ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Critical regionalism

Critical regionalism is a form of architecture and design that takes into account the culture, history, and context of a specific place or region. It's like dressing appropriately for the weather and occasion – you wear warmer clothes in the winter and lighter clothes in the summer.

Just like how people adapt to their environment, building designers also need to think about how they can create buildings that are functional, beautiful, and respectful of the local culture and history. This means that they should use local materials, follow local building codes and traditions, and create buildings that are sustainable and energy-efficient.

For example, if you were building a house in a hot and humid place, you would want to use materials that are resistant to moisture and heat, such as bamboo or mud bricks. Similarly, if you were building a house in a cold place, you would want to insulate it properly to keep out the cold.

The idea behind critical regionalism is to create buildings and spaces that reflect the unique characteristics of a particular region or culture. This can help to create a sense of place and identity, as well as to preserve local traditions and values.

Overall, critical regionalism is about creating buildings and spaces that are both functional and beautiful, while also respecting the local culture, climate, and environment.