Resources Sustainable Design

What Is Sustainable Design?

Sustainable design, also referred to as green design, is the design of products and structures with sensitivity to health and the environment. Special consideration is placed on the impact of materials on the environment, not only in the conservation of natural resources, but also in the health of built environments to the individuals that occupy them. As designers, there is a significant amount of responsibility for the utilization of sustainable materials and methods. Designers should condition themselves to address sustainable issues at some level in every project.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PRINCIPLES

as outlined by the US General Services Administration (GSA) Sustainable Design Program

Sustainable design seeks to reduce negative impacts on the environment, and the health and comfort of building occupants, thereby improving building performance. The basic objectives of sustainability are to reduce consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize waste, and create healthy, productive environments.

Sustainable design principles include the ability to:

• optimize site potential;

• minimize non-renewable energy consumption;

• use environmentally preferable products;

• protect and conserve water;

• enhance indoor environmental quality; and

• optimize operational and maintenance practices.

Utilizing a sustainable design philosophy encourages decisions at each phase of the design process that will reduce negative impacts on the environment and the health of the occupants, without compromising the bottom line. It is an integrated, holistic approach that encourages compromise and tradeoffs. Such an integrated approach positively impacts all phases of a building's life-cycle, including design, construction, operation and decommissioning.

Additional Information for Sustainable Design:

ASID Sustainable Design Information Center

LEED

The Principles of Sustainable Design

Article: Laying a Framework for a Sustainable Interior

Sustainable Design Web Resources