Over the past few centuries, as massive super cities have been built up, more concern has been given to quick construction and imaginative design for aesthetic purposes. Today, the growing trend in construction is green architecture in response to a world increasingly aware of the need to protect the environment. Although a relatively new field, it is one that is sure to grow, meaning that many studying to be masters of architecture should pay close attention to green building design.
The important first aspect to creating an eco-friendly building is to employ the right designer. It takes more than a master of architecture to design an environmentally friendly building, the architect should also be in full support of green building practices. A designer who is only looking to add green features to a design in order to appease a client’s request will merely create a good looking building that happens to have eco-friendly features. An architect who specializes in creating the most economical and environmentally responsible design will create an eco-friendly building and make it look good. This may seem like a slight distinction, but for those committed to green architecture it makes a world of difference.
Minimizing Location Impact
A master of architecture knows that location is important when designing a new building. A green architect further has to consider how the building can be built to minimize the impact on the environment around it. They will seek to work with the surrounding environment so as to not disturb it or damage it more than is necessary. This can mean employing creative architecture such as building a house into a hill rather than clearing the hill with massive earth moving machines. Green architects often find creative ways to make the building fit the environment rather than shaping the environment around the building.
Using Green Materials
Choosing the right building materials for a structure is important to a master of architecture and even more so for a green architect. A good green architect not only needs the materials to be suitable for making strong, safe buildings, but also to be environmentally friendly and sustainable. Recycled materials are popular in green architecture especially those reclaimed from demolished buildings. Reclaimed lumber and stone can be used to help build a green building, while at the same time keeping it out of landfills. Other materials such as wool, clay, coconut fibers and other sustainable plant products can be converted into paneling and natural insulation.
Energy Efficient Design
A green architect will strive to make a building that helps cut down on energy costs. This may often involve utilizing expensive and creative adaptations to help minimize energy usage, and perhaps even adding features that will create free energy. These features may include items such as solar panels or wind turbines to harness the weather and produce a supply of sustainable power.
Extra Advice
A master of architecture will design a building and give no thought as to what its eventual furnishings will be. Green architects who are committed to an eco-friendly lifestyle might also offer advice to their clients beyond the buildings construction. This might include tips on the best appliances to invest in to save energy and other ways to improve the efficiency of the home or business.