Whatever affects even just one component of an ecosystem has a ripple effect throughout the entire environment. The intricate interconnections within ecosystems call for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to research and design. By 2050, an estimated 68% of the world’s population will be living in urban areas, often contributing to the disruption and displacement of wildlife. As architects, designers, makers and activists, our role should go beyond only addressing human needs, it should also reimagine the built environment in ways that foster coexistence among all species.
The survival of ecosystems on a planetary scale depends on our ability to preserve as well as design spaces and worlds that honor the delicate interconnectedness of all life forms. The Atlas of Habitats, shaped through the collective efforts of students, educators, eco-guards, beekeepers and carpenters in Austria and Liberia, serves as an ever-evolving catalogue.
Our aim for this Atlas is to inspire activists, makers, stakeholders, designers and architects to create spaces that nurture and support life in all its diversity. As we explore the hidden connections that shape our world, we hope to generate a deeper understanding and respect for all beings, paving the way for a shared future.
Philipp Reinsberg
Philipp Reinsberg is an architect, researcher and lecturer with a focus on ecology and technology. Over the last few years, he developed social interventions and experimental wooden structures in various constellations. Since 2016, he has been working regularly as a consultant for wood technology and design for the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
Magdalena Pietryszyn
Magdalena Pietryszyn is an architect, educator, and urban designer specializing in material-driven design. She leads projects at the intersection of material science, ecology, and urban planning and has worked across diverse environments, from Sub-Saharan Africa to Nordic cities.
Maria Buerger
Maria Buerger studied communication design at the University of Applied Sciences in Berlin. She is currently enrolled in the dual degree master's program, “Global Challenges and Sustainable Development,” at the University of Applied Arts Vienna and Tongji University Shanghai. Her focus lies on the search for timeless and resourceful communication systems. Since the spring of 2024, she has been a member of the [A]FA Atlas of Habitats team.
James Fallah
James S. Fallah is a senior student of Forestry at the University of Liberia in Monrovia. He is also a carpenter and currently a Trainer at the Booker Washington Institute from where he holds a Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery. James strongly believe in exploring and learning from new opportunities that can have a everlasting impacts on the communities we serve and we are part of.
Boakai Blama Kamara
Boakai Blama Kamara holds a bachelor's degree in public administration, a BSc in electronics, and a diploma in carpentry and electricity. He is a trainer and head of the carpentry and electricity department at the Liberia Ministry of Education's accelerated vocational training program, and chairman of electronics engineering at Salvation Army Polytechnic, Liberia.
Apoorva Thapa
Apoorva Thapa is a master’s of architecture student at Studio Chermayeff at the University of Applied Arts Vienna. Originally from Kathmandu, Nepal, he previously studied architecture at the University of Florida. Apoorva has been actively contributing to the [A]FA Atlas of Habitats lab since the spring of 2024 and took on the role of student assistant in the fall of 2024.
This project was created through a joint effort between the University of Applied Arts Vienna (Die Angewandte), [Applied] Foreign Affairs, Institute of Architecture Vienna, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) project team in Liberia.
It took place within the framework of the Angewandte Program for Inter- and Transdisciplinary Projects in Art and Research (INTRA) and is funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research and the [Applied] Foreign Affairs (Institute of Architecture). The Atlas was conceptualized by Philipp Reinsberg and Magdalena Pietryszyn as part of an INTRA project and developed with [Applied] Foreign Affairs (Institute of Architecture) Baerbel Mueller (head), Apoorva Thapa, Maria Bürger, designed by EXEX Studio Vienna (AUS), and programmed by Pointerstudio, The Hague (NLD).
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Youth Rising Project supported us throughout the research conducted in Liberia and facilitated meetings with vocational training teachers in Monrovia and Kakata. UNIDO linked us to James Fallah and Boakai Kamara, two teachers and research investigators in Liberia. Caroline Jeneral, the honorary consul for Austria in Liberia, gave us insights on Liberia and first-hand recommendations on how to structure and organize the two research trips to Liberia.
Special thanks to the following collaborators and supporters:
* Helga Aichmaier, Support Art and Research, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Kent Bubbs Jr., Universal Outreach Foundation, Liberia
* Alexander Damianisch, Support Art and Research, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Caroline Jeneral, Honorary consul in Liberia for Austria
* Alfred Jakoblich, Bird photographer, Austria
* Seunghwan Jung, United Nation Industrial Development Organization, Austria
* Helga Kainz, Beekeeper, Vienna, Austria
* Christoph Kaltenbrunner, DAE, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Galo Moncayo, Energy Design Department, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Baerbel Mueller, [Applied] Foreign Affairs, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Rogers Ndege, United Nation Industrial Development Organization, Liberia
* Stavros Papastravou, World Bank (former UNIDO)
* Christian Schlager, EXEX Studio, Austria
* Benjamin Seaman, Bird life, Austria
* Habtamu Sibthat, UNIDO Liberia
* Institute of Architecture, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Department of Design, Architecture and Environment for Art Education, University of Applied Arts Vienna
The Atlas of Habitats is a dynamic website and database designed to foster new connections between the unique worlds of different beings. This evolving digital platform gathers data on habitats from unseen perspectives, offering users a playful, exploratory experience while uncovering insights that are often invisible to the naked eye.
The project team conducted an intensive, dual-location research process, employing methods such as 3D scanning, endoscopy, thermal imaging, measurement, and filming to capture natural habitats in forests, lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and abandoned places. These efforts were supplemented by online research and supported by image detection using ChatGPT for habitat identification. The result is a rich, multifaceted dataset that invites users to engage with the living world in new ways.
Users can navigate the Atlas by applying various filters and categories, such as ones for material, texture, height, size, species type, location, construction technique, and inhabitation patterns. These filters can be combined in different ways, allowing for an exploration that reveals unexpected interrelations and unforeseen links between habitats.
The Atlas not only captures physical characteristics, it also delves into the underlying tectonics and microclimates that shape these habitats. The platform provides insights into how materials and construction techniques influence the living conditions and spatial organization of different species in both artificial and natural environments. Through this interactive approach, the Atlas encourages a personalized, dynamic form of exploration, guiding users to find connections that extend beyond traditional ecological boundaries.
Whatever affects even just one component of an ecosystem has a ripple effect throughout the entire environment. The intricate interconnections within ecosystems call for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to research and design. By 2050, an estimated 68% of the world’s population will be living in urban areas, often contributing to the disruption and displacement of wildlife. As architects, designers, makers and activists, our role should go beyond only addressing human needs, it should also reimagine the built environment in ways that foster coexistence among all species.
The survival of ecosystems on a planetary scale depends on our ability to preserve as well as design spaces and worlds that honor the delicate interconnectedness of all life forms. The Atlas of Habitats, shaped through the collective efforts of students, educators, eco-guards, beekeepers and carpenters in Austria and Liberia, serves as an ever-evolving catalogue.
Our aim for this Atlas is to inspire activists, makers, stakeholders, designers and architects to create spaces that nurture and support life in all its diversity. As we explore the hidden connections that shape our world, we hope to generate a deeper understanding and respect for all beings, paving the way for a shared future.
Philipp Reinsberg
Philipp Reinsberg is an architect, researcher and lecturer with a focus on ecology and technology. Over the last few years, he developed social interventions and experimental wooden structures in various constellations. Since 2016, he has been working regularly as a consultant for wood technology and design for the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
Magdalena Pietryszyn
Magdalena Pietryszyn is an architect, educator, and urban designer specializing in material-driven design. She leads projects at the intersection of material science, ecology, and urban planning and has worked across diverse environments, from Sub-Saharan Africa to Nordic cities.
Maria Buerger
Maria Buerger studied communication design at the University of Applied Sciences in Berlin. She is currently enrolled in the dual degree master's program, “Global Challenges and Sustainable Development,” at the University of Applied Arts Vienna and Tongji University Shanghai. Her focus lies on the search for timeless and resourceful communication systems. Since the spring of 2024, she has been a member of the [A]FA Atlas of Habitats team.
James Fallah
James S. Fallah is a senior student of Forestry at the University of Liberia in Monrovia. He is also a carpenter and currently a Trainer at the Booker Washington Institute from where he holds a Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery. James strongly believe in exploring and learning from new opportunities that can have a everlasting impacts on the communities we serve and we are part of.
Boakai Blama Kamara
Boakai Blama Kamara holds a bachelor's degree in public administration, a BSc in electronics, and a diploma in carpentry and electricity. He is a trainer and head of the carpentry and electricity department at the Liberia Ministry of Education's accelerated vocational training program, and chairman of electronics engineering at Salvation Army Polytechnic, Liberia.
Apoorva Thapa
Apoorva Thapa is a master’s of architecture student at Studio Chermayeff at the University of Applied Arts Vienna. Originally from Kathmandu, Nepal, he previously studied architecture at the University of Florida. Apoorva has been actively contributing to the [A]FA Atlas of Habitats lab since the spring of 2024 and took on the role of student assistant in the fall of 2024.
This project was created through a joint effort between the University of Applied Arts Vienna (Die Angewandte), [Applied] Foreign Affairs, Institute of Architecture Vienna, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) project team in Liberia.
It took place within the framework of the Angewandte Program for Inter- and Transdisciplinary Projects in Art and Research (INTRA) and is funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research and the [Applied] Foreign Affairs (Institute of Architecture). The Atlas was conceptualized by Philipp Reinsberg and Magdalena Pietryszyn as part of an INTRA project and developed with [Applied] Foreign Affairs (Institute of Architecture) Baerbel Mueller (head), Apoorva Thapa, Maria Bürger, designed by EXEX Studio Vienna (AUS), and programmed by Pointerstudio, The Hague (NLD).
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Youth Rising Project supported us throughout the research conducted in Liberia and facilitated meetings with vocational training teachers in Monrovia and Kakata. UNIDO linked us to James Fallah and Boakai Kamara, two teachers and research investigators in Liberia. Caroline Jeneral, the honorary consul for Austria in Liberia, gave us insights on Liberia and first-hand recommendations on how to structure and organize the two research trips to Liberia.
Special thanks to the following collaborators and supporters:
* Helga Aichmaier, Support Art and Research, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Kent Bubbs Jr., Universal Outreach Foundation, Liberia
* Alexander Damianisch, Support Art and Research, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Caroline Jeneral, Honorary consul in Liberia for Austria
* Alfred Jakoblich, Bird photographer, Austria
* Seunghwan Jung, United Nation Industrial Development Organization, Austria
* Helga Kainz, Beekeeper, Vienna, Austria
* Christoph Kaltenbrunner, DAE, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Galo Moncayo, Energy Design Department, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Baerbel Mueller, [Applied] Foreign Affairs, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Rogers Ndege, United Nation Industrial Development Organization, Liberia
* Stavros Papastravou, World Bank (former UNIDO)
* Christian Schlager, EXEX Studio, Austria
* Benjamin Seaman, Bird life, Austria
* Habtamu Sibthat, UNIDO Liberia
* Institute of Architecture, University of Applied Arts Vienna
* Department of Design, Architecture and Environment for Art Education, University of Applied Arts Vienna
The Atlas of Habitats is a dynamic website and database designed to foster new connections between the unique worlds of different beings. This evolving digital platform gathers data on habitats from unseen perspectives, offering users a playful, exploratory experience while uncovering insights that are often invisible to the naked eye.
The project team conducted an intensive, dual-location research process, employing methods such as 3D scanning, endoscopy, thermal imaging, measurement, and filming to capture natural habitats in forests, lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and abandoned places. These efforts were supplemented by online research and supported by image detection using ChatGPT for habitat identification. The result is a rich, multifaceted dataset that invites users to engage with the living world in new ways.
Users can navigate the Atlas by applying various filters and categories, such as ones for material, texture, height, size, species type, location, construction technique, and inhabitation patterns. These filters can be combined in different ways, allowing for an exploration that reveals unexpected interrelations and unforeseen links between habitats.
The Atlas not only captures physical characteristics, it also delves into the underlying tectonics and microclimates that shape these habitats. The platform provides insights into how materials and construction techniques influence the living conditions and spatial organization of different species in both artificial and natural environments. Through this interactive approach, the Atlas encourages a personalized, dynamic form of exploration, guiding users to find connections that extend beyond traditional ecological boundaries.