Paul rejects the notion that there is a divide between architecture and nature. In fact, he advocates a nature-centric design approach that considers material sourcing right at the drawing board, along with other decisive measures.

There are many compelling reasons, he says, to create buildings as subsets of broader natural systems. Citing projects in Singapore, he highlights the positive impact green walls, roof gardens and vertically distributed community spaces have in general.

Paul Finch regularly hosts panel discussions at the World Architecture Festival Hall Stage.
© World Architecture Festival

Today, many architects integrate landscape into architectural form. However, doing so often serves mostly the well-being of occupants. But designers have now access to an ever-expanding number of tools that let them see nature as a process rather than an artefact, providing metrics for ecosystem services that would have existed on the site in its original state. They offer a point of reference for what is to be built.

PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering in Singapore, designed by WOHA, showcases the seamless integration of landscape and architecture with vegetated terraces.
© Patrick Bingham-Hall

Paul also questions the prioritisation of renewables at the city scale. He asks if the problem of greenhouse gas emissions might be more efficiently addressed with nuclear power which is, despite its known risks, a carbon-free option. A shift to this ‘virtuous’ source of energy, he contends, would relieve the need to curtail a building’s everyday consumption.

The conversation on energy alternates between what is pragmatic, impactful and cost-effective, between what architects really control and what is often decided by others. In professional practice, he notes, much is left to other stakeholders such as politicians and clients.

Nuclear power, a carbon-free alternative to fossil fuel, is a contentious issue Paul openly endorsed.
© IndustryAndTravel / Envato

Reflecting on the role of architects as climate activists, Paul remembers the boldness of Le Corbusier and his ideas on architecture and the city, heard a century ago. That audacity is largely absent today.

Of the architects practising now, he singles out Lord Norman Foster as one who consistently tackles the issues of buildings, urbanism and the environment.

Norman Foster’s design for London’s Stansted Airport includes energy-efficient technologies, water recycling treatment and natural light.
© London Stansted Airport

Regarding cities shaping up the urban future, Paul cites the Saudi project NEOM as a ground-breaking experiment with the potential to yield solutions in the long run. It remains to be seen to which extent it will succeed.

NEOM promises to push boundaries but could take decades to reap the benefits that would move architecture forward.
© NEOM

Over the course of the first and second episodes with Paul, a glimpse into the collective psyche of the architectural profession slowly emerges. Paul reflects on the challenges faced by practitioners who seek solutions that are pragmatic and yet bold. The design process, he believes, is a balancing act, juggling self-interest and hope.

On this inner struggle, faced by all architects, Paul Finch speaks his mind, unreservedly.