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Sustainable architecture is a way of designing eco-friendly buildings, that is a principle that strives to create environmentally responsible structures. These structures are usually designed to be resource-efficient, socially beneficial, and environmentally friendly. The design concepts typically go beyond aesthetics and functionality, which is what used to be the norm before now. With sustainable architecture, stakeholders are focusing on a more global goal of reducing the negative impacts of buildings on the planet, while at the same time, improving the well-being of building occupants. This article does a deep dive into the whole concept of sustainable architecture, including its origin, differentiating it from its ‘brother concept’, green architecture. We also explore the benefits of sustainable architecture, and what role architects play in the grand scheme of things.

History of Sustainable Architecture

The concept of sustainable architecture is not new, as historical archives show ancient civilizations whose architectural activities were geared towards aligning with ecological balance and preserving the ecosystem. Buildings in ancient Egypt were designed to flow with nature as much as possible, utilizing natural ventilation, and strategically placed to reduce the impact on the ecosystem as much as possible. Japanese architecture had a minimalist approach to design that used natural materials such as wood, bamboo and paper.  However, the industrial Age ushered in a change in the way buildings were designed, resulting in buildings that put a strain on the ecosystem. But in the early 20th century, awareness began to be created again about sustainable architecture and designing buildings with reduced ecological impact. This awareness championed by people such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Peter Busby, Norman Foster, to mention a few, drew attention to designing buildings that flowed with the environment, instead of those that drew from the environment. The activities of these various visionaries resulted in increased awareness about sustainable architecture, and legislations being passed that elevated the subject of eco-friendly buildings from being merely an option to the way buildings should be designed. 

Differences between Green Architecture and Sustainable Architecture

While both types of architecture have common goals, their main difference lies in their scope and approach. We will consider these using the following yardsticks:

• Focus
• Life-span
• Scope

Focus

The focus of Green Architecture is primarily on minimizing the ecological impact of buildings. It does this by adopting environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies. On the other hand, sustainable architecture has a broader perspective, which encompasses the three pillars of sustainability – planet, people, and profit.

Life-span

Green architecture has a more short-term range, with emphasis on solutions and features that provide relatively short-term impact, without particularly addressing long-term societal impact. Sustainable architecture emphasizes long-term solutions that take into consideration the impact of buildings on future generations, its impacts on community engagement and quality of life for the building occupants (which translate into preventing genetic disorders).

Scope

Green architecture is more concerned with reducing the negative impacts a building has on its environment while in operation. Sustainable architecture is more holistic in scope, influencing everything from the architectural design to the materials with which the building is constructed to the building’s operation and eventual decommissioning.

Benefits of sustainable architecture

While it may seem tiresome at first to imbibe sustainable architecture into our practices (because who likes stress?), it is vital to understand that designing eco-friendly buildings has several advantages over traditional building practices. Its focus on environmental responsibility and resource efficiency in particular give sustainable architecture a huge edge over traditional building practices. Let’s take a deeper dive into these benefits:

Environmental preservation

Let’s face it: global warming is a threat that is slowly inching towards “pandemical” proportions. Its effects are felt all over the world – from flooding to irregular rain cycles to heat-stroke-inducing sunshine, global warming is changing life as we know it. Incorporating sustainable design principles into architectural designs will help reduce the ecological footprints of our buildings. By using renewable energy sources such as solar power, and implementing energy-efficient technologies, buildings with lesser energy consumptions and fewer greenhouse gas emissions will be the new normal. Also, with the ability to conserve water and reduce waste, eco-friendly buildings like this will preserve natural resources and ecosystems. 

Energy Efficiency

When we have buildings that maximize natural light and ventilation, there will be a reduced need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. This, in turn, helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year and the seasonal changes, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems.

Cost savings

Yes, the upfront costs for designing buildings with sustainable architecture can be steep. However, the long-term savings are huge. From lower utility bills to less noise and air pollution, incorporating sustainable architecture into your building designs help you save costs in the long term.

Reduced health safety hazards

Buildings that are designed with sustainable architecture typically have better indoor air quality and thermal comfort. Due to the use of non-toxic materials and adequate ventilation systems, these buildings have healthier indoor environments that help reduce the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems. A bigger emphasis on natural lighting also helps improve occupant productivity and overall well-being. 

Examples of sustainable design architecture in Nigeria

Conservation Centre, Lekki, Lagos

The Conservation Centre in Lekki, Lagos, is an excellent example of sustainable architecture in Nigeria. The center is dedicated to the preservation of Nigeria’s natural heritage and showcases sustainable building practices. It features energy-efficient lighting, rainwater harvesting, and passive cooling strategies to reduce energy consumption and promote environmental consciousness.

Alliance Place, Lagos

Alliance Place is an office building in Lagos that exemplifies sustainable design in the commercial sector. The building features energy-efficient lighting, intelligent building management systems, and green roofs to improve energy efficiency and reduce the urban heat island effect. It also incorporates eco-friendly materials and considers occupant comfort and well-being in its design.

Abuja Net-Zero Energy House, Abuja

This building in Abuja is a pioneering net-zero energy house, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes. The house incorporates solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and passive design principles to achieve its net-zero energy status. It also utilizes local materials and green building techniques to minimize its environmental impact.

Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 2, Lagos

The Terminal 2 of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos incorporates sustainable design principles, including energy-efficient lighting, daylight harvesting, and natural ventilation to reduce energy use.

The role of architects in sustainable architecture

Architects play a crucial and multifaceted role in sustainable architecture, as they are the professionals responsible for envisioning, designing, and implementing buildings and spaces that prioritize environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability. Here are some key roles that architects take on in sustainable architecture:

Integrated Design Approach

Architects lead the integrated design process, collaborating with engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to create buildings that function as cohesive, sustainable systems. They consider the interplay between various building components, such as the envelope, HVAC systems, lighting, and renewable energy sources, to optimize energy efficiency and overall environmental performance.

Environmental Impact Mitigation

Architects are at the forefront of mitigating the environmental impact of buildings. They make design decisions that minimize resource consumption, reduce waste generation, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. By incorporating renewable energy sources, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems, architects contribute to a more sustainable built environment.

Designing for Adaptability and Resilience

Sustainable architects design buildings with adaptability and resilience in mind. This includes creating flexible spaces that can accommodate changing needs, incorporating passive design strategies for natural climate control, and ensuring structures can withstand environmental challenges such as extreme weather events and climate change impacts.

Material Selection and Lifecycle Analysis

Architects make informed decisions about material selection, considering the environmental impact of each material over its entire lifecycle. They opt for eco-friendly and low-impact materials that promote resource conservation, reduce embodied carbon, and have a minimal environmental footprint.

Human-Centric Design

Sustainable architects prioritize the well-being of building occupants. They create spaces that promote indoor environmental quality, ensuring ample natural light, proper ventilation, and comfortable thermal conditions. Architects also consider the social and cultural context to design buildings that foster a sense of community and inclusivity.

Advocacy and Education

Architects often act as advocates for sustainable design principles. They educate clients, contractors, and the public about the benefits of sustainable architecture and how it can positively impact the environment and society. By promoting sustainable practices, architects encourage the adoption of greener building standards across the industry.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Sustainable architects monitor the performance of buildings post-construction to assess their actual environmental impact. This data helps refine future designs and allows architects to learn from successes and challenges to continuously improve sustainability outcomes.

Sustainable architecture and designing eco-friendly buildings will change architecture as we know it.

At SpaceVibes Limited, our passion for sustainable architecture and designing eco-friendly buildings drives us to reimagine the world of design and construction. We believe in weaving together the essential elements of environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability to create buildings that transcend mere structures and become harmonious extensions of nature. Our projects stand as shining examples of human ingenuity and determination. Together with our clients, we build structures that exemplify our shared vision of a greener, more resilient, and inclusive world. We advocate for sustainable architecture, spreading the message of its profound benefits and encouraging others to join us on this transformative path. Embark on this transformative journey with us, and together, let’s build a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.