Ashna Apparao “Environmental Architecture”

Preface:

Hello! My name is Ashna Apparao. This is my portfolio on environmental architecture as an environmental humanities artistic expression. Environmental architecture is a type of architecture that embodies various aspects of nature—for example, natural ventilation, greenery, and open living spaces.

Theme: 

The two main focuses of environmental architecture consist of nature and healing. Environmental architecture incorporates nature into modern architecture. By doing this, nature is able to incorporate it into infrastructure instead of eliminating it. Healing also takes a major role in environmental architecture because when humans are exposed to natural light, greenery, and natural ventilation it can be better for mental well-being. Nature will also heal because architecture will be more sustainable.

Analysis:

According to https://www.barker-associates.co.uk/service/architecture/what-is-sustainable-architecture/#:~:text=Sustainable%20architecture%20is%20also%20referred,the%20ecosystem%20and%20the%20communities,  sustainable architecture embodies a profound commitment to environmental responsibility, advocating for a holistic design approach that takes into account the entire life cycle of a building. From this article, the main focuses of environmental architecture include energy efficiency, resource conservation, and ecosystem integration. Notably, the emphasis on energy efficiency extends beyond mere technological solutions to encompass passive design principles, renewable energy sources, and the conscientious selection of materials. The incorporation of eco-friendly materials, locally sourced components, and recycled resources plays a pivotal role in minimizing the environmental impact of construction projects. The article stresses the importance of fostering an interconnected relationship between the built environment and the surrounding ecosystem. This involves designing structures that harmonize with nature, from green roofs to natural landscaping, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

Application:

Environmental architecture is important now more than ever because it brings nature back into everyday life instead of just eliminating it. Eliminating nature from building is a lose lose situation. It creates a breeding ground for unsustainable infrastructure and contributes to the climate crisis. By bringing nature back into this process, architecture will be more sustainable and will be also better for human and animal health. With more greenery, fresh air, and sunlight people will begin to heal.  Overall, environmental architecture is important because we can’t stop building and we can’t keep cutting down nature for those buildings. So, this is a good way to incorporate nature alongside societies demand for more infrastructure.