The “Architectural Material Technologies Commons” conference aims to revolutionize our approach to material responsibility in architecture and design. By focusing on novel, regenerative, resilient, indigenous, and traditional materials, AMT2025 seeks to foster sustainable practices that respect our environment, honor cultural heritage, and empower practitioners through the democratization of knowledge and skills.

The concept of the Commons, both historical and digital, forms the foundation of our conference. We draw inspiration from the modern Digital Commons, defined as “information and knowledge resources that are collectively created and owned or shared between or among a community and that tend to be non-exclusive, that is, be (generally freely) available to third parties. Thus, they are oriented to favor use and reuse, rather than to exchange as a commodity.” (Fuster Morell, M. (2010))

AMT2025 embodies this spirit by offering free admission, emphasizing our commitment to the open dissemination of regenerative and sustainable materials, practices, designs, and ideas. We believe in the power of shared knowledge, from vernacular construction techniques to cutting-edge innovations, to drive positive change in our built environment.

AMT2025 will explore a wide range of key focus areas that are crucial to the future of sustainable architecture. We’ll delve into novel and regenerative materials in sustainable design, while also examining the role of indigenous, traditional, and vernacular materials in contemporary architecture. The conference will highlight resilient architectural practices that embrace regenerative techniques and showcase ways to integrate contemporary tools and technologies with traditional materials and methods. A significant emphasis will be placed on the open-source sharing of vernacular knowledge and construction skills, as well as the importance of preserving and transmitting generational craft knowledge. We’ll also investigate symbiotic relationships for accessible, low-cost housing solutions, explore the concept of urban commons and their role in shaping our built environment, and discuss models of self-governance and cooperation in small-scale architectural ecosystems. Through these diverse topics, AMT2025 aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in creating a more sustainable and equitable architectural future.

Join us for three days of keynotes, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. Connect with experts from academia, industry, and local communities to explore innovative approaches to material responsibility that contribute to a regenerative, equitable, and resilient built environment.

AMT2025 invites architects, designers, researchers, craftspeople, students, and community members to participate in this vital conversation. Together, we’ll examine how collaborative, commons-based approaches can create more responsible and accessible architecture, from reimagining traditional materials with modern technologies to developing ultra-low-cost housing solutions using readily available materials.

By fostering a community of practice that values both innovation and tradition, AMT2025 aims to catalyze a movement towards more sustainable, equitable, and culturally rich architectural practices. Join us in Columbus, Indiana, as we work collectively to shape the future of our built environment.

Key topics

Novel and regenerative materials in sustainable design

Traditional and vernacular materials in contemporary architecture

Resilient architectural practices embracing regenerative techniques

Integrating contemporary tools and technologies with traditional materials and methods

Expanded List of Topics

Decentralized and off-grid architectural solutions

Self-sufficient building designs for remote locations

Micro-grid systems and renewable energy integration in architecture

Water and waste management solutions for off-grid structures

Case studies of successful off-grid communities and their architectural approaches

Open-source sharing of vernacular knowledge

Documenting and digitizing traditional building techniques

Platforms for disseminating indigenous architectural knowledge

Integrating vernacular wisdom with modern sustainable practices

The role of mentorship and apprenticeship in preserving architectural crafts

Resilient design strategies for climate change adaptation

Architectural responses to extreme weather events

Passive design techniques for energy efficiency in varying climates

Water-conscious architecture and rainwater harvesting systems

Green infrastructure integration in building design

Technology and traditional materials: bridging the gap

Digital fabrication techniques applied to natural materials

AI and machine learning in optimizing vernacular design principles

Robotics and automation in traditional construction methods

Virtual and augmented reality tools for preserving and teaching craft skills

Low-cost housing solutions using sustainable materials

Affordable eco-housing designs for urban and rural environments

Repurposing readily available materials for emergency shelters

Community-driven construction projects using local resources

Scalable modular housing systems with minimal environmental impact

Biophilic design and human-nature connections

Incorporating living materials in architectural design

Strategies for enhancing biodiversity in built environments

Therapeutic landscapes and healing architecture using natural materials

Biomaterials and their impact on indoor environmental quality

Innovative materials and sustainable design approaches

Novel bio-based and regenerative materials in architecture

Advancements in recycled and upcycled building materials

Biomimicry in architectural design and material selection

Zero-waste design strategies and circular economy principles in construction

We acknowledge and honor the Indigenous communities native to this region, and recognize that Indiana University Bloomington is built on Indigenous homelands and resources.  

We recognize the Myaamiaki (Miami), Lënape (Delaware), Bodwéwadmik (Potawatomi), and Saawanwa (Shawnee) people as past, present, and future caretakers of this land.

Event facts

Event name: Architectural Material Technologies Commons

Organizer: Indiana University

Date: 27-29 March, 2025 

Location: The Republic Building, Columbus, Indiana

Register to the event from here. 

Top image courtesy of Architectural Material Technologies Commons.

> via Architectural Material Technologies Commons

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