Creating enduring architecture goes beyond just aesthetic appeal; it emphasizes the design of spaces that are efficient, durable, and environmentally responsible. The "Design Process Made to Last" is a systematic approach that harmonizes creativity, purpose, and sustainability. This approach ensures that the built environment contributes positively to our legacy.
OBJECTIVE
In my observation, the architectural curriculum during my generation is more focused on aesthetics and architectural styles, which was derived mainly from the historical aspect of design. There was a tandem of principles (Form and Function) that was even the subject of debates instead of integrating them into a common goal. The rest of the curriculum were based on the technical aspect. And so I started with my career applying those principles, until I was assigned to work in industrial facilities dealing with building utilities where I learned about finding sustainable solutions to keep the building occupants comfortable and satisfied. From there I developed a design process that I tend to practice privately, and it lasted for almost throughout my architectural career with lasting results. My objective in this article is to share it with anyone who may find it valuable. Although, I suggest trying it out for a certain period first, to see its effectiveness before deciding to embrace it. This process is somehow very flexible and I don’t remember that it created any conflict with the management policies wherever I worked for. In fact, it was one of the main reasons companies wanted to retain me and offered me certain incentives. They appreciated the responsible approach it brought to my work, which always focused on sustainable solutions in the design process. Below is a step-by-step description of the procedure I want to share with you.
AN EFFECTIVE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PROCESS:
1. Define Your Project Goals
Every effective design begins with clarity. Start by defining your project's core objectives, which include function, budget, style, and timeline. In today’s world, a durable design also requires an understanding of its environmental impact. Will it reduce energy consumption? Enhance occupant well-being? Promote long-term cost savings? Incorporating sustainability goals at this initial stage sets the groundwork for smarter, greener choices in the future.
2. Consider Design Options
Once goals are established, brainstorm and evaluate different design directions. This stage encourages creativity, but it must be grounded in context. Consider various strategies that align with local climate, building codes, community needs, and environmental performance. For green buildings, this includes exploring options like natural lighting, passive ventilation, rainwater collection, and low-carbon materials. Utilize tools such as life cycle assessments (LCAs) or energy models to forecast the environmental impact of each option.
3.
Develop Design Schemes
At this stage, initial ideas are transformed into concrete plans. These refined conceptual designs illustrate space layouts, forms, material selections, and system integrations. Taking a sustainable approach involves using eco-friendly materials, enhancing energy efficiency, and designing for adaptability. It's important to test design schemes for thermal performance, daylight access, and airflow, all while integrating nature and technology to create a resilient design solution.
4.
Make Things Right
This phase is where sustainability truly comes to life. “Make things right” is more than just fixing mistakes, it's about aligning your design with ethical, environmental, and future-ready principles.
What it means in a green building context:
Right Materials: Choose materials that are locally sourced, non-toxic, recyclable, and low in embodied carbon. Think bamboo, recycled steel, or FSC-certified wood.
Right Systems: Design mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems that reduce resource consumption. Install solar panels, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
Right Strategies: Incorporate green strategies like biophilic design (connecting people with nature), green roofs, rain gardens, and water reuse systems. Use passive solar design to maximize energy savings.
Right Behavior: Encourage sustainability through user-friendly, intuitive design. Clear signage for waste sorting, operable windows for natural ventilation, and visible green features create awareness and foster long-term sustainable habits.
This is the stage where architects collaborate with sustainability consultants, engineers, and even end-users to ensure that the design performs not just today, but over decades. Certifications like LEED, BERDE (Philippines), or WELL can guide the process and act as benchmarks for success.
5. Finalize Your Design Concept
With all aspects aligned - goals, options, and sustainability features, it’s now time to combine the best elements into a final, cohesive design. This design should not only function well on paper but also excel in real-world applications. At this stage, creating detailed drawings and models will help prepare for construction, ensuring that your vision is both practical and environmentally friendly.
FINAL THOUGHTS
“Making things right” means designing with intention, where beauty meets responsibility, and function meets the future. Designing long lasting green buildings requires a process that transcends trends. However, even with aesthetics in mind, by embedding sustainability into each step, especially when it's time to "make things right", we create architecture that serves people, protects the planet, and enriches the future.
Ar J CASTANEDA
Architect, Sustainable Architecture
Link in account for architectural works.