03
May

14 Examples of Sustainable Architecture in New Commercial Builds

When considering sustainable architecture for a new commercial build, you can think about a topic you learned in elementary school: photosynthesis. Though this may seem counterintuitive, sustainable design involves storing and transforming resources into energy that powers structures.

A building requires energy to operate. Instead of depending solely on the power grid and local water system for resources, what if you could produce your own? By developing systems that enable a building to function at least partially through the storage of rainwater, solar energy, and other features, a sustainable commercial structure resembles a plant converting sunlight into energy that can be stored for later use.

In this article, we’ll review examples of sustainable architecture in new commercial buildings. Robertson Architecture implements sustainable design, using green architectural practices to bring your vision to life. Below, we’ll explore the different facets of sustainable architecture in more detail.

Why is sustainable architecture important for commercial projects?

Due to the size and scale of commercial buildings, sustainable architecture is crucial to their efficiency and the environment. Building sustainably can save money in the long run because your development is designed to utilize fewer resources, such as water and electricity, from the start.

Examples of Sustainable Architecture

Utilizing Eco-Friendly Materials

  1. Bamboo – Bamboo is strong, lightweight, and durable. It grows fast, making it a renewable resource that replenishes quickly compared to other types of wood.
  2. Hempcrete – Hempcrete is a durable and fire-resistant insulation material made from hemp, lime, and water.
  3. Recycled Steel, Glass, and Plastic – Using recycled materials like steel, glass, and plastic is an excellent method for implementing sustainable architectural practices, as they do not contribute to the new production of these products.
  4. Cork – Cork serves as effective insulation and is mold-resistant. It is made from the bark of oak trees and can be harvested without harming the tree, a significant advantage of this sustainable material.
  5. Mycelium – This one may surprise you. Mycelium is another sustainable building material, and guess what? It’s made from mushrooms! The fungi can be used as insulation panels or mycelium bricks, which also help insulate the building.
  6. Reclaimed Wood – Similar to the recycled steel, glass, and plastic mentioned earlier, reclaimed wood is an excellent way to source materials without additional production. This wood has a past life and is now being repurposed for a new project.

Using high-quality, durable materials promotes sustainable design. Buildings that can withstand the elements do not create additional waste by having to replace materials often.

Energy Efficiency in Sustainable Design

  1. Solar Panels – Although solar panels may require a higher initial investment than traditional energy sources, you will generally recoup your costs in about ten years. You can even earn money by selling surplus power to local electric companies.
  2. Green Roofs – Not only are green roofs beautiful, but they’re also functional. They reduce energy consumption by providing shade and cooling to the building’s exterior, which will likely be exposed to direct sunlight. When properly maintained, these roofs can last longer than traditional ones.
  3. Rainwater Collection – A rainwater collection system is a fantastic mechanism for reducing utility bills. It gathers rainwater for use in toilets and irrigation for grass and landscaping. This system is often incorporated into a green roof.
  4. Passive Heating and Cooling – By using sustainable building materials like those mentioned above and carefully positioning the building according to the sun’s path, you can ensure that the building’s internal temperature is adequately regulated to the local climate without heavily depending on the HVAC system.

Other Sustainable Architectural Design Elements

  1. Natural Light – You can help reduce the need for overhead lighting during daylight hours by maximizing the amount of sunlight that enters a space.
  2. Outdoor Space – Creating outdoor space with native landscaping and materials can improve the air quality around your building and provide shade and relaxation for employees.
  3. Nearby Public Transportation – Sustainable design can also take the lot’s location into account. Selecting a lot close to public transportation enables employees to commute to work with a reduced carbon footprint.
  4. Employee Mental Health – Developing beautiful and sustainable commercial spaces that provide employees with access to nature, natural light, and exquisite design is a plus for employee mental health.

Let’s Chat Sustainable Architecture!

Sustainable design is no longer an outlier—it’s the standard businesses strive for when creating new commercial spaces. Reducing a commercial building’s carbon footprint is not only the future of commercial architecture, it’s also the present.

Our team at Robertson Architecture has focused on sustainable design since our founding. We are constantly adapting to new technologies and materials as they become available, staying on top of innovations in the space.

Call or email us today to set up a time to discuss sustainable design ideas for your new commercial build!

Author:  David Robertson is an Atlanta based architect and founder of Robertson Architecture.  Robertson Architecture on the premise of helping entrepreneurs and like-minded individuals exceed their goals.

In 2018, Robertson Architecture was formed with the single focus of helping homeowners and entrepreneurs exceed their goals. The firm works with custom residential homes, townhouses, restaurants, and hotels all across the Southeast. David has a passion for helping entrepreneurs and homeowners realize their dreams.

With over 10 years of experience, David spent the beginning part of his career working on small to medium sized commercial projects across the U.S., including hospitality projects, office buildings, multi-family, and custom homes.

 

David Robertson founder of Robertson Architecture