The importance of architectural development supporting sustainable development Cities have continued to grow unprecedentedly around the world. At the same time, there are social and environmental issues that confront people. Meanwhile, the growth of urban centers has continued to deplete available natural resources (Grierson, 2003). This situation threatens human existence. The rate of depletion has reached unsustainable levels and therefore, urban design must seek to create sustainability. Urban policymakers must also use architectural development in urban centers to reduce disparities between the rich and the poor. If urban designers fail to change the current designs, then it is likely that the environment will continue to degrade, affect human health and hinder survival abilities. Designers have strived to reflect their intents through structural designs. In this respect, designers tend to consider space and light in their design forms. These elements could be used wisely to ensure the development of sustainable buildings and natural resources. Poor incorporation and utilization of natural resources in urban designs lead to irresponsible use of resources to support buildings and occupants. This leads to massive use of resources. Designers, therefore, must understand how to incorporate elements of nature to sustain their buildings irrespective of aesthetic features and intentions they communicate. Urban built environments have profound impacts on human health. Therefore, designing humane and friendly structures is an important element that urban designers and planners must consider to create favorable environments for people, conserve the environment, reduce depletion of resources and ensure sustainable developments. Sustainable development is necessary to ensure survival of future generations. Urban populations are responsible for most destructive activities on the environment, including carbon emission. Given the current rate of resource depletion, global warming and use of natural resources, it would be difficult to ensure sustainable development. As urban designers construct structures, they must consider all aspects of environmental sustainability and human health, as well as users. Building designs should be flexible to accommodate various users. This implies that designers should account for various users, provide adequate space and abilities to ensure that occupants use building efficiently. Designers must ensure that such built environments are efficient and meet environmental specifics in order to ensure sustainable development. The environmental psychological implications of commercial and residential design, including purpose and considerations Urban built environments have critical influences on human behaviors and well-being. Today, people spend much time in built environments than in natural environments. As a result, it is vital for architectural designs to incorporate elements of natural environments into built environments. Therefore, residential and commercial space designs should incorporate elements of natural environments to reduce adverse effects on inhabitants. In this regard, designers must account for occupants’ well-being, design space, social activities and include privacy as well. As human populati