Introduction
Every region around the world is evolving at its own pace. Any type of architectural development within a region varies with the type of ground regulation in practice currently & the material resources that can be easily acquired and used to construct the built forms. Many of these development agendas for each region & its sub-region are also dependent on the aspirations of the collective and the political goals. The future of architecture could be responsive to the specific context of each region. While envisioning the future of architecture, many factors go hand in hand that contribute to shaping it.
Each region has its natural and socio-political-based complexities that must be accounted for. Some factors that can help contextualise this philosophy are region-based engineering innovations, technological innovations, new material management methods, architectural form, and the possibility of a community-based society.
Engineering Innovations
The development vision for each region worldwide complements its need, management of its existing resources, and capacity to finance the additional requirements. It varies on technological advancements, cultural influences, and economic and environmental conditions. When it comes to the architecture of the future, several approaches are observed globally.
For instance, vertical and mixed-use developments are common in cities such as New York, Hong Kong & Dubai to fulfil the housing requirements of growing populations. Regions like Japan, Singapore and parts of Europe have embraced biophilic design principles which aim to re-connect people with nature by incorporating natural elements and patterns into the built environment. Other innovations include Smart Cities, Sustainable Design, and Adaptive reuse & Retrofitting.
In regions prone to earthquakes, such as Japan and Turkey, advanced engineering techniques have been developed (or are in process) with relevant building codes to enhance structural resilience and minimise the impact of disasters.
So, each region brings its unique approach, innovation, & expertise to shape the future of the built environment.
Technological Innovations
Embracing technological advancements can enhance the responsiveness of architectural and other built forms. Security, cooling, and entertainment systems are some of the services included in the average daily use. Other innovations, such as smart building systems, advanced modelling and simulation tools, and data-driven design approaches, can help architects analyse and optimise their designs about the region’s context.
Another technological advancement in creating region-responsive & innovative built forms includes parametric design & digital fabrication, which contribute to creating complex and intricate built forms & building components. This feature optimises designs for energy efficiency, structural integrity, and aesthetics.
The adoption & integration of new technologies varies in different regions based on factors such as research and development capabilities, investment in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and market demand.
By harnessing technology and its significant upgradation over time, architecture can become more efficient, adaptable, & capable of meeting the community’s evolving needs.
New Methods of Material Management
The future of architecture also includes using recyclable materials or materials treated to respond to the indoor & outdoor environment contextually. Therefore, there may be a great emphasis on sustainable materials and construction techniques. Additionally, innovations in materials science, such as advanced composites and bio-based alternatives, will provide architects with environmentally friendly options that respond to the regions’ unique requirements.
Alternative modes of construction, such as pre-fabrication and modular construction techniques, can enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and enable faster implementation in disaster-prone areas.
Architectural Forms
Many AI-generated images have been going around social media and the internet in general about the visual possibilities of future cities. However, those images can vary greatly regionally. The architectural form will be the overall external output of the above mentioned points.
However, practically, the architectural form and aesthetics that respond to the local context could function as integrated. The current design & practices suggest finding a balance between the region’s architectural heritage, contemporary design, and climate-responsive (or passive) design strategies would bring about the visual and functional shift.
Energy conservation is an increasingly important component in the added value of the newly built forms, and energy-efficient design strategies would be a crucial point of consideration & implementation. This includes passive design principles that leverage natural light, ventilation, and shading to minimise the need for artificial heating, cooling, and lighting. Additionally, integrating renewable resources like solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems will enable buildings to respond to the region’s energy demands while reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
Hence, drawing inspiration from local materials, propagating passive design principles, colours, and textures to create buildings that harmonise with either the existing urban fabric or as a beginning point of the new trend of built forms while reflecting innovation and creativity would highly contribute to the formation of new built forms in a region.
Possibility of a Socially Inclusive & Community-Based Living
Lately, any form of development is backed by the involvement of the local community during the proposal process, the design process, and the execution process. Engaging with the stakeholders such as residents, community leaders, and local organisations encourages keeping the middle ground between their needs, aspirations, and priorities with the region’s vision. By incorporating their input, the architecture of the area can become more inclusive, relevant, and responsive to the specific challenges and opportunities of the region.
Another aspect that is observed that can be incorporated as a future vision at a macro scale is shared spaces of productivity and leisure.
This includes community gardens and open parks with space to work out and get together. These spaces involve the residents in creating and adding value to the region’s place-making initiatives. It is also an opportunity where the locals contribute to and for each other.
Conclusion
In summary, the future of architecture lies in creating (and curating) buildings deeply rooted in a region’s context. By understanding and responding to the local culture, climate, environment, aesthetics and community, architects can shape a built environment that respects its existing terrain, embraces sustainability, responds organically, and enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants. The collaboration between architects, engineers, urban planners, and communities will continue to drive innovation and create sustainable, resilient, and human-centric cities and structures.
Citations
- Construction expertise from Japan: earthquake proof buildings. (2023). [Online]. (Last Updated 8 March 2023) Available at: https://www.planradar.com/gb/japan-earthquake-proof-buildings/ [Accessed 12 June 2023]
- Bureau of Urban Development, Tokyo Metropolitan Government. (2023). [Online]. (Last updated 21 Feb 2023) Available at: https://www.realestate-tokyo.com/news/earthquake-resistance-of-buildings-in-japan/ [Accessed 12 June 2023]
- Designing curtain wall façades to accommodate building movement – Architecture Today. (2022). [Online]. (Last Updated: May 11, 2022) Available at: https://architecturetoday.co.uk/designing-in-movement/ [Accessed 12 June 2023]
- Unni,A. (2021). Workshop on Delhi Master Plan 2041, Main Bhi Dilli Campaign. [Twitter]. 21/07/2021. Available from: https://twitter.com/aravindunni23/status/1421458691883110402 [Accessed 12 June 2023]
- Benson,R. (2006). Zuccoti Park at Night. [Photograph]
