At Modulina, we believe in amplifying the voices of innovators shaping the future of sustainable construction. Recently, Kateryna Pylypchuk spoke with Marion De Saint Blanquat, a French architect based in Copenhagen and co-founder of Studio Coquille, about her experiences with sustainable materials and her vision for architecture’s future. Here is their inspiring exchange, with Marion’s full answers.
Kateryna: “Marion, thank you for joining us today. Could you tell us a little about yourself and your journey in architecture?”
Marion: “Thank you for having me! I’m a French architect based in Copenhagen, where I co-lead Studio Coquille with my partner Frederik. Our focus is on designing with nature not just by using sustainable materials but rather considering how our work impacts ecosystems.
My journey with straw panels began in France, where I worked on a big project—a hotel featuring two new buildings. We used cross-laminated timber (CLT) and straw panels. What fascinated me most was working with these very strict components that straw panels provide and using them to achieve flexibility in design. We experimented with turns and diversity in the façade, which made this project an exciting learning experience for me as a young architect.
Since then, I’ve been drawn to working with natural materials like thatch roofs, which we’ve incorporated into our projects in Denmark. Studio Coquille was born out of the idea of working as architects with nature at every scale—whether it’s through the materials we use, the design of plans, or the way humans experience the spatial connection between the indoors and the outdoors.
One of our key focuses is to consider how materials and design impact nature, biodiversity, and animals. What’s amazing is that this journey started with aesthetics—nature’s beauty—but it has evolved into a much deeper connection. We’ve started to put animals and ecosystems at the heart of our reflections, and that’s shaping everything we do.”
Kateryna: “That sounds fascinating. What excites you most about the future of construction?”
Marion: “To talk specifically about construction and materials, I’m very passionate and excited about the idea of creating materials, structures, walls, and shells that do more than serve us. Imagine using materials that cover the vast surfaces of our cities, suburbs, and countrysides—not just to shelter humans but to also host biodiversity.
From this perspective, the goal isn’t just to live next to each other, but to cohabit with other forms of life. When materials and systems are designed to support life, it transforms how we think about buildings. We can observe, learn, and maybe even become better caretakers of the planet.
This is why it’s so important to work with sustainable materials like straw panels and other biologically sourced products. Straw panels, for example, have a positive impact on biodiversity due to the way they are grown and harvested, directly in nature, and a low carbon footprint. I’m also excited about exploring the entire lifecycle of materials—from production to installation—and understanding their biodiversity impact even after they’re built into something. That’s our focus for the next five years.”
Kateryna: “How do you think these materials will impact the role of architects and the construction industry?”
Marion: “I think sustainability is going to require a significant shift. Right now, we talk about it as a way to fix the damage we’ve done. But what if we moved beyond that? What if we designed systems that regenerate and boost life?
This means looking at materials and sustainability not just in terms of CO2 emissions or where materials are sourced, but holistically. How do these materials impact ecosystems, life forms, and the planet as a whole? It’s not enough to be local or energy-efficient. We need to design materials and systems that enhance biodiversity and reverse damage.
This will challenge architects to rethink their work, but it also opens the door to innovation. It’s an opportunity to not only create functional and sustainable spaces but also bring various beauty back into construction. That’s something I’m really passionate about.”
Kateryna: “Do you think architects should learn more about biology to achieve this?”
Marion: “I think it would be great if architects had a better understanding of biology. But more than that, it’s about collaboration. Architects can’t be experts in everything. We need to build bridges with biologists, ecologists, and other scientists to integrate their knowledge into our designs.
We already collaborate closely with engineers and material specialists, so this is just one more step. Whether it’s urban planning or the smallest architectural detail, this collaboration is essential. At Studio Coquille, we’ve started to engage with scientists in a very pragmatic way to make sure their insights are reflected in our work.”
Kateryna: “Could you share an example of a recent project where you implemented this approach?”
Marion: “We’ve been working on a pavilion on water in the Copenhagen canals and where we hosted a small exhibit, which was part of the UIA world congress of architecture 2023. This project is deeply connected to marine biodiversity, focusing on life forms in and around the canals. We collaborated with a PhD graduate who specializes in fishing ecosystems, which opened new doors for us to think about how architecture can support biodiversity—not just on land, but in water as well.
We’re also preparing another exhibit and system prototype for Copenhagen architecture festival next summer, where we’ll focus on how construction materials can boost biodiversity. It’s an opportunity to push the boundaries of what’s possible and to highlight materials like straw panels in a meaningful way.”
Kateryna: “Your work reminds me of bionic architecture like Jacques Rougerie’s underwater structures. What are your thoughts on that approach?”
Marion: “Bionic architecture is very inspiring. It comes from a futuristic perspective, using high technology to explore the unknown. But our approach is different. It’s more grounded and connected to low tech rather than high technology. We focus on simple solutions and hybrid methods that blend modern techniques with ancestral knowledge.
We ask questions like: What happens if the world collapses tomorrow? How do we survive with what’s around us? This low-tech approach is resilient, accessible, and practical for the challenges we face today.”
Kateryna: “For young architects just starting out, what advice would you give about adopting sustainable practices?”
Marion: “Be persistent. When you propose alternative ideas, the first response is often ‘no.’ That’s normal. But don’t let it discourage you. Keep the conversation going, and find ways to align your ideas with what your audience cares about. If ecological arguments don’t work, focus on cost savings, efficiency, or durability. It’s all about finding common ground and not giving up.”
Kateryna: “How do you approach convincing larger companies or developers to use sustainable materials?”
Marion: “Many developers want to adopt sustainable practices but don’t know where to start. Their biggest concerns are often time and cost. As architects, it’s our job to show them it’s possible within their constraints. Bringing solutions early in the process is essential.”
Kateryna: “What’s your biggest dream for the future of architecture?”
Marion: “My dream is to create projects that deeply connect with species and inspire others to follow. It’s about proving that construction can be regenerative—not just minimizing harm but actively benefiting the local environment. We want to show that architecture can serve not just humans but all forms of life.”
Kateryna: “Marion, thank you so much for sharing your inspiring vision with us. At Modulina, we’re thrilled to collaborate with innovators like you who share our dream of keeping the planet alive and thriving.”
Marion: “Thank you, Kateryna. I’m excited to see how Modulina continues to push the boundaries of sustainable construction. Together, we can make a great difference.”