Object-oriented Architecture Research Articles

Use of Minecraft in spatial planning (an example of a former sugar factory in Pruszcz Gdański)

Minecraft is a sandbox video game that provides an excellent tool for supporting social participation in spatial planning. Minecraft is used as a tool under the Block-by-Block initiative to invite people who otherwise would not participate in spatial planning with the use of classical forms of social participation. The main goal is to examine how possible social participation based on the Block-by-Block idea of using the Minecraft game can be in Polish realities. This was based on the example of a former sugar factory in Pruszcz Gdański. Young people and children showed considerable skills in constructing architectural objects and in spatial development on the premises of the former sugar factory in Pruszcz Gdański. In addition, the workshop participants were open to learning about and getting acquainted with the principles of correct spatial planning. Therefore, the advantage of Minecraft lies in involving young people in the processes of spatial changes, as well as in acting as a tool used to educate future users of given space. The limitation lies in the necessity to build a virtual environment, which is very labour-intensive.

CREATION AND PROMOTION OF AN ARCHITECTURAL BRAND ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE PUERTA AMERICA HOTEL IN MADRID

The work is dedicated to an important architectural object – the Hotel Puerta America in Madrid. Modern trends in architectural practice, mainly for commercial purposes, are characterized by the creation of architectural objects that are distinguished by very vivid imagery, sometimes even excessive. Such buildings are called landmark or iconic. It has been proven that Puerto America is just such an object. The article traces the stages of creating an architectural brand, promoting its image on tourist sites and perception by visitors using the example of a hotel. At the concept stage, the hotel was conceived by the executives and managers of the Spanish firm Silken Hotels as an iconic building, a place that combines different perspectives on architecture, design and art. A brief description of the main design features of the exterior and rooms, as well as public spaces such as lobbies, restaurants, bars, lounge areas, etc. is provided. What is unique is that individual authors and teams worked on the design of the hotel, implementing their ideas within the strict limits of the already existing structure. Brief information about the authors of architectural solutions is provided, among which are four Pritzker Prize laureates – Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid, Jean Nouvel and Arata Isozaki. The result of such a creative experiment was not an object belonging to any style direction, but rather a museum of architecture and design or even an architectural attraction. An analysis of the representation of hotel rooms for booking on the relevant sites has been presented, showing the inconsistency of lofty ideas, their implementation by outstanding masters in the field of architecture and design, and the quality of information about it, the lack of understanding by the managers of these sites of the uniqueness of architectural and design solutions and the importance of professional and full coverage of the main advantages of the hotel. Keywords: architecture, design, advertising, brand, hotel, artistic image.

Enhancing 3D-Printed Clay Models for Heritage Restoration Through 3D Scanning

Recent development of methodologies based on digital twins through 3D scanning and 3D printing has increased over the past decade, offering new possibilities in manufacturing, production and scaling of models’ applications. However, there are few examples of the application of model digitization technologies for the restoration of ceramic-built heritage by means of 3D modelling. That is why this research focuses on the application of these advanced methodologies to the recovery of architectural ceramic ornamental objects in heritage buildings. Deteriorated ceramic pieces are selected and scanned during field campaigns using 3D scanning technology in early 20th century heritage sites in Seville (Spain). The aim is to create accurate replicas of these damaged objects by 3D printing with clay using non-invasive techniques. The study stands out for its practical approach and its implications for the conservation of built cultural heritage. The results proved effective for replacing lost or damaged elements in a heritage context. Once the investment in the necessary equipment and technologies has been made, the use of clay as a material for 3D printing not only proves feasible but also offers advantages in terms of cost and time savings for repairs compared to traditional restoration techniques. In the present investigation the production time of similar pieces using 3D printing took 6.3–10.9 h while traditional methods take over a week. The application of these technologies represents an advancement in integrating modern methods into cultural heritage conservation, opening new possibilities for the preservation of history and art worldwide.

SYMBOLISM IN THE ARCHITECTURAL ENVIRONMENT

Statement of the problem: symbolism in the architectural environment is used to express abstract ideas and create images that carry ideological meaning. The relevance of the study of symbolism in the architectural environment is justified by the need to deepen the understanding of its role and significance in the formation of the aesthetic and ideological content of architectural objects. The purpose of the work: to investigate the history of the emergence and features of the use of symbolism in the architectural environment. Tasks of the research: 1. To consider the essence and history of the emergence of symbolism as a direction of art. 2. Compare architectural objects of different cultures and eras from the point of view of their symbolic load. 3. To study the symbolism of iconic objects of the architectural heritage of Ukraine. Research methods: analysis of literary sources, historical-comparative, iconographic and semiotic analysis. Conclusions: 1. The architectural environment of the world is not only a part of the volume-planning solution created and organized by man, designed to ensure the vital activity of society, but also a complex system of signs and symbols that reveals the worldview of different cultures and eras. 2. Analysis and comparison of architectural objects from different parts of the world makes it possible to understand their symbolic meaning. 3. Symbols in the architectural environment: allow to convey ideas, concepts and concepts without a dictionary description; give architectural objects uniqueness and memorability; create a connection between architecture, history, national culture and traditions, as well as a special emotional atmosphere of the architectural environment. 4. Famous architectural objects and landmarks of Ukraine, such as: Sophia Cathedral, Khotyn Fortress, Lychakiv Cemetery, House of Chimeras and Independence Square, are not only monuments of history and culture, but also symbols that reveal the deep meaning of Ukrainian being. 5. The revival and implementation of traditional cultural images of the Ukrainian people in modern art opens up great prospects for the preservation of Ukrainian identity for future generations and gives symbolism to the architectural environment.

Synergia danych fotogrametrycznych uzyskanych na podstawie zdjęć naziemnych oraz UAV

Methods of short-range digital photogrammetry and unmanned aerial vehicle imagining increasingly find more extensive usage in various types of measurements. In recent years, modern photogrammetric technologies have found wide application in recreating 3D models of any objects. The resulting 3D models can be a source of information that may be used for measurement, inventorying and cataloguing, as well as for visualisation purposes. New methods of acquiring spatial data have been developed, such as laser scanning, imaging using unmanned aerial vehicles or digital non-metric cameras. Synergy and the confluence of these data have expanded the existing measurement possibilities, finding application in 3D modelling, inventorying of monuments, or monument conservation. Photogrammetric methods are comparable to direct measurement methods in terms of their accuracy, as well as speed and cost. They have a number of advantages, including a shortened time required for taking a photo, which is greatly convenient when measuring moving objects. Other advantages of photogrammetric methods include the possibility of development and performing measurements in chamber conditions and the lack of restrictions pertaining to repeating the measurement when errors are found or a need arises to supplement them [Kurczyński and Preuss 2000]. One of the possibilities offered by photogrammetry is the ability to create 3D visualizations. The creation of a three-dimensional model facilitates presenting the inventoried object in a realistic, complete, and up-to-date manner. This paper presents an attempt to synergise data for modelling a three-dimensional architectural object based on photos obtained with the Nikon D7500 non-metric camera and with the DJI Mavic Air unmanned aerial vehicle.

The Effects of Modern Architecture on the Evolution of Mosques in Sulaymaniyah

Since the establishment of the Kurdistan Region Autonomy in 1991, extensive construction, including that of mosques, has reshaped the architectural environment. This phenomenon requires an examination of the evolved architectural features in new mosques and also raises questions about their alignment with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study focuses on the transformative impact of modern architectural styles on mosque evolution in Sulaymaniyah and uses an in-depth case study approach to analyze 23 contemporary mosques built over the past three decades. They blend traditional architecture with modern design principles, producing evolved features. The evolution in mosque designs raises questions about the alignment of new architectural features with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study employs indicator-based impact assessments to examine how modern features affect mosque evolution in terms of religious needs and mosque symbolism. Based on the literature of modern architecture and Islamic legitimacy, indicators of modern architecture and mosque design objectives were determined for further analysis. Then, the collected data from the field survey were analyzed through developed formulas. The results were converted to numerical values for use with the Pearson correlation coefficient, which identifies the causal relationship between modern architecture and design objectives. The results revealed that the overall influence of modern architecture on mosque evolution tends to be negative. Modern architectural styles have impacted mosques by increasing structural obstructions in 14%, reducing symbolic elements in 23%, and simplifying designs with fewer embellishments in 43% of all the cases. This study can assist decision-makers and designers in revising mosque design regulations; the issue has recently been the subject of ongoing debate in architects’ society.

ЕВОЛЮЦІЯ ПІДХОДІВ ДО ЗБЕРЕЖЕННЯ АРХЕОЛОГІЧНИХ РЕЛІКТІВ АРХІТЕКТУРИ: ОГЛЯД МІЖНАРОДНИХ ДОКУМЕНТІВ

Archaeological sites are non-renewable resources of global significance, containing material evidence of the past. International documents and charters have played a crucial role in shaping the principles of archaeological heritage preservation. This study examines the theoretical foundations of archaeological site conservation as outlined in international documents and charters from the 20th and 21st centuries, which contribute to the evolving ethics of interventions in archaeological sites. Special attention is given to analyzing the legal status of ratified international documents in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of ratifying those documents that have yet to be adopted at the national level. The problem of archaeological preservation becomes increasingly relevant as new architectural heritage objects are discovered annually. Many of these architectural relics lack primary protective measures, such as roofs or other structures, rendering them vulnerable to deterioration due to environmental factors, improper use, negligence, or misguided interventions. In the absence of appropriate protection, these objects are particularly susceptible to degradation, underscoring the need for urgent preservation measures. Nowadays, cultural heritage faces numerous threats, such as climate change, urbanization, and wars. For Ukraine, it is essential not only to acknowledge the significance of presenting archaeological sites, which embody the identity and values of society, but also to actively implement international preservation standards. This study also highlights the need for comprehensive research into international documents and charters, based on centuries of experience in preservation of archaeological remains of architecture, achieved through trial and error. Ukraine must integrate global experiences into national practices to avoid past mistakes and ensure the reliable preservation of archaeological heritage for future generations. The article's objective is to analyze approaches to the preservation of architectural archaeological relics based on international documents and charters, exploring the evolution of these approaches and the values of heritage they delineate. The research aims to shed light on the problem of insufficient implementation of international norms into national legislation and restoration practices.

ПЕРЕХІД ДО СТАЛОЇ АРХІТЕКТУРИ, ЯК ЕТАП ЦИВІЛІЗАЦІЙНИХ ЗМІН ПЕРШОЇ ПОЛОВИНИ 21 СТОЛІТТЯ

The transition to sustainable development is a complex and long process. Climate and environmental changes that are happening to our planet are forcing us to accelerate this transition. It will allow to avoid the most dramatic scenario of a climate catastrophe, already in the second half of the 21st century. Significant reduction of energy using and other resources is an urgent need for creation in a of architectural objects. They also became a key element of recovery economy in the 22nd century. The necessary steps for such a transition have been proposed since the mid-1970s. Much of the necessary changes can be implemented through the transformation of architectural environments and the urban plaining of suburbs. First of all, it is necessary to reduce the amount of resources and waste, as a result of economic activity. This can be done not only by increasing efficiency and using renewable technologies, but also by reorienting on local resources and markets. This step significantly reduce needs for transport and communications. Decentralization and desurbanization can also increase local autonomy and self-sufficiency. Reorientation of commodity-industrial economic chains to the local to the regional level will be result of this. The next step will be autonomy of communities and regions in energy supply, food, waste recycling and other critical areas of safety. Deurbanization key element of the largest agglomerations is development of communication technologies. Contextually will be key to creating more diverse architecture, which will form identity. Locality will also promote the formation of communities. Creation of communities – is one of the most important socio-humanistic function of architecture in future. Decommercialization is another step towards sustainable development. It will not only allow you to create more interesting, expressive and contextual architecture, but also avoid the objects of architecture to act as a speculative asset. At the national and regional level, the green framework should be no less important than economic for the masterplan.

Features of the representation of architectural space in the painting works of Giorgio de Chirico

This article describes the features of the depiction of architectural space in the paintings of the surrealist artist Giorgio de Chirico. In general terms, surrealism is described as an artistic style of the early twentieth century, its emergence, distinctive features and semantic tasks; The questions in relation to Giorgio de Chirico are examined in more detail: from what architectural objects and constituent elements is the urban space of his paintings formed, what objects are the main semantic parts, the general universal architectural model of the formation of such a space in de Chirico’s compositions is described. The article describes the semiotic structure used by the master, reveals the concept and meaning of the term “metaphysical painting”, ways of reading a surreal work of art, and the playful nature of the interaction between the artist and the viewer. The article analyzes in detail the methods and features of constructing the internal space of the metaphysical works of this master, showing the constituent elements, methods, techniques, and techniques for organizing the composition of the painting. The significance of the image of architectural space in de Chirico’s works on modern man and the use of his artistic experience in our time is described.

Features of space-planning anddesign solutions to ensure technosphere safety of architectural objects

In the modern world, special attention is paid to solving the problems of technosphere safety during the construction and operation of various facilities. The main goal is to minimize man-made human impact on the natural environment. The designed and built urban development facility is a complex technogenic system. And this system turns into a source of dangerous effects on humans and the external environment under certain circumstances. Buildings are the shell of a multifaceted production technology, which largely determines the degree of an object's impact on the environment in the event of natural and man-made accidents and catastrophes. Constructive solutions approved during planning and construction are designed to maintain a stable environmental situation. They should not allow the results of human economic activity to damage the environment.

Open-Source Software for Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Tiling for Novelty Architecture

Novelty architecture buildings can be tiled with conventional rectangular solar photovoltaic (PV) modules with both close-packed cells or partially transparent modules, vastly increasing renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and allowing for positive energy buildings. To enable this potential, in this study, for the first time, two open-source programs were developed and integrated to provide a foundation for designing and coating real-life novelty architecture buildings and objects with solar PV modules. First, a tiling algorithm was proposed and integrated into Blender that can generate solar PV modules on the face of any 3D model, and an augmented Python version of SAM was developed to simulate the performance of the resultant irregularly shaped PV systems. The integrated open-source software was used to analyze the energy performance of seven different novelty BIPVs located across the globe. The buildings’ energy performance was compared to conventional ground-based PV systems, and the results showed that the conventional arrays generate more energy per unit power than the BIPVs. The analysis reveals that the more complex the building model geometry, the less energy the building generates; however, the novelty BIPV power and energy densities far surpass conventional ground-based PV. The real estate savings observed were substantial, reaching 170% in one case where the BIPV reached 750 m in height. The BIPVs’ energy production is optimized by orienting the building via rotation and only needs to be carried out a single time for replication anywhere globally. The results show that the energy yield of the BIPV increases as the building becomes more detailed while the total power and energy decrease, indicating the need for the careful balancing of priorities in building design. Finally, the energy simulations demonstrate the potential for net-positive energy buildings and contribute to net-zero-emission cities. The findings indicate that BIPVs are not only appropriate for conventional residential houses and commercial buildings, but also for historical building replicas or monuments in the future. Further studies are needed to investigate the structural, electrical, and socio-economic aspects of novelty-architecture BIPVs.

Adaptive practices of working with industrial heritage in a historical settlement

Examples of industrial heritage located in a historical urban environment that have partially or completely lost their original function are considered. An analysis of world and domestic practices in working with similar objects is carried out, the possibility of their adaptation to use in the conditions of the historical settlement of the city of Samara is assessed. Based on the conducted research, a number of techniques have been identified that make it possible to competently adapt industrial facilities and industrial territories to modern use, while revealing their architectural, construction, historical and cultural potential. The above practices of working with industrial heritage objects can be applied when developing a strategy for the renovation of partially used or lost their original function historical objects of industrial architecture in the historical settlement of Samara and in a number of historical settlements with similar characteristics.

Особенности съемки и методика моделирования частично разрушенных архитектурных объектов по фотограмметрическим данным

Modern remote sensing technologies offer a range of solutions for creating various types of architectural heritage objects measurement models. Image processing algorithms allow not only to digitally recreate existing buildings, but also to make virtual reconstruction of partially destroyed architectural heritage. Photogrammetry is a relatively inexpensive and practically universal method for modelling architectural objects and creating their measurement drawings. The appearance of unmanned aerial vehicles with digital cameras on board in the photogrammetrist’s arsenal has greatly facilitated the process of photographing hard-to-reach, and even more valuable architectural objects. Nevertheless, in order to obtain the desired result, individual techniques, both for imaging and digital reconstruction, must be selected for each object. The study presents the work results on two partially destroyed architectural heritage. A complex survey of the interior and exterior was carried out to digitally reconstruct the lost elements and to create dimensional models. The first architectural object, the ruins of the 17th century Adu-Surkho castle, is located in the Chechen Republic. Its modelling was based on images obtained only from the UAV, and the reconstruction of lost parts was based on analogy with existing examples of historical buildings. The second object, the 18th century Stroganovs’ salt barn, is the oldest brick structure of Tutaev (Romanovskaya side). The modern state model was built based on the results of ground and aerial survey, and the reconstruction of the lost elements based on a set of multi-temporal images and drawings of the XVIII century. The results of the digital reconstruction will be used for restoration projects to restore the original appearance of the structures and increase the significance of these objects in the cultural and tourist activities of the regions.

Megaprojects of Moscow in the world cultural heritage system: on the restoration of the Romanov house and the Ostafyevo museum-estate

The relevance of the article is due to the problems of preserving the cultural heritage of regions, which is extremely important, since the loss of identity entails not only the disappearance of the historical appearance of cities, but also the loss of their economic and tourist potential. The uniqueness of the cultural heritage of Moscow as the capital of the Russian Federation has its own characteristics that distinguish it from other cities in the world. The author aims to trace the historical restoration of two architectural objects: the Romanov house and the Ostafyevo Museum-Estate, and to evaluate their historical and cultural potential. It is supposed to assess the historical significance of the objects in terms of restoring their original appearance, taking into account its authenticity (authenticity of the idea, material, architectural skill and environmental environment). The conducted retrospective comparative analysis has shown the difference in the creative methods of restoration practice used in recreating the appearance of the estate house, depending on the preservation, restoration technique, accuracy of stylistic reconstruction and other parameters. If the restoration work of the Chambers of the Romanov boyars located in the Zaryadye district of Moscow, which began in the XVII century. had a step-by-step sequential principle of reconstruction over an extended time period, then one fundamental comprehensive modern restoration was undertaken at the Ostafyevo Museum -Estate, which lasted 16 years until 2017, including external and internal interior the space and its historical and documentary content. It is pointed out that the choice of methods is difficult, since due to numerous fires and alterations, the appearance of the Romanov house has repeatedly changed, and in the only preserved park estate of the XVIII century in Moscow in Ostafyevo, a public museum, a children's camp and a rest house were located in different years. Here it was possible to clarify a number of fundamental patterns of the visual interaction of the estate with the surrounding environmental context, which underwent a radical transformation at the final stage of its existence. Based on archival documents, old photographs, drawings and extant graphic images dating back to that time, a conclusion is made about the relationship of restoration, conservation and reconstructive actions on such objects, showing their life in the context of changes and additions that preserve traces of time.

A Sustainable and Resilient Response to the Housing and Reintegration Problems of Displaced People from the NOSO’s Crisis Situations in Cameroon

The aim of this article is to present a comprehensive analysis of the living conditions and propose support mechanisms for displaced people from conflict zones in the NOSO who have taken refuge in the West region of Cameroon and a peace and security survey, focusing specifically on the Tchoualé neighborhood in Dschang. It highlights the need for improved services and facilities to adequately address the challenges faced by these populations. Through a detailed assessment, the research identifies gaps between existing services and the actual needs of the displaced, utilizing a SWOT analysis to provide insights into the current environment. Recommendations are proposed to enhance the capabilities of existing centers, expand service offerings, and involve displaced individuals more actively in center management. The article also outlines an adaptive architectural approach for designing a sustainable and resilient reception center that meets the unique needs of the displaced. Key architectural objectives, principles, and site-specific considerations are examined, including the use of local materials and eco-friendly construction techniques. This work contributes to a broader discussion on effective humanitarian responses, offering insights into the future of support systems for displaced populations in Cameroon and similar contexts.

The image of Kyiv in a landscape painting by a Ukrainian artist Serhiy Shyshka of the second half of the 20th century

The purpose of the article is to study the representation of the image of the city of Kyiv in the landscape painting of the outstanding Ukrainian artist S. Shyshko, through the prism of the author's artistic vision and stylistic development. Research methodology. Methods such as analytical and comparative art studies were used in the work, which made it possible to holistically consider the given problem and obtain scientifically based research results. Scientific novelty. The article first analyzes the artist's stylistic features, in particular the combination of realistic traditions with elements of impressionism, which are clearly visible in his works. The main topics, motives and techniques that characterize his creative path and the importance of the artist in the context of the development of Ukrainian art are considered. Conclusions. The article examines the work of the outstanding Ukrainian artist S. Shyshko, one of the leading masters of Ukrainian landscape painting of the 20th century, whose work left a significant mark on the artistic life of Ukraine of that period. The main attention is paid to his contribution to the development of landscape painting, in particular to the depiction of landscapes with views of the city of Kyiv. The importance of S. Shyshko as an artist who made a significant contribution to the development of Ukrainian art, in particular realistic landscape painting, and his influence on subsequent generations of Ukrainian artists is emphasized. The work of S. Shyshko is an important component of Ukrainian art of the 20th century, which clearly reflects the cultural and historical significance of Kyiv. His works, focused on the urban landscape, enrich our perception of Kyiv as a symbol of national identity, as a space that combines history, culture and natural beauty. Through masterful command of light, color and composition, Serhii Shishko was able to convey the multifaceted nature of Kyiv, showing it not only as an architectural or natural object, but as a place where the spiritual and the material are closely intertwined. The artistic image of Kyiv on the canvases of S. Shyshka serves as a kind of bridge between the past and the present, because the artist not only captured the appearance of the city at specific moments, but also conveyed its spirit, its eternal essence, which remains relevant decades later.

Andrey Kryachkov. The man who created the city

Andrey Dmitrievich Kryachkov is an outstanding architect, the founder of the Siberian architectural school, whose creative path is closely connected with the foundation of the future administrative and cultural capital of Siberia. The author of most of the iconic historical architectural objects of modern Novosibirsk, Kryachkov largely predetermined the aesthetic code of the young Siberian city at that time, combining traditions and innovations in regional architecture of the first half of the 20th century. The architecture of Kryachkov in the modern appearance of Novosibirsk continues to play a significant city-forming aesthetic role.

Reconstructing the environment of historic cities. Methods of incorporating new objects into the historic urban fabric

The presented study is aimed at identifying factors that significantly influence the patterns of designed development in the existing historical urban environment. The paper reviews theoretical grounds and design methods of architects and urban designers exploring the practice of incorporating new architectural objects into a semiotic, morphological and functional context. The time frame of the study was determined due to the relevance of the issue. Actually, cities built before the 20th century are characterized by the cohesion of urban fabric, hierarchy of elements, calibrated silhouette and perception angles of the environment, while modern cities or modern inclusions lack these properties and look scattered and sporadic. The paper suggests two possible reasons behind that: the architects from before the 20th century appeared much skillful than their followers; or the professional architects and urban designers are consciously inclined to the separateness of buildings and their incoherence with the environment. The analysis revealed a number of approaches: three-part construction of architectural form, space as a structure of relations, formalization of the object to structural content, spatial structure of residential environment as socio-spatial bodies, spatial grids, continuity, coherence of the building fabric, navigation factor, formal similarity, relation to the urban framework.

THE INFLUENCE OF CULTURAL AND ETHNIC FACTORS ON THE MODERN ARCHITECTURE OF WESTERN KAZAKHSTAN

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in preserving and integrating ethnic heritage in architectural projects, reflecting the desire to preserve historical and cultural identity. The region of Western Kazakhstan, which has a rich historical past, was chosen as the object of the study.This article is a review and comparative analysis of scientific publications devoted to the study of the influence of cultural and ethnic factors on architectural trends in this region. The study examines key areas in which cultural and ethnic diversity is reflected in architectural solutions.The authors of the reviewed publications pay special attention to the following aspects: preserving traditional architectural forms, introducing ethnic motifs into modern buildings and integrating cultural symbols into the urban environment. The article also provides a comparative analysis of architectural objects, studying the influence of various ethnic groups, such as Kazakhs, Russians, Tatars and others, on the architectural appearance of Western Kazakhstan. Particular attention is paid to the interaction of cultural heritage and modern architectural trends.In addition, the article discusses the issues of preserving cultural identity in the context of globalization and urbanization. The findings highlight the importance of taking into account cultural and ethnic factors when creating architectural projects, which contributes to the formation of a harmonious and culturally significant urban environment. The research identified key issues related to the insufficient use of historical and cultural elements in modern design and proposed solutions to this dilemma. Contemporary architecture of Western Kazakhstan, representing a complex interaction of traditions and innovations, occupies an important place in the context of global architectural trends and contributes to the international scientific discussion on the preservation of cultural heritage in the context of globalization.

Workplace happiness in architectural companies in the city of Valencia: a gender comparison

IntroductionHow to make work life increasingly meaningful and ensuring that business actions aim at improving quality of life is a trending topic. Yet, it has not often been studied within architectural firms, that play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals, especially those related to equity, equality, and the creation of pleasant work environments. This study aims to identify whether there are gender differences in the perception and levels of workplace happiness of individuals working within architectural companies in Valencia (Spain).MethodsA mixed methodology based on qualitative and quantitative data has been applied with a sample of 201 workers from 60 practices.ResultsParticipants perceive themselves as flourishing and quite happy at work. Yet, there are gender differences in the factors that motivate workplace happiness. While women prioritize the work environment, their colleagues and teams, men point out to career development. Thus, recognition, appreciation, feeling valued and goals and achievements are among the main drivers of men’s workplace happiness. In addition, women tend to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, anger, or sadness more frequently than men. Given these results, architectural companies face a considerable challenge.DiscussionThe research examines the relationship between workplace happiness and social sustainability in architectural firms, highlighting the importance of human capital for competitiveness. To promote sustainability and well-being at work, it is crucial to understand how organizational decisions impact employee well-being and to know the differences in perceptions of workplace happiness between men and women. This analysis may be of interest to the architectural firms object of this research.