Sustainable architecture has become a critical aspect of today’s construction industry, combining aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. The demand for energy-efficient, resource-conscious, and eco-friendly buildings is rising, and architects, interior designers, and construction companies must be well-equipped to meet these needs.
Let’s take a look at the design features that we try to incorporate to make our projects more sustainable.
a. Passive Sustainable Design.
Passive strategies, such as considering sun orientation and climate when sitting and being thoughtful about window placement and operation, are used to best manage daylighting and natural ventilation and go a long way in reducing energy requirements for the building. We maximize lighting by creating North South facing for key spaces like the bedrooms, living and dining rooms. We find that Introducing vertical skylights on the top floor is very effective and have received good feedback on the space from clients.
b. Active Sustainable Design.
Having large roof overhangs shield the walls, doors, and windows from water runoff and help prevent moisture infiltration. They also provide shade and reduce direct sunlight exposure, which can help keep the building cooler during hot weather.
Adding sun shading fins on the East/West facing, this ensure a greater level of comfort for those inside the building as they block sunlight and reduce the amount of solar gain. This ultimately makes the indoor environment better for occupants as it balances the temperature, humidity and intensity of light.
By consulting with mechanical and electrical engineers to implement high-efficiency electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other systems designed to have small environmental footprints.
c. Renewable Energy Systems.
Renewable energy systems like installing solar panels on roofs can help to power your home and reduce electric costs. These systems are often used in conjunction with passive design strategies.
d. Green Building Materials and Finishes.
By making it a priority to purchase steel, lumber, concrete, and finishing materials, such as carpet and furnishings, from companies that use environmentally responsible manufacturing techniques or recycled materials.
At Quod Architects, we strive to implement sustainable strategies in all of our projects. Not only is it the responsible thing to do for the planet, but also the results are often used as teaching tools: building occupants and visitors see first-hand how sustainable strategies work.
