Olga Popovic Larsen

As a Director for the new Master’s education “Architectural Technology” (AT) I am developing new pedagogies through the explorations of how architectural studies can integrate technical expertise into artistic experimentation with the aim to address sustainability with its complexity in the built environment. 

The AT education focuses on design practices that extend the lifecycle of materials through open-ended, craft-based inquiry – approaches that engage deeply with the inherent properties and behaviours of materials. The project outcomes from AT are rich and highly innovative. 

We focus on broad aspects of sustainability, critical thinking and supporting architectural quality. Our novel pedagogies are evaluated, reflected upon and presented in exhibitions and also communicated through publications.

The work investigates the development of a less wasteful wood building practice. Each example is an increment in the development. Working closely with the will of the material, the separate solutions propose approaches of how to develop building construction systems that embrace the challenges: short, reclaimed, wasted, imperfect wood. 

Through the agency of the (waste) material the designs offer opportunities for achieving performance, functionality and aesthetic expression. The exhibits show different load-bearing systems as gridshell, tree-structure, reciprocal frames, truss and dome systems, also, connection designs and detailing for assembly, adaptability and re-use. 

The work offers a palette of solutions that address the scarcity of wood in the context of the climate crisis. The collaboration with partners has brought in different professional and cultural insights.