Alejandro Aravena's architectural philosophy is to "bring the community into the process." Ten years ago, when tasked with building housing for 100 families in Chile, he found inspiration in

Alejandro Aravena's architectural philosophy is to "bring the community into the process." Ten years ago, when tasked with building housing for 100 families in Chile, he found inspiration in favelas. Instead of small units in large buildings, he designed flexible "half-homes" that each family could expand. This complex problem found a simple solution through direct collaboration with the families themselves.

Aravena showcases three projects where clever rethinking led to beautiful, beneficial design. Learn more at Alejandro Aravena's website, or follow TED on Twitter and Facebook.

Alejandro Aravena, tasked with building housing for 100 families in Chile, found inspiration in favelas and slums. Rather than conventional small units, he designed flexible "half-homes" that

Alejandro Aravena, tasked with building housing for 100 families in Chile, found inspiration in favelas and slums. Rather than conventional small units, he designed flexible "half-homes" that families could expand. This innovative, simple solution arose from direct collaboration with the families themselves.

Aravena presents three projects demonstrating how clever rethinking leads to beautiful, beneficial design. He emphasizes, "With the right design, sustainability is nothing but the rigorous use of common sense."

Find closed captions and translated subtitles for this talk at ted.com/translate.

Andrew Zolli and Jonathan Rose discussed urban and community resilience at The Garrison Institute's Wisdom Holder's Circle Luncheon. The Institute applies contemplative practices to pressing

Andrew Zolli and Jonathan Rose discussed urban and community resilience at The Garrison Institute's Wisdom Holder's Circle Luncheon. The Institute applies contemplative practices to pressing social and environmental concerns, fostering a more compassionate and resilient future.

Mr. Zolli's book is available on Amazon or at local bookstores. This content was published on February 25, 2015.

On January 9, 2013, First Nation Anishnabe Elder Dave Courchene of Turtle Lodge delivered a statement at the Elders Ceremony in

On January 9, 2013, First Nation Anishnabe Elder Dave Courchene of Turtle Lodge delivered a statement at the Elders Ceremony in Ottawa. This address was published the following day.

Known as Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man), Elder Courchene is a respected teacher devoted to Indigenous knowledge. Since 1992, he has served as a UN Wisdom Keeper, advising on spirituality and sustainable environmental approaches.

Courchene founded Turtle Lodge in 2002, an internationally recognized center for learning, healing, and sharing. He continues to promote peace, recently sharing the stage with the Dalai Lama. Further details are available here.

Ilarion Larry Merculieff, President of the Global Center for Indigenous Leadership and Lifeways, brings over 40 years of experience serving indigenous peoples,

Ilarion Larry Merculieff, President of the Global Center for Indigenous Leadership and Lifeways, brings over 40 years of experience serving indigenous peoples, including the Aleuts of the Pribilof Islands.

At the AASHE 2015 Conference & Expo, he shared his vision for transforming sustainability education.

Ilarion "Larry Merculieff" (Aleut), President of the Global Center for Indigenous Leadership and Lifeways,

Ilarion "Larry Merculieff" (Aleut), President of the Global Center for Indigenous Leadership and Lifeways, is a prominent indigenous leader.

At the AASHE 2015 Conference and Expo, he shared his life, culture, and knowledge, offering a vision for transforming sustainability education through an indigenous perspective.

Dr. Kimmerer is a distinguished environmental biologist, author, and mother. She serves as a Distinguished Teaching Professor at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse,

Dr. Kimmerer is a distinguished environmental biologist, author, and mother. She serves as a Distinguished Teaching Professor at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, New York.

She is also the founding Director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment. The Center's mission is to develop programs that integrate indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge to advance shared sustainability goals.