Real Nature is not Green

Real Nature is not Green

Introduction:

There is a common misconception that nature is always calm, peaceful, and harmonious. However, the truth is that genuine nature can be wild, cruel, and unpredictable. The word "nature" is derived from the Latin word "natura," which was a translation of the Greek term "physis." Natura is related to Latin terms meaning "born." This article explores the untamed side of nature and challenges the notion of nature being solely green and serene.

Living Monsoon | Monsoon Architecture Festival & Award:

The Living Monsoon festival celebrates architecture and design that responds to the unique challenges posed by the monsoon climate. Architects are invited to submit their projects, including project name, location, year of completion, site and building area, and a description of the design response to the monsoon climate. The festival highlights the importance of incorporating monsoon considerations into architectural design, showcasing innovative solutions that embrace the power and unpredictability of nature.

Monsoons are characterized by heavy rains, strong winds, and potential flooding. Architects who participate in the Monsoon Architecture Festival are encouraged to design buildings that can withstand these extreme weather conditions. By embracing the monsoon climate, architects can create structures that not only harmonize with nature but also provide a safe and comfortable living environment for residents.

Requirements for Submission:

Architects who wish to participate in the Monsoon Architecture Festival must adhere to certain requirements. The submissions must be in a single combined PDF format and include project details, project drawings, and photographs. The project details should include the project name, location, year of completion, site and building area, and a description of the design response to the monsoon climate. The project drawings and photographs should be in a specific format, ensuring clarity and conciseness.

Additionally, architects are given the option to include additional team information, such as Associate Architect(s), Consultants, and Contractors, in a separate page of the same file. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the collaborative efforts that went into creating the monsoon-responsive architecture.

The Importance of Embracing Nature's Wild Side:

The Monsoon Architecture Festival and the concept of real nature being untamed and unpredictable share a common thread - the importance of embracing nature's wild side. Just as the monsoon climate can be challenging, nature itself can be wild, cruel, and unpredictable. By acknowledging and designing with this untamed aspect of nature, architects can create spaces that not only respect but also thrive within the natural environment.

Architects can draw inspiration from the concept of real nature in their designs. Instead of solely focusing on creating green and serene spaces, they can incorporate elements that reflect the true nature of the surrounding environment. This could include incorporating natural materials that weather and age gracefully, designing spaces that can withstand the forces of nature, and creating structures that harmonize with the landscape rather than overpowering it.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace Nature's Wildness: When designing buildings or spaces, consider how they can coexist with the untamed aspects of nature. Instead of fighting against the forces of nature, find ways to harness and embrace them. This could include using materials that age gracefully or designing structures that respond dynamically to changing weather conditions.

• 2. Incorporate Resilience: Monsoons and other extreme weather events can test the resilience of buildings. By incorporating resilient design principles, architects can create structures that can withstand the unpredictable nature of the environment. This could include designing for flood resistance, wind load, and incorporating innovative construction techniques.

• 3. Collaborate and Learn: The Monsoon Architecture Festival provides a platform for architects to learn from each other's experiences and collaborate on innovative solutions. By participating in such events and engaging with fellow professionals, architects can expand their knowledge and gain fresh insights into designing for the monsoon climate.

Conclusion:

Nature is not always calm, peaceful, and green. It can be wild, cruel, and unpredictable. The Living Monsoon Architecture Festival and the concept of real nature being untamed both emphasize the importance of embracing and designing with nature's wild side. By incorporating this understanding into architectural design, architects can create structures that not only respect but also thrive within the natural environment. Embracing nature's wildness, incorporating resilience, and collaborating with fellow professionals are three actionable steps architects can take to create monsoon-responsive architecture.