This post is brought to you by SCI-Arc, an Archinect Partner School

This month, the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) is set to unveil Maison de Cartes, an exhibition by Gordon Kipping that delves into the innovative use of timber in contemporary architecture. Inspired by the principles of Maison Dom-ino by Le Corbusier, Kipping reimagines construction for the modern era, with a particular emphasis on combatting climate change.

Kipping champions the use of mass timber as a sustainable alternative to the carbon-heavy materials of steel and concrete, which are major contributors to global CO2 emissions. "Building in steel and concrete...is a huge contributor to CO2 emissions," Kipping highlights, underlining the environmental benefits of using wood, a material that not only captures carbon dioxide but is also renewable.

A unique aspect of the Maison de Cartes exhibition is its blend of the physical and digital realms through an augmented reality (AR) application. This innovative approach allows visitors to extend their experience of the timber module beyond the gallery's confines, offering a holistic view of the project. Kipping’s integration of technology is a testament to his belief in the intersection of architecture and emerging technologies. "I've always looked at emerging technologies...and looked at how architecture can participate," he mentions, stressing the importance of leveraging innovation to address contemporary challenges like climate change.

The exhibition also introduces a potential experiment towards its conclusion — the disassembly and reassembly of the timber module into an emergency shelter for the unhoused. This idea reflects Kipping’s view on the urgent need for architectural solutions to housing crises. It's a testament to his conviction that architects should pay more attention to such societal issues, exploring tangible ways to mitigate them through sustainable practices.

Kipping’s journey from engineering to architecture illuminates his project's multifaceted nature, marrying sustainable construction methods with a deep commitment to societal well-being. Maison de Cartes is not just an exhibition; it’s a call to rethink the materials and methods at the heart of architectural practice.

Event Details: Maison de Cartes runs from April 12 through June 2 at the SCI-Arc Gallery, located in Los Angeles, CA. For more information on the exhibition and to plan your visit, please check SCI-Arc's official website.