Humans have two attention types: fatigable 'directed attention' for focus and effortless 'involuntary attention.' Nature's 'softly fascinating' stimuli (like waves) engage involuntary attention, allowing our directed attention to recover. This is unlike chaotic urban environments that overwhelm all attentional resources.

A landmark study by Roger Ulrich found that post-surgery patients in rooms with a view of trees recovered about a day faster and required less pain medication than patients whose rooms faced a brick wall. This provides strong evidence that even a passive view of nature can have significant, measurable effects on physical healing.

Inspired by architect Christopher Alexander, a designer's role shifts from building the final "house" to creating the "pattern language." This means designing a system of reusable patterns and principles that empowers users to construct their own solutions tailored to their unique needs.

A University of Michigan study found that walks in nature improved cognitive function even during a cold January day. This suggests the restorative effects are not solely dependent on positive emotions or enjoyment, but are a more fundamental cognitive process, provided basic comfort and safety needs are met.

The restorative effects of nature can be accessed even without being outdoors. Studies show that incorporating elements like artificial plants, nature sounds, or nature-themed art into indoor spaces can improve cognitive performance and well-being. This is a practical strategy for 'naturizing' offices, homes, and hospitals.

Instead of manually designing every detail, games like Minecraft use algorithms (procedural generation) to build vast worlds. This technique, similar to natural laws, allows for emergent complexity and unique landscapes that can surprise even the game's creators, fostering a sense of discovery.

‘Form follows function’ is often misinterpreted as prioritizing utility above all. An object’s true function extends to its emotional and aesthetic impact on its environment. A drain pipe's job is not just to move water, but to also avoid making the world more boring or, ideally, to add charm.

Jason Fried finds inspiration for software design not in other apps, but in physical objects. He studies watches for design variations within constraints, cars for ergonomics and tactile feel, and architecture for proportion, light, and materiality, seeking to evoke a similar "spiritual experience" in digital products.

Automation in construction can do more than just lower costs for basic structures. Monumental's robots can create complex, artistic brick patterns and designs at the same speed and cost as a standard wall, potentially democratizing access to beautiful and diverse housing aesthetics.