waa: The Latest Architecture and News

Kindergarten architecture has long stood apart as a realm where design and imagination converge. Unlike most building typologies, these spaces are conceived not only to shelter and function but to shape the earliest experiences of curiosity, play, and social interaction. Throughout history, the design of kindergartens has evolved alongside pedagogical shifts, moving from modest, utilitarian beginnings to highly intentional environments that stimulate both learning and wonder. In this context, architecture becomes more than a backdrop — it becomes a silent educator, capable of nurturing emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

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Educational architecture globally is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from static, rigid designs toward more dynamic, interactive, and nature-driven environments. As cities become denser and land availability diminishes, architects are reimagining schools not just as places for learning but as ecosystems where children can grow holistically. A key element in this shift is the integration of landscape and topographical design, which allows schools to transcend traditional boundaries, combining education with play, exploration, and connection to nature. These designs aim to create engaging spaces that challenge children to interact with their environment physically and emotionally, fostering creativity, independence, and well-being. By layering natural elements such as mounds, gardens, terraces, and play structures into architectural plans, educational spaces are being reshaped into vibrant, multi-dimensional landscapes that encourage movement, imagination, and discovery.

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Ever since the period of the Renaissance in Europe, the indivisible relationship between art and architecture has long been heatedly discussed and vividly reflected in numerous classical books and buildings. With the deep connection that unites art and architecture together, designers, artists, and architects have been actively collaborating and came up with solutions on how we can house and exhibit art in the form of changing spaces.

Extending the tower to 100 meters, Wiel Arets Architects’ (WAA) design for Antwerp Tower will make it the third tallest building in Antwerp and hopes to provide a hub of activity to an already vibrant part of the city. The renovation of the 1970’s block will see the footprint of the upper levels being expanded out to increase living space whilst maintaining the unique diamond floorplan.

The residential tower will contain 6 to 14 apartment units on each floor, each with their own loggia, ranging in area from 40 to 120 square meters and penthouses that will be up to 240 square meters. The system of load bearing walls and columns partially replacing the existing structure will minimise the need for columns within the residential spaces.

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The Architectural Review (AR) has unveiled the candidates for its 2016 Woman Architect of the Year and the Moira Gemmill Prize for Emerging Architecture awards. Tatiana Bilbao, Jeanne Gang, Kazuyo Sejima and Charlotte Skene Catling are all being considered as the woman of the year for their impact and ability to inspire change within the profession.

Eleven women are being considered for the Moira Gemmill Prize for Emerging Architecture prize for their "use of innovative architecture to effect positive social change." Read on to see them all. 

Videos

The Architectural Review have selected the winners of the 2015 AR Emerging Architecture Awards, billed as “the world's most popular and prestigious prize for up-and-coming architects, giving emerging practices invaluable impetus on their trajectory to wider recognition and success.” Previous award winners include Sou Fujimoto, Thomas Heatherwick, Sean Godsell, Jurgen Mayer H. and Li Xiaodong.

The award is given to completed projects, with entries consisting of buildings, interiors, landscaping, refurbishment, urban projects, temporary installations, furniture and product design. For its 17th year, the jury was comprised of architects Odile Decq, David Adjaye and Sir Peter Cook, and together they searched for what they referred to as the most “resistant” design.

Read on to see this year’s Emerging Architecture Award winners and a video with the jury on the selection process.

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