Essay

Design for Happiness

How can environments be designed to nurture human happiness? How can environments work to help people evolve into the best version of themselves? These are important questions for which to factor as you perceive, use, and/or design environments. Such thinking allows you to push your architectural designs into new realms, that go beyond short-term function – to also incorporate solutions for long term fulfillment.

In the book entitled Aristotle’s Way, the author Edith Hall explains that human happiness (as defined by Aristotle) is felt through the pursuit of one’s potential. (1) This leads to my next question: How can environments help people actualize their potential over the long term, even as it changes and evolves? Thus, I invite you to consider this as you design architectural and urban environments. How will your creations do more for people – to help them become the best of who they desire to be?

Happiness Design Diagram | Image Credit: © Maria Lorena Lehman | MLL Atelier LLC

‍Reference:

(1) Hall, E. (2019) Aristotle's Way. New York: Penguin Press.

Image Credit: © Kellepics | Pixabay