BC Materials: Architects as Stewards of Material

Brussels, Belgium

Bruxelles, Belgique

Brussel, België

June 29 - July 10, 2026

  • Expanding the role of the architect to material steward

  • Bio- and geo-regional materials go hand-in-hand with material reuse

  • Construction as a low-tech, collective act

Material reuse is essential, but it won't be enough. As I learned at June's Preuse conference in Brussels, the demand for building materials will continue to exceed what can realistically be supplied through salvaged materials alone. How can we create a truly regenerative material supply that supports sustainable, non-extractive growth? 

I spent two weeks exploring that question at the BC Architects & Studies Summer School in Brussels. Through hands-on workshops, we learned how to build with earth and natural fibers—from protecting bio-based buildings from water intrusion to constructing rammed earth walls, earth plaster, hempcrete, and even a straw bale arch.

The program combined material workshops led by industry experts with site visits and full-scale mockups, making it one of the most rewarding learning experiences I've had. Beyond the technical skills, the instructors embodied the evolving role of the architect, demonstrating how practice can extend beyond conventional boundaries into research, craft, education, and material innovation.

One aspect that particularly stood out was that this bio-based workshop was made up predominantly of women. It was inspiring to see so many talented practitioners and students engaging directly with construction and craft in a field that still often feels male-dominated.

I left with new skills, new collaborators, and a renewed optimism for the future of regenerative architecture. If you're interested in bio-based materials, circular construction, or simply expanding your understanding of what architectural practice can be, I can't recommend BC Architects & Studies enough.

This experience became an important part of my broader research on designing buildings as future material resources—a perspective I'm excited to incorporate into my practice.