Even a few years ago, the AEC industry, like any other sector, was not committed to sustainability. However, the ecosystem has shifted significantly in the last few years. While in some areas, the heat has gone much above the average scale, some areas have witnessed substantial cold conditions during the winter.
Realizing the need for significant change, some of the best architectural designing companies have started creating sustainable designs. These companies have begun designing hospitals, hospitality buildings, housing complexes, community buildings, and more. Using CAD tools, they have ensured that the engineering designs are of premium quality and serve the intention accurately. At the same time, they also ensure that the projects are code-compliant while the materials they choose are sustainable.
Sustainability at the Front
The prime driver behind the adoption of bio-based materials is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Old-fashioned building materials, such as concrete and steel, have significant environmental footprints due to their energy-intensive engineering processes and the depletion of natural resources. In contrast, environmentally friendly materials offer a more sustainable substitute, as they are derived from renewable resources and often require a lesser amount of energy.
One of the most compelling examples is the use of bamboo. Known for its rapid growth rate and remarkable strength, bamboo is an excellent substitute for conventional timber. Its farming requires minimal water and pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Bamboo’s ability to confiscate carbon dioxide further reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Exceeding the Short-Term Benefits:
The first step to creating sustainable designs is to let go of the short-term benefits of products that are not eco-friendly. For example, PVC materials are much cheaper than wood. Choosing PVC materials can significantly lower the cost of a building design. However, top architects in the USA must surpass the short-term benefits of choosing such environmentally unfriendly products.
Designers must consider choosing eco-friendly products during the schematic design and design development phases. Client feedback is also essential during these phases to ensure the designs meet their requirements while focusing on sustainability.
Comparing Various Models:
Architects often compare various models during the design process. Comparing several models allows them to identify areas for improvement and rectification while analyzing the designs. The American Institute of Architects, or AIA, has guidelines that mention what deliverables architects must provide.
Using Building Information Modeling tools plays a vital role in comparing various models during different stages of architectural design. AIA also pushes architectural design firms to focus on creating sustainable designs that are flexible and dynamic.
Once architects complete the designs, they create construction documents or CD sets with all the different stages of the design process. The updated CD set allows architects to revisit the design at any point and make changes.
Innovative Applications and Benefits
Architectural designing companies are not just adopting bio-based materials, they are also exploring their innovative applications that go beyond traditional uses. For instance, designers are using mycelium, the fungi root structure, to create insulation materials and biodegradable building blocks. These products are sustainable and possess excellent acoustic and thermal properties. As a result, they enhance the overall energy efficacy of buildings where engineers use these products. Such an innovative approach is truly inspiring and intriguing, boldly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in architectural design.
Architects and structural engineering designers utilize natural composites such as flax or kenaf fibers to produce lightweight and robust panels for both interior and exterior applications. These substances provide architects with increased design flexibility since they can be customized in terms of shape, size, and color.
Hempcrete, a mixture of hemp fibers, lime, and water, is another sustainable material making its way into the AEC industry. Hempcrete is gaining popularity due to its high insulation properties, breathability, and resistance to mold and pests. Its lightweight nature reduces the overall load on the building structure and leads to possible cost savings in construction.
Taming The Unruly Climate Beast
From drastic CO2 reductions to surging solar investments, how the building sector is paving the path to a resilient, sustainable future.
https://www.architectmagazine.com/carbon-positive/taming-the-unruly-climate-beast_o
Health and Well-being
In addition to their environmental benefits, bio-based materials contribute to healthier indoor environments. Traditional building materials often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals that negatively impact indoor air quality.
However, engineers and architects are now shifting to toxin-free materials, offering occupants better health and well-being. The positive impact of these materials makes engineers confident about using them in industrial and commercial building designs.
For example, top architects in the US choose natural wood products, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and mass timber, as they provide structural integrity and create warm and inviting spaces. Wood’s biophilic qualities, which foster a connection to nature, have been shown to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. Furthermore, using natural finishes and non-toxic adhesives in these wood products ensures a healthier indoor environment.
Economic and Regulatory Enticements
Financial and supervisory incentives are also driving the shift towards eco-friendly materials. Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are implementing stricter building codes and sustainability standards to reduce carbon emissions and promote green building practices.
Architectural design companies respond to these regulations by incorporating environmentally friendly materials into their projects to meet compliance requirements. This motivation and encouragement from regulatory bodies can inspire the audience to continue their sustainable design journey.
Investors and designers increasingly recognize the value of green buildings, which tend to have higher property values and attract environmentally conscious tenants. This market shift encourages architectural firms to adopt natural materials as a competitive advantage.
Challenges and Future Predictions
While the benefits of sustainable resources are clear, there are still challenges to overcome. One significant challenge is the scalability of production. The supply chain for natural resources is not as well-established as that for conventional materials, leading to potential issues with availability and cost. However, ongoing research and development efforts are addressing these challenges by improving production processes and expanding the range of available sustainable materials.
Another challenge is the need for industry-wide education and awareness. Architects, engineers, and contractors must be well-informed about eco-friendly objects’ properties, benefits, and limitations to make informed decisions. Collaboration between industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and government agencies is essential to promote knowledge sharing and drive the widespread adoption of bio-based materials.
Conclusion
Integrating bio-based ingredients into architectural design represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient built environment. As leading architectural designing companies continue to explore and innovate with these materials, the AEC industry is witnessing a paradigm shift. Bio-based materials’ environmental, health, and economic benefits drive this transformation, offering a glimpse into a future where sustainable design is the norm rather than the exception. Through ongoing research, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability, the architectural community can create buildings that harmonize with nature and contribute to a healthier planet.