Architecture

Green design is the art of inventing/creating a “product’ which has the least possible impact on the built environment.

Green design relates to site specific design, in which the practice of passive climate principles are applied, closely “relating” the design of a structure or product to the “environment” in which it is to be manufactured / built.

In architecture, an essential aspect of Green design is “ Passive design”.  This is the practice of minimising the energy requirements of a living space in order to enhance the quality of living in that environment.  Hence, comfortable living environments are created where the space is neither too warm nor too cold due to passive “heating” and “cooling” systems.  Devices such as solar screening, thermal mass, insulation and ventilation are some of the principles which when employed will serve the ambition of green design.

The notion of reusing and recycling during the production / building process combined with the selected method of production / construction plays an important role in green conscious design.  These considerations attempt to reduce the collective environmental impact of a product, material or building both during the construction process as well as during the lifecycle of the product / building.

Green design also incorporates energy saving and energy generating devices such as solar energy generation via photo voltaic (PV) panels or wind / micro hydro electricity generation which all produce electricity and hence save on service costs.  The use of solar geysers to produce hot water will cut electrical bills by up to 30/40%.  Recycling water through rain water harvesting and reusing grey water will also minimise our need for municipal water and hence reduce our impact on the environment as well as save us costs.

In conclusion “Green Design” aims to minimise the impact on the environment as well as create an opportunity for savings on the monthly cost of running a facility.

Green Design  Member Companies