Health-oriented buildings gained importance
Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture (FFADA) Acting Dean Prof. Dr. Cemil Atakara pointed out that a health-oriented theme was chosen this year within the framework of World Architecture Day, and noted that within the scope of the theme determined by the International Union of Architects as the 'Year of Design for Health', they aim to work in harmony with the commitment to evidence-based design to promote health in buildings and cities.
In his statement, Atakara stated that the built environment can affect human health in both positive and negative ways, and added “Comfort conditions in a built environment can only be possible with a correct and healthy design.”
Atakara also stated that planning, indoor air quality, acoustics, lighting, color characteristics have mental effects on human health, and that all of these combined seriously affect the daily lives of individuals and reduce their quality of life.
Atakara noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed people to live in more secluded built environments, and said, “Spaces that are not properly lit, not properly ventilated, not designed at the right height and proportions create unhealthy environments. In addition, wrong material choices and buildings with insulation problems cause dampness and mold in buildings.
Pointing out that people spend most of their days in closed built environments, Atakara said, “Architects have important duties to ensure that this built environment supports good health and wellbeing in cities as well as in structures.”
Prof. Dr. Atakara stated that while designing buildings, architects should consider many factors but should pay attention to mostly health conditions, and said, "Besides all these, it is important to raise awareness in the society about the demand for healthy buildings."
Atakara celebrated the World Architects Day of all architects while stating that architects are equipped to respond to the complex challenges of the built environment.