The complexities of our built environment continue to evolve in reflection to humanity’s heightened levels of cultivation and synergy. Although we are still far from the advanced sharing society found in a simple plant pot, there are some promising endeavours to mimic the wise ways of Nature. We hear almost daily how a strategy for such and such has been developed, based on research of a clever insect, mollusc or plant. It is great – because it is a starting point, but actually isn’t it time we get to know ourselves better, before copying foreign insight? Foreign – because we don’t know how it feels to be an insect, or mollusc, or plant.

In fact we don’t know well enough how it feels to be human either. We have been reasoning instead of feeling for too long. Only now we begin to appreciate self-awareness and “Know thyself” unveils its deeper meaning. Let’s follow the sages’ advice and find about the world by knowing what’s within.

Even literally at first: looking at the architecture of our cells under a microscope might give us ideas how to solve issues at a larger scale. Looking at the physiology of body organs and systems could inform neater waste strategies for our dwellings and towns; or elegant construction methods; or smarter transport, work rhythms and healthcare. This last one will definitely improve if we are more aware how our bodies function and take better care of them.

Molluscs build their shells from the inside – assuring perfect individual comfort – and although each species has found its ruling pattern and principle, there’s nothing standard when it comes to shape and size. The species’ pattern and principles are defined by the constraints of its habitat – making each shell the unique solution to a unique matrix of parameters.

Yes, correct, we are all unique too – and there certainly are more than one human species with this patchwork climate on Earth. There is no such thing as a standard human, yet we use reductive and limited standards to design our environments. Recognising our differences and similarities will help us put our real needs into perspective and stop theorising what should feel good according to some authority or other. Or else – we should project less and feel more – feeling our way as we go will deliver enhanced experience for both user and creator. Knowing your needs and preferences will help you choose better your space. Knowing your needs and preferences will help me design better your space. Often the best solutions emerge in the making and I welcome the slow-build, artisan and hands-on approach, but knowledge will allow us to speed up some of the historically lengthy and boring processes by using smart off-site technologies.

We think we create our built environment mainly to protect our bodies from inclement weather, invasive species and dangerous encounters, but there must be more to it, as an answer to these needs, would be provided by a spacesuit at much cheaper cost. Having understood our own biology, next we should seek beyond, to grasp what makes us thrive.

Each of us hosts multiple social personas with their agendas, emotional connections and narratives. Investigating closer we’ll recognise that it is these relations and interlaced community dynamics that need the housing and the infrastructures. We need appropriate decors for our social avatars and their various stories. We need spaces to commune with others and share those emotional experiences. The friendlier the space – the better, as environment dictates behaviour and can play a significant role in the story. We shouldn’t dismiss it as a neutral backdrop for our actions, because it actually influences all of our choices. Neuroscience and social sciences have developed methods to capture the extent and we should employ them to ascertain objectivity, when making decisions that impact many lives.

There are a few rules of thumb that apply to all of us: How limited is our access to food and mates essentially underpins how lucky, happy and successful we believe we are. The notion of plenty invariably makes us feel well and relaxed, no matter where we live. How much is enough though, is entirely subjective – therefore happiness can only be a private quest. Some of us like smaller communities, simple life, peace and quiet; others prefer the spotlight and need thousands of followers. Still – there are overarching principles – bigger, bright, clean and warm shared spaces provoke benevolent behaviour much easier than tight, crammed individual compartments. Generosity and kindness are contagious, just like misery and fear. Think Roman baths versus prison cells.

Recognising the subtle triggers of anxiety and distress, as well as the factors that induce peace and comfort will help us find inner balance. In return – our environment will soon reflect this new-found stability, and in a full circle – the harmonising effects will then reach more resonating souls.

That’s why we really need to return to ourselves. Exploring simpler organisms has its merit, but in its most literal rendering “Man is the measure of all things” because the small and the big are fractally similar and for us the nearest place to experience the ways of Nature is the human body – a fine conglomerate of diverse communities, sharing a common goal, while adhering to all physical rules of the planet with grace.