SUNDAY, FEB 5, 2023: NOTE TO FILE
As a sustainability strategy, the Cohousing model can be seen as a microcosm of a future sustainable society wherein it can help transform design approaches for housing and urban development. The aspirations of Cohousing residents are social and not material-consumerist, and they are usually pro-actively involved in environmental action. Consequently, Cohousing residents generally live in smaller dwellings than ‘normal’; they share household and other consumer goods; they grow their own organic food in significant quantities; and, they also manage waste and recycling particularly well.
Generic concept plans for Cohousing layouts
However, “some experts believe that the notion of smart cities has been overly driven by hi-tech companies”, for various reasons. These experts go on to say that, “Given this situation and the belief by some that the planning, design and construction of future cities requires an integrated approach to achieve successful outcomes, alternative terminology has been suggested. The term 'The Living City' refers to an approach in which technology plays an important but nevertheless supporting role (Ref Buro Happold: The Living City)”.
Figure 5.20: The relationship between Smart Cities and the Living City. Image by Buro Happold. Source: https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Smart_cities_engineering#Smart_city_vs_living_city
This echoed by David Pearson, founder of the Ecological Design Association in the UK and co-founder of Gaia International, an innovative group of ecologically responsible and inspired architects, believes that “far from expensive technological dreams, we need a down to earth vision – a future home integrated into a sustainable lifestyle for all of us.” He argues: “Whether old or new, future housing will need to employ life-supporting systems. Materials, and spatial designs that meet the health, conservation and spiritual criteria” (Pearson, 1998, p.57) listed in the ‘Gaia House Charter’. The box below is list of criteria for holistic sustainable building was drawn up by the members of Gaia International. Many such houses have already been built and many old existing structures have been converted with these principles in mind. These are the beginnings of a complete transformation of the existing building stock to meet the long-term requirements of sustainable living.
The Gaia House Charter for Healthy and Sustainable Building
Designing for Harmony with the Planet:
Designing for Peace and Spirit
Designing for Health of the Body
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