Today’s world is fast-paced. Work and personal life are often rushed and mashed together, which makes slowing down not easy. Yet, the slow movement shows that slowing down is necessary to prioritize well-being.

Learn about the slow movement, slow architecture in particular, and what this means for you by reading below.

How the Slow Movement Began

While the fast food craze created an economic boost, it compromised food traditions and native food flavors. In counteraction, a grassroots organization was founded in Italy in 1989. The Slow Food Foundation aims to prevent the disappearance of local food cultures and traditions while combatting the dwindling interest people have in the food they eat.

Since then, the slow philosophy has spread to slow travel, slow fashion, slow living, and slow architecture.

What Is the Slow Movement?

The philosophy is not about going at a snail’s pace. It’s about:

• taking the time to do things well,
• slowing down for the things that matter,
• emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity,
• and practicing conscious consumerism, which ties into sustainability.

Slow Architecture

Slow architecture is intentionally crafting spaces. These spaces can also promote slow living, a reconnection to the present moment. Slow architecture takes into consideration the needs of the client, occupants, and ecosystem. As such, it’s closely linked to using local and sustainable materials.

In the 21st century, design and construction processes have been accelerating. At the same time, slow architecture is inspiring architects to think about what they can do for a better society and environment. Architects are encouraged to ask themselves the following questions.

• How can we best use natural light, airflow, and natural cooling and heating?
• What can be recycled, reused, and salvaged?
• What will make the design sustainable?
• What will make the design blend in with the natural landscape?
• Who are the local craftspeople and artists who can collaborate on the project

Invest In Quality

The architects and designers at Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design look at things with long-term implications in mind. We take into consideration the intended users and community as a whole as well as the history of the site and natural environment.

When you’re ready to invest in a quality custom home or commercial space, give us a call at (314) 576-5888 or contact us online!