As the summer semester reaches its midpoint, GSAPP enters a rhythm of steady intensity. This week’s update from the GSAPP ecosystem reflects critical inquiry into subversive web tools and alternative climate-responsive urbanism, practices that engage the social, political, and environmental urgencies of the now.

Yehwan Song is a Korean-born web artist who specializes in the creation of anti-user-friendly, non-user-centric, unconventional, and diverse independent websites. Her work—spanning virtual spaces, physical installations, web tools, and user interfaces—satirizes and critiques the overgeneralization of users and the prevalence of templated websites. The primary focus of Song’s artistic endeavors lies in exploring the discomfort and insecurity experienced by marginalized users hidden beneath the facade of technological utopianism, excessive comfort, speed, and ease of use. Her practice attempts to address digital discomfort stemming from a lack of consideration for diversity and a dearth of empathy. Through the act of exposing this discomfort and crafting non-generic web interfaces, Song aims to shed light on the inequalities pervasive within the digital environment.

Organized by the MS in Computational Design Practices program for the Conversations with Practitioners Lecture Series.

Organized by faculty Mariami Maghlakelidze ’21 MSAAD, The Urban Microclimate: A Thermal Construct of Socio-Environmental Imprints (Reforesting Cities) is a thematic session at the 14th São Paulo International Architecture Biennale. Framing the city as a climatic construct, the session explores how reforestation and forest-informed design can mitigate heat, restore ecological balance, and support environmental justice. Using GIS and CFD modeling, it positions trees as active agents in shaping resilient urban microclimates. Abstract submissions are open through July 10. Apply.

• Crosetto Piazzi, led by Rocio Crosetto ’22 MSAAD with Leandro Piazzi and Juan Manuel Balsa, is among the six winners of the 2025 Architectural League Prize for Young Architects + Designers. Based between the U.S. and Argentina, the practice was recognized for a grounded yet expansive approach to architecture—one that weaves together material experimentation, site-specific building methods, and the social and ecological systems that support them. Recent projects include the lakeside pavilion, Quincho & House (pictured), Rural Restroom, and House with a Tilted Roof.

• CoPa, led by faculty Galen Pardee with Manuel Cordero, was named Honorable Mention in the category New Firm (Northeast) in the 2025 Architect’s Newspaper Best of Practice Awards. The award recognizes the evolving project of designing a practice itself—one that shapes internal culture, supports emerging research, and contributes meaningfully to the built environment. This year’s jury recognized CoPa for its thoughtful structuring of studio practice and broader contributions to the field, alongside a cohort of firms advancing new models for research, mentorship, and community impact.