Democratized architecture

Designer Alastair Parvin believes that the architecture and building of at least residential structures should be and can be democratized through open source model sharing. Alastair Parvin: Architecture for the people by the people | Video on TED.com This is a world where anyone can download CNC cutting machine and 3D printer programs to construct all the materials and tools needed for two people to construct sustainable housing.

It is a world I believe where students all over the world can learn by housing all the homeless everywhere. It is within reach as long as we completely rethink the current model.

Architectural resilience

Bridgette Meinhold’s new book, “Urgent Architecture” features dozens of housing models designed to withstand the misfortunes of earthquakes, typhoons, tornadoes and rising sea levels. They bend and float, adapt and are portable for the most outrageous weather conditions. Inhabitat

As climate change continues to loom large in preparedness planning globally, these kinds of affordable solutions will be crucial to well-being especially in lower geographic and economic areas.