Though it is nearly impossible to create a building with no environmental impact shy of a mud hut or an existing cave, much can be done to limit impact. First and foremost in this process is the site selection. Sprout Studios utilizes formal sustainable design principles and local geographic knowledge when planning to maximize positive and minimize negative environmental attributes. In addition to the general planning principles, considerations for situating buildings will vary per site and are specific to client requirements. These can include the following:
- Site access to accommodate natural features and mature trees
- Taking advantage of an old building site to avoid taking down additional trees
- Select a building site or design which requires less or no blasting
- Southern exposure for public building spaces to maximize sun energy
- Consideration of trees or other obstacles which may assist in buffering prevailing winds
- Consideration of possible future developments which may impact sun or wind.
Many people have a preconceived notion that green buildings tend to be “out there” in terms of aesthetic with odd configurations and materials, wind turbines and solar panels mounted to the roof. This does not have to be the case.
In design exercises where environmental responsibility is the governing directive, the form of a building tends to bow to achieve maximum efficiency. In instances where aesthetic and tradition have importance it is possible to incorporate sustainable design principles into a building form which can actually complement the aesthetic. Sustainable design principles can incorporate the following:
- Site design considerations as listed previously
- Overhangs to block summer sun and allow winter sun
- Heavy mass (stone floors or fireplaces) to absorb heat and radiate in the evenings
- Consideration for natural lighting and air circulation with proper window placement
- Proper roof venting details
- Attention to additional required insulation at north-facing walls
Materials & Construction:
- Accuracy in material estimates to avoid waste material
- Building in a season where heating can be avoided until fully insulated
- Getting material delivered in one large order rather than many smaller trips
- Sourcing of trades and materials in relation to distance from site
- Selection of building materials which are natural and or renewable
- Consideration of embodied energy in the production of materials
- Consideration for alternative building assemblies:
- Strawbale construction
- Rammed earth
- Green or living roof
Operations of a building are a major contributor to environmental impact. Proper design and correct materials selection can significantly limit the amount of energy a building requires to operate but in nearly every circumstance, heating and electrical services are still required for full time homes or cottages.
The selection of certain types of power and heating systems can be a result of a preference for cleaner energy sources, long term cost savings or simply out of necessity, as hydro, natural gas or regular propane delivery may not be available at your site. The preferred systems should be thoroughly discussed and researched prior to any development as they all have unique requirements on the site and in some instances, on the design of the building.
A few options to consider for alternative building systems and services:
- Wood furnace
- Wood stoves / fireplace
- Geothermal (can offer cooling too)
- Solar (hot water only)
- Micro Hydro Generator System (requires access to running water)
Following is a very basic overview of environmental design and service applications as they relate to residential construction. Sprout Studios maintains an ongoing education process with respect to sustainable design principles and to developing robust environmental practices for future project planning. Collectively, we have extensive knowledge of environmentally responsible site planning and design techniques, products and materials and recommended construction practices, systems and services.