The design of the 17,000-sf R.W. Kern Center—whose function on the campus of Hampshire College includes admissions and greeting guests—strives to integrate the building into its surroundings through the use of locally sourced materials, full-glass walls, and positioning the building for maximum exposure to the outdoors. Planters that rim the indoor periphery of one wing of the building are irrigated by its grey water. Robert Benson Photography.

San Antonio-based design firm Lake|Flato finally found a design-build partner in Katerra to refine and execute its Porch House concept, a system of modules with floor-to-ceiling windows and connecting porches that link the single-family structure to the outdoors. Over the years, Lake|Flato has tried various delivery methods for these houses, which typically range from 1,500 sf to 2,500 sf, including factory assembly components and site-built construction. Courtesy Lake|Flato