January Journey Day 11 A Practical Approach
11 Weeks of Building Better:
Nine months ago, I set out to explore the 11 key edges that shape how I think and talk about buildings. These edges include biophilia, salutogenesis, the nine foundations of healthy buildings, building biology, retrofitting, sonic architecture, regenerative design, building in layers, neuroarchitecture, and ‘living closer’.
My goal was simple: to focus on creating better buildings while keeping my naturally curious mind from wandering too far off course.
Originally I thought I needed to create a completely new framework by combining these ideas. But very quickly realised I should practice what I preach and reuse what already existing and instead talk about how we might unify these philosophies. Buildings often “tell” us what they need—through their design, materials, and how people interact with them. My approach now is to use these edges to guide my thinking, adapting as necessary while being mindful of the different principles each framework offers.
Why the Edges Matter
The edges aren’t a rigid checklist, and they are a checklist of things I put together very unscientifically, Instead, they act as prompts to keep me focused and ensure I consider the many dimensions of what makes a building successful. Each edge touches on a different aspect of how buildings can support the people who use them and the environments they inhabit. For example:
Biophilia encourages the inclusion of natural elements like plants, light, and organic materials to promote wellbeing.
Salutogenesis shifts focus from avoiding harm to actively fostering health in building design.
Retrofitting reminds us to respect and adapt existing structures rather than defaulting to demolition.
Building in Layers stresses the importance of designing for adaptability, with systems and finishes that can evolve without disrupting core structures.
By holding onto these edges, I can stay practical and intentional in my work without being overwhelmed by every new idea or trend that comes along.
From Vision to Action
When I first started this journey, and I am referring to both this 11 week exercise but also my journey as an architect. I believe that
Buildings but specifically homes should be joyful,
A well-designed building should delight people. Whether it’s the way sunlight streams through a window, the texture of a handrail, or the comfort of a well-thought-out space, the small things matter.
Waste nothing,
Generate their own power
Cost nothing to run
And only take what they need from their surroundings
And heal themselves and those who use them
Buildings should actively make life better for everyone involved, from the builders and caretakers to the people who use them. This means choosing healthy materials, good ventilation, and designs that reduce stress and promote balance.
Buildings should have the capacity to evolve and adapt. Whether through smart technology or modular designs, they should guide us when maintenance or updates are needed, and we should be ready to act on those signals.
What I’ve Learned
Over time, it became clear that no single framework can cover everything. And I did try mapping them against one another and each one fell short in one aspect or another (These extercises might themselves become a blog or series of blogs in the future!) Instead of reinventing the wheel, I’ve leaned into combining ideas from existing principles, adapting them to the specific needs of each project. For example:
Regenerative Design helps push projects beyond sustainability by focusing on restoring ecosystems.
Sonic Architecture reminds us that soundscapes can impact mental health and productivity.
Neuroarchitecture shows how layouts and lighting influence our emotions and behaviours.
By considering these layers, we can create buildings that not only perform well but also feel right for the people using them.
Focusing on What Matters
One of the biggest challenges in this process has been staying focused. Like many, I tend to be easily drawn to new ideas, tools, or trends, but the edges have helped me stay on track. They provide a framework for me to return to when I feel like I’m losing focus, ensuring I always think about the bigger picture while handling the details.
For example, when looking at retrofitting projects, the edge of building biology reminds me to prioritize materials and processes that are safe and sustainable. Similarly, living closer helps me think about how buildings fit into communities, encouraging shared resources and stronger connections between people.
The 11 week project isn’t just about the buildings; it’s also about creating a structure for myself.