Spatial Synergies: Between Humans and Non-Human Citizens: A Critical Literature Review

Yara Mohamed Ewida

doi:10.38027/jsalutogenic_vol3no1_9

Authors

Yara Mohamed Ewida Universität Internacional de Catalunya - UIC BCN, 22 Immaculada,08017 Barcelona, Spain. Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3504-9635

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.38027/jsalutogenic_vol3no1_9

Keywords:

Spatial Synergy, Environmental Justice , Biodiversity , Synergistic architecture

Abstract

This paper addresses the historical oversight of architectural design and urban planning, where architectural and urban planning endeavors were exclusively tailored for human occupancy, often at the expense of indigenous species. This shortsighted approach has caused massive ecosystem changes, resulting in an explosive imbalance that reverberates through land, air, and water systems, culminating in the spectrum of global climate change. Focusing on the "Spatial Synergy" concept, the paper establishes a mutual dialogue between architecture and nature, underscoring their interdependence for attaining environmental justice. It explores the living cycle between humans and non-humans, emphasizing environmental and ecological impacts, and then examines psychological and economic ramifications on spatial design. This study investigates the gap between human-centric architectural designs and the needs of non-human inhabitants, aiming to develop a framework that addresses both. We identify critical knowledge gaps by analyzing historical oversights and current practices and propose a synergistic architectural approach. Methods include a comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies. Our results reveal that integrating detailed biodiversity data into design processes leads to environments that better support local ecosystems, marking a significant shift from conventional practices toward regenerative design. The implications suggest shifting from sustainable to regenerative design principles is essential for creating healthier urban landscapes.

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