Articles by Eduardo Souza

ZEB Living Lab is a research building that stands out for its pioneering initiative among zero-emission buildings, seeking to have a significant impact on the future. Located in Trondheim, Norway, it is much more than just a building; it is a tangible manifestation of the global commitment to sustainability and innovation. Conceived as an advanced research laboratory and a practical example of sustainable construction practices, it represents the point of convergence between architecture, technology and environmental awareness. Managed in collaboration between NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) and SINTEF (Scandinavian Institute of Technology), this center of scientific excellence is a platform for living experimentation, where innovative materials and solutions are developed, tested and demonstrated in direct interaction with the building occupants.

Among the “Five Points of New Architecture” formulated by Le Corbusier, terrace gardens figure as a way to take advantage of a building’s so-called fifth facade, either as leisure areas or landscaping spaces. Thanks to technological advances in reinforced concrete in the mid-twentieth century, usable flat roofs are far from new. There are traces in Mesopotamia and vernacular architecture from Greek and Arab civilizations. However, problems that frequently arise relate to infiltration and leaks. Water is relentless in finding a place to drain, and flat roofs are exposed to this when execution and design are not carefully thought-out. In fact, as documented in several letters, this was a source of disagreement between the owner and the Swiss-French architect in the case of the influential Villa Savoye. Today, nonetheless, there are good waterproofing options on the market that provide durability, resilience, adaptability and, above all, avoid headaches and fights between builders and owners. Elevate is built on 40 years of history in the production of roofing membranes, as well as insulation and vapor barriers, and develops solutions for waterproofing flat roofs with a low inclination.

Marble held profound significance in Greek and Roman architecture due to its abundance, luminous surfaces, and subtle veining. Its durability ensured structures’ longevity, while its cultural symbolism of purity and divine favor made it ideal for temples, theaters, and amphitheaters. As a symbol of perfection, marble facilitated intricate craftsmanship for decorative elements, inspiring architectural marvels and exquisite art, leaving a legacy of sophistication and refinement. 

When discussing sustainability in construction, we are used to an approach based on complex technological solutions, expensive sensors, costly materials and, most recently, artificial intelligence. But what if everything we are looking for (in terms of sustainability) could come from the materials themselves, taking advantage of their intrinsic properties, without even relying on electricity? The use of hygromorphic materials offers an innovative perspective and sheds light on little-explored possibilities in the field. These materials can adapt to variations in environmental humidity, changing their shape, size or other physical properties. Examples in nature include wood, hygroscopic proteins such as collagen, polysaccharides such as cellulose and chitin, hygroscopic minerals such as certain salts and silica gel, as well as spores and pollen grains; all of which exhibit the ability to absorb or release moisture in response to changes in humidity. In architecture, researchers have been striving to develop materials, particularly for façades, that can take on a life of their own and make buildings more comfortable naturally.

The desire for fluid integration between spaces has become increasingly relevant in contemporary architecture. This reflects a search for more connected and harmonious living experiences, especially in urban environments, where the cityscape can saturate us. By transcending conventional boundaries and blurring the lines between interior spaces and the vast outdoors, living environments can be created to celebrate connectivity, sustainability and the well-being that comes from being alongside nature. These types of integration not only make it possible to unite spaces with their surrounding contexts, but also to segment indoor environments when necessary, maintaining a visual connection while keeping them functionally separate. By creating these integrations, architects and designers allow spaces to merge with each other or with nature, promoting a sense of tranquillity, balance and rejuvenation, as well as integration and fluidity—a seamless transition that blurs the distinction between the two. This is achieved through architectural elements such as large windows and doors, which dissolve barriers through the simple action of opening and closing.

When considering traditional brick facades, we usually conjure up images of solidity and robustness. Solid ceramic blocks, recognized for their ability to withstand compression and offer strength and durability to structures, are materials frequently used in architecture. However, innovation in construction materials has made space for solutions that combine tradition and modernity, transforming the use of materials such as brick. In contemporary construction, the integration of solar control measures has become essential to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, especially in hot climates where the need to mitigate the effects of solar radiation is critical. This is one of the areas in which brick can play a significant role, aided by new technologies.

Each piece of furniture, be it a table, a chair, or a sofa, is much more than just a functional element. It is a bearer of stories, a keeper of memories, and a reflection of the craftsmanship of those who brought it to life. When it comes to wooden furniture, this connection with history and skill is even deeper; every grain, knot, and shade tells the story of the tree it came from, and the craftsmanship of the artisans is manifested in the curves and joints. In the contemporary context, where mass production and fast-paced trends tend to standardize the world around us, furniture making remains a beacon of authenticity, and wood continues to be highly prized. It’s a haven where exclusivity and connection with the natural are celebrated, resisting the passage of time.

In nature, zinc is mainly found as zinc sulphide ore or zinc carbonate, which is mined to obtain the metal. Once refined, it is used in a variety of applications, including metal alloys, battery manufacturing, medicines and supplements, as well as in the fabrication of pigments, chemical compounds and coatings. In the latter, which is used in architectural applications, zinc is well known for its weather resistance and self-healing properties and is highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 100 years, requiring minimal maintenance. In addition, because it is 100% recyclable and has a low environmental impact during its production, zinc is a sustainable choice for construction projects.

Flooring plays a fundamental role in defining the ambiance and atmosphere of a space. Among the variety of options on the market, solid wood plank flooring stands out as a timeless choice. Known for their classic beauty and enveloping textures, these floors not only enhance the visual aspect of a room but also provide exceptional thermal comfort, resistance, and resilience, able to withstand wear and tear and heavy traffic. Their easy maintenance and durability are further markers of their quality, making them one of the favorite choices of architects, designers, and homeowners in search of long-lasting elegance and functionality for their projects.

Transparency, integration and boundaries are key words for understanding the work of Riken Yamamoto. Winner of the Pritzker Prize in 2024, the Japanese architect’s work can be recognized for its ability to establish and challenge conventional spatial concepts of materiality, creating spaces that promote interactions and connections between people and their surroundings. Transparency, whether in the physical configuration of the buildings, the choice of materials used or the underlying philosophy applied to all his works, emerges as a central element throughout his career.