Titled “Flora Gato,” this unique landscape creatively uses acoustical material as a water absorptive building material, housing Spanish moss and Korean grass. These provide both thermal mass and shade, and help create a prefect melding of natural and synthetic.

Amphibious Envelope is an experimental building facade system that re-imagines the insulated glazing unit as a living ecosystem. Combining living organisms, sensors, and a micro-HVAC system, Amphibious Envelope can self-regulate indoor oxygen levels, self-clean, and provide dynamic shading.

link to article

Artist Michael Rakowitz’s ongoing ParaSITE project provides portable inflatable shelters for homeless people. ParaSITE shelters utilize the vents and ventilation systems from buildings for both temperature and warmth. When warm air leaves the building, it inflates the shelter’s double membrane, and simultaneously heats the interior. 

http://www.woostercollective.com/post/michael-rakowitzs-parasite