Sustainable Architecture

Sustainable Architecture – Quick Reference Notes

1. Core Definition

Sustainable architecture (also called green or eco‑architecture) designs, constructs, and operates buildings in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and promotes the health and well‑being of occupants over the building’s entire life cycle.

2. Why It Matters

3. The Life‑Cycle Approach

1. Planning & Site Selection

   • Prioritize brownfield or infill sites.
   • Conduct a Site Analysis: climate, orientation, vegetation, water flow, transport links.
   • Use Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to evaluate alternatives.

2. Design & Materials

   • Passive design (orientation, shading, thermal mass).
   • Material selection: low embodied energy, recycled content, FSC‑certified wood, bio‑based composites.
   • Modular/Prefabricated components to reduce waste.

3. Construction

   • Implement a Construction Waste Management Plan (target >90 % diversion).
   • Use low‑VOC adhesives, paints, sealants.
   • Monitor on‑site energy use (solar generators, efficient equipment).

4. Operation & Maintenance

   • Install high‑efficiency HVAC, LED lighting, smart controls.
   • Use Building Management Systems (BMS) for real‑time monitoring.
   • Schedule regular commissioning and retro‑commissioning.

5. End‑of‑Life / De‑construction

   • Design for disassembly (reversible connections, labelled components).
   • Plan for material reuse or recycling (e.g., steel, timber, concrete aggregate).

4. Key Performance Metrics

5. Design Strategies

5.1 Passive Design

• Orientation & Layout: Maximize north‑facing glazing (in NH) for winter solar gain; minimize east/west glazing to reduce overheating.
• Thermal Mass: Use concrete, rammed earth, or masonry to store