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# Color-Changing Timber Buildings
Mole Architects Has Built a New ‘D2’ Building in London

By Kanesa D | Published 2022-07-05 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d2-building
References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2022/7/mole-architects-d2-building-design-district) & [molearchitects](https://www.molearchitects.co.uk/)

[Mole Architects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stones-throw) has designed a ‘D2’ building in [London’s](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cuozzo-company) Design District that features a color-shifting exterior and a cross-laminated timber base. Inspired by the rich history and visuals of the Greenwich Peninsula, the ‘D2’ building will mainly operate as a creative co-working space for professionals in the London area and will offer photography studios and workshops.

The ‘D2’ building uses cross-laminated timber instead of a traditional concrete base, effectively cutting construction time and energy in half. Additionally, the timber material acts as a carbon store that keeps CO2 within the building walls and out of the lungs.

“Making timber buildings is a gift to those that live or work in them; it seems that humans have a natural affinity with timber and the warmth that it conveys. We’ve left quite a lot of timber exposed, as well as each space having fantastic large openings to the best views,” said Meredith Bowles of Mole Architects.

Image Credit: Taran Wilkhu

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.5/10
- Popularity: 54% | Activity: 10% | Freshness: 12%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Color-shifting Buildings:** Developing color-shifting technology for buildings can provide a visually dynamic and innovative experience for occupants and visitors.
- **Cross-laminated Timber:** The use of cross-laminated timber in construction provides a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional concrete buildings.
- **Creative Co-working Spaces:** Creating co-working spaces that cater to the creative industry can foster collaboration and innovation among professionals.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Construction:** As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly construction grows, the construction industry can capitalize on the use of cross-laminated timber and other environmentally-friendly materials.
- **Architecture:** The architecture industry can drive innovation by incorporating color-shifting technology and sustainable materials into their building designs.
- **Creative Industries:** The creative industries, such as photography and design, can benefit from purpose-built co-working spaces that encourage collaboration and provide essential equipment and facilities.

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