Incorporating Curative Architecture Concepts into the Housing of the Future

Rapid urbanization is placing critical pressure on global public health. Currently, approximately 55% of the world's population lives in cities, and this figure is projected to reach 68% by 2050 (UN-Habitat, 2023). More than 4.2 billion urban dwellers already face inadequate housing conditions, lack of sanitation, and exposure to pollutants. According to the WHO, 91% of urban dwellers breathe polluted air, and many of the leading causes of death are related to poor urban design and unstable growth. Furthermore, nearly 970 million people worldwide live with mental disorders, largely aggravated by noisy, overcrowded, or unhealthy housing.In this context, curative architecture—also called therapeutic architecture—offers an innovative and interdisciplinary response. By integrating physical, mental, and social well-being into design, housing can be transformed into a tool for prevention and care. Empirical studies show that a lack of natural light, poor ventilation, and a lack of green spaces are associated with elevated levels of stress and depression. For example, research led by Evans et al. confirms that a lack of natural light is correlated with recurrent depressive symptoms. Conversely, environments with vegetation, acoustic control, and visual access to the outdoors improve mood, reduce blood pressure, and encourage physical activity.Current trends in smart and healthy housing incorporate these principles: automated climate control systems, multifunctional spaces, biocompatible materials, and biophilic design. In turn, curative architecture contributes to environmental sustainability: the building sector generates approximately 19% of global CO₂ emissions, and indoor pollution still causes 3.8 million deaths annually (WHO, 2023).