Architecture and Design in Context of Climate Change: An Introduction

Abstract Considering the complex and multifaceted implications of climate change and the growing recognition of the need to take action to mitigate them, this book explores how human-centered architecture and design may do so. Rooted in the framework of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, 9, and 11, this book investigates the potential of architecture and design to foster energy efficiency, heritage preservation, and community development. Emphasizing the importance of collaborative action across domains, the book underscores how the built environment directly impacts environmental and societal well-being. It argues that the voices of architects and designers—interpreting challenges through a human-centered lens—are essential in the broader sustainability dialogue. Drawing on examples and expertise from the Arab world, where the effects of climate change are especially visible, the book highlights how local insights can inform global strategies. Through an inclusive and culturally attuned perspective, the book advocates for renewed dialogue, innovation, and design practices that align with both tradition and emerging technological possibilities to contribute to the global effort of navigating climate change.