Position of Health-Related Design Among Architecture Professionals in Slovakia

Abstract

Human health has always played a vital role in shaping cities’ architecture and urban design. However, its importance has often been overshadowed by other pressing social and economic concerns since we only realise the significance of health when it is no longer taken for granted. This paper presents the findings of a study that aimed to assess the current standing of health in the architectural profession among built environment practitioners and architecture students, with a particular focus on the urban design part of the profession, emphasising the urgent need for greater attention to this critical issue in the field. The research identified three main findings. Firstly, research revealed that developers currently play the most proactive role in promoting health in the built environment. Secondly, the health-improving projects and initiatives are limited only to physical health. Last but not least, a clear definition of health and design guidelines that are currently absent could help address increased interest in health-related design in the future.