Flourish: Design Paradigms for Our Planetary Emergency

Regenerative design and architecture aim to restore balance to the world, repair past injustices, and support future generations' survival. They propose a bold set of regenerative principles to transform how we design, make, and manage our buildings, infrastructure, and communities, inspiring us to build a thriving future together.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2021
Publisher: Triarchy Press

Reaching beyond sustainability, regenerative practice is increasingly being recognized as a new goal for restoring balance to our world, repairing past injustices, and supporting the survival of future generations. However, what does this emerging term truly entail? And which mindset shifts are necessary to enable a truly regenerative transformation? In their insightful book, "Flourish: Regenerative Design and Architecture for a Thriving Future," Michael Pawlyn and Sarah Ichioka delve deep into the intricate web of life that created and sustains us. Drawing inspiration from diverse cultural traditions and perspectives, they propose a bold set of regenerative principles that have the potential to revolutionize how we design, build, and manage our buildings, infrastructure, and communities. Whether you are a professional in the built environment, a client, an activist, or a policymaker, this book offers an urgent invitation to inhabit a new realm of possibilities, through which we can collectively build a thriving future.

The authors argue that regenerative design and architecture should go beyond mere sustainability and focus on creating positive impacts on the environment, society, and economy. They highlight the importance of integrating natural systems, promoting biodiversity, and designing buildings that are energy-efficient, carbon-neutral, and resilient to climate change. Regenerative practices also emphasize the importance of social equity and community engagement, ensuring that design decisions benefit all stakeholders and promote a sense of belonging and well-being.

One of the key mindset shifts required for regenerative transformation is a shift from a linear, extractive approach to development to a more circular and interconnected one. This means designing buildings and infrastructure that minimize waste, reuse materials, and regenerate natural resources. It also involves promoting renewable energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable land use practices.

Another important aspect of regenerative design is the integration of cultural and spiritual values into the design process. This means recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things and designing buildings that honor and respect the natural world. It also involves incorporating traditional knowledge and practices into modern design solutions, ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated.

To achieve a truly regenerative transformation, the authors argue that we need to shift from a top-down, centralized approach to governance to a more decentralized and collaborative one. This means empowering local communities, promoting citizen engagement, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the environment and society. It also involves creating policies and regulations that support regenerative practices and promote sustainable development.

In conclusion, "Flourish: Regenerative Design and Architecture for a Thriving Future" offers a comprehensive and inspiring vision for a more sustainable and equitable future. By embracing regenerative practices and mindset shifts, we can create buildings and communities that are resilient, sustainable, and thriving for generations to come. Whether you are a professional in the built environment, a client, an activist, or a policymaker, this book provides valuable insights and practical strategies for achieving a regenerative transformation. Let us embrace the possibilities of a thriving future and work together to build a world that is healthy, just, and sustainable for all.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913743260