Every architect knows there is no project without constraints. Whether it’s a challenging site, limited budget, or complex program requirements — obstacles are the reality of construction projects. However, with experience, we learn that constraints rarely result in compromised quality. Rather, they often inspire new approaches and innovative solutions. As designers, we understand that constraints can fuel our creativity. So, let’s consider: How could the constraints of new tariffs inspire the future of American architecture? What if these tariffs don’t just increase construction costs but serve as the catalyst for a more sustainable built environment?

The 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale is officially open to the public. Curated by Carlo Ratti, who recently spoke with Archinect about the event, the Biennale features over 750 participants responding to themes of intelligence forms, adaptation, inclusivity, and collaboration. At the U.S. Pavilion, visitors are catching their first glimpse of PORCH: An Architecture of Generosity. The installation, overseen by co-commissioners Peter MacKeith, Susan Chin, and Rod Bigelow, seeks to showcase the "cultural, architectural, and environmental significance of this iconic American typology." In total, 52 projects are being showcased within the pavilion, while outside, a prefabricated and demountable mass timber/rammed earth structure has been installed to invite dialogue and exchange. To learn more about the program, Archinect spoke with co-commissioners Susan Chin and Peter MacKeith on how the installation was created, what visitors can expect from the exhibition, and the co-commissioners' ...

The Venice Architecture Biennale, arguably the most iconic event in the architectural calendar, opens its 2025 edition to the public this week on May 10th. As crowds begin to descend on the Italian city and organizers and participants finish their final preparations, Archinect's Niall Patrick Walsh spoke with the biennale's curator Carlo Ratti on what visitors can expect from the event. In our conversation, Ratti unpacks his vision for the biennale as a living laboratory from which ideas and research can emerge to guide the evolution of the built environment; all themed along the exhibition's pillars of Natural, Artificial, and Collective intelligence. In addition, Ratti offers his thoughts on the curatorial process, common topics explored by participants, the future of biennales, and some final advice for those making the trip to Venice to see the event in person. The conversation, edited lightly for length and clarity, is published below.

Darkened corners, poorly-lit cars, vandalism, and other physical and psychological indicators that crime is present or can thrive still underpin its persistence on subways and in stations in New York City. This has led to a widespread perception of danger. And, in real terms, the neglect has spurred a 160% increase in arrests throughout the system over the last two years. With the number of felony assaults now on the rise and outnumbering robberies in the subway system 2-to-1, Claire Weisz, founding principal of Brooklyn-based WXY Architecture + Urban Design, whose related work on civic engagement will be on display inside the official United States Pavilion at this year’s Venice Architecture Biennale, spoke to Archinect about the new Vital City guidances and her personal connection as a New Yorker and the co-founder of Design Trust for Public Space.