Sustainable architecture has been around in the architectural world for around 2 to 3 years, or we can say that it has been in ‘trend’ from 2 to 3 years. It is important to know that before this awareness got spread there were already many architects and interior designers out there who kept sustainable architecture in mind whenever they were working on a project. Sustainable architecture is a great approach to saving money, time and of course the environment.
If you are new to the concept let us know what is sustainable architecture?
What is sustainable architecture?
In general, sustainable architecture refers to structures made to lessen the human effect on the environment. Choosing building materials, designing and implementing heating, cooling, plumbing, waste, and ventilation systems, and integrating the constructed environment with the surrounding natural landscape are all included in an eco-friendly approach to modern construction.
Many of the techniques and ideas utilised in sustainable design have their origins in traditional building methods that underwent significant change throughout the industrial revolution with the introduction of new materials and mass production. The anniversary of the first Earth Day, the global environmental movement, and the subsequent laws that it triggered around the world are all responsible for the present awareness of the need for sustainable design, which dates back more than 50 years.
There is a centuries-old body of knowledge in India that can be used to lower modern construction energy usage and go for the green or sustainable approach. Humans and the universe are integrated into ancient Indian spirituality, and it is believed that human existence and cosmic activities are intimately connected. Ancient Indian civilisation has always valued its surroundings because of this awareness. Typical principles include designing for the climate, using locally sourced and sustainable materials, harvesting water, etc. Architectural design that adapts to the climate is very complex and has been developed over thousands of years. In addition to being used for efficient climate management, architectural features like courtyards, clusters, wind towers, roof terraces, and jaalis (stone lattices), among others, have evolved into social and cultural components. The difficulty is in balancing these antiquated practices with contemporary technological advancements.
If you are new to the concept you should also know some ideas and tips to start this sustainable journey –
1. A roof which is considerate to the environment –
Start with a sustainable roof. It aids in rainwater collection by allowing water to roll off sloped surfaces as it falls. It is an area that commemorates the union of the natural world with man-made architecture and offers a setting for social interaction.
If your home is open concept, you can start a terrace garden and fill it with succulents and plants to clean the air. Think about including a seating area for social events in your architectural design. Install sloping surfaces and rain screens that move the water into pipelines for rainwater gathering if your roof is closed.
2. Sustainable walls
Sustainable construction entails making something that will endure for a long time. Your building’s lifespan should support both natural air and light intake as well as circulation, and it should survive for decades without requiring any upgrades.
The foundations of sustainable development must be able to resist significant weather and climate changes. Consequently, it is imperative to use materials that permit the natural breeze to flow through and the water on the surface to run off smoothly without compromising the structural integrity of your structure.
Think about using composite materials for the walls of your sustainable building that assist in rainwater collecting and energy efficiency. For extended lengths of time, these materials hardly ever need to be replaced or repaired and require very little maintenance.
3. Energy efficiency is the key to the sustainable approach.
The usage of nonrenewable energy sources is being swiftly replaced with hydraulic dynamism, a renewable energy source, throughout Norway, Copenhagen, and much of Europe. The novel method of generating energy runs on water rather than oil. This has the effect of both reducing and highlighting the environmental impact. These developments are excellent for a paradigm change that will prevent the use of petroleum to destroy the environment. Instead, the energy and water required to sustain life can be obtained from renewable sources. Any urban architecture system that can integrate this incredibly useful technology is more long-lasting and sustainable.
These were the top 3 ideas you should keep in mind when you are starting with the sustainable approach.
Now you have to keep in mind that a sustainable approach is not limited to architecture only but you should also include it in the interior design of the house. There are many ways in which you can include sustainability in your house through different decor items or designs. Here are some tips for the same –
1. Reducing the waste
Interior designers have a lot of influence over waste reduction, and it is at that point that they must act properly for sustainability. The mentality of abandoning items once they go out of style and replacing them with current trends is no longer reasonable because the planet’s scarce resources are important. Fortunately, there is increased interest in sustainable practices like recycling, upcycling, and repurposing as people become more aware of their need for them. The path to the new normal is to find inventive uses for outdated but still useful objects rather than throwing them away. By choosing synthetic materials that can be reused or recycled at the end of their life cycle or that were manufactured from recycled waste, one can lessen the use of natural resources.
2. The life span of your design matters
When interior designers plan, the lifespan of each item should be taken into account to prevent the materials and goods from being thrown out. especially about those components that go through a lot of wear and tear. The creation of spaces that endure should be the aim of design.
People want their surroundings to change and evolve as they do to reflect how they have changed. The adaptability of rooms to users’ shifting needs should be taken into account by interior designers. Designing adaptable environments is essential for lifespan. Achieve timeless design by favouring quality over quantity, timeless over trendy, and functionality over ornamentation.
3. Materials which are eco friendly
The choices that have the least negative effects on the environment are the most crucial from a sustainability perspective. When it comes to organic materials (such as wood, wool, and natural stone), which seem to be an easy choice, responsible handling of natural resources must not be overlooked. Choose renewable materials (like bamboo) that are also responsibly extracted for a more aware lifestyle.
From extraction, production, transportation, and processing, all the way through to how they are disposed of after use, the materials and products must be evaluated at every stage of their life cycle.
These were the top 3 tips for interior designers to maintain a sustainable approach.
