Designing to sustain
Well designed buildings are built for humans and consider the needs of the communities they impact. Respecting and understanding the ways structures must feature in their ecological context generates important design features
4 Critical Building Materials and Design Criteria
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Our four interconnected criteria emphasize the need to look at the long run:
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Resilient
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Must stand the test of time, trauma, damp weather and potential earthquakes
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Cost minimal
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While upfront costs may be higher, smart design and well built materials will save money in the long run on both reduced building maintenance and reduced building consumption needs
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Carbon Neutral to Negative
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Fossil fuels are not featured in the design, yet renewable energy generating features are included. Particular attention should be paid towards eliminating fossil fuels in the production process (embodied carbon), and minimizing the need for fossil fuels through smarter construction techniques. Together, buildings will consume less and express a minimal carbon footprint
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Ecological
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Design minimizes the need for artificial energy inputs, taking advantage of natural light, and temperature regulation through passive design, helping to reduce inputs and costs
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PASSIVE DESIGN
“Passive” refers to design techniques which take advantage of the earth’s natural energy sources, lighting and temperature self-regulation. Passive solar orients homes to catch maximal levels of winter sun and minimize exposure to summer sun. Used alongside glazed windows, shades, and good insulation, this reduces the need for AC and furnaces and overall cost by up to 85%!
