A recent study by @ETHZurich highlights how vertical extensions—adding extra storeys to existing buildings—are emerging as a key tool for sustainable urban redevelopment in Switzerland. The research, commissioned by the Federal Office for Housing, compares building trends and displacement rates in Switzerland’s five largest urban areas: Basel, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne and Zurich. The findings reveal a clear shift toward densifying cities within their current settlement boundaries. In contrast to demolishing older structures and replacing them with new buildings, which often results in higher rents and resident displacement, vertical extensions offer a more environmentally and socially sustainable approach. This strategy preserves existing buildings, reduces demolition waste, and helps maintain socio-economic diversity in city centres. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Architecture #UrbanDensification #SustainableArchitecture #VerticalExtensions #CircularBuilding #AdaptiveReuse #MaterialInnovation #UrbanRedevelopment #ArchitecturalDesign #LowImpactConstruction #HousingSolutions

.@fastned_europe ’s Solar Trees redefine the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience by combining functionality with nature-inspired architecture. Each station features a timber structure with a canopy that mimics a tree, topped with leaf-shaped solar panels. These panels generate renewable energy to power the site’s lighting, cooling systems, and other amenities. By referencing natural forms and using biobased materials, the design reduces the environmental impact of traditional roadside infrastructure. The use of real wood gives each station a warm, recognisable identity that contrasts with more utilitarian alternatives. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #Wood #SolarTrees #SustainableDesign #EVCharging #BiobasedMaterials #NatureInspired #CircularDesign #GreenMobility #Fastned #DesignForFuture #EcoArchitecture

A silicate-based surface treatment that simulates a naturally beautiful, patinised wood appearance. KEIM Lignosil-Verano by @keimfarben / More at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialoftheDay #Materials #Coatings #WoodCoatings #Facades #Architecture

Researchers in China have created a new biodegradable mulch film made from bamboo waste. This biobased material provides an eco-friendly solution for agricultural soil protection and could inspire sustainable innovations in product, packaging, and landscape design. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #BiodegradableMaterials #BambooInnovation #SustainableDesign #CircularAgriculture #EcoFriendlyFilm #SoilHealth #MaterialInnovation #LandscapeDesign #BioBasedMaterials #PlasticAlternative

.@yerbamadre ’s Dirt Shoes offer a fresh perspective on sustainable fashion. These shoes don’t just avoid waste—they create life. Made entirely from natural ingredients, they slowly break down while releasing wildflower seeds. This turns every walk into an act of regeneration. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #BiodegradableDesign #SustainableFootwear #CircularDesign #MaterialInnovation #EcoFashion #RegenerativeDesign #BiobasedMaterials #DesignForNature #FutureOfFashion #GreenMaterials

A timber cladding material combining sustainably sourced hardwood with high-quality aluminium profiles. Forestlines by @paulussenhardhouthandel / More at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialoftheDay #Materials #Wood #Facades #Cladding #Architecture

Dutch brand @princesstraveller has released the PT-Elements collection, a series of suitcases made largely from recycled materials. These include PET bottles, polycarbonate, and Ocean Bound Plastic, such as old fishing nets and ropes. The collection is part of the company’s effort to reduce environmental impact by reusing waste materials in consumer products. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #ProductDesign #RecycledMaterials #CircularDesign #SustainableTravel #EcoFriendlyProducts #OceanPlastic #ModularDesign #SustainablePackaging #DesignForRepair #MaterialInnovation #PlasticFreePackaging

.@fiat_uk introduces the first car interior made from recycled beverage cartons. The new Grande Panda model includes visible interior components manufactured using polyethylene and aluminium layers extracted from around 140 used cartons per car. Read more at MaterialDistrict.com #MaterialInspiration #Materials #RecycledMaterials #CircularDesign #SustainableMobility #AutomotiveInnovation #EcoFriendlyDesign #FiatGrandePanda #MaterialInnovation #DesignForCircularity #RecycledPlastics #GreenEngineering