machined keyring to go with your EDC (shown above). If the idea of a nude metal multitool doesn’t appeal to you, there’s even an option to get a PVD black version of the JOAT for an extra $11. The all-in-one EDC multitool ships globally, and although it doesn’t come with an explicit warranty, the fact that it’s machined from grade 5 titanium should speak volumes for its durability. Let’s just say, this might be the last EDC you’ll ever need to buy…

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $89 (22% off) Hurry! Only 5 Days Left!

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $89 (22% off) Hurry! Only 5 Days Left!

The post This 6-in-1 Titanium Multitool comes handy in every tactical, outdoor, and emergency scenario first appeared on Yanko Design.

In the heart of the rock music scene lies a unique fusion of style, passion, and timeless appeal. Capturing this essence in a household item requires a delicate balance of design and functionality. The Marshall Wall Clock – a concept clock that pays homage to the iconic brand’s legacy while catering to the discerning tastes of music enthusiasts, especially those rooted in the rock genre.

Designer: Juan Venezia

Designed with a keen focus on individuals immersed in the world of music, particularly rock enthusiasts, the Marshall Wall Clock targets a diverse audience. From artists to music producers and genuine fans, this timepiece aims to resonate with anyone who finds comfort and inspiration in the rhythm of rock.

Immersing themselves in the ambiance of recording studios, artists’ homes, and musical product stores, the designers embarked on a journey to understand the nuances of the rock environment. Through meticulous investigation, they identified key elements such as leather, wood, gloss, and metallic details that define the aesthetic essence of this realm. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Marshall brand, known for its golden details, premium quality, and vintage identity, the redesign journey began.

To capture the essence of Marshall’s ethos, a comprehensive mood board was created. Golden details symbolize the brand’s legacy and prestige, while premium quality reflects its commitment to excellence. Textures and reliefs add depth and character, reminiscent of the rich tapestry of rock music’s history. Vintage identity pays homage to the roots from which Marshall emerged, embodying a timeless allure that transcends generations.

Starting with a base clock characterized by neutrality, the designers embarked on a transformative journey. Retaining the essence of simplicity while infusing it with the soul of rock, the Marshall Wall Clock emerged as a testament to innovation. Through meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, the once mundane timepiece was reborn with a bold identity that commands attention.

In the symphony of life, time is the conductor, and the Marshall Wall Clock stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of rock music. By seamlessly blending design elements inspired by the iconic Marshall brand with the rebellious spirit of rock, this clock transcends its function to become a statement piece in any space. Whether adorning the walls of recording studios, artists’ sanctuaries, or music enthusiasts’ homes, the Marshall Wall Clock embodies the rhythm of rock, keeping time with style and sophistication.

The Marshall Clock is a fan-made concept. Any use of the Marshall logo or brand is purely representational.

The post An Exciting Wall Clock Design Inspired By Marshall For Rock Enthusiasts first appeared on Yanko Design.