Illness is a fact of life all around the world. However, there are some very different approaches to caring for people when they are sick. Many cultures design architecture specifically to promote healing. We want to have a closer look at that here. Then, if you want help from architects in London, you can speak to us. Some of these elements could make homes, commercial spaces, and other public buildings much better.

Philosophies

In the west, our focus is typically on pathology and technical intervention. The approach is therefore quite narrow, specifically targeting physical recovery. However, traditions in other parts of the world, including in Africa and Asia, are very different. They see healing holistically. As well as the physical aspect, it also encompasses emotional, spiritual, and communal elements.

The architecture in different parts of the world can reflect the approach to healing. For example, a hospital in the UK or US will typically be closed off and isolated to maximise disease control. In parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America on the other hand, buildings foster a communal spirit and connection to the natural world. They are far more open.

Japan

The Japanese approach to health and healing is really interesting. Philosophies from Shinto and Buddhism mean people view it as balancing the body, mind, and spirit. Most importantly, to heal you need to achieve serenity with the natural rhythms.

These philosophies result in some really interesting architecture. For example, there are tea houses, Zen gardens, and hot springs. All of them embody simplicity and openness, reflection, and connection with nature. Using natural materials also helps to boost the feeling of connecting with the planet. Everyone, including architects in London, should take some of these ideas to heart.

India

Traditional Indian approaches to healing, including Ayurveda, also focus on the importance of achieving harmony between the body and universal forces. So, connecting with the natural world is crucial.

Architecture helps to achieve harmony in numerous ways, including inner gardens and water channels. Open pavilions and gazebos that allow air and light to enter are very common. Again use of local materials is a very popular choice to emphasise connection to the natural world.

West Africa

Several communities in Western Africa think of illness not just as a physical sickness; they look at it as a social, ethical, and spiritual imbalance too. The approach to healing is to gather energy from the community and direct it towards the sick. There are various communal rituals, involving dance, music, and storytelling.

The philosophy here has a really interesting impact on the architecture, promoting connection, a flow of people, and openness. There is also a focus on the narrative form. It influences the shape of structures and choice of ornamentation, putting focus on the meaning and stories people are telling. Ultimately, the goal is emotional and spiritual healing as well as physical. As top architects in London, we can take inspiration from this.

Latin America

Finally, many indigenous communities in Latin America look at healing as a collective, spiritual, sacred journey. Recovering from illness requires reconnecting with the community, ancestors, and nature.

The views here have a clear impact on the architecture. Buildings are typically circular to bring people together for collective healing through storytelling and attentive listening. They are generally open to nature, and also feature fire and water as key therapeutic components. Natural materials are once again prominent.

Contemporary Western hospitals and clinics

Some of the philosophies and ideas from elsewhere in the world have been influencing health and healing in the West. Most notably we now have more of a focus on connection, especially to nature. You can see this most clearly with Maggie’s Centres. The cancer treatment centres are designed to be comfortably and relaxing, incorporating various natural elements into the designs, such as greenery.

Do you want to work with creative architects in London?

Coffey Architects understands how good lighting, greenery, open spaces, and natural materials can be. They can elevate designs, whether it is homes, offices, or public buildings. Great designs here can make properties more comfortable and boost wellbeing. It can have a great impact on healing too.

So, if you want to design any kind of property with help from top architects in London, speak to us. Our team will collaborate with you to deliver the perfect architecture.