Silver lining: Lessons to learn 2
my favorite architects, reflected in his work his deep fascination for light and his belief in its regenerative capabilities. His
in Marseille, France created a beautiful balance between high- density housing, space, natural light and elegance — elements that aren’t normally found together. He designed L’Unité to address the post-war housing shortage. With 337 apartments, a hotel, and a rooftop terrace, the structure can accommodate 1,600 residents in 23 types of living spaces that all have balconies. Untypical of urban housing projects, the structure which Le Corbusier called “the radiant city,” had two major purposes. Being a post-war structure, he wanted L’Unité to provide the perfect dwelling for families with sufficient “sun, space, and greenery” and to “set up, in God’s good nature, under the sky and in the sun, a magisterial work of architecture, the product of rigor, grandeur, nobility, happiness and elegance.”
Naturally ventilated areas have also been proven to enhance the healing environment. Ng Teng Fong General Hospital in Singapore, one of the American Institute of Architects’ award winners, has more than 80 percent of its beds cooled and ventilated with a natural ventilation system. Its design allows cross- ventilation, and its multiple facade design provides effective shading and patient comfort depending on its orientation. For areas in the hospital where highly infectious diseases are treated, investment in UV lights and air filtration and pressurization systems will prevent the spread of viral particles.
Interior design elements can also stop pathogens from spreading. There are textile, paint, flooring and hardware materials that are antimicrobial or can be easily cleaned like lead-free copper, quartz, laminate countertops, bamboo, and paint additives, among others. We know that doorknobs, light switches, and other fixtures are among the most touched surfaces and are seldom cleaned. So motion sensor lights, automatic doors, and other handsfree fixtures will be helpful.
Other lessons learned
I would like to share with you a few more insights that a good friend sent to me recently. Dr. A.G. Calanoc told me that in
Edward Osborne Wilson of Harvard calculated that if the current rate of human disruption of the biosphere continues, one-half of Earth’s higher lifeforms will be extinct by 2100.
Habitat destruction by humans includes marine habitat destruction like overfishing and marine pollution and alteration of vast tracts of land and river systems. With 13percent of Earth’s ice- free land surface now used as crop agricultural sites, 26 percent used as pastures, and 4 percent as urban- industrial areas, original ecosystems are excessively replaced. Thus, proper and extensive urban planning to preserve our natural habitats is key to the survival of humanity.
Looking ahead
The Covid- 19 pandemic, will be a major blow to the Philippine economy. When the Covid- 19 health crisis is contained, let us all help in boosting the Philippine economy and our local businesses. Help revitalize local tourism by visiting or spending vacations in Philippine hotels and tourist destinations in our cities and provinces. Support Filipino businesses by patronizing locally made products. With the numerous lessons learned from this health crisis, together, we can revive the economy and strengthen it once again. Above all else, may this crisis teach us to be more conscientious of how we live, may we be more respectful of nature and of others.