R E A TI C V E N O CATI E DU TABLE OF Contents Introduction 4 A History of Building 6 Architecture Becomes a Profession 13 Motivations for Improvement 14 Consumerism or Conservation 16 Green Methods Unproven 22 Elevators Lift People Buildings 25 Designs on the Future 28 Preservation Versus Conservation 30 Merging Homes with Nature 33 Creativity and Collaboration 36 H G Wells Predicts Arcology 39 World’s Fair Stretches Imaginations 40 Glossary 44 Selected Bibliography 46 Web Sites 46 Index 47
WINTRODUCTION hat if instead of shingles and siding your house was covered with a substance similar to lizard skin which could change its color depending on the weather and heal itself from damage caused by exposure to sun wind and hail On sunny days the skin would turn dark and keep excess heat away from the house On cloudy days it would become clear to let in as much heat and light as possible This same skin would collect rainwater and condensation to use for taking showers washing dishes and doing laundry Scientists are working on making these features possible In fact self-healing paints already exist and are used in the paint on some cars When the surface of the paint is scratched tiny capsules break open to release more color Developing and adapting these ideas for use in buildings though will take time and money which many people aren’t willing to pay just yet Many architects agree that the future of building will focus on ways to reduce pollution conserve energy and save space on the planet for the world’s ever growing population Some of this new architecture will come from futuristic designs upgrades on current technology and new materials inspired by plants and animals such as weather-sensitive skin on a house At the same time architects are today finding inspiration in the past peering back into history to study how ancient builders constructed energy efficient homes suited to their location 4
Architecture’s future may include structural designs that leave traditional wood and paint far behind in favor of flexible surfaces that resemble reptilian scales
