The relationship between happiness and building architecture in the last hundred years

Over the past century, the relationship between happiness and building architecture has evolved significantly, reflecting changes in social values, technological advances, and principles of design philosophies. The following is an overview of how this relationship developed:????

Early 20th century, 1920s to 1950s: In the early 20th century, the Functionalist style emerged, emphasizing the utility of architecture. Modernist architects believed that form should follow function and that buildings should be designed to serve their intended purpose well. The focus was on simplicity, clean lines and innovative use of materials such as steel and glass. While this approach prioritizes efficiency and effectiveness, it often lacks the warmth and human-centered design elements that can impact overall occupant happiness.

Mid-20th Century - Postwar Architecture and Brutalism (1950s-1970s): In the postwar period, architects began experimenting with new materials and construction techniques. Brutalism, characterized by the use of raw concrete and bold geometric forms, gained prominence. While Brutalism focused on expressing the true nature of materials, its stark and imposing designs sometimes led to buildings that were seen as unwelcoming and even oppressive, potentially impacting the well-being of those who used them.

Late 20th Century - Human-Centered Design and Sustainability (1980s-2000s): As society's focus shifted towards the well-being of individuals and environmental concerns, architecture started incorporating more human-centered design principles. This period saw the rise of designs that focused on user comfort, accessibility, and natural lighting. Sustainable design became increasingly important, leading to the integration of energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly materials. These factors contributed to creating more pleasant and health-conscious environments that positively influenced people's happiness.

21st century - 2000 to present: The 21st century has emphasized biophilic design, which seeks to incorporate nature and natural elements. Research has shown that nature can have positive effects on mental health and well-being. Architects choose features such as green roofs, indoor plants, natural light and views of outdoor spaces to create more relaxing and refreshing environments. In addition, the presence of smart technologies allows for more customization and control over building environments and enables people to adjust their surroundings according to their wishes.

In summary, the relationship between happiness and building architecture in the last century has evolved from a focus on functional efficiency to incorporating human-centered design principles, sustainable practices, and biophilic elements. Today, architects strive to create spaces that not only serve their intended purpose but also enhance the quality of life and well-being of their occupants by providing comfort, connection to nature, and a sense of belonging.

Samira-2023