Architectural Environment Research Articles

TRENDS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND IMMERSIVE DESIGN USE IN THE FORMATION OF ARCHITECTURAL ENVIRONMENT

There is increasing attention to a new design methodology incorporating the latest achievements of a non-hierarchical way of forming based on the learning process of computers or machines, namely the concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive design, using virtual and other types of reality. The study aims to reveal the necessity to identify the main trends of artificial intelligence and immersive design use in architectural environment formation. The results can contribute to rethinking architectural design algorithms at the present stage and identifying potential opportunities for improvement. The paper describes the possibilities of AI and immersive design in architectural environment formation. Analysis of current research in this field has made it possible to identify trends that likely will continue to develop further and impact the architectural profession. One of these trends is the improvement of the architect’s toolkit, currently provided by additional plug-ins to existing programmes or separate services based on AI algorithms, but in the future, it may be a change in the programme code itself with a completely updated structure. In this case, the role of software from the architect-managed toolkit may shift to another plane, such as a digital assistant that partially or fully manages its responsibilities in working on an architectural project. The symbiosis of multidirectional but powerful immersive design technologies (VR, AR, MR) and AI algorithms is another trend in architectural environment formation. It can also be characterised as the most experimental and, at the same time, dynamically progressing, given the active development of its components. Another modern trend is to bring architectural design to a new level of a balanced combination of virtual and real. The immersion of the user in virtual reality for design work and demonstration of the relevant results is gradually changing as the 3D model of an architectural structure is increasingly manifested in the physical world, including at the implementation site, and interactive equipment with flexible and constantly evolving functionality provides architects with more opportunities for creativity. Keywords: artificial intelligence, immersive design, architectural environment.

PROBLEMS OF VISUAL QUALITIES OF THE ARCHITECTURAL ENVIRONMENT IN GREEN STANDARDS

The architectural community, which is closely involved in green standards, is already aware of the need to consider the aesthetic qualities of the architectural environment in rating systems of environmental certification. The study’s relevance is related to the need to find ways to factor the impact of the aesthetic component of architecture on human health in architectural projects. The purpose of the study is to justify the need to include the aesthetic properties of architectural objects under design in rating systems for environmental certification of architecture. Rating systems for environmental certification of buildings are not universal; each has its characteristics. Analysis of the most common systems shows that they do not take into account and do not regulate the appearance of buildings from the point of view of human visual perception. At the same time, the visual and aesthetic qualities of the architectural environment affect human health and well-being, which makes them components of ecology and a matter for consideration. The author’s research focuses on some of the most common and basic standards: LEED, BREEAM, and WELL. We determined that several green standards address the visual impact of architecture as a component of human health and ecology. We also found that during certification, according to the relevant standard, in most cases, the visual impact comes down to providing a view from the window, the level of lighting inside the room, and insolation, among others. At the same time, there is no regulation of the aesthetic impact of a building on a person; there is no methodology for its evaluation. There is an obvious need to consider the aesthetic qualities of architecture. Its quantification and scoring are possible within the framework of the corresponding credits of the environmental certification rating system. For this, we propose an appropriate technique, which consists of conducting a statistical survey of some categories of respondents who answer a series of questions about visual perception and give a generalised assessment of the architectural project. The study substantiates the expediency of introducing criteria for assessing the aesthetic properties of architectural structures into the system of green standards; it analyses the requirements of green standards regarding the aesthetic properties of the architectural environment. The article also develops the principles of forming criteria for assessing the aesthetic properties of architectural structures. It argues that the aesthetic visual qualities of architectural objects affect human health and that we should consider them in the environmental certification systems of architecture. Therefore, the study is forming a unified green standard template, one of the criteria of which will allow for the awarding of points for the visual environmental friendliness of a building undergoing green certification. Keywords: green standards, BREEAM, LEED, visual ecology, visual qualities, aesthetic properties.

The Study of the Cognitive Tendency of Chinese Y and Z Generations towards the Design Element Shan-Shui in Architectural Environments

The future of architectural environments in China will serve the needs of, and thus be shaped/re-shaped by, the Chinese Y and Z generations. Although Shan-Shui designs have long been a classic style of architectural environment in China, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on how the Chinese Y and Z generations perceive Shan-Shui designs as an architectural style. Quantitatively analyzing and understanding Chinese YZ generations’ perceived relationships between Shan-Shui designs and architectural environments will have many implications for both the economy and education. In this paper, we present a large-scale study by conducting a questionnaire survey of 441 human subjects representative of both the Y and Z generations. The questionnaires were carefully designed with a focus on understanding the perceptions and cognitions of Shan-Shui designs in the survey group. The survey results were analyzed using the widely adopted SPSS25 method. Our overall analyses show that the Chinese Y and Z generations have a tendency to subconsciously perceive Shan-Shui as a relatively independent form/style from architectural environments. Between the Y and Z generations, our comparative analyses show that the latter has a more positive perception with respect to different aspects of Shan-Shui designs in architectural environments.

Harmonizing health and sustainability: Advanced analytical approaches in biophilic architectural design

The burgeoning field of biophilic architectural design represents a transformative approach towards creating spaces that harmonize with nature, fostering both environmental sustainability and human well-being. This paper delves into the intricate relationship between architectural environments and their impact on occupant health outcomes, leveraging quantitative analyses and mathematical models to offer a comprehensive understanding. Through exploring theoretical frameworks such as biophilic design principles, psychological impacts of built environments, and the integration of sustainability with health, alongside practical applications including case studies, innovative materials, and policy implications, this study illuminates the multifaceted benefits of incorporating natural elements into built spaces. Advanced statistical models and cost-benefit analyses provide empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of biophilic design in reducing stress, enhancing cognitive function, and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, this research underscores the critical role of policy and innovative technologies in facilitating the adoption of health-centric architectural practices. By presenting a synthesis of theoretical insights and empirical findings, this paper advocates for a paradigm shift towards designing buildings that not only exist in harmony with the natural world but also actively contribute to the health and productivity of their occupants.

Sterilization potential of Gas-Water Mixed Ion (GWMI) technology and its device for microorganisms in the built environment

As human societies progress, novel infectious diseases and extensive health challenges continuously emerge. There is a growing demand for low-cost, safe, and broad-spectrum microbial sterilization technologies within architectural environments. This study introduces a Gas-Water Mixed Ion (GWMI) technology combining negative ions and electrostatic atomization. Due to the strong oxidizing properties of the hydroxyl radicals (·OHs) produced, it demonstrates excellent bactericidal effects and has been widely applied in water treatment. However, its potential for air sterilization has not been fully explored. Using Escherichia coli (E. coli) as a target strain, this study investigates the sterilization potential of this technology in various spatial settings and evaluates its energy consumption from an economic perspective. The results indicate that the device, designed based on the GWMI technology, achieves more than 70 % bactericidal efficiency at the maximum distance in spaces of 100 L and 200 L. In a 30 m³ experimental chamber, the natural diffusion of the microbial ions extends approximately 36 cm, with localized air supply enhancing the spread of these ions up to 90 cm, where the sterilization rate still reaches 33.33 % and over 50 % within the 70 cm range. Compared to other microbial purification methods, this technology consumes less energy. The GWMI technology efficiently eliminates environmental microbes, provides valuable data for future implementation in building environments, and offers a novel approach to fostering low-carbon, healthy architectural settings.

КИРПИЧНЫЙ «СТИЛЬ» В АРХИТЕКТУРЕ УЧЕБНЫХ ЗАВЕДЕНИЙ РОСТОВА-НА-ДОНУ КОНЦА XIX – НАЧАЛА ХХ ВЕКОВ

The buildings of educational institutions in the period of the late XIX - early XX centuries are one of the most important elements in the formation of the architectural environment of provincial cities, including Rostov-on-Don. The buildings of gymnasiums, commercial, clerk, and technical schools often formed a kind of spatial framework of the central part of the city, being unique objects. Primary schools, which had common typical features, were part of the central core of individual residential areas, including peripheral ones. Regardless of the status and level of the educational institution, the number of students and its place in the structure of the city, most educational buildings of primary, secondary and secondary specialized education were built in the brick “style”. At the same time, it should be noted the variety of artistic techniques that determine the appearance of educational buildings of various types. In addition to the so-called “average brick “style””, more complex techniques for solving facades are widespread in the architecture of most primary schools: turning to the stylized forms of medieval and Old Russian architecture, solving classical details in brick, combining simplified geometric decor with forms in the Art Nouveau style, combining light and red brick.

ПРОЄКТУВАННЯ ТЕАТРАЛЬНО-ВИДОВИЩНИХ ЦЕНТРІВ ДЛЯ ДІТЕЙ ТА МОЛОДІ (на прикладі досвіду кафедри дизайну архітектурного середовища)

The article explores the influence of educational, research, and competitive design of theatrical and spectacle buildings developed by professors and students of the Department of Architectural Environment Design at the Institute of Architecture and Design National University "Lviv Polytechnic". Within the framework of the contemporary cultural and educational environment, where active youth participation is a vital component of cultural development, there is a necessity for the creation of adaptive, innovative spaces for creativity and communication. The persistence of outdated architectural forms, characteristic of the Soviet period, particularly in segments like theaters for young audiences and puppet theaters, is emphasized. The absence of innovation in these types of structures at the beginning of the 21st century is noted, especially concerning theatrical and spectacle institutions such as theaters for young audiences and puppet theaters, which continue to exist but do not meet the modern needs for quality cultural education of Ukrainian youth. An analysis of over ten projects at all levels shows that a significant portion not only reproduces the concepts of architects from the second half of the 20th century but also incorporates elements inherited from theatrical and spectacle buildings of the former USSR. However, in recent years, the Lviv architectural school, particularly following the establishment of the Department of Architectural Environment Design, has shown a tendency towards experimentation and the search for innovative solutions for the architecture of the future. This is evidenced by the results of educational and competitive design projects, as well as the introduction of special courses that revive the ideas of futuristic architecture from the last century. Achievements in this field reflect the architectural visions of renowned masters such as F. Kiesler and I. Leonidov, as well as contemporary researchers like A. Quarmby, K. Tange, B. Fuller, G. Golmin and G. Kreiger, who explore the possibilities of future architecture. The article provides a classification of theatrical and spectacle centers for children and youth. The author discusses factors that continue to negatively impact the development of theatrical and spectacle centers in Ukraine in the future. The experience of designing research, educational, and competitive projects, exemplified by the activities of the Department of Architectural Environment Design, demonstrates that it can find application in the applied architectural and construction industry of the country as a whole.

INCLUSIVE TECHNIQUES OF COLOR HARMONIZATION OF THE INTERIOR SPACE OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS

The work, based on systematized theoretical and practical experience, defines the main inclusive techniques of color harmonization of the interior space of public buildings in the aspect of comfortable perception of the architectural environment by groups of the population with limited mobility and people with special needs: the technique of using contrasting colors, the technique of using a color coding system, the technique of using Braille and tactile elements, the technique of application of light signals, the technique of using neutral colors for the floor and walls, the technique of using audiovisual signals, the technique of providing touch accessibility, the technique of color indicators of doors and entrance area, the technique of color coding of infrastructure. During the study of inclusive techniques of harmonizing the internal space of public buildings, several aspects that need improvement were identified. The introduction of tactile and sound indicators, effective use of contrasts and a color scheme allowed to create an environment that takes into account the needs of people with visual impairments. For the further development of inclusive spaces, it is recommended to take into account the needs of the community and use the latest research methods. The integration of tactile and sound indicators, the development of multimodal information systems and the application of technological innovations are important elements of increasing the effectiveness of inclusive design.

ZWIĄZEK POMIĘDZY TRADYCYJNYM BUDOWNICTWEM A NATURĄ, NA PRZYKŁADZIE GÓRALSKIEJ CHATY Z TERENÓW BESKIDU ŚLĄSKIEGO I ŻYWIECKIEGO

The aim of the article was to show the connections between folk architecture and the natural landscape. At the research stage, literature analysis was used, followed by field research. The research techniques used are: source query, analysis of completed architectural objects, original photographic documentation. Based on a broader examination of the topic, an example of a traditional Silesian cottage in the Silesian and Żywiecki Beskid, a modern single-family building by Studio Atrium, a single-family building by Interurban and a modern barn by Architekt Kozieł were selected. The selection criteria used are an objective criterion of the architectural environment and a formal reference to the archetype of a highlander's cottage. As a result of the research, it was found that it is possible to design using the achievements of folk architecture, while making the buildings light and harmoniously fit into the existing landscape.

Fast Prediction and Optimization of Building Wind Environment Using CFD and Deep Learning Method

CFD offers advantages over wind tunnel experiments in the prediction and optimization of building wind environment; however, the computational costs associated with optimizing architectural wind environment remain a challenge. In this study, an approach that combines deep learning techniques with CFD simulations is proposed for the prediction and optimization of the architectural wind environment efficiently. A dataset of wind field is constructed using CFD simulation, considering various wind directions, wind speeds, and building spacing. Subsequently, a U-net deep learning model is trained as a surrogate model to rapidly predict the architectural wind field under different conditions. The results indicate that the model can accurately predict the wind field in buildings. The prediction time of building wind field is only 1/900 of that of CFD simulations, making it a viable surrogate model for wind environment optimization. Furthermore, considering all the building layouts and inflow conditions examined in this study, the maximum and minimum uniform wind speed area ratios Auni are 0.84 and 0.13, respectively. Under a single inflow speed, the maximum improvement in the Auni is 0.4, with an improvement rate of 48%. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method as an efficient approach for optimizing architectural wind environment.

Flexible-Rigid Aluminum-Organic frameworks with Ultra-Fine Pore-Environment regulation for benchmark acetylene storage and purification

Rational regulation of functional groups on the pore surface of robust aluminum metal–organic framework (CAU-10-H) from amino (–NH2), hydrazino (–N2H3), to azido (–N3) continuously control their framework rigidity-flexibility together with ultra-fine pore-size change in the scale of 0.1–0.5 Å. Benefited from the rigid architecture and suitable pore environments, CAU-10-NH2 exhibits a supreme acetylene (C2H2) storage density (473 g/L) exceeding the values of liquid C2H2 (393 g/L) and all reported MOF adsorbents under ambient conditions. Different from CAU-10-H/NH2/N2H3, CAU-10-N3 exhibited temperature-dependent flexible stepwise adsorption behaviors for C2H2 with azido groups as the guest-sensitive gate, having highest storage capacity (106 cm3 cm−3) and second-high storage density (405 g/L) among these materials. Notably, compared with other C2-hydrocarbon and CO2 molecules, only C2H2 can open the azido door at 298 K, and thus effectively enhancing their separation selectivity with top-level uptake ratios for C2H2/C2H4 (2.65) and C2H2/CO2 (2.93), which are further supported by the practical fixed-bed breakthrough curves and theoretical simulations. Such a rational combination of rigidity and flexibility breaks new ground in MOF chemistry and sets a benchmark for acetylene storage and purification.

The NetWorkPlaceTM© Phenomenon

This paper presents an issue related to interior architectural environments, which is currently being investigated through an empirical research program entitled the NetWorkPlaceTM© study. It is delivered from a speculative standpoint which invites consideration and feedback. The radical structuralist conception of Castells’ network society is adopted as the position from which to explore the experience of being-at-work in contemporary organisations. This brings into proximity the experience of the space of place and the space of flows as the new expression of sociability in networked organisations. This juxtapositioning, of what appear to be competing terms, provides the research space for investigating both a contemporary commercial phenomenon and in parallel, for postulating the ideological foundations of interior design. The speculative position, on which this discussion is based, anticipates that the proposed research framework and the experience of the investigative process are ones that also provide an ethical and rigorous foundation for establishing at least one perspective on the formulation of a design ethos.

Art object – an integral component of shaping the architectural environment of a modern city

Shaping the image of a modern city, its aesthetic and artistic qualities, improving its appearance and attracting the attention of residents and guests of the city to his certain parts with the help of traditional, modern and exclusive art objects is an up-to-date question. The main purpose of the research was to theoretical materials, explored art object characteristics, functions, role in modern city architecture, and residents’ attitudes towards art object use in urban spaces. The research program included the following stages: preparatory, research and summarising with the integrated use of general scientific research methods. The methods included analysis of scientific literature, field research, analysis of architectural solutions, analysis of similar projects, and generalisation of previously proposed ideas for the formation of public space. As a result of the conducted comprehensive research, the main functions of art objects, the properties of art objects and the role of art objects in the formation of the architectural environment of a modern city in the system “art-objects – public space – residents” were summarised. The main characteristic features that art objects should have in the context of urban space are analysed and systematised. Through the survey of the city’s population, it was established that existing art objects in cities require thematic and compositional adjustments, since a group of art objects and each of them individually form the image of the city, reflect its uniqueness and originality. The survey revealed that residents for the formation of the urban environment prefer art objects of historical and cultural themes. In order to take into account the culture and traditions of the city’s residents during the design and placement of art objects, it is necessary to conduct a survey and expert evaluation, which should be an important part of the process of shaping the urban space. The theoretical and practical value of the research results lies in the fact that the materials, provisions and conclusions contained in it can be included in the preparations of educational materials on environment design and also used as recommendations for improving the process of forming of the image of the urban environment in the activities of government agencies, design organisations, and developers of regulatory documentation

Sandstones and red beds in the Lower Cretaceous Sidi Aich Formation, Chotts Basin (Southern Tunisia): facies, architecture and depositional environments

Abstract The Lower Cretaceous deposits of North Africa represent a terrestrial to shallow-marine sandstone-dominated succession often referred to as the ‘Continental Intercalaire’ and Nubian Sandstone informal groups. The upper Barremian Sidi Aich Formation of the Continental Intercalaire is distinguished throughout the Chotts basin of southern Tunisia by sandstone-dominated sequences within conglomerate, calcareous siltstone and palaeosol red bed occurrences. This paper aims to highlight: (1) the facies distribution, internal architecture and depositional environment of the sandbodies; and (2) the origin, spatial distribution and architecture of the red beds that underlined and topped sandbodies. Strata in the Zimlet El Beida anticlinal structure, Chotts basin, offer a good opportunity for detailed field observations and bed-by-bed logging of three representative lithostratigraphic sections. Detailed sedimentological investigation allows the recognition of several lithofacies grouped into three facies associations indicating tidal flat, tidal channel and tidal bar depositional settings characterizing a transgressive tide-dominated estuarine system that developed during an episode of relative sea-level fluctuations in the Early Cretaceous. The high-resolution petrographic, mineralogical and geochemical analyses of the red beds allow the differentiation of three distinct lithofacies sets including: (1) intraformational conglomerates; (2) calcareous siltstones; and (3) palaeosol. Major red beds comprise detrital grains inherited from the host or parent sediment and authigenic minerals (dolomite, calcite and hematite) precipitated during the diagenetic processes. Grain components have been partially or completely cemented and/or replaced by terrestrial phreatic dolomite. The negative δ 13 C and δ 18 O signatures of the dolomite analyses indicate that the dolomitization processes have been influenced by fluctuations of the groundwater table or climate change from semi-arid to semi-humid conditions. This study, therefore, may provide useful data for the better understanding of the internal architecture of the red beds associated with sandbodies that represent the main and significant potential reservoir within the Lower Cretaceous Continental Intercalaire sandstone-dominated groundwater aquifers of the Chotts basin.

Aesthetic principles of expressionism in modern architecture

The purpose of the article is to study the aesthetic principles of expressionism that influenced the development of modern architecture. An analysis of the concepts and means of artistic expression of the direction under study is proposed. The conditions for the emergence and formation of expressionism, its artistic methods of expression from conventionally realistic to abstract, as well as the manifestation of this direction of art in architectural design are considered. A brief analysis of the connection between expressionism and other parallel trends or movements of art of the twentieth century is given. Variations of expressionism from the standpoint of abstract art are identified, where the search for interactivity between the artist and the viewer in the process of visual perception of the painting is indicated. It is concluded that imagination is one of the main ways of artistic thinking in the process of author’s artistic design. The manifestation of the aesthetic principles of expressionism in the architecture of individual countries is considered. It has been revealed that expressionism in architecture is characterized by a departure from traditional forms in order to achieve the maximum emotional impact on the recipient. The study of the stated topic allows us to draw a conclusion about the relevance of expressionism at the beginning of the 21st century, which, with its traditions, continues the achievements of expressionism of the 20th century. and at the same time gives a new impetus to artistic expressions of the personal views of artists and architects on the ongoing processes in society. Parallels of the beginning of the 20th – beginning of the 21st centuries. revealed similarities in the aesthetic principles of the formation of the subject-spatial architectural environment. Expressionist techniques, means and methods of working on a painting or object are most accurately able to express the feelings of artists and architects, their psychological stress, the conviction that the viewer must go through a new experience while looking at an architectural or artistic work.

Enhancing Robot Inclusivity in the Built Environment: A Digital Twin-Assisted Assessment of Design Guideline Compliance

Developing guidelines for designing robot-inclusive spaces has been challenging and resource-intensive, primarily relying on physical experiments and observations of robot interactions within the built environment. These conventional methods are often costly, time-consuming, and labour-intensive, demanding manual intervention. To address these limitations, this study explores the potential of using digital twins as a promising solution to offer detailed insights, reducing the dependence on physical experiments for studying robot-built environment interactions.Although the concept of digital twins is popular in many domains, the use of digital twins for this specific problem has not been explored yet. A novel methodology for assessing existing built environment guidelines by incorporating them as an architectural digital twin asset within robot simulation software is proposed in this regard. By analysing the digital interactions between robots and the architectural digital twin assets in simulations, the compatibility of the environment with robots is evaluated, ultimately contributing to enhancing these guidelines to be robot-inclusive. The ultimate goal is to create environments that are not only inclusive but also readily accessible to Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). With this objective, the proposed methodology is tested on robots of different specifications to understand the robots’ interactions with different architectural digital twin environments and obstacles. The digital twin effectively demonstrates the capability of the proposed approach in assessing the robots’ suitability for deployment in the simulated environments. The gained insights contribute to improved comprehension and strengthen the existing design guidelines.

Evaluating public spaces through the concept of other: A heterotopic approach

This study offers a critical evaluation and an alternative urban reading method for public spaces in the contemporary architectural environment by examining the presence of different identities in different spaces through the concept of heterotopia and its expansions. The exploration of heterotopia as an instrument and its methodological application in the analysis of public spaces highlights the pursuit of culturally resilient urban environments that are adaptable and meaningful for all users. Therefore, the study formulates a systematic evaluation method for public spaces by incorporating a comprehensive methodology that integrates both theoretical exploration and practical observations. The concept of heterotopia, which unfolds through parallel text–space readings, has provided the opportunity for a comparative analysis based on the differences between its definitions and the user profiles and usage practices of public spaces. This study establishes a consistent analytical framework through a meticulously crafted "seven-step view lens" derived from an extensive review of architectural discussions on heterotopias. This innovative lens categorizes heterotopias into three distinct groups according to specific criteria and contexts, facilitating a detailed examination of public spaces' diverse aspects. By systematically categorizing the identified heterotopias, the study not only deconstructs their existing narratives but also proposes transformative strategies for future design interventions. Such categorization allows for a nuanced critique and interpretation of public spaces, potentially guiding the design of urban areas that are more inclusive and reflective of societal needs. These classifications offer a fresh perspective on public spaces, revealing their potential as platforms for vibrant social interaction and cultural expression, thereby contributing to the dialogue on urban resilience. Hence, the multifaceted nature of heterotopia offers a powerful lens for understanding urban complexity, informing a shift towards inclusive, sustainable, and resilient design. Ultimately, the study highlights the role of heterotopia as a method that interrogates the production of spaces coexisting with the 'other,' unravels its dynamics, and proposes an approach for creating dynamic, inclusive, and adaptive public spaces. This study will contribute to architectural discourse by offering a new perspective on how public spaces can be designed or reimagined to accommodate and reflect the diversity and dynamism inherent in contemporary urban life and offers a pathway for crafting public spaces that are resilient to social and cultural flux while serving as platforms for diverse community engagement.

Classicism in the Saratov region

Saratov’s classicism is the first stage of its capital construction. It plays a major role in the formation of the architectural environment of the historical center. Classicism also influences the formation of the central part of the city. The article considers the processes of organization and self-organization of buildings in Saratov during the period of Classicism.Purpose: Identification of classicism buildings in Saratov.Methodology/approach: The main levels of scientific knowledge are accepted: a theoretical method involving the study of documents describing the architecture of classicism, a practical method to determine the elements of the environment, their harmony, and the systems analysis of these documents.Research findings: Regional properties of Saratov are studied for the period of classicism.Value: A study of harmony in the architectural environment of the historical center Saratov.

Developing a digital human modeling toolset: Simulating elderly posture in Grasshopper to optimize living environments

The increasing aging population highlights the critical need for elderly-friendly architectural environments. Existing architecture design guidelines often overlook the varied needs of individual differences among the elderly. Digital Human Models (DHMs) offer an effective solution by simulating individual differences and interactions within architectural spaces for the elderly, enabling ergonomic assessments during the design phase of architecture. However, existing DHM platforms have not been integrated with architectural software, limiting designers' ability to receive timely feedback during the design phase. This study addresses this gap by developing a novel DHM toolset on architectural software, Grasshopper, that simulates elderly postures and automatically assesses ergonomic factors like joint angles and comfort levels. Three application scenarios for the toolset were provided: assessing the minimum doorway side space for walker users, determining the handrail position for wheelchair users during the transfer process in the bathroom, and evaluating the comfort level of elderly people getting support postures in the bedroom. The results demonstrate that the toolset can effectively simulate the daily activity postures of the elderly and offer practical design suggestions. The theoretical contribution of this study lies in providing a novel toolset that integrates DHM with architectural design software, offering a new perspective and method for architectural design that considers individual differences among the elderly. Practically, by assessing minimal space and posture comfort, the toolset enables designers to obtain timely ergonomic feedback during the architecture design phase. This ultimately improves architectural design schemes and fosters independence and safety for the elderly in built environments.

Architect Vladimir Aleksandrovich Sokolovsky

The article introduces readers to the life and creative biography of the outstanding Siberian architect Vladimir Aleksandrovich Sokolovsky on the threshold of his 150th anniversary. The authors describe surviving buildings of the architect in Krasnoyarsk and show the influence of his architecture on the formation of Siberian modern and eclecticism. The article features the role of the architect in the formation and development of the architectural environment of Krasnoyarsk in the first half of the 20th century. It describes the history of two buildings of wooden and stone architecture related to Sokolovsky both as an architect and as a restorer.