The notion that things will change is the only thing that remains constant. We are going towards an ever more digital, interwoven society and beginning to realize that what we know will change. Moreover, this change is so fast that there is an accelerated feedback loop in our society that feeds on technological innovation and social advancement. Everyone here is enthralled with Armageddon, and from environmental collapse to dictatorship, despite the constant end of the planet and our continual development.
Imagining Our Future
We shouldn’t fret about talking about the future, fantasizing about the future, trying to write about the future. I’ve found that it’s extremely fulfilling and relaxing to do that. It is indeed a tactic to safeguard against the worst possible future shock. It is also a source of power because you can’t prepare for something you haven’t already seen. Because the future is not something to be foretold; the future is to be imagined.
When we imagine how the architectural future is going to look? A slew of questions arises, such as, “How will it be? What material will it be made of? Who will it be for?” Will it be a green cityscape with vertical crop production and buildings, with streets working as walking routes because there will be no cars— a city that lives and produces— or will it be a city with flying cars? It could be any of these, all of these, or probably none of these!
As designers, we must envisage the future through the eyes of the people who will live in it, and comprehend how they will deal with their own personal concerns in the context of the place that will be constructed. What would they smell? What will they come in contact with? What would make them fall in love with the cityscape? What would people see if they looked out their window, and how will this be affected by the AI technology in the windows? Finally, how would a magnificent future city ensure that no one is left homeless or forgotten?
And here is where future history is useful because cities don’t just grow overnight. They grow up to change. They carry the scars and wreaths of migration, economic booms, wars, partitions, and cultural advances. A future city should contain landmarks, yes, but also layers of ancient architecture, rebuilt buildings, and every evidence of how we got there.
Today and the Future
The limits of architectural design are now being pushed by new construction techniques and vivid imaginations. Salt is now being utilized as a construction material. Crowdfunding and collaborative design are becoming increasingly popular approaches to architectural projects. The necessity of green infrastructure and energy efficiency is being emphasized, and the barrier between private and public space is blurring. Furthermore, it is no secret that technology has advanced at an astonishing rate! And that the field of architecture is no exception.
High-Tech Cities
High-tech and well-connected cities are in the near future. Millions of sensors are already in place, monitoring different things in the cities. These sensors will increase in the near future until they can monitor everything from lighting and trash, road conditions, and energy use. These intelligent cities will enable us to utilize our resources more efficiently, reduce our electricity use and develop cities in order to maximize efficiency.
People speak of the future as though it will either be a technological marvel or a post-apocalyptic litter. But, in reality, neither of these things may happen. It’ll be the mid-way round. One thing is certain: the future will be peculiar. Think of people of the 18th century visiting us and how peculiar our world would seem.
For a long time, we have known how to develop incredibly versatile structures. However, new means of communication, enhanced materials, and increased market pull make sustainable design much more ubiquitous.
Sustainable Cities
Sustainable architecture is the key to a bright future for the world. We can only hope to maintain our ecosystem and climate by using our resources more wisely. Waste reduction is at the heart of sustainable architecture. This not only reduces physical waste but also reduces energy loss. And a future city that is sustainable is definitely a future dream.
Where to from Here?
Individuals who design future buildings will be those who realize that our world is changing and have the courage to not only relinquish but also question the circumstances to rethink our urban spaces and infrastructure. It is hard to imagine the future, as it could be a lot weirder than what we imagined. However, we must keep attempting. No matter how frightening it could be, there will be marvels and redeeming good works too. And the first stride towards the future is letting your thoughts run free.
