DESIGN WITH NATURE: Architecture Co-Existing with Nature

INTRODUCTION

Every now and then we experience the drastic effects brought about by climate change – our O-zone layer depleting, icebergs melting, and, just recently, the Amazon Rainforest, considered as the lungs of the Earth as it supplies 20% of our oxygen supply, burning. Most of these are caused by humans’ irresponsibility and negligence. As technology advances, humans put aside their natural environment and relied greatly on innovations presented through high-technology. Looking at the bright side of things, there we can still do some ways to turn the Earth’s current situation around. This is when Architecture comes into the picture.

DISCUSSION

Nature is an important factor in almost everything, Architecture is no exception. Architecture, especially today, should strive to co-exist with nature and not cause further damage to what it already is. The relationship between architecture and nature cycles from harmony to defiance over and over again throughout the history of construction. Do we work with nature to build something complimentary, something organic? Do we minimize impact and disturb as little as possible? Or do we conquer the land and build monuments to our achievements? Depending on who you ask, the answers to these questions are polarizing. With the line between human and natural environments becoming increasingly blurred, how can we ethically design with ecological systems? Human intervention should aim to enhance ecosystem services instead of attempting to restore to a certain point in history. Humans’ interventions in nature are equally weighted with an ethical responsibility toward the land.

CONCLUSION

The designers of today should always be updated on the recent news and situation of our nature. Architects should properly conduct the necessary research and analyses regarding the different factors to be considered whenever they are planning for a project. We, all, should strive to contribute to the betterment of our planet, Earth, before it is all too late.