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“Sustainability” is a key buzzword currently hot within the design circle. Applying sustainability in practice to architecture becomes a “design that creates healthy living environments while aiming to minimize negative environmental impacts, energy consumption, and use of human resources,” according to Barker and Associates. In addition, more and more sustainable architecture strategies are being implemented in public building designs.
However, what are some of them? These sustainable architectural practices include restraint, Thermal Insulation, and others.
Practice Restraint
When it comes to building, one sustainable architectural practice is to practice restraint and focus on building only what is necessary. In renovation projects, practicing restraint should also be observed. Some good starts are retaining structure(wherever possible) and reusing materials. Those are great ways to start thinking about sustainable design. As a result, you can ensure a reduction in resource consumption as a whole.
Although it may be delicate, it is crucial to strike a healthy balance between the longevity of building components (life cycle) and the reuse of the existing ones. It’s also a great tip to practice, especially if you are a new architect.
Furthermore, an architectural site’s location, as well as its climatic zone, is critical when proposing interventions that are both feasible and sustainable. Each climatic zone for thermal comfort requirements varies; as a result, you may have to address and respond to local concerns.
BREEAM Certification
In addition, there are also voluntary sustainability standards. They help assess and compare the sustainable design and construction level a building achieves. In the United Kingdom, if you want to get your project certified as sustainable, you can opt for a BREEAM certification.
BREEAM is considered the world’s leading science-based suite of validation and certification systems for a sustainable built environment. In addition, it also stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).
You can get certified from BRE, a profit-for-purpose organization experienced in building science and with a research background.
Native Landscaping
The choices we make when it comes to landscaping can greatly impact civic building water consumption. If you use area-native trees, plants, and grasses, irrigation needs will be reduced considerably.
You can plant trees to help shade the roof and windows during the hottest day. As a result, the building will have less solar heat gain.
Mindfulness
Lastly, is to practice mindfulness during the planning phase of architectural projects. The planning of the architectural project is considered the most crucial. Sustainability-focused architects must produce a game plan that utilizes and incorporates environmental mindfulness into the various aspects of the construction process.
Moreover, the architects involved in the project should be knowledgeable and know how to maximize innovative materials and other techniques in construction so that the result will be optimal and effective.
20 Years Of Architectural Experience with APL Architecture
As green architectural practices rise, so does the need to follow sustainable architectural practices. It is part of sustainable architecture, which uses design strategies that reduce the negative environmental impact of a built environment.
APL Architects is a Philippine-based Manila architectural firm focusing on resorts and mansions. We have provided innovative solutions and high-caliber professional services for 20 years. You can be sure that our team of experts at APL Architects is committed to providing top-notch service along with meticulous design and planning, regardless of the project type—minimalist, residential, commercial, resort, or warehouse architecture.