Sustainable architecture is a term encompassing any design technique that aims to an environmentally conscious design in the field of architecture. Green architecture is created to answer the call for sustainable construction for environmental preservation. Traditionally constructed buildings can damage the environment dramatically. In the United States alone, traditional buildings make up for 72% of the electricity consumption and 39% of energy use. It is also reported that buildings produce 136 million tons of waste in construction and demolition. Such figures are alarming and say a lot in environmental damage. Thus, green architecture is the newest trend in construction and real estate, making sustainable buildings more valuable than the usual building types.

As a property buyer, purchasing “green” properties could be an advantage for you and your business. If you’re considering buying a property with sustainable architecture, take note that these types of buildings may have different set of characteristics that distinguish them from traditional ones.

What Makes Up a Sustainable Building?

• Non-toxic. Building materials are carefully chosen and assured to be non-toxic. Certain materials used in construction are commonly chemical-based and may have negative effects to people. Sustainable buildings use recycled, non-toxic, and sometimes, organic materials. Moisture resistant construction products are also ideal for sustainable buildings. Since moisture level is controlled in the said materials, the growth of microorganisms that could cause property damage will be prevented. This reduces the need to renovate and consume another set of materials. Many of the sustainable buildings are having organic materials that have low VOC or Volatile Organic Compound that prevents health risks among building occupants.

• Energy Use. As stated, traditional buildings account for the most energy consumption. Sustainable buildings are generally designed to use alternative sources of energy such as solar power. Passive solar power is gaining popularity these days when it comes to sustainable energy. In passive solar power, there is no need to use photovoltaic cells; instead, the design itself is made up of high thermal mass that could keep heat effectively. A well-insulated building is also an efficient energy-saver since there is no need to turn on air conditioners.

• Manufacturing. Materials for sustainable buildings are responsibly manufactured. Meaning, no severe environmental damage is done upon gathering of raw materials needed for manufacturing. Many companies failed to meet environmental expectations when it comes to material production, but several organizations are on the move to stop the operation of factories that emit pollutants.

These qualities target different aspects that sustainable architecture aims for. Aside from contributing to environmental safety, production cost and expenses are also reduced since sustainable materials are typically cheaper than ordinary ones. In fact, consumers can rely on the property’s durability; thus, there would be no need to spend a lot for maintenance.

If you’re wishing to acquire a sustainable property, be sure to make use of sustainable building consulting to get informed about the level of sustainability. During the consultation, the property is assessed in terms of materials used, quality, and design.

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