Saving Our Planet Through Regenerative Architecture

In recent decades, sustainability has been the driving force in design and construction projects.  Reducing emissions and conserving resources has allowed us to build responsibly. But as the climate crisis deepens, and the social and economic fabric of our cities is tested, being responsible and sustainable is no longer enough. We now have to embrace regenerative development.

Regenerative architecture focuses on restoring biodiversity, recharging groundwater, supporting physical and mental health, and strengthening local economies. And this ethos led to the birth of R.Evolution. A stunning project in Dubai by Designsmith and Eywa Developers, R.Evolution was founded on the simple belief that the cities of tomorrow should not simply focus on impressive skylines but also on how deeply they serve the well-being of the people that live within its environs.

“With R.Evolution, we approached regeneration as design intelligence, not just an aesthetic,” says Mihir Sanganee, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-founder at Designsmith. “Sustainability teaches us how to minimise our footprint. Regeneration teaches us how to grow a legacy.”

R.Evolution’s flagship development, Eywa Tree of Life, is reportedly the world’s first ‘living’ building to obtain all three certifications – LEED Platinum, WELL Platinum, and WiredScore Platinum. 

Utilising holistic architectural practices, ancient Vedic wisdom and crystal energy, as well as engaging wellness experts and forward thinking engineers, R.Evolution became a project alive with purpose, offering spaces that give more than they take.

“At Eywa Tree of Life, regenerative thinking, neuroarchitecture, and biophilic principles underpin how we shape the well-being of our residents,” says Alex Zagrebelny,  Founder & CEO at R.Evolution. “When a building is designed to harmonise with nature, restore surrounding ecosystems, and support human health and longevity, it becomes more than just a structure, it becomes a living organism. This approach allows Eywa to actively improve the health of its residents, foster clarity of thought and harmony, and give more than it takes. This is the future of real estate – homes that heal us, connect us, and help us live with greater vitality”

The project features 50 residences with added amenities, such as private plunge pools, a library, restaurant, multiple swimming pools, and a spa. Eywa Tree of Life is inspired by the banyan tree, a living system of strength, shelter, and interconnectedness. Lemurian Crystals embedded within support emotional clarity and spiritual growth, while the pyramid structure of the crystals is mathematically aligned to amplify the life-force energy within the building.

The Experience of Living in Eywa, Tree of Life

The Global Wellness Institute frames wellness real estate around six dimensions – physical, mental and spiritual, social and community, civic, financial, and environmental.

“Our environments dictate how we sleep, breathe, connect, and age,” says Mihir. “Air quality, natural light, materials, sense of community – all these aspects can either hold you back or help you thrive, and so every choice matters.”

The mental and spiritual dimension helps create environments that allow for restoration, reflection, and genuine rest. “In a world that’s always on, our buildings need to offer sanctuary, not just shelter. Social and community wellness might be the most underestimated dimension. Loneliness is an epidemic, and our buildings can either reinforce isolation or foster genuine human connection through shared gardens, and communal spaces that bring people together in a non forced fashion. The real work is in integration – toxin-free materials, biophilic design, adaptive lighting, sophisticated airflow systems, and digital tools that give residents real-time insights into their environment.”

Inside, the various spaces are warm, grounded, and intentional. Natural textures, smooth transitions, and soft forms shape the experience, both in the public spaces and private residences. Designsmith delivered the interior fitout for the entire building – apartments, lobbies, lift lobbies, corridors, and common areas – with wood finishes and marble. The designers, along with the development team, hand selected slabs with Designsmith project managers, going so far as to match the veins on the marble in order for the stone to appear as one continuous surface. The curved joinery, raw finishes, and organic forms were key, with straight lines diligently avoided, and so each element required precise craftsmanship. This was where Designsmith’s fitout excellence showed in spades. 

“We took our time, created mock ups, and tested materials to ensure the perfect end result,” says Mihir. “The rule was simple: if we wouldn’t accept it in our own homes, it wouldn’t get installed. This was not a race; it was craftsmanship. Once our team understood the level of detail expected, they took more ownership. We walked them through the design story, conducted workshops, and spent time with the materials. When one understands why something matters, it changes their outlook and consequently the outcome.

“Our collaboration R.Evolution was built on mutual respect and a shared expectation of quality. They care about the little things, which is rare at this scale. Most of our conversations were about refining — not rushing. That kind of alignment allows a project like Eywa Tree of Life to reach its full potential. It’s the kind of partnership that naturally extends beyond a single project, and we look forward to the opportunity of delivering more work with them in the future.”