Need to Know
08 : 01 : 21

Amsterdam – Architecture firms GG-loop and Arup are joining forces to create a new modular building system that champions regenerative, sustainable living.

The scheme Mitosis, uses biophilic principles to create buildings that positively co-exist and adapt to their surroundings, prompting the restoration of eco-systems appropriate to the climate, site and residents. Bio-based materials such as CLT (cross-laminated timber) ensure the resulting structures produce more energy than they consume, while the system's modularity means that Mitosis can be built in different forms – from off-grid single family homes to high-rise plots.

‘Mitosis adopts the 14 principles of biophilic design and articulates the relationships between nature, human biology, and the design of the built environment,’ reads a statement from GG-loop. ‘Its construction is organic and flexible, providing large areas of urban and vertical farming, greenhouses, wildlife corridors and integration of habitat creation that encourage shared outdoor activities among residents.’

With healthy urban spaces increasingly front of mind for citizens and developers, fresh innovations in Wellness Architecture are coming to the fore to promote optimal wellbeing.

US – Furniture brand Forti Goods is introducing a range of sustainable furniture that doubles as secure cannabis storage.

As the number of cannabis users grows, many are seeking smarter ways to store, prepare and enjoy pot. Forti Goods’ resulting range includes cabinets, coffee tables and rolling blocks, with the homewares available in various styles and finishes, made from wood sourced sustainably in the US.

Design details include carbon filters that neutralise the scent of cannabis, alongside locking mechanisms that are controlled by an external app, ensuring goods can be kept safely out of the sight and reach of children. The brand also claims its storage can preserve the freshness of a user's stash, as it blocks out sunlight. Seeking to normalise how cannabis use is viewed, Forti Goods likens its products to owning a liquor cabinet or wine cellar, in turn providing an elevated way to store cannabis within the home that is both safe and stylish.

As marijuana restrictions continue to be relaxed in North America, cannabis consumers are seeking ways to integrate cannabis and CBD into their daily lives. For more case studies, read our Luxury CBD Market.

According to a survey by electric vehicle (EV) charging point provider Zap-Map, 91% of those who own electric vehicles would not switch back to any fossil fuel alternatives.

Results show that EV drivers scored their satisfaction with EVs at 91 out of 100 compared to 72 for petrol or diesel cars. The majority (73%) of respondents polled were first-time EV owners, with over half (52%) buying their vehicle in the past year.

‘Our latest poll shows the strong and enduring impact of switching to a clean car. The evidence in favour of electric vehicles grows more compelling with each one of our surveys, even in a year as disruptive as 2020,’ says Melanie Shuffleboatham, co-founder of Zap-Map. She adds: ‘The challenge for the automotive industry is to take advantage of the opportunities that EVs present.’

The increasing popularity of EVs heralds a more sustainable future for urban mobility as a whole.