A symposium considering the impact of vernacular construction materials and methods on the future of architecture.

May 31st & June 1st
NJIT’s Hillier College of Architecture and Design

The symposium offers the opportunity to earn up to 13 AIA CEU credits

Where building traditions become contemporary technologies.

Vernacular architectural technologies have developed through thousands of years of human experimentation. These technologies made use of  locally available biogenic and geogenic materials to create shelter and provide thermal comfort.  Then, mechanized heating and cooling, reliable electric lighting, and the oil to fuel these systems, seemingly eliminated the need for this knowledge.  

Over the course of the last decade, recognizing the need to create a more sustainable future, we focused on building performance, forming ever better plastic solutions, increasing architecture’s embodied carbon, and inadvertently accelerating climate change. 

Our focus on the future prevented us from seeing the wealth of knowledge we had left behind.  Now, facing a climate crisis, we acknowledge that in order to move forward we must look back, not as historicists, but as innovators. 

What are the contemporary technological opportunities of traditional building materials and methods and how can they be applied en masse?   How might this diverse vernacular knowledge shape a new carbon negative architecture now?

Vernacular: shaped by specifics of place

Sophisticated buildings will be made of mud.

“On the 40th anniversary of the Smithsonian Magazine, they announced the 40 things you need to know about the next 40 years. Number one on that list was: “Sophisticated buildings will be made of mud”. Emerging Objects explores these frontiers of technology and material using traditional materials (clay, water, and wheat straw), to push the boundaries of sustainable and ecological construction in a two phase project that explores traditional clay craft at the scale of architecture and pottery. The end goal of this endeavor is to demonstrate that low-cost and low-labor construction that is accessible, economical and safe is possible.” - Rael San Fratello

Ronald Rael, known for his teeter-totter installations at the US Mexico border and 3D-printing clay in situ will speak about Vernaculars of the Expanded Borderlands


Presenters

Trilox

New Frameworks

David J. Lewis

Katie MacDonald
Kyle Schuman

Ian Crawford

Lola Ben-Alon

Johan Jönsson

Matthew Adams

Sandra Piesik

Sydne Nance
Henning Larsen

Ronald Rael

Myrrh Caplan

Are you interested in finding ways to shape truly sustainable architecture?

Us too.


Schedule

Friday May 31st

Lectures

Coffee & Welcome Address

9:00am - 9:30am

Keynote Address
9:30am - 11:00am

in conversation:

11:00am - 12:30pm

Lunch

12:30pm - 1:30pm

1:30pm - 3:00pm

3:00pm - 4:30pm

4:30pm - 6:00pm

Vernaculars of the Expanded Borderlands
Ronald Rael

Sean A. Gallagher, Diller Scofidio + Renfro

Closing Remarks / Happy Hour

6:00pm - 7:00pm

Saturday June 1st

Workshops

Coffee & Welcome Address

10:00am - 10:30am

10:30am - 12:00pm

Lunch

12:00pm - 1:00pm

1:00pm - 5:30pm

Closing Remarks / Happy Hour

5:30pm - 6:30pm


Registration

Discover the Power of Vernacular Architecture Technologies: Connect, Collaborate, and Learn!

We invite you to join us for lectures, conversation, and workshops at the Future View: Vernacular Technologies symposium. This symposium, held on May 31st & June 1st 2024, will bring together a vibrant community of professionals, experts, and students who are passionate about vernacular architecture, sustainability, and the intersection of vernacular knowledge and future technologies.

Why should you register?

1. Innovative Research: The symposium offers a unique platform to explore the innovative potential of vernacular architecture technologies within a R1 research institution. Learn how traditional building methods, combined with advancements in materials science, contemporary research tools, and design thinking, can revolutionize the way we construct and inhabit space.

2. Meaningful Connections: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for vernacular architecture and its sustainable, culturally-rich practices. Forge lasting relationships with architects, engineers, researchers, and industry professionals who believe in the opportunities for vernacular knowledge to contribute to resilient and inclusive communities, address climate change, and shape a more sustainable future.

3. Collaborative Learning: Engage in inspiring discussions, workshops, and presentations led by experts at the forefront of vernacular architecture technologies. Collaborate and exchange ideas with fellow attendees, fostering cross-disciplinary knowledge sharing and exploring new perspectives on research, design, and construction techniques.

4. Practical Applications: Discover real-world applications of vernacular architecture technologies through case studies and success stories. Gain valuable insights into how these technologies can be applied to address challenges ranging from climate change to housing shortages, making a tangible impact on the communities we belong to and serve.

5. Fun and Engaging Environment: Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere where learning is enjoyable. From our fast-paced lecture/conversation format to opportunities to connect over coffee or lunch to hands-on workshops, we have designed the symposium to provide an interactive and memorable experience for all attendees.

Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity to be part of the vernacular architecture revolution. Register now for the Symposium on Vernacular Architecture Technologies and help shape the future of sustainable, culturally-rich, climate positive architecture. We look forward to welcoming you to this inspiring gathering of visionaries and collaborators. Together, let's explore, connect, and propel the future of vernacular architecture technologies forward!


Contact Us

Charlie Firestone and Carrie Bobo
NJIT Hillier College of Architecture and Design
Weston Hall
323 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102

NJIT is conveniently located within the greater New York City area, less than thirty minutes by train from Manhattan via either Path or New Jersey Transit and free parking is available.

A big thank you to the sponsors and hosts that make this event possible!
Would you like to see your logo here? We’re currently seeking sponsors - please contact us hello (at) futureviewsymposium.com