The world is changing. We humans have become, as a response to the advancements in science and technology, almost robotic in our reactions and lifestyles. This is a reaction that is not only inevitable but voluntary, as survival in today’s demanding societies requires us to adapt more rapidly than the natural course of time would allow us. Population numbers are steadily increasing every year. Along with this rapid densification of the population, the environment around us becomes more and more of a concrete jungle. Throughout history we see as civilisations expand into societies, that key places are given within those cities for people to break away from the monotony of everyday life. The question posed to us today is whether in today’s technologically apt societies if we are running out of places for recreation. This becomes a significant point to ponder as such places help keep the balance within the urban growth. In spite of this however, advancements of both science and technology leave behind remarkable solutions for almost every need of man.

Architecture today would not be what it is if not for technology. The symbiotic relationships between creativity and technology have resulted in a built fabric that is not only relevant but also unique. The relationship between the two is necessary to address the current issues such as the need for human sanctuaries within these concrete labyrinths in which we live. Residential houses, thus have become a form of refuge to their owners and today the home plays the role of not only providing the basic needs but also providing as the ideal get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The home today has fast become an urban sanctuary, unique in its setting to its individual dwellers and essential as a getaway to bring rest, relaxation and peace of mind. The term leisure stands to denote an undisturbed amount of time and opportunity for ease and relaxation. This definition is housed within various spaces and activities in appropriation to the needs of the people in a given society. Whether leisure is found in one’s own home or a unique space devoted to providing relaxation, it is a necessary aspect of life.

With the inevitable changes brought on by the climate; people’s needs and desires which revolve around comfort and relaxation changes with time. This is where the Architect must be sympathetic towards three variables; changes in the natural context and climate, changes in the built fabric and the changes of the needs of the people. It is when these three aspects are addressed can a cohesive solution be presented.

Peshali Perera

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