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How good architecture can reinforce togetherness

This time of the year calls for reflection in every part of our lives.

As a local South African architectural firm with a heart for architecture with purpose, it is essential that we mull over many things. From 2024’s highs and lows and future aspirations to trends that excite us in the industry. Doing this helps shape who we are.

And seeing as we are heading into the festive season, we thought it fitting to stand still on the concept of using good architecture to bring people together.

Good architecture is not about designing a building that looks great. It is about designing a building that does great things. Like strengthening togetherness in our communities for example.

The need for togetherness and connection is not new. It is deeply rooted in human biology, psychology, and social behaviour. According to scientific research people need other people to:

  • Survive – Living in groups helped our ancestors hunt and protect one another better, which is perhaps why we feel safer together.
  • Bring joy – Positive social interactions have been proven to release oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins that make us feel happy.
  • Boost mental health – Social connections can help prevent loneliness and depression.
  • Improve cognitive skills – Caregiving, communication, and play have been shown to enhance cognitive skills, emotional regulation, and empathy.
  • Belong – Being part of a community or network makes people feel like they belong.

Togetherness is not just a preference, it is something we need in order to thrive.

And where do we thrive better together? In nature, of course.

While completely backed by science, you and I know we don’t need research to prove the positive impact of nature. We can simply dip our toes in the sea, listen to the birds under a canopy of trees or stand in front of a waterfall to feel it.

Coming together in nature is therefore the embodiment of “what the doctor ordered”.

Imagine if you will, a world where you didn’t need to leave your home or town in order to do this…

When designing a building, be it a residential, commercial, a public space or a leisure attraction, architects can ensure the goodness of it by incorporating the following:

An interior space designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, with large windows and an open layout creating a bright and airy atmosphere

1. Natural light and ventilation

How would you feel in a dark, moist room with little natural light and poor ventilation? Personally, I would feel sick. And I can imagine that you would too. Plus, it is hardly the type of backdrop that would draw people in.

On the other hand, spaces filled with natural light and fresh air would make us feel uplifted and energised.

We can apply this practically by including:

  • Large, strategically placed windows and floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • Skylights in ceilings or clerestory windows near the roofline.
  • Operable windows and doors on opposite walls or adjacent sides.
  • Central atriums or open courtyards.
  • Shaded verandas, pergolas, or balconies with louvered panels.
  • Adjustable louvres or high ceilings.
  • Glass partitions instead of solid ones.

This image shows a modern, interior living space with large, curved windows overlooking a natural landscape. The room has a round window that frames a view of a tree canopy outside. The interior features a minimalist design with light-colored furniture, including a sofa and a dining table with chairs. The space has a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.

2. Open and flexible layouts

For the same reason we feel physically and emotionally drawn to light and air, closed-off and rigid spaces create a disconnect.

Instead, architects should try to encourage movement and interaction by:

  • Designing living rooms, dining areas, and kitchens as a single cohesive space for interaction and connection.
  • Using sliding doors or folding partitions to allow a space to adapt.
  • Positioning an open courtyard or communal garden at the heart of a building to naturally draws people together.
  • Connecting indoor and outdoor spaces with large sliding glass doors so as not to disturb the flow of movement.

This image depicts a vibrant and playful interior space. The walls are covered in a textured, mosaic-like tile pattern, creating a visually striking backdrop. The floor features a cowhide rug, adding a rustic touch to the space. The room is filled with various artworks and decorative elements, including framed paintings and colorful, abstract sculptures that appear to be suspended in the air, creating a whimsical and imaginative atmosphere. The central focus of the image is a large glass panel or window that provides a view of an underwater scene, showcasing vibrant and dynamic marine life, such as schools of fish and coral-like structures. Overall, the space reflects a unique and creative design aesthetic, blending natural elements with artistic and surreal elements.

3. Materials, textures, culture and colour that invite people in

There is comfort in familiarity.  And for humans the use of certain materials, textiles, colour and even cultural references can trigger this familiarity and make a space more welcoming.

Examples of this are:

  • Locally sourced materials like wood, stone, or clay.
  • Textured finishes like exposed brick, polished concrete, or woven natural fibres.
  • Handcrafted items like woven rugs, carved wooden panels, or pottery from local artisans.
  • Patterns, motifs, or symbols inspired by the local heritage.
  • Earthy reds, deep greens, and warm yellow tones.

This image depicts an exterior view of a modern, contemporary building with a wooden deck and a round, in-ground pool. The building has large windows that offer a panoramic view of the surrounding natural environment, including trees and a scenic landscape. The pool is situated on the deck, creating a harmonious integration between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

4. Shared spaces and intimate corners

It is just so much easier to be together in a space that has been specifically designed for this purpose. While it is possible to make furniture do some of the work, when included in the design phase detail like views and natural light can be included to make these spaces really amazing.

Like:

  • A spacious dining room or outdoor dining area with views of nature or a garden.
  • A lounge or sitting room flooded with natural light.
  • An outdoor firepit.
  • An intimate alcove near windows with views of trees.
  • A shaded patio or pergola amidst nature.
  • Built-in window benches.
  • Elevated terraces or platforms that offer a lovely view.

A serene architectural design showcasing the harmonious integration of natural elements, including greenery and outdoor spaces, blending seamlessly with the built environment

5. Nature all around

And the star of the show: nature! Nature brings calmness and joy. It doesn’t matter if your garden is tiny or large, by bringing in natural elements or using biophilic design principles architects can help strengthen and reconnect people to nature.

In addition to the ideas already mentioned, architects can include nature sustainably through:

  • A vertical garden or living wall.
  • An indoor courtyard.
  • A rooftop garden with seating.
  • A water fountain or pond.
  • Indigenous plants and trees to attract wildlife, and reduce water consumption.
  • Natural patterns, textures, and colours inspired by nature.
  • Building around existing trees.
  • Wildlife-friendly features like birdhouses, owl boxes, butterfly gardens etc. to attract wildlife.

Good architecture is a dream that can come true!

We wish each and every one of you a blessed festive season together with loved ones surrounded by nature.

Join the VELD Lifestyle.

Make your next design a VELD design.

xxx

love,

Gill

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