The architectural and building world is not the only industry being told that greener is better; however, it is one of the areas where we can ignite the most change, provided we incorporate a range of changes that are designed to safeguard and future-proof our natural environment.
For us at TN Design & Build, sustainability is something that has long been considered a trend by some of our more innovative clients, integrating concepts like green roofs, solar panels, and recycled materials into the very fabric of each design. Now, we are seeing these ideas and concepts being spread out across the industry, generating their own range of benefits while improving everything from energy bills and outgoings to the health and well-being of residents.
In this blog, we’re sharing our top ideas for sustainable design and architecture, alongside the benefits of a green approach to construction and how to make it a part of your next project.
The benefits of sustainable architecture and design
To consider the benefits of sustainable design and build projects, we must look first at occupants or residents of the building itself, before expanding out into the wider world. Many of the most popular sustainable changes that are being made across properties in the UK are designed to facilitate easier living conditions for residents – alleviating the pressures of high energy bills and making their properties more efficient as well as better insulated.
Aside from changes to the structure of the building itself, sustainable architecture also concerns itself with the land around a property – planting more trees, optimizing the existing green spaces, and heralding the use of sustainable and more natural materials. All of these things can make the living space itself look and feel healthier, enhancing the well-being of residents both mentally and physically. In fact, you need only compare the mental health of city dwellers and those in the countryside to see some elements of this in practice.
And then we have the simple fact that making sustainable changes, planting more trees, and choosing greener materials is better for the environment. It uses renewable sources rather than those which are limited, and it ignites a better attitude to energy usage.
With that said, how do we do it and what are our top tips for making a building more sustainable?
How to make a building more sustainable
We’ve already touched on some of the most important changes that both architects and builders can – and already are – make in the world of construction and property design. Whether it’s a commercial building, residential property, a public or private space, using
eco-friendly materials in partnership with energy efficient designs play a major role in ensuring that a building is greener and more sustainable – with some of the easiest switches to make including:
· Using renewable and recyclable materials like wood in construction
· Reducing the amount of energy required to build the property or building
· Reducing the energy consumption of the finishing building with enhanced insulation and sustainable integrations – solar panels
· Protecting any natural habitats and environments surrounding the building during work, and planting more trees to replace any that were lost during the project
· Reducing the amount of on-site waste generated
One of the biggest ways to bring this to life is with a far more comprehensive architecture and early design process, during which time our team works with clients to distinguish their needs and identify more specific quantities of any and all materials that will be used. This, combined with the switches to greener and more sustainable materials, means that anything that is used is not over-ordered and under-consumed, leading to immense waste.
Make sustainable design work for you
Any organization or individual in the architectural industry will know about the switch to more sustainable practices – however, we are now seeing an increasing shift in client attitude to greener homes and to the changes which will save them money and energy in the long run. Any building project has an impact on the environment, but it’s up to us to manage and minimize the risk of harm to the habitat – balancing the harm that is caused with follow-up projects to reinstate green and natural spaces.
This isn’t always easy for clients on a budget, with sustainable construction typically costing more as it’s deemed a luxury. However, the grants being offered by the government and by local councils in order to enhance the energy efficiency of local homes means that this is becoming the standardized norm across the industry – with the TN Design & Build team looking to the future where every project we complete will be greener and more environmentally sustainable.
Just some of the most impressive examples of sustainable architecture that we’ve seen in recent years include zero-carbon homes which run on enhanced insulation and self-generated electricity, and better ventilation which means that the temperature and climate throughout a building are more stable and balanced all year round.
Finally, a note for our clients. A sustainable home does not have to change the look and architectural design of your property or building if you don’t want it to. We work with clients on a tailored and individual basis to develop and deliver the plans and the buildings which meet your needs and expectations every time. Get in touch with us directly to discuss and learn more about how we work and how we can support your next project.
