Today, new generations of architects worldwide are forging close relationships between built structures and the Earth’s surface. This approach sharply contrasts with that of their modernist predecessors from the early and mid-20th century, who intentionally raised living spaces from soil—then viewed as a source of humidity, insects, and disease. No longer understood as an antagonist but as an ally to human well-being and survival, the ground has become a rich site to reconsider our interconnectedness with the planet.
Borrowing its title from French philosopher Bruno Latour’s book Down to Earth, this gallery showcases a series of design projects that thoughtfully intervene in our planet’s so-called “critical zone,” the “minuscule zone a few kilometers thick between the atmosphere and bedrock,” where most life occurs. Both conceptual and material, these highly varied strategies demonstrate how the design of the built environment can help foster resilient communities, mitigate the devastating impacts of the climate crisis, and re-establish connections between humans and nonhuman life.
Organized by Evangelos Kotsioris, Assistant Curator, and Paula Vilaplana de Miguel, Curatorial Assistant, with Joëlle Martin, former 12-month intern, Department of Architecture and Design, and Abby Hermosilla, Curatorial Assistant, Curatorial Affairs.
