What can architects learn about sustainable design from Native American culture and designers?

Non-Eurocentric architecture, including Native American historical and contemporary building design, is a topic missing from many architecture curriculums. Sustainable architecture is taught through presenting high-tech solutions like solar panels and geothermal heating. Before the colonial history of American, Indigenous peoples used methods of construction and design that valued nature without exploiting its resources. In this three-part podcast series, I will be sharing with you what I learn about Native history and culture, contemporary buildings made by Native architects, and exploring the possible low-tech sustainable solutions that architects can learn from Native American culture.

Music by Swil Kanim. Interviews conducted by Native Voices on Sustainability: Voices from Salmon Nation

Cassandra Maile