Blueprints for Change

Welcome to this week's edition of Disrupt MAG Newsletter, where we bring you the latest and most inspiring stories from the intersection of design, architecture, and social advocacy. This week, we spotlight transformative figures who are reshaping urban landscapes and redefining the boundaries of their fields through innovation and commitment to social equity.

Join us as we explore groundbreaking projects and visionary leaders who are making a significant impact. Whether you're a professional in the field or an enthusiast for progressive urban development, you'll find fresh insights and inspiration in every story.

Let’s dive into another week of innovation, education, and design excellence.

Exploring the Architectural Vision of Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA

In this edition, we delve into the profound impact Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA has had on the field of architecture, merging social equity with innovative design across three continents. As the Founding Principal of Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects [LOHA] , O’Herlihy has consistently demonstrated that architecture should respond to its socio-political context, enhancing human experiences and interactions within urban spaces.

From his diverse projects ranging from art galleries and bus shelters to large mixed-use developments, Lorcan’s work exemplifies a commitment to artistry fused with social connectivity, striving to elevate the human experience through spatial design. His academic pursuits and extensive teaching roles at leading institutions like the Architectural Association and SCI-Arc have further cemented his influence, nurturing a new generation of architects.

Awarded as one of the “emerging voices” by the Architectural League of New York and a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, Lorcan's journey from Dublin to the global stage is not only inspiring but also a testament to his enduring dedication to creating impactful architectural works.

Read more about Lorcan’s journey, his philosophical approach to architecture, and how he incorporates social equity into every project in our latest article. This feature is a must-read for anyone interested in how thoughtful architectural practices can transform urban living and foster community engagement.

READ MORE HERE.

What Gets Funded Gets Built: A Revolutionary Approach to Fashion and Architecture

This week's spotlight shines on Vanessa Barboni Hallik , the visionary CEO of Another Tomorrow , who is redefining the fashion industry through a pioneering, sustainable approach. Her journey from finance to fashion is not just a career shift but a paradigm shift in how industries can intersect to foster systemic change.

Vanessa's compelling story begins with a simple yet profound realization in the fashion industry—what gets funded, gets built. Armed with this insight, she launched Another Tomorrow to address the opaque supply chain practices and unsustainable methods that are all too common in fashion. The brand sets a new standard with its end-to-end sustainable design and fully digitized product ecosystem, promoting transparency and ethical practices.

Her narrative is particularly relevant to architects and urban planners. As we consider the lifecycle of materials and designs in our projects, Vanessa's systemic, principle-based approach offers a model worth emulating. By integrating sustainability at every stage—from sourcing to post-consumer life—Another Tomorrow illustrates how businesses can be both ethical and successful.

As the built environment increasingly seeks sustainable and innovative solutions, Vanessa’s story underscores the importance of courageous, boundary-pushing leadership. It’s a call to action for all of us in the architectural field to rethink our materials, our processes, and our business models to ensure a more sustainable future.

Join us as we delve into how Vanessa’s trailblazing work in the fashion industry offers valuable lessons and strategies that can be applied to architecture and beyond, driving forward a more responsible approach to design and construction.

READ MORE HERE.

Bridging Advocacy and Design: Ifeoma E. 's Path to Empowerment and Equity

In this week's feature, we delve into the impactful career of Ifeoma Ebo, a leader in urban design and social advocacy. As the Principal of Creative Urban Alchemy, LLC , she has transformed urban spaces into platforms for equity and design excellence, employing her deep commitment to cultural heritage and community inclusivity.

This article explores Ifeoma's journey from her academic pursuits at Cornell University and MIT, through her influential roles, to her current innovative projects that integrate art, architecture, and urban planning. We highlight her approach to creating vibrant, inclusive urban environments that not only reflect but foster the diversity of the communities they serve.

Ifeoma's multifaceted career is a testament to the power of blending educational endeavors with practical application. Her work not only transforms physical spaces but also nurtures the next generation of designers and planners, equipping them with the necessary tools to continue her legacy of impactful design.

Join us as we explore how Ifeoma Ebo uses her platform to advocate for a more equitable and just built environment, and how her leadership is paving the way for systemic change in the urban landscapes of tomorrow.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE.