Hello there darlings! Since man first evolved, he has used and abused the environment to suit his own design and it is only in the past 50 years that we have become to realise how much damage we are doing to our planet. Recycling has become a household word, as we make every attempt to redress centuries of environmental plundering, and sustainable architecture involves eco-friendly construction practices that have a minimal impact on the environment. I've talked in the past on taking steps to making your home eco-friendly. This post is all about sustainable architecture, being eco-friendly from the start!
Images Source: Living Asean
Sustainable Architecture
One of the main goals of sustainable architecture is to conserve energy throughout a building’s lifetime, which is something that solar technology can certainly achieve. It is possible to reduce the energy needs of a building by using natural materials such as with the various styles of modern bamboo architecture, which is a very popular type of construction. A lot of thought goes into the design, with the ultimate goal of building a structure that is in harmony with nature, while technology has enabled us to harness clean and renewable energy.
Passive Solar Building Designs
This involves the use of materials that are high in thermal mass, which help to retain heat, and by using natural insulators, a large percentage of generated heat remains within the building. The placement of windows is a critical factor in providing efficient ventilation, while this can also help by having windows that face the direct sunlight.
Clean & Renewable Energy
The sun and wind can provide all the energy a building requires by creating electricity and these technologies are incorporated into sustainable architecture as much as possible. Solar panel technology has greatly improved, and system costs are much lower, making solar panels a very attractive way to generate electricity for the eco-friendly homeowner.
Sustainable Building Materials
The use of natural materials such as bamboo and earth make for an eco-friendly building, as bamboo can be processed into planks and sheeting and rammed earth can be made into bricks or blocks. Recycled materials are used whenever possible in sustainable architecture, with both timber and stone that can be reused for a new build. There are many recyclable materials that can be used to fabricate pressed sheeting, which can be used for walls, floors, ceilings and even for roofing.
Building Placement
Sustainable architecture requires specific building placement, which can minimise energy use, while also working with the immediate environment, rather than against it. From conception to completion, sustainable architecture never loses sight of its main objectives, which are to minimise the negative impact on the environment and the use of clean and renewable energy.
Eco-Friendly Architects
If you are thinking of designing and building your dream home, there are eco-friendly architects who can come up with a design that minimises the impact on the environment, and by using natural and recycled materials, the building will be self-sufficient in many ways. More and more people are turning to sustainable architecture as they realise the many benefits it can offer the homeowner.
If you would like to discuss your concept with an eco-friendly architect, all it takes is an online search to locate such an expert, and with their design expertise and your concept, your dream home can soon become a reality.
