This research investigates the potential of biobased and vapour-open construction principles with the objective to increase health and well-being in residential architecture. Conventional building materials and airtight construction methods often contribute to poor indoor air quality, leading to issues such as the Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). By contrast, biobased materials, and vapour-open façade designs allow for natural moisture regulation, improved air circulation, and reduced indoor pollutants. Through literature review, a case study, most notably the Hemphouse project, and performance simulations, this study examines the technical feasibility and environmental benefits of these sustainable building practices. Findings suggest that vapour-open structures can passively manage indoor humidity levels, reduce mould risks, and enhance overall occupant comfort. Additionally, the integration of locally sourced, renewable materials aligns with climate-conscious design strategies, supporting both ecological sustainability and healthier living environments here in The Netherlands. The results advocate for a shift in residential architecture, promoting breathable and nature-inspired design solutions as viable alternatives to conventional building methods.

Jean B. Fletcher, Norman C. Fletcher, Walter Gropius, John C. Harkness, Sarah P. Harkness, Louis A. McMillen, Robert S. McMillan and Benjamin C. Thompson. These are the names of the eight founding members of The Architects Collaborative located in Cambridge, Massachusetts (Neubauer & Mitchell, 2020). TAC was an architecture company created by companionship. Norman Fletcher, Louis McMillen, Robert McMillan, and Ben Thompson first laid the conceptual foundation for "the World Collaborative," while they were classmates at Yale University. Jean B. Fletcher, Sarah P. Harkness and John Harkness, who knew Walter Gropius from his faculty membership at Harvard finished the collaborative which became TAC.
As previously noted, the vision for The World Collaborative can be traced back to Yale University, where four aspiring architects pursued their studies together (Neubauer & Mitchell, 2020). Norman C. Fletcher described their vision for team-based practice as an “ideal office” (Flowers, 2004, p. 41). However, the establishment of this initiative did not immediately materialize upon the graduation of Harkness, McMillen, McMillan, and Thompson. A important event in the fulfilment of The Architects Collaborative (TAC) was when Norman C. Fletcher and John C. Harkness connected. Both individuals had previously practiced as architects at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1943 (Kubo, 2017). John C. Harkness, who did not pursue his architectural education at Yale but instead studied under Walter Gropius at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. In 1945, as the final concept of The Architects Collaborative began to shape, both Harknesses were invited by the Fletchers to join TAC as the sixth and seventh founder. Shortly thereafter, John C. Harkness received an invitation to teach Master courses at Harvard alongside Walter Gropius. Sarah P. Harkness and John C. Harkness proposed the idea of expressing their collaborative vision to Gropius, thereby inviting him to participate (Kubo, 2017). Walter Gropius accepted the invitation from the seven pioneers and became the eighth and final founder. By January 1st, 1946, The Architects Collaborative was fully established and operational.
The Architects Collaborative had a progressive attitude which found Jean B. Fletcher and Sarah P. Harkness in an equal position to the other six founders. This was considered as a rejection to the standard practice of 1945, when TAC was established. This thesis delves into the specific contributions of Fletcher and Harkness, examining how they actively shaped this position and the subsequent impact on their architectural careers.