Architecture at the End of the World.

This article explores the intersection of architecture and the environment, discussing various topics such as the impact of human-made structures on nature, the portrayal of fungal infections in popular culture, the role of architects in addressing climate change, and the ethical concerns surrounding architectural projects. It begins with a personal anecdote about lanternflies in Manhattan, highlighting the effects of human development on the natural world. The article then delves into the HBO series "The Last of Us" and its depiction of a fungal infection, drawing parallels to real-life fungi and their adaptability. It also discusses the challenges architects face in balancing ecological impact with industry demands and critiques the ambitious plans for a new city in Saudi Arabia, questioning the involvement of renowned architects in a project associated with a regime known for human rights violations. The article concludes by examining architect Tatiana Bilbao's approach to designing an aquarium in Mexico, which challenges the conventional human-centered approach to architecture and emphasizes the relationship between humans and nature. The author draws connections between Bilbao's project and the video game "The Last of Us," both exploring post-human landscapes. [Extracted from the article]