AD : CONFLUENCE IS ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING IN PRACTICING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN IN THEIR PROJECTS .
THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE . WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY ?
VISHAL & VINEETA : The idea of sustainability , or ecological design , is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do not inhibit the opportunities of future generations . Sustainable architecture seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings . It uses a conscious approach to energy and ecological conservation is the design of the built environment . It is design with a conscience . This is the reason Confluence has designed a series of its projects which are green / platinum rated and the vision is to take it to Net Zero level .
Our designs and layouts ensure efficient use of all equipments . The designs are such that reduce heating in summers by blocking the sun and lets sun enter the habitable spaces in winters . We incorporate additions to our design that can further reduce dependence on limited resources and recharge the environment to possible extent
Passive strategies , such as considering sun orientation and climate when siting and being thoughtful about window placement and operation , are used to best manage daylighting and natural ventilation and go a long way in reducing energy requirements for the building . In certain climates , thermal mass techniques can be used to harness solar energy . In such cases , thick walls absorb heat from the sun during the day and release it into the building at night .
Architects consult with mechanical and electrical engineers to implement high-efficiency electrical , plumbing , HVAC , and other systems , which are designed to have small environmental footprints . By making it a priority to purchase steel , lumber , concrete , and finishing materials , such as carpet and furnishings , from companies that use environmentally responsible manufacturing techniques or recycled materials , architects up the ante on sustainability .
Landscaping choices can make a big impact in civic building water consumption . By using trees , plants , and grasses that are native to the area , architects can greatly reduce irrigation needs . Landscaping can also be used as part of a passive energy strategy . By planting trees that shade the roof and windows during the hottest time of the day , solar heat gain inside the building can be reduced .
// below ; Gulshan Dynasty - Experience centre , Noida , Uttar Pradesh , India . Photograph courtesy : Confluence check out full project on www . designessentiamagazine . com
38 | July - August 2021 Edition // Design Essentia // DE INDIA