Reimagining Architecture with Traditional Craft and Modern Design with Guillaume Othenin-Girard

ETH alumnus Guillaume Othenin-Girard, an assistant professor at the University of Hong Kong and co-founder of the Architectural Land Initiative, explores how architecture connects history, sustainability, and social impact. From a Dezeen Award-winning project in Peru, where he led ETH and Peruvian students in designing a community-focused structure at an endangered archaeological site, to his ongoing work in Armenia, Guillaume’s journey spans continents and cultures. He shares insights into traditional construction methods, the role of local materials in modern architecture, and the challenges of teaching design in a digital world. Reflecting on his time at ETH Zurich, he highlights how interdisciplinary thinking and hands-on learning have shaped his career. This episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of architecture, heritage conservation, and global collaboration.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Lukas Bärfuss, Vaters Kiste: Eine Geschichte über das Erben 

Joseph Kessel, Les Cavaliers

Ursula K. Le Guin, The Carrier Bag Theory of Fiction

Chapters:

(00:25) Meet Guillaume Othenin-Girard: From Switzerland to Hong Kong

(01:56) Navigating the Pandemic in Hong Kong

(04:04) Teaching Design and Architecture During COVID

(06:55) The Pachacamac Project in Peru

(15:38) Exploring the Armenia Project

(17:43) Founding the Architectural Land Initiative

(21:04) Personal Insights and Reflections

(23:24) Conclusion and Podcast Information