Diamond Schmitt’s Post

Last weeks London Build Expo recap, I had the pleasure of tuning into "Unlocking the Power of Human-Centric Architecture for a Better UK" on the Architecture stage with David Patterson, Marie Williams, Arthur Smart, Ryan Kingsnorth and Burak Capli for such an enriching session chaired by the wonderful Consuelo Manna.   The panel delved into fostering inclusivity and community engagement through design, emphasising the importance of a human-centric approach. This involves prioritising collaboration between the design team and the community, including stakeholders and residents, to understand the heritage and history of the site. By incorporating the community's input, design can help preserve the character of a place and avoid unwanted gentrification.   Design should always consider the neurodiversity of society, ensuring that spaces are accessible and welcoming to everyone. This involves understanding how different social environments impact interactions and how the design of a space can evokes specific emotions. A human-centric design approach should extend beyond people to encompass the biodiversity of the environment.    Designers should consider the impact of their work on the local ecosystem, including animals, insects, and plants. This may involve incorporating features that support endangered species or promote ecological balance.    Just some of my thoughts. Do you agree? #neuroarchitecture #inclusivedesign #LondonBuildExpo #ArchitectureStage

As we face the long, cold Canadian winter, the need for a connection to nature becomes more significant. At Parkin, we employ organic architecture or "biophilic design," to positively impact patient recovery and reduce the environmental impact of hospitals. This design approach offers many benefits: ✅ Enhanced patient experience ✅ Increased staff satisfaction ✅ Improved indoor air quality ✅ Increased natural light ✅ Reduced environmental impact #interiordesign #hospitaldesign

Don't miss out! Habitarmonia is hosting the most interesting webinars! From now on available also for non members of the Ecosystem. Definitely THE place to be if you want to learn (more) about Biophilic Design, Sustainability, Neuroscience, Neuroarchitecture, Environmental Psychology and so much more. 🧠 This time explore biomimicry's groundbreaking role in shaping sustainable cities. From reimagining urban landscapes as living ecosystems to harnessing nature-inspired design for regenerative buildings, this session promises to inspire and ignite your passion for innovative architecture. 🔍 Key Takeaways: * Unlock the secrets of biomimicry in the built environment * Learn how to partner with nature for resilient urban design * Discover how ecosystem services drive sustainable architecture * Explore visionary concepts for the future of buildings 💡 Whether you're an architect, urban planner, sustainability enthusiast, interior designer, or simply curious about the intersection of nature and design, this event is for you! Expand your horizons, connect with like-minded professionals, and be part of the conversation shaping a greener, more sustainable future. 🚀 Reserve your spot now and join us on May 14th at 6 PM CET! Let's pave the way for a brighter, biomimetic tomorrow! https://lnkd.in/eGwz2gdx. Make sure to attend it on May 14. #biophilia #biophilicdesign #sustainability #neuroscience #environmentalpsychology #Biomimicry #SustainableCities #FutureOfArchitecture #Innovation #RegenerativeDesign #Wellbeingdesign

In healthcare, the physical environment plays a critical role in patient recovery and overall well-being. That’s why healing architecture is about creating thoughtfully designed spaces that reduce environmental stressors like noise and lack of privacy, and instead focus on elements that promote healing, such as natural light. ☀️ Studies show that patients in bright, well-lit rooms recover up to 41% faster, experience lower anxiety, and report greater satisfaction with their care. 🏥 Architectural elements like large windows and skylights not only provide ample natural light but also offer views of nature, further enhancing the healing process. Visit our blog to learn more about the impact of healing architecture 👇 https://bit.ly/4f5UF4n #Sakhiwo #HealingArchitecture #HealthcareDesign #PatientCare #SustainableHealthcare

Under two weeks to go now until the inaugural Biophilic Design Conference at the Barbican, in the City of London. Psychologist, Erich Fromm, first used the word biophilia in 1964, when he described it as “the passionate love of life and all that is alive”. Since then, biophilia has become increasingly recognised by the scientific community and also by designers and architects. Studies have shown evidence of positive benefits of human interaction with nature, such as improved productivity, lower levels of stress, enhanced learning and even improved recovery rates following illness. ‘Any occurrence of nature in the built environment cannot be called biophilic design if it has no bearing on our species’ inborn tendencies that have advanced our fitness and survival…The modern assumption that humans no longer need to affiliate with nature is revealed in the widespread practice of placing people in sensory deprived and artificial settings such as office buildings, hospitals, schools, shopping centers–with little if any contact with natural forces and stimuli. Much of today’s built environment is designed lacking adequate natural light, natural ventilation, natural materials, vegetation, views, environmental shapes and forms, and other evolved affinities for the natural world. The fundamental challenge of biophilic design is to address these deficiencies in the modern built environment by initiating a new framework for the beneficial occurrence of nature. ‘ Source: Kellert and Cabrese, ‘The Practice of Biophilic Design.’ If you are keen to learn more, or just hear about the latest innovations, you can attend the conference either in-person or online. https://lnkd.in/e6ATjq2J I look forward to sharing a taste of Forest Therapy within the stunning biome created in the Barbican Conservatory, a practice that initiates a new relationship with nature, and helps us remember that we thrive in a sensory world. #biophilia #biophilicdesign #entangledlife #naturenurtures #thrive

Looking forwards to Healthy City Design International congress – this year I will be presenting a paper on my work and also joining as part several initiatives I’ve been involved in too! 🙌   𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 – 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜, 𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞-𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲-𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 I'll be sharing my work towards more deeply human-centred design and placemaking, which brings together architecture and urban design with sciences of the mind (neuroscience, environmental psychology) as well as socially-responsive approaches. This is to address health, quality of life, connectedness, inclusivity and the many aspects of the built environment which can better support people and communities to flourish and thrive. Will be talking about application in practice, and exploring how can we move towards mainstreaming more humanistic, research-based methods. If you are coming, also look out for: 👉 Considerate Urbanism workshop  – a movement for more human-kind urbanism, led by Liane Hartley FRSA And as poster presentations: 👉 Healthy Urbanism Rehab – peer support activity created together by 5 practitioners 👉 #MadeforMe – an award-winning idea by the MfM team to support inclusivity and accessibility Thank you to SALUS Global Knowledge Exchange for holding this conference, it feels like this emerging field is really growing in momentum. Look forwards to catching up with colleagues and collaborators, and making new connections. Come and say hello! #HealthyCities #NeuroArchitecture #QualityofLife #SocialSustainability #HumanCentredDesign #Equity

I am excited to guest edit the special issue "Healthy Habitats - Innovative Approaches to Creating Built Environments that Support Health and Wellbeing" in Architecture MDPI! The intersection of architecture and health is more crucial than ever. Climate change, urbanisation, global health events, and our busy lifestyles are intensifying the physical and mental pressures on building occupants. From severe weather events to the Covid-19 pandemic, the need for healthy, stress-free indoor environments has never been clearer. This special issue seeks to explore how the built environment can enhance physical and mental health and wellbeing. We are calling for contributions that address these urgent challenges through innovative approaches and technologies, as well as traditional building techniques and spatial practices. Join us in this important conversation and contribute to creating healthier, more supportive built environments! 🌍🏡 Find more details here: https://lnkd.in/gmm7HKeH #Architecture #HealthAndWellbeing #NeuroAestheticDesign #SalutogenicDesign #BiophilicDesign #NaturalMaterials #HumanBuildingInteraction #SmartHomes #IntelligentBuildings #Rehabilitation #Prevention #Prehabilitation #Ergonomics #MultiGenerationalLiving #CoHousing #AgeingInPlace #ActiveLiving #ActiveDesign #InclusiveDesign #UniversalDesign #StakeholderEngagement #ResponsibleResearch #Innovation #BuildingTypology

❓ How does urban transformation impact people’s visual experience of architectural spaces? In this new #openaccess 🔓 article by Gideon Spanjar, Frank Suurenbroek, Sába Schramkó, and Regien Stolp, the visual experience of users at the post-industrial NDSM wharf in Amsterdam is explored using eye-tracking technology. The study aims to understand how urban densification influences eye-level experiences for different user groups, including residents, visitors, and passers-by. In a laboratory setting, images of the NDSM wharf were shown to university students, and their eye movements were tracked and analyzed. Surveys on self-reported appreciation and restorativeness were also conducted, alongside on-site surveys with real users. The results highlight distinct eye-movement patterns influenced by environmental roles and tasks, revealing how architectural qualities shape people’s visual experiences, emotional responses, and sense of restoration. You can read the full article - "People’s experience of urban transformation: eye-tracking architectural qualities of the post-industrial NDSM wharf in Amsterdam" - via this link ➡ https://lnkd.in/empwGGtF #urbantransformation #eyetracking #NDSMwharf #Amsterdam #architecturaldesign #urbanexperience #spatialplanning

🌿 Biophilic Design is leading the movement to integrate nature into our built environment. Through advocacy, education, and resources, they inspire architects, urban planners, and designers to create spaces that harmonize with the natural world. Their mission? To promote biophilia as a cornerstone of sustainable design, enhancing both urban living and the health of our planet. 🌎 Learn more about their work and explore their resources at www.biophiliadesign.org. #BiophilicDesign #LivingArchitecture #GreenInfrastructure #SustainableUrbanism #Biophilia

A welcomed design guide from C40 Cities that "focuses on supporting #cities to improve the provision and quality of their #publicspaces" How public spaces should function: ➡ A place for #everyone: Public spaces should be inclusive and consider the needs of all community members. ➡ #Adaptable spaces: Public spaces should be flexible to accommodate diverse functions, activities, and events. ➡ #Peoplecentred streets: Streets are places for movement and urban life. What public spaces should promote: ▶ Active #mobility: Streets should be designed to offer safe spaces for pedestrians and cyclists and de-incentivise vehicles. ▶ Climate #resilience: Public spaces should be designed with hazards in mind, aiming to mitigate their severity. How public spaces should be built: ➡ Clean construction: A #decarbonised public space design prioritises local, low-carbon, circular and regenerative construction methods and materials. ➡ Urban #nature: Public spaces should make space for nature. Increasing the amount and quality of #green space to promote community well-being. ➡ Resource management: Public spaces provide opportunities to apply #circularity on a local scale. #PeopleCentredMobility | #PeopleFirstStreets | #DesignGuide #Transportation | #MobilityForesight Kind regards, Dale Principal, Mobility Foresight