The fusion of modern architecture with the natural environment creates connections and experiences for the people who reside and work in these structures. No longer does a home need to be a completely separate entity from the land on which it sits. With modern design features such as expansive glass walls and sliding doors that allow for indoor-outdoor living, a home may seamlessly merge with nature. There is even a term used to describe structures that incorporate natural elements within its design in order to improve the quality of life for its habitants: biophilic design. Here are five examples of how modern architecture can coexist harmoniously with the environment around us.
Indoor-Outdoor Living
From additional entertainment space to tangible health benefits, indoor-outdoor living offers a wide variety of advantages. Floor-to-ceiling, sliding glass doors are a popular design feature used to connect indoor living spaces with outdoor courtyards and decks. An indoor kitchen can meld with an outdoor cooking and dining area with a simple push of a door. This architectural element is particularly prominent in regions with mild climates year round, such as in Los Angeles and in most parts of Australia. In addition, a National Institute of Health study “showed that incorporating indoor/outdoor living in your home can decrease the levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in the body” (NanaWall Systems, 2019).
Warm and Earthy Materials
Incorporating organic, natural materials in a home or building’s design can add warmth and harmony to a structure. Materials such as cedar, flagstone and timber contribute texture, and when used in both interior and exterior design features, a sense of continuous symmetry between outside and inside. Although modern architecture tends to be characterized by clean lines and minimalism, the use of warm, natural materials creates a connection between the design and the earth.
Natural Lighting
Large windows, glass doors and skylights allow for abundant natural lighting throughout structures. Not only can natural lighting improve the overall health and comfort of building occupants, but it can also reduce the need for artificial lighting, therefore reducing electric costs. Another benefit of natural light is its power to open up a room and give the appearance of a larger space. However, architects take many strategic measures to ensure their designs allow for effective natural lighting, eliminating the likelihood of harsh glares or direct lighting on task surfaces. Other elements such as “balancing heat gains and losses” and “variations in daylight availability,” as well as “window size and spacing, glass selection, (and) the reflectance of interior finishes” must be considered, too.
Terraces and Balconies
Terraces and balconies are effective design elements that allow for a connection to the outdoors, particularly in apartment buildings and high rise complexes. Glass doors admit natural lighting and simply stepping out onto a balcony for a breath of fresh air can make one feel more connected to their surroundings. Whether you want to create an at-home garden or add seating for an outdoor relaxation area, terraces and balconies are relatively minor design features that can have a major impact on a person’s living experience.
Urban Green Spaces
Urban green spaces are a broad design concept that can manifest in a variety of ways, from green roofs to parks and community gardens. A popular feature of big cities, green spaces allow for a break from the hustle and bustle of more industrial areas. Birmingham, Alabama’s Railroad Park is a 19-acre, award-winning green space that often hosts large community gatherings and activities. Green spaces are a wonderful way to reconnect with nature even in the midst of a major city.
From small-scale home elements to large-scale city concepts, modern architecture and design have a myriad of ways to connect with the natural environment. These details work together to provide meaningful experiences and improved quality of life for those who interact with the structures. Even as architecture continues to progress with new technologies and modern tools, connection with the world around us will never go out of style.
References
Green Home Technology Center, Ohio State University Extension. (n.d.). Natural lighting. Green Home Technology Center. Retrieved from https://greenhome.osu.edu/natural-lighting
HMC Architects. 2019, January 24. Create access to nature through biophilic architecture and design principles. HMC Architects. News. Retrieved from https://hmcarchitects.com/news/create-access-to-nature-through-biophilic-architecture-and-design-principles-2019-01-23/
NanaWall Systems. 2019, November 18. 5 amazing benefits of indoor/outdoor living. NanaWall Systems. Blog. Retrieved from https://www.nanawall.com/blog/5-amazing-benefits-of-indooroutdoor-living
Railroad Park. (n.d.). About the park. Railroad Park. Retrieved from https://railroadpark.org/
Thornton, A. 2020, August 13. How modern architecture can connect us to nature. Houzz. Retrieved from https://www.houzz.in/magazine/how-modern-architecture-can-connect-us-to-nature-stsetivw-vs~139300117