Types of Green Architecture

Residential Architecture

• Few residential architects and builders approach home building without considering using sustainable methods to reduce construction waste and overall energy consumption. Installing high-efficiency central air conditioning and heating systems, coupled with insulated vinyl siding are standard construction practices. Kitchens feature low-energy appliances and composting tools. Permeable pavement allows rainwater to seep into the earth. Wood flooring and carpeting consist of some recycled materials. Architects encourage homeowners to take advantage of local and state tax credits by installing solar and wind power units, according to Toolbase.org.

Schools

• Local and state education authorities focus green building on the classroom’s impact on students’ health and learning. Student health and productivity trumps design conveniences. Moisture-resistant materials reduce indoor pollutants, such as mold. Architects consider classroom occupants’ exposure to cleaning products and its impact on student and teacher productivity by considering its proximity to classrooms. The life-long impact of lighting on children is a primary element in determining the placement of windows for exposure to natural light. New ventilation strategies focus on removing infectious airborne pollutants.

Medical Facilities

• Perhaps the biggest concern among builders and architects on medical facility projects is waste management and designing a comfortable environment for patients. A unique challenge to architects is accommodating rapid medical technological advances to treat an overwhelmingly aging patient population, but limit construction and design costs. Designers pay strict attention to increasing staff productivity and efficiency. Maintenance costs alone over a 50-year period account for about 80 percent of a hospital’s operational costs. Consequently, efficient waste and pest management and limiting patients and staff exposure to radiological equipment, pesticides and cleaning products play a role in hospital design.

Historic Landmarks

• The preservation of historic landmarks poses special challenges for green architects. Architects specializing in historic preservation face pressure in an industry that covets the “starting over” philosophy of green building. Simply, tear it down and start over. Yet reusing an existing building, no matter its age, embodies the concept of green building. Green builders use forensic architects to identify materials and construction methods in historic buildings. Using a structure’s original brick, tile, railings, fixtures, doors and trim can account for up to more than 80 percent of a building’s materials.

Today’s Skyscrapers

• Perhaps because of the aesthetic quality and the tremendous impact on the environment, modern skyscrapers receive the lion’s share of attention in green design. New York’s Bank of America Tower, for example, finished construction in 2009. It consumes 2.2 million square feet, but reduces energy costs by using kiln-fired glass to cut solar heat. The tower overlooks Bryant Park, providing stunning views, while the crystalline building itself adds a new sculptural dimension to the skyline.