My first impression when I entered the hall was: I cannot believe this many people are supporting this movement. I was not expecting the large number of people I saw. What an energizing group. This is a “real” movement. 

As the keynote interviews went on, and I do mean interviews and discussions and not speeches, I realized the level of dedication and passion fueling this movement. The discussions were packed with good information, but more importantly, delivered with sincerity and positive emotion. 

Then the breakout sessions started. And I attended several memorable ones. One by a young architect trying to explain how architecture and design can impact our life, our feelings, our state of mind, and our function. Another session focused on large timber structures and how to go about developing a project using this material. I was glad to see that the natural wood feel has become so popular and can be considered in regenerative design. This may have been influenced by the fact that since I was a toddler I remember going to the warehouses that my family ran and the smell of natural wood always brings those memories back. 

But the most impactful session was one co-presented by one of the founders of this movement as he explained the extent of care he took in considering and respecting the space where his office building project was to be built. How he positioned the building to minimize the impact on the natural space that existed. He even worked on finding ways to elevate the majority of the building so that the wildlife corridor next to and under the building can continue to serve as such. 

I could not help but to think about our prophet (PBUH) when I listen to the level of care and respect to Allah’s creation displayed by this architect. The appreciation of sunlight and considering how to work in harmony with all the natural resources rather than clear cut and overpower the site and its blessings. 

There was little doubt in my mind by the end of the conference that working with the living building model is our obligation, not just our desire.