Key Features of Sustainable Architecture
Green design is also known as sustainable development, eco-design, eco-friendly architecture, and some even throw the term ‘arcology’ around. Whatever it’s called, sustainable architecture promotes nature and organic practices in architecture. Architectural design for sustainable buildings strives to incorporate structural design and MEP systems design into the architectural framework to produce a building that enriches its surroundings. A few features that further this goal are:
Green Roofs
A green roof or rooftop garden, lawn or space hosting a variety of trees, plants and grass can lower the temperature in an entire building, improving air quality. They create urban lungs and can be lovely enough to attract birds.
Creating a Green Roof
Solar Panels
Innovative concepts, such as solar shingles, are special kinds of solar panels. Solar shingles are part of the roof, not separate panels, and power the building. They are wired into the electrical system and must be at the correct angle to absorb optimum levels of sunlight.
Cob
Cob, or wet earth mixed with straw and rolled into brick-like pieces, can be stacked together to construct homes that maintain a low carbon footprint. Once stacked, the cob material is used to hand-mould the walls. This process results in curving structures and houses can have built-in shelves, nooks and furniture, such as couches and tables.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting systems are connected to underground containers that collect, store and use the harvested water to irrigate gardens without marring the landscape.
Shipping Containers
Old shipping containers can be used as prefabricated structures equipped with electrical, plumbing and even central heating or ventilation systems. These containers can be stacked on top of each other or side by side to create both residential and commercial buildings.
A ‘green’ architect strives to create building design that improves building performance and minimises long-term environmental impact and cost. Full sustainability in green buildings can be achieved as follows:
Key Features of a “Green” Building
Though the designs may be visually unappealing and involve added initial expenses, sustainable architecture is a growing trend that is bound to ultimately benefit people and surroundings.
