corāle is an architecture practice grounded in bioregional principles*, working with local communities and resources to deliver spaces with low carbon footprint and rooted in their cultural context.
*bioregionalism is an approach that aligns building practices with a territory's ecology, climate, and cultural practices using locally available materials.
why corale
The name corāle reflects our philosophy. We believe the best architecture grows from dialogue and collaboration. We see the design process as a shared choral endeavor where clients, users, craftspeople, and architects collectively imagine new ways of designing, building and living. In the face of our generation's ecological challenge, it is more important than ever to join intelligence and skills.
the problem
Today’s building industry is one of the major causes of environmental damage.

In the EU, construction alone accounts for around 40% of global carbon emissions. Conventional architecture remains dependent on extractive, carbon-intensive, globally-sourced and standardized models.

Cities grow by consuming materials and fuel: extracting from their surroundings sand, gravel, stone, and the energy needed to transform these into buildings. This continuous process depletes ecosystems and drives emissions, perpetuating an unsustainable model of development.

At corāle, we recognize this responsibility and we believe another path is possible, by challenging the current industry and reimagining alternatives.
Informed by vernacular wisdom, corāle seeks innovative ways of building to ensure a livable future for the generations to come.
We design and build with
‍locally available resources, in particular geo-based and bio-based materials, agricultural and industrial by-products, and reclaimed components.
benefits of natural and local materials
support for local economies and craftsmanship:
By sourcing materials locally and engaging regional artisans, we shorten supply chains, support small-scale economies, and preserve traditional know-how, creating lasting value for communities.
revalorization of resources:
We give new life to what is often discarded: agricultural waste that becomes insulation, excavated earth that transforms into high-quality building material, and demolition elements that can be reused in new constructions.
lower energy use and costs:
By allowing buildings to breathe, natural materials regulate humidity and indoor climate, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. We study vernacular architecture to learn from past generations’ climate intelligence, then adapt these solutions for today’s needs.
wellbeing for people:
Natural materials ensure excellent thermal comfort in every season. They have a high thermal storage capacity, slowing heat gains in summer and heat losses in winter.
corāle
office@corale.org