What We Love (Series) - Part 2 of 3: 'Sustainable'
More than a trend
Sustainability is at the forefront of many people’s minds in all areas of innovation right now as governments and families the world over begin to face the climate crisis and consider how their lifestyle impacts on their carbon footprint. When it comes to construction of homes and other large building projects, there are not only costs for the paying client but environmental costs too. The process of resource consumption throughout the construction timeline gives us much to think about in terms of how we can minimise our impact on the natural environment, and since the natural and built environment together are central to our value system at Reform Architecture we thought it would be a good idea to break down this topic further.
So what is sustainability?
The Cambridge dictionary defines sustainability as: causing, or made in a way that causes, little or no damage to the environment and therefore able to continue for a long time. In construction this involves the materials used (renewable, recyclable, or long-lasting), and the operational energy or resources for the lifespan of the building.
Pro tip: “Operational” refers to the use of the building after construction, and usually includes heating/cooling, gas/water/electricity…
Here are some aspects of construction where design can impact on sustainability. You’ve heard the useful trinity of R-words; here we add to that list and give a unique architectural design spin.
Credit: Deposit Photos
Reduce - Utilise waste minimisation at manufacture, construction, demolition/end-of-life of a building — achieved by efficient layout to standard sizes, recyclability of offcuts (eg linings, insulation etc)... Think about how much space you need as well. The smaller it is the less materials required and potentially lower operational resources. This also involves building typology; An attached townhouse development would use less materials than standalone buildings as one shared wall can serve two dwellings.
Re-use - Existing structures already have used resources (we can't put them back where they came from!), nor can we get back the carbon emitted to manufacture the materials and construct the building, so renovating and re-purposing is one of the greenest ways of developing.
Recycle - While materials like steel and aluminium may involve more carbon emissions up front, they are readily able to be recycled at end of life. Some carpet is made from recycled material OR can be recycled. Some plastics can also be recycled into building products.
Renew - Timber is a great example of a renewable resource, and for "locking in carbon" (as concrete, for example has much higher carbon emissions). If that's not feasible, then you can specify low carbon concrete, in which the concrete is made with the addition of fly ash or other waste industrial materials to reduce the carbon used in the manufacture.
Replace - Look to use products that have a long life, especially if they need little or no maintenance. Things like floor coverings tend to be replaced often so look for ways to omit materials or buy great quality that is "classic" and therefore won't be replaced every 10 years. For example if a concrete slab is used, consider polishing it and leaving it exposed rather than flooring over it.
Retain - We want prevent heat from passing through our walls, roofs and windows so that our building stays cool in summer and during winter we can keep the heat inside. The previous rules of thumb focus on the manufacture, construction, maintenance, and end of life, but this one has to do with the operational use of the building, which is the longest timeframe in the life of the building. Operational efficiency can be achieved by high performing appliances and equipment (think higher stars) in conjunction with spaces that are well insulated and airtight. This is important because if you have heat leaking out of the building then your 5 star heat-pump won’t reach it’s potential.
This shows there's a lot that can be done to achieve sustainability, and there's no one size fits all approach. At Reform Architecture we are happy to discuss your specific requirements and find a way to deliver a result that works for you.
The lifestyle benefits
Now you know a little more about sustainable architectural design, why should you actually choose these methods? As if the environmental benefits aren’t enough, a well-built home or workspace is also a lot more comfortable for the ones using it! So come back next month for our final post in the series where we will expound on the importance of comfortable design.
In the meantime, consider making your home or commercial build a meaningful contribution to the built environment and something that will last many lifetimes. Click the ‘Get in touch’ button on this page to connect with us and make it happen.
*Featured image cred: ismartrecruit.com
