Architect and designer Thomas Heatherwick believes that the construction industry is facing a crisis due to the prevalence of boring and uninspiring buildings. In his latest book, Humanize, Heatherwick argues that the relentless combination of flat, plain, and monotonous features in modern buildings and urban spaces can have a detrimental effect on our mental health. He points to research by cognitive neuroscientist Colin Ellard, which shows that people’s moods are significantly impacted by the built environment, with boring buildings triggering a fight-or-flight response in individuals.
Heatherwick emphasizes the importance of complexity and fascination in architecture, citing the research of psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan, who developed Attention Restoration Theory in the 1980s. According to this theory, spending time in natural environments can improve concentration and well-being. Heatherwick criticizes architects for prioritizing internal spaces over the external appearance of buildings, noting that the outside of a building plays a significant role in shaping people’s perceptions and emotions.
Moreover, Heatherwick raises concerns about the environmental impact of the construction industry, highlighting the staggering amount of buildings demolished and rebuilt each year. He stresses the need for long-term thinking in architecture, advocating for designs that can stand the test of time and minimize carbon emissions. Heatherwick challenges the traditional principles of architecture, such as “form follows function” and “less is more,” by emphasizing the importance of emotion and human experience in the built environment.
Ultimately, Heatherwick calls for a shift in mindset within the construction industry towards creating buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and the environment. By reimagining architecture as a tool for human connection and sustainable living, Heatherwick believes that we can revitalize our urban spaces and improve mental health through inspiring design.
