Buildings that are part of nature; a study of the relationship between architecture and nature through the cases of buildings

Uncontrolled urbanization and the resulting conflict with nature have led to global issues affecting the entire world and ecosystem. Climate crises, depletion of natural resources, and disruption of ecological balance are among the primary problems. While humans play a significant role in the emergence of these problems, architecture has become a crucial profession in preserving ecological balance. Innovative, sustainable attitudes, and approaches towards environmental and climate issues need to be developed through architecture. Just as nature offers unlimited possibilities to humans, buildings and people are also expected to provide unlimited opportunities to nature. It is of great importance that future generations efficiently utilize the opportunities offered by nature while producing built environments. When closely examined, the claim that buildings labeled as green or sustainable are in harmony with nature can be questionable. This thesis aims not only to explore self-sufficient buildings but also to investigate how buildings can be truly designed to be in harmony with nature and possess qualities that are in symbiosis with it. Initially, a conceptual framework encompassing ecological psychology, ecological architecture, and regenerative architecture will be discussed to explore the relationships between buildings and nature. Through these readings, the mutual interaction and exchange that should exist between buildings and nature will be revealed, and research will focus on how buildings should not just adapt to nature but coexist with it. In the continuation of the study, it is important not only to address this conceptual framework but also to examine current practices. Frequently used green building certification systems, awards, and principles will be scrutinized to evaluate whether they serve merely as a 'marketing tool' or if they genuinely provide adequate scope for evaluating buildings as integrated with nature. Based on all these readings and analyses, the developed holistic approach aims to define the qualities that a nature-integrated building should possess. Buildings with green building certification and those labeled as green/ecological/regenerative without certification will be selected. They will be evaluated and interpreted using the created holistic approach: the Nature-Integrated Building Evaluation Approach. Consequently, an inference will be made as to whether the buildings currently designated as sustainable/green/ecological are a part of nature, and their deficiencies will be highlighted, emphasizing the crucial role that nature should play in future architectural endeavors. This study aims to foster the adoption of a more solution-oriented and sustainable approach to global environmental problems, encouraging the design of built environments as structures that are not only integrated with nature but also have a positive impact on the environment. The integration of technological advancements and tools with environmental awareness will ease the process of designing buildings that not only emphasize eco-friendliness but also make a favorable impact on the environment.