On Tour with Naturalness: Design in the Anthropocene

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I feel so fortunate with the support of Wilsonart, AIA and, of course, NKBA, in bringing my latest research to the A&D sector. Naturalness: Design in the Anthropocene is a complete update of my previous CEU — Manmade Natural. So what is so important about designing in the Anthropocene

The implications of living in the Age of the Anthropocene, this period in which human activity has become a dominant influence on the environment, puts designers in a tough place. There’s a desire for authenticity when it comes to materials, but how do designers remain authentic to their concepts, their clients and the climate? Nature isn’t what it used to be, and there is a complicated relationship between man-made and natural.

Design in the Anthropocene: When it's all gone, what will we build with? Learn more Oct 16. wilsonart.com/NDOL

Material selection is critical to all outcomes. Material specification is an ongoing exploration of finishes; it’s critical that designers have a firm grasp on man-made versus natural in the face of imminent scarcity.

My latest research attempts to answer questions like:

  • When it’s all gone, what will you build with?
  • If we don’t like it, why do we fake it?
  • What is the best material?
  • How can faking help?

In the third annual National Day of Learning, I will present my answers to these questions and more. Naturalness: Design in the Anthropocene debuts October 16th at the Center for Architecture in New York City and will be broadcast twice that day via live webcast.

Design in the Anthropocene: When it's all gone, what will we build with? Learn more Oct 16. wilsonart.com/NDOL

In addition, I will be presenting a cross-country educational tour sponsored by Wilsonart. All events will earn CEU credits for architects and designers. Registration and a full list of events and support material can be found on the Wilsonart site by clicking here.