Natural materials resonate with us at a profound level. We want to touch them. They connect us with our world, and they are resilient. When they weather and age, they can grow in beauty.

This month's issue explores these materials, showcasing exciting projects that are part of a more circular approach to building. These include a rammed earth home by Tuckey Design Studio, a sensitive retrofit of a historic City of London building by 6a architects, and a community centre by Hayatsu Architects which makes a virtue of visible restoration and repair.

In News, we look back at how the Saudi slowdown became a BIG issue. Another feature explores the AI 'arms race' and how it might affect planning. The AJ also reveals a first look inside O'Donnell + Tuomey's new school of architecture at Liverpool University.

An Opinion piece by Toko Andrews asks if we are prepared for what protection of function will entail, and Editional Studio director Jack Richards explains why his practice is moving away from social media.

Also in the issue are reviews of two exhibitions: Memoryscapes at Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Denmark and Alessandro Mendini at the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art.