"Feeling at home" is more than just an expression—it is the sense of warmth and comfort that transforms a space into a true refuge. To achieve this, elements like color, texture, lighting, and materials play a crucial role in shaping an environment that fosters relaxation and well-being. Backed by research in environmental psychology and neuroscience, the connection between physical spaces and human behavior highlights how architecture can directly influence the atmosphere, turning chaos into tranquility.

Architecture evolves, particularly in how it reflects the relationships between people, their behavior, and the environment. Even subtle variations in these dynamics can influence how we think and live in our communities. According to the World Bank, 56% of the population currently lives in urban environments, and it is estimated that by 2050 this number will reach 70%. This projection echoes the speed and magnitude of urban growth, posing challenges for architects and design firms, from the viability of buildings to the sustainability of the built environment, encompassing residential architecture and other typologies that influence daily life.

Nowadays, attention to mental health and well-being—not only physical but also emotional and psychological—has become an increasing focus not just in clinical settings but also in relation to numerous everyday factors. A notable example is the White January campaign, which emphasized this urgency, inviting us to reflect on mental and emotional well-being. In this scenario, neuroaesthetics and neuroarchitecture emerge as fields that serve as allies in this pursuit. They are not merely academic disciplines; they are practical approaches that seek to understand how our physical environment affects our psychological state. Neuroaesthetics, in particular, studies the relationship between aesthetic perception and neurological processes, as highlighted by Colin Ellard, a psychologist at the University of Waterloo and author of Places of the Heart: The Psychogeography of Everyday Life (2015).

Humid environments present some of the most complex challenges in architectural design. From the tropical monsoon season of Southeast Asia to the equatorial heat of Central Africa, these environments demand solutions that account for intense moisture, high temperatures, and the constant battle against mold, decay, and stagnation. Yet, for centuries, communities in these regions have developed architectural techniques that do not fight against humidity but instead work with it, leveraging local materials, climate-responsive design, and passive cooling techniques to create sustainable and livable spaces. By considering atmosphere as a sensory and climatic phenomenon, architects will craft spaces that are not only evocative but also responsive, adaptive, and sustainable.

Challenging conventions has been a constant in artistic production throughout history, always seeking to reframe established limits. In the 20th century, societal, historical, and technological changes created the perfect context for profound architectural reconfiguring. In this process, modernism introduced new ideas around functionality, breaking with the ornamentation of the past. However, building on that foundation, minimalism further refined the reduction of form to its essence. Focusing on the relationship between space, restraint, and light, the Minimalist movement transformed contemporary architecture and interior design, turning windows into a fundamental resource for sensory perception and interaction with the atmosphere and space, opening up a realm of introspective, sensitive, and refined exploration.

The hospitality industry continues to navigate a complex recovery and growth phase in 2024, marked by varying international and regional dynamics and evolving market priorities. The expected long-term surge in travel demand has been tempered by various factors, including economic uncertainties, inflation, and changing consumer behaviors.

The impact of design goes far beyond physical structures; design is a catalyst for vibrant communities and cohesive neighbourhoods. When thinking about social value and elevating the “S” in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), there are some essential elements to consider. Our mission is to create spaces that not only put a roof over people’s heads but that nurture a sense of belonging and well-being within the neighbourhood. It’s about fostering environments that naturally reduce vacancies, encourage resident retention, and organically form cohesive communities. By prioritising these principles, we not only enrich the lives of residents but also lay the foundation for sustainable and thriving developments.

As urban populations continue to grow and housing costs climb, middle-income families increasingly face being priced out of cities they call home. This pressing issue demands attention from urban planners, developers, and policymakers alike. Industry experts including Kelly Farrell of Gensler, Rosemarie Hepner of the Urban Land Institute, and Phuc Tran of Jair Lynch have been examining the crucial differences between affordable and attainable housing in today's market.