How can you design spaces to increase social sustainability?

Social sustainability in spaces can be directly linked to the design of biophilic spaces. People misinterpret biophilia when they only consider it to be the presence of plants in indoor environments. It is much more than just greenery and plants. As per my previous research and knowledge, biophilic design refers to the design typology that encourages the use of natural elements and features in the built environment, which helps humans reconnect with nature, creating a space that nurtures the human physiologically and psychologically. These may include a visual connection with nature, the presence of water, the use of diffused natural light, and a material connection with nature, as stated by Terrapin Bright Green (2014).

Ao moldar espa?os para impulsionar a sustentabilidade social, acredito firmemente que a chave está na autenticidade da intera??o com a comunidade. N?o é apenas sobre coletar dados, mas sobre mergulhar nas histórias e nuances locais. Essas pesquisas e workshops devem ser mais do que caixas a serem marcadas; devem ser oportunidades reais para compreender profundamente as expectativas e sonhos das pessoas. No co-design, precisamos abandonar a rigidez e permitir que a comunidade influencie genuinamente o processo. Além disso, ao implementar o feedback, devemos ser transparentes sobre como as contribui??es moldaram o projeto final, construindo assim n?o apenas espa?os, mas confian?a duradoura e verdadeira.

Creating spaces that promote people connecting socially is crucial for supporting social sustainability, whether for inhabitants or visitors. An open environment, (especially in working places) free from barriers or with transparent elements, overcomes siloed working. Additionally, incorporating multi-functional rooms enhances versatility. From my experience, strategic use of colors, coupled with thoughtful plant integration, revitalizes the space. Furthermore, natural lighting, whether from skylights or facades, plays a significant role in breathing life into spaces, encouraging people to stick around and interact.

To design spaces that enhance social sustainability, consider integrating biophilic elements beyond just plants. For example, incorporating natural light and materials can create a more connected and nurturing environment. In a project I worked on, we introduced large windows and used natural wood and stone, which significantly improved the space's ambiance and social interaction. This approach not only beautifies the space but also promotes a deeper connection with nature, enhancing well-being and social cohesion.

I love to design taking inspiration from nature. It can serve as a source of inspiration in a planet of near 4.6 billion years of continuous improvement in functionality and beauty. Inspiration that not only serves for works of art such as paintings, songs, books, poetry... but also for engineering, design and architecture from aesthetics, efficiency and functionality. Biophilic design is an approach that seeks to connect people with nature through architecture, product and space design. It incorporates natural elements (plants, air, water, fire), designs inspired by nature biomimicry, natural materials and textures, open or sheltering views, dynamic light... to evoke nature with the goal of helping people feel better.