"Creating near-natural designs is not only about construction above ground, but also underground: Wastewater can be hazardous to the environment, which is why raw sewage should not be allowed to get into groundwater. " Astrid Schneider, Marketing and Communications, Sika Services AG
Dear Reader,
Prior to the late 19th century, architecture changed in response to the new industrial landscape. The weight of a multistory building had to be supported principally by the strength of its walls. The higher and bigger, the better. In America, the development of cheap, versatile steel in the second half of the 19th century helpedchange the urban landscape. A much more urbanized society was forming and society called for new, larger buildings. Though there are fabulous architectural designs from then which we can still admire today, we now have different needs in the 21st century. While back then it was about creating a new space for a new industrial society, now we are conscious about what we have to keep and take care of: nature and its resources.
In terms of architecture and construction, it is now time to create smarter buildings. One excellent example is House Y in Finland. The project represents a generational shift in design ideology and ecology. It has an intelligent approach to energy consumption, as it is heated with geothermal energy. Furthermore, the sunbrings natural light and thermal energy to the interior at the right time, as the rooms have been arranged so that they follow the rotation of the sun. The morning sun shines onto the terrace and sweeps round tolight up the kitchen and living room by noon.
Creating near-natural designs is not only about construction above ground, but also underground: Wastewater can be hazardous to the environment, which is why raw sewage should not be allowed to get into groundwater. That is why having a functioning tunnel system to a treatment plant is a must in an urban environment such as in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Having a sustainable mindset is not a given, but providing young people with insights into chemistry and fully educating them for their future is a good start.
Yours sincerely,
Astrid Schneider
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SIRPA LUND
Marketing Specialist
Sika Finland
SALIM ISSA
R&D Assistant
Sika Tanzania
FRED GOUDIE
Account Manager
Sika Netherlands
SIMONA ROSU
Marketing & Office Manager
Sika Ethiopia
CARSTEN RIEGER
Market Development, Manager Concrete
Sika Services