Lara Hmayed’s Post

Biophilic design (from the Greek, ‘philia’ meaning ‘love of life’) is an environmental design choice which is being adopted by architects and decorators around the world for modern office spaces and desk-based work environments. Emphasising our connection to the natural world, correctly integrated biophilic design will combine typical office decour with trees, flora, and fauna to create inviting spaces that benefit those with disabilities such as autism or cognitive conditions such as anxiety. Read more on the Direct Access blog about how biophilic environments best serve everyone's physical and mental health, regardless of ability 👇 https://ow.ly/17e450QnO9c #Accessibility #AccessAudits #UniversalDesign #UniversalDesignConsultants #Consultancy #Architects #Disability #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibleEnvironments #BiophilicDesign #ActuallyAutistic

Senior Living distills the relationship between well-being and design in such a compelling way. When a project provides older adults with access to nature, that is more than just a nice feature; it creates measurable health benefits at a stage in life when they are most consequential. When a bathroom supports individuals of all abilities without sacrificing beauty, that does more than check off a code requirement; it advances human dignity. In the linked blog below, I suggest three simple tools that can be utilized to unlock the superpower of design. Let me know what you think. #seniorlivingdesign Gensler

Designing for multi-generational living is one of the most rewarding challenges. It’s about creating an environment where everyone, from the youngest child to the eldest grandparent, feels comfortable and at home. I find so much joy in blending diverse styles and needs into a single, cohesive design that caters to everyone’s daily life. What excites me the most is the versatility required—finding ways to create spaces that are adaptable and inclusive. Imagine a living area that serves as a playroom during the day but easily transitions into a serene space for relaxation in the evening. It’s these thoughtful touches that make a home truly multi-generational, ensuring every member of the family feels connected and catered to. I’d love to hear from those who have experience with this—whether you’ve designed or lived in a multi-generational home, what worked for you? #InteriorDesigner #DesignInspiration #Versatile #SpacePlanning #Transitions #SDH

Laura Guido-Clark's insightful piece on Dezeen highlights how color can humanize buildings, making them more engaging and uplifting for those who inhabit them. While some may criticize Heatherwick’s "Humanise," it's undeniable that interesting color, shape, and form are essential to creating dynamic and inspiring spaces. We feel better, have more optimism and think more creatively in environments that stimulate our senses. Consider the stark contrast with Soviet-era buildings like the infamous stalinkas that rose under a repressive regime. They evoke a sense of gloom and repression rather than celebrating human potential. The thought seems to be that color has a place among children. But what are we saying if we drain the colors from adulthood? There is immense opportunity in recognizing and enhancing the human experience through thoughtful design. If brighter colors and innovative forms contribute to this, then let's embrace them wholeheartedly. https://loom.ly/LVvJyP4 #architecture #design #buildings

“They go to lively places where there are many people. And they go there by choice – not to escape the city, but to partake of it.” William H. Whyte. Last week in The Strand Aldwych I witnessed a beautiful series of interactions that echoed the essence of William H. Whyte's The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces, published in 1980. A cheerful child chased a pigeon, laughing loudly. An elderly couple sitting on a bench watched on with smiles, reminded of their youth. Close by, teenagers, absorbed in their smartphones, occasionally shared something funny with each other. The space was teaming with energy, joy and humanity. In his book, Whyte delves into the utilisation and enjoyment of urban areas by the public. Even four decades later, his findings on the vital role of well-designed urban spaces in fostering public engagement are so pertinent and influence how we, at Furnitubes, design furniture for public spaces. We design for choice, flexibility, and we cater for interactions between humans of all ages and abilities. According to Whyte, successful urban spaces are welcoming and flexible, equipped with amenities like seating, sunlight, greenery, water, and food options to attract and encourage public interaction. He has a whole chapter on seating – more please, he says, make it comfortable and give us choice. What I love about The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces is that it is a celebration of humanity and how urban spaces can be successful with consideration, not huge budgets. The book is a fun, practical (and short) guide and is accompanied by this excellent hour-long video: https://lnkd.in/eDxTQKNX.  You can tell that Whyte enjoys the research and is honest when his findings are not as he expected. Thank you Cannon Ivers for first introducing me to the book. In an era where urban spaces are pivotal to societal health and happiness, Whyte’s work is a reminder of the profound impact thoughtful design can have on our daily lives. Let's continue to create spaces that invite social life to flourish in our cities. 🌿🤸♀️ 🍃 #publicspaces #urbandesign #landscapearchitecture #urbanrenewal #placemaking #publicengagement #humancentricdesign #williamhwhyte

What is inclusive design? Inclusive design includes all people, regardless of health, ability, age, culture and ethnicity, sex and gender, class and socioeconomic status, and preferred use of space. Inclusive Design is becoming increasingly relevant as we evolve the design of public spaces from focusing on buildings and facilities to a more holistic kind of placemaking. One that encourages people to connect with spaces over time and create sustainable communities, rather than passing through them in a merely transactional way. #shahnazhealthcareinteriors #shahnazinteriors

🏡✨ Designing Churches for Community & Discipleship: A Thoughtful Approach 🌿🙏 👋 Excited to dive into the world of church design and how thoughtful architecture can truly enhance community and discipleship. 🏰💒 Let's explore some key considerations: 1️⃣    Intentional Spaces: Design with purpose! Create spaces that foster connection, whether it's cozy conversation nooks, welcoming entryways, or collaborative study areas. Let the architecture encourage meaningful interactions. 2️⃣    Flexibility Matters: A dynamic church space adapts to various needs. Consider multifunctional rooms that can transform for worship, study groups, or community events. Flexibility fosters a sense of versatility and inclusivity. 3️⃣    Technology Integration: Embrace tech without losing the personal touch. Leverage audio-visual tools for engaging sermons, virtual small groups, or online resources. Strike a balance that enhances, not replaces, the human connection. 4️⃣    Natural Light & Openness: Create an atmosphere of openness and warmth. Infuse your design with natural light, spacious common areas, and inviting outdoor spaces. A well-lit and airy environment can elevate the overall experience. 5️⃣    Inclusive Accessibility: Ensure that your design is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or physical abilities. Ramps, elevators, and thoughtful seating arrangements can make a significant impact on inclusivity. 6️⃣    Interactive Learning Spaces: Nurture discipleship through interactive learning areas. Design classrooms equipped for group discussions, collaborative studies, and hands-on activities. Foster an environment that encourages spiritual growth. 7️⃣    Outdoor Gathering Spaces: Nature can be a powerful backdrop for community-building. Incorporate outdoor spaces for gatherings, prayer walks, or serene reflection. The connection with the natural world can enhance spiritual experiences. 8️⃣    Art & Symbolism: Infuse your design with meaningful symbols and artistic elements. Visual cues can enrich the worship experience and create a sense of continuity, helping members feel rooted in their faith journey. Let's continue to think innovatively about church design, shaping spaces that not only accommodate but actively enhance the sense of community and discipleship. 🌟 Share your insights and experiences in the comments! Together, let's inspire spaces that truly nurture spiritual growth. 🌿🤝 #ChurchDesign #CommunityBuilding #DiscipleshipJourney #InnovativeSpaces #AspenGroup #BarnaGroup

Dallas aims to address loneliness through urban design innovation, with Thanks-Giving Square serving as the canvas for a new design competition focused on fostering community connections. Initially built in response to Dallas' historical reputation as the "City of Hate," Thanks-Giving Square, featuring an interfaith chapel designed by Philip Johnson, now seeks rejuvenation to become a more inviting space. The competition, titled "Creating Connections," invites designers to propose infrastructure that encourages spontaneous social interactions, aiming to combat social isolation and enhance the plaza's accessibility and appeal. Ten finalists, selected from diverse backgrounds and locations across the US, have presented imaginative concepts ranging from interactive seating arrangements to collaborative art installations. With a focus on inclusivity and collaboration, designs aim to transcend traditional notions of public space, promoting meaningful encounters among visitors. Supported by partnerships with design consultancy firms and research platforms, the competition not only addresses loneliness but also seeks to promote interconnectedness, embodying the core values of community and acknowledgment. Scheduled for display in June, the winning design will reflect the shared vision of a vibrant, welcoming urban environment that celebrates diversity and fosters human connection. Cred: https://lnkd.in/gAE5wSV8 #DallasDesignCompetition #CommunityConnections #UrbanRevitalization #SocialInclusion #PublicSpaceInnovation #ThanksGivingSquare #CreatingConnections #DesignForCommunity #InclusiveDesign #Interconnectedness #CityTransformation #BuildingCommunity #Community #Dallas

'Neurodiversity-friendly design: Creating spaces where everyone can flourish' is an informative and interesting read from Holmes Miller in PBC Today & BIM Today. Providing a range of spaces and options within buildings is key to providing everyone with the chance to participate and perform at their best! https://lnkd.in/eCtR3FS3