Sustainability is a core consideration in modern architecture. It is vital for businesses to prioritize sustainability to appeal to a more conscientious clientele. It is also becoming a matter of law in some places. There are tightening governmental regulations that mandate minimum thresholds of energy efficiency and durability in new builds. In fact, the federal government has an ambitious plan of achieving net-zero building emissions by 2045.
There are various ways that architects can accelerate the race to net-zero. They can prioritize energy-efficient design, use durable materials, and employ renewable energy sources. Passive design principles are also paramount. This involves leveraging inherent features of the building site to regulate heating, cooling, light, and ventilation. This limits the amount of non-renewable energy required for these vital building functions.
Keep reading as we go further in depth on how sustainable architectural techniques are shaping a green future.
Thermal Insulation
Proper insulation is fundamental to eco-friendly architecture. The highest-quality sustainable insulation will act as an impermeable barrier against thermal exchange. This reduces heat transfer through the building envelope for a more consistent interior temperature. This lowers energy consumption, as the HVAC system does not have to work as hard to create a comfortable interior for occupants. Insulation becomes extra important during extreme temperatures. Warm air will constantly be searching for weaknesses in the building envelope to follow the path of least resistance.
A holistic approach to insulation is necessary for elite sustainability. Exterior walls are a great place to start, but there are other areas to consider. Up to 20% of a building’s heat loss occurs through the floor. Consider insulation for the flooring substrate to prevent this unwanted transfer. Radiant floor heating is a next-level solution that can help keep the floor at a continuously comfortable level. Likewise, look into roof cover board and other forms of ceiling insulation to prevent heat loss through the top of the building.
Strategic Building Orientation
Sustainable structures are well-aligned with the sun’s trajectory. This helps regulate light and heat entrance into the building. When possible, architects will look to maximize sun exposure during the colder months and limit it during warmer months.
To further leverage orientation during design, architects will consider natural geography and landscaping. Trees and mountains can provide some shade for the building. Bodies of water can also provide a cooling effect, as heat from the air is absorbed to aid in evaporation. By strategically calculating all factors pertaining to the building’s orientation, architects create comfortable interior temperatures without over-reliance on the HVAC system.
Functional Exteriors
Functional exteriors are a trending priority in both commercial and residential design. Thanks largely to the COVID-19 pandemic, architects have accelerated their quest to incorporate spaces for building occupants to step outside and get some fresh air.
With that said, functional exteriors also provide many sustainability benefits. By increasing time spent in a natural exterior environment, less reliance is placed on conditioned interiors to pass the time of day. By using the proper flooring pavers, outdoor drainage grates, shading devices, and low-profile railing systems, architects can create decks, patios, and other stunning exterior spaces that people will spend hours enjoying.
Green Roofs
Green roofs, alternately referred to as living roofs or rooftop gardens, use a layer of vegetation on the roof’s surface in place of traditional roofing materials. This vegetative layer can consist of trees, grass, flowers, shrubs, or any other form of plant life. It is effective in providing shade for the building, absorbing heat, and mitigating urban heat islands. The EPA estimates that green roofs are some 30-40 degrees cooler than normal roofs and can reduce city-wide ambient temperatures by as much as 5 degrees.
In addition to their cooling effects, green roofs have a number of other attractive environmental benefits. They can mitigate stormwater runoff to reduce erosion to the surrounding landscape. It also places less strain on the city’s drainage system and limits the threat of groundwater contamination. Green roofs can also improve air quality for building occupants and provide a touch of natural elegance to the building.
Natural Lighting and Ventilation
Leveraging natural lighting and ventilation are key components of sustainable structures. This can be accomplished via well-placed windows, vents, acoustical louvers, skylights, light wells, and openings. These features facilitate the unobstructed flow of light and fresh air into the structure. They help ensure superior indoor air quality, reduce noise pollution, and mitigate reliance on mechanical ventilation systems. This leads to lower energy consumption and greater connection to nature. In addition to lower utility bills, natural lighting and ventilation creates a more inviting ambience for a more positive experience for building occupants.
Get Started on a Green Future Today with Sustainable Architecture
Society is in a race to ensure the sustainability of our planet for future generations. Architects play a pivotal role in this regard through the design of green buildings. For more ideas on how to incorporate sustainable practices into modern architectural projects, explore the resources at Construction Daily for the leading insights in the industry.
