Natural systems offer architects and designers signficant potential as alternative, ecologically performative architectonic strategies. The d3 Natural Systems competition invites architects, designers, engineers, and students to collectively explore the potential of analyzing, documenting, and deploying nature-based influences in architecture, urbanism, interiors, and designed objects. Established in 2009, the annual d3 Natural Systems competition is an emerging voice in alternative architecture and one of the most notable awards in speculative, performance-based design. It recognizes exemplary ideas that redefine architecture as an ecological project through the implementation of advanced programs, technologies, materials, and social interventions that engage adaptability, globalization, and emergence.
Three winners and 14 special mentions were selected by the jury, which consisted of architects and designers all involved in sustainable practices and computational research.
- First prize – $1,250 USD : Water Aerial by Christian Bobsin, Michael Eberl | Germany
- Second prize – $1,000 USD: Working Tidal by Erin Saven, Ryan Rebecca Wall | USA
- Third prize – $750 USD: Vault Belt by Masood Shahverdi, Sima Shahverdi, Majid Adab | IRAN-USA
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Ibrahim Abdelhady is an architect, academic, and media entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in architecture and digital publishing. He is the Founder and CEO of Arch2O.com, a leading platform in architectural media, renowned for showcasing innovative projects, student work, and critical discourse in design. Holding dual PhDs in Architecture, Dr. Abdelhady combines academic rigor with industry insight, shaping both future architects and architectural thought. He actively teaches, conducts research, and contributes to the global architecture community through his writing, lectures, and media ventures. His work bridges the gap between practice and academia, pushing the boundaries of how architecture is communicated in the digital age.