Sustainability and art-chitecture

...and does it change the nature of architecture?

What is sustainable architecture and what is its purpose? Sustainable architecture aims to reduce the effect of buildings on the environment through moderating the use of materials, energy and overall use of space while also taking the future generation into consideration and creating a greener, more sustainable future for society while still creating a paragon! 

Human health and the environment (present and future) drive architects towards sustainable design. Architecture differs now during the 21st century than it did in the past. Technology is advancing at a rapid pace which benefits architects enormously when it comes to sustainability. 

The two topics under discussion today are, does building in a sustainable manner affect the true art in architecture? Here we look at wasteful buildings vs sustainable buildings and whether in today's society, waste can be viewed as distasteful. Secondly, we look at the various ways an architect can go greener. 

There are many debates over whether sustainable architecture shows its true colours when it comes down to an artistic perspective. Then again, as the world evolves, so does society, and as we evolve so do our views. Perspectives change the way in which we see and feel about certain things due to certain circumstances, such as pollution etc. Sustainable design, done effectively, has the ability to better the future, therefore this is something truly beautiful.

Sustainable design starts with the conscious decision for change.   

Use of recycled materials 

Reduce the use of volatile organic compounds - Non-toxic materials

Use local materials/sources

Bear in mind energy use and pollution

Integrate vegetation into structures

Make use of natural sources such as sun, wind, and energy

Urban gardens

Building placement - structure it around peoples everyday lives

Waste management on site

Solar panels, wind turbines, solar water heating

Designing buildings that encourage natural light and/or air flow

In conclusion, each day designers are initiating fresh ideas and the future looks promising. The design world has boundless possibilities. This article is merely a conjecture. We at Wildetecture like to think that designs for the 21st century cater for eco-friendly building practices and functional space usage. 

Written by Tarryn Hardwicke