SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PROCESS MADE TO LAST – Making Things Right

 

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.

Linktree account for artworks.

REFERENCE DISCLAIMER:

Article contents are all based on the combination of the author's education and work experiences. The author as a professional architect made a diversification to the standard procedures he was performing at work, applied it and found effective and brought success throughout his entire career. He is sharing this as an example and not a standard procedure. 

Photo Attributions:

All photos courtesy of Pixabay.com

SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE DESIGN, exploring its role in Green Building

 

In an era when climate change and environmental degradation loom as urgent global challenges, the field of landscape design within architecture has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved beyond the mere creation of beautiful outdoor spaces, becoming a vital force in championing sustainability, minimizing environmental impact, and navigating the complexities of a changing climate. This article delves into how these critical issues shape modern landscape architecture, showcasing inspiring examples from around the world that illuminate the path toward a greener future.

OBJECTIVE:

I believe that green architecture extends far beyond the realm of green buildings; it embraces the art of landscape design as well. This vital aspect of green architecture introduces features like lush green roofs and vibrant vertical gardens into urban environments, effectively reducing energy demands while alleviating the heat island effect. In a world increasingly shaped by sustainability, environmental consciousness, and the pressing realities of climate change, landscape design has evolved from simple beautification into an essential mechanism for climate adaptation, biodiversity enhancement, and regenerative urbanism. The goal of this article is to deepen your understanding of landscape design and its significance. Viewed through the lens of sustainable architecture, landscape design becomes a dynamic, living infrastructure that harmoniously benefits both people and the planet, fostering a more sustainable and vibrant future for all.

The Role of Sustainability in Landscape Design

Sustainability in landscape design focuses on creating environments that work with nature rather than against it. Designers today aim to:

• Reduce resource consumption through the use of native, drought-tolerant, and climate-adapted plants that require minimal water and maintenance.

• Support biodiversity by restoring habitats, using pollinator-friendly species, and creating green corridors for wildlife.

• Promote soil health and regeneration by minimizing grading, retaining existing vegetation where possible, and incorporating organic mulches and compost.

Sustainable landscape design also integrates renewable energy and water-saving technologies — think solar-powered lighting, rainwater harvesting systems, and permeable pavements that recharge groundwater.

Responding to Climate Change: Resilience and Adaptation

Climate change has brought about more frequent floods, heatwaves, and unpredictable weather patterns. Landscape architects are responding by designing spaces that:

• Mitigate flooding through natural drainage solutions like bioswales, rain gardens, and wetlands restoration.

• Cool urban areas with shade-providing trees, green roofs, and reflective paving materials that help combat the urban heat island effect.

• Anticipate shifting climate zones by choosing plant species that are adaptable to changing temperature and rainfall patterns.

These resilient landscapes not only protect buildings and communities but also provide essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and air purification.

Minimizing Environmental Impact Through Thoughtful Design

The environmental impact of landscape construction and maintenance is under greater scrutiny. As a result, designers are making conscious choices to:

• Use locally sourced, low-carbon, and recycled materials for hardscape elements like pathways, walls, and decking.

• Reduce the carbon footprint of construction by minimizing site disturbance and machinery use.

• Design with long-term ecological health in mind, creating spaces that age gracefully and require minimal inputs over time.

Sustainably designed landscapes are part of a circular economy approach — they aim to regenerate, not deplete, natural resources.

Case Studies: Exemplary Sustainable Landscape Designs

Here are some outstanding examples where landscape design addresses sustainability, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship:

The High Line, New York, USA

• The High Line, New York, USA
  A linear park built on a former elevated rail line, the High Line features native plantings, permeable surfaces, and adaptive reuse of industrial materials. It provides green space in a dense urban setting while supporting biodiversity.

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

• Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
  An iconic example of blending technology with nature, this landscape uses massive “Supertrees” that collect rainwater, generate solar power, and act as vertical gardens. The design also integrates cooled conservatories that minimize energy use.

• Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park, New York, USA
  Designed for flood resilience, this park features salt-tolerant plants, elevated walkways, and a resilient edge to buffer storm surges — all while providing community recreational spaces.

• Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, UK
  Redeveloped from industrial land, this park incorporates wetlands, meadows, and woodlands that enhance biodiversity, manage stormwater, and provide a lasting legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games.

Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney, Australia

• Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney, Australia
  A former container terminal transformed into a headland park that restores native vegetation, protects against sea level rise, and reconnects the city with its natural shoreline.

FINAL THOUGHTS

In a world grappling with climate change and environmental challenges, landscape design has become an essential force for cultivating vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities. By harmoniously merging ecological principles with artistic vision, landscape architects are crafting spaces that are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also fundamentally safeguarding the health of our planet for generations to come.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

The High Line, New York, USA

Ron Cogswell from Arlington, Virginia, USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

<ahref="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Supertree_Grove,_Gardens_by_the_Bay,_Singapore1.jpg">Mustang Joe</a>, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / “Singapore (SG), Gardens By The Bay -- 2019 -- 4468” / CC BY-SA 4.0For print products: Dietmar Rabich / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Singapore_(SG),_Gardens_By_The_Bay_--_2019_--_4468.jpg / https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney, Australia

Rob Deutscher, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

EXPLORING GREEN BUILDING COUNCILS AROUND THE WORLD

 

As climate change and environmental degradation threaten our planet, embracing sustainable building practices has never been more urgent. Green Building Councils (GBCs) across the globe are championing this cause by promoting eco-friendly construction through innovative rating systems, certifications, and advocacy. These organizations are instrumental in driving the creation of buildings that not only conserve energy and resources but also enhance the health and well-being of their occupants. While numerous countries have established their own councils, it is vital to shine a spotlight on the inspiring initiatives in the Philippines—a country uniquely positioned to confront climate risks while also seizing the vast opportunities for green growth. Together, we can pave the way for a sustainable future.

OBJECTIVE

In my previous blog articles, I have consistently shared my hands-on experiences with industrial projects, including solutions for regulating carbon emissions from manufacturing plant boilers, modifying sewage systems for efficient tallow fat collection, and ensuring the proper maintenance of wastewater treatment plants. At that time, concepts like "sustainability" and "sustainable architecture" were absent from technical discussions. It wasn't until five to ten years later, while working abroad, that I began to encounter these terms. I distinctly recall my time in Singapore when I first met third-party inspectors from ISO, LEED, and similar organizations. The sheer volume of paperwork they required felt overwhelming and intrusive, momentarily interrupting my workflow on-site. I even thought it was a burdensome distraction. However, over the course of my career, I came to understand the profound importance of sustainability in the building and construction industry. This realization prompted me to delve deeper into sustainable architecture, leading me to pursue certification. Now, I'm excited to share this valuable knowledge and my work experiences with my followers, emphasizing the vital role sustainability plays in our field.

Below is a curated list of notable Green Building Councils and systems globally, with a special focus on how the Philippines is making strides in sustainable architecture and development.

1. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) – United States

One of the most widely recognized green building rating systems globally, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), was established by USGBC in 1993. LEED provides certification serving over 180 countries for various building types, including new construction, interiors, homes, and neighborhoods. It emphasizes energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site development.

Website: https://www.usgbc.org/

2. Building Research Establishment (BRE) – United Kingdom

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment method (BREEAM) is the world’s first sustainability assessment method for buildings. It evaluates performance in energy, health and wellbeing, land use, pollution, transport, and waste, among others. BREEAM was launched by Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the United Kingdom, an organization which was established as early as 1921. BREEAM is widely used in Europe and other international markets.

According to Wikipedia: “BRE is a former UK government national laboratory that was privatised in 1997. BRE provides research, advice, training, testing, certification and standards for both public and private sector organisations in the UK and abroad.”

Website: https://bregroup.com/

3. Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) – Australia

Established in 2002, GBCA, which originated in Australi,a created the Green Star, a comprehensive sustainability rating system for buildings, fitouts, and communities. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of development while promoting economic and social benefits. Serves primarily in Australia, but also serves a a model for other regions.

Website: https://www.gbca.au/

4. Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) – Canada

While CaGBC administers LEED Canada, it also offers the Zero Carbon Building Standard, which focuses on minimizing greenhouse gas emissions across a building’s lifecycle. CaGBC was established and operated in Canada in the year 2002.

Website: https://www.cagbc.org/

5. Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI) – Indonesia

Established in 2009, GBCI created Greenship, Indonesia's own green rating tool, tailored to local environmental, economic, and cultural conditions. It promotes energy efficiency, water conservation, and material sustainability. Greenship is a National system, but also with regional influence.

Website: https://gbcindonesia.org/

6. Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) – India

A part of the Confederation of Indian Industry, IGBC has developed rating systems to address the unique needs of Indian architecture and urban environments. IGBC Rating Systems (including homes, schools, and existing buildings). IGBC was established on 2001 in India with influence primarily in India.

Website: https://igbc.in/

7. Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) – Philippines

• The Philippine Green Building Council developed the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) system in response to the country’s need for localized, climate-responsive green building criteria. BERDE evaluates environmental performance in energy and water efficiency, waste management, indoor air quality, and sustainable materials. It also supports the national government's efforts to achieve resilient and sustainable communities. PHILGBC was established in the Philippines in 2007. BERDE certification system primarily serves on a national level.

Website: https://www.philgbc.net/

FINAL THOUGHTS

Green Building Councils around the world are revolutionizing the way we design, construct, and manage our sustainable built environments. Aside from the list I provided above, there are still a lot of organizations and assessment systems established worldwide. While global standards like LEED and BREEAM establish high benchmarks, local initiatives such as BERDE in the Philippines showcase the need for solutions tailored to specific contexts. As sustainability becomes a key element of national development strategies, the role of organizations like the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) is increasingly significant. These councils do more than offer benchmarks and certifications; they ignite a transformative cultural shift toward creating greener, healthier, and more resilient spaces for everyone.

Ar. JOEY CASTANEDA

Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

Photo attribution:

Cover Photo (Conference Room) courtesy of https://pixabay.com/

Swayam Course Study Materials (from the course lecture I attended)

BERDE Logo Image CTTO:

https://pinoybuilders.ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BERDE.png

SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES: Building Responsibly from the Ground Up

In the rapidly changing field of architecture, sustainability has evolved from a mere buzzword into a significant responsibility. Sustainable construction practices are the cornerstone of green architecture, seeking not only to minimize environmental impact but also to foster social and economic equity throughout the building process. In this article, we delve into the essential sustainable construction practices, thoughtfully categorized into three pivotal stages: Pre-construction, Construction, and Workforce Facilities. Together, these stages illuminate the path toward a more sustainable future in the field of architecture.

OBJECTIVE

I am not quite convinced that when it comes to the term “construction,” it’s time for the non-techies to leave the conference room. I believe that, the more they should be involved simply for awareness purposes when it comes to construction site safety, wearing PPEs, learning the signs and danger zones, not to mention the environmental impact. As usual, I am sharing information based on my education and work experiences. I remember decades ago, I was assigned as the site safety officer while working on a project somewhere in Southeast Asia. I just thought that somehow, it would help me encourage techies and non-techies to be mindful not only in terms of sustainability and safety, or dust and noise, but also waste management, all of which are very crucial in the construction field. If we work hand-in-hand, we will be able to reach the zero-accident and zero-waste goal and create a safe and healthy, sustainable environment on-site.

1. Pre-construction: Laying a Responsible Foundation

Sustainability begins before the first brick is laid. Proper planning and thoughtful site preparation are crucial to minimizing ecological disruption.

- Preparation of Construction Management Plan

A Construction Management Plan (CMP) is the blueprint for executing sustainable practices on site. It outlines methods to minimize environmental impact, optimize resource use, and ensure workers’ welfare.

A well-developed CMP addresses aspects such as:

• Material delivery and storage strategies

• Traffic and logistics to reduce neighborhood disruption

• Noise and dust control procedures

• Waste segregation and disposal plans

• Emergency protocols for unforeseen events

By formalizing sustainability goals within the CMP, construction teams can ensure consistent and measurable implementation of its principles and policies throughout the project.

- Site Barricading

Securing the construction site first and foremost with appropriate barricades helps control access and protect the surrounding environment. Barricades prevent unintentional damage to adjacent natural features and reduce dust dispersion. For instance, fencing around preserved trees and water bodies ensures that they remain untouched during the entire construction phase.

- Topsoil Preservation

Topsoil is very rich in organic matter and nutrients essential for vegetation. Rather than discarding it, sustainable construction mandates careful removal, storage, and reuse for landscaping or garden areas post-construction. However, they can even be used temporarily during the construction period for the workers and families to produce on-site for their own consumption. This practice not only saves resources but also helps restore ecological balance.

- Protecting Existing Site Features and Trees

Wherever possible, existing site features such as old trees, natural rock formations, or streams should be preserved. Redesigning layouts to accommodate nature or creating protective zones around trees to prevent root damage is a good professional practice. Preserving these elements maintains biodiversity and adds aesthetic and environmental value to the final structure.

2. During Construction: Minimizing Impact in Real Time

The construction phase has the highest potential for environmental disruption. However, with the right strategies, its impact can be significantly mitigated.

- Dust Suppression Measures

Construction activities generate airborne dust, which can harm respiratory health and damage nearby vegetation. Regularly sprinkling water on access roads, installing dust nets, and limiting the movement of uncovered materials are effective ways to control dust levels.

- Noise Control

Prolonged construction noise affects nearby communities and wildlife. Using low-noise machinery, scheduling noisy operations during daytime hours, and installing acoustic barriers can drastically reduce this impact. Secure proper PPE for the noise protection of workers.

- Material Movement and Management

Efficient handling of construction materials may reduce emissions, wastage, and unnecessary costs. Using local and prefabricated materials minimizes transportation, thus regulating carbon footprints. Organizing centralized storage areas ensures materials are handled fewer times and less space is disturbed.

- Stormwater Management

Rainfall runoff from construction sites can carry pollutants into local waterways. Temporary measures like sediment traps, retention ponds, and permeable surfaces help manage stormwater and prevent erosion and water pollution.

- Construction Waste Management

Instead of sending waste to landfills, sustainable construction promotes on-site segregation and recycling. Separate bins for wood, metal, concrete, and plastics, along with partnerships with recycling facilities, ensure responsible disposal and reuse.

- Disaster Risk Mitigation

Sites should be prepared for natural or accidental disasters. Elevated storage, secured scaffolding, and clearly outlined evacuation and response plans safeguard both workers and materials from unpredictable events like floods, earthquakes, or fires.

3. Facilities for Construction Workforce: Supporting the Human Element

True sustainability extends beyond the environment to the people involved. Ensuring the health, safety, and dignity of the construction workforce is an ethical obligation.

- Healthy Conditions for the Construction Workforce

Workers deserve a clean, hygienic, and well-ventilated environment. Providing drinking water stations, shade for breaks, and regular health check-ups ensures their well-being during demanding workdays.

- Safety Measures During Construction

Strict adherence to safety protocols can save lives. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safety training, visible signage, and regular inspections reduce accident risks significantly.

- Provision of Basic Amenities

Basic facilities such as clean toilets, rest areas, and handwashing stations are essential for maintaining hygiene and morale on-site. These amenities reflect respect and dignity for the workforce.

- Health and Education for Workers’ Children

Social sustainability includes caring for workers' families. On-site children’s daycare centers, tie-ups with local schools, and community health centers for children’s needs, to ensure that the workforce can focus on their jobs without compromising their families’ needs.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Building for the Future

Sustainable construction practices transcend mere carbon footprint reduction; they are about nurturing vibrant communities, safeguarding precious ecosystems, and championing equity. By weaving these principles into every phase of construction, we pave the way for a future where architecture beautifully coexists with both people and the planet. For architects, builders, and passionate advocates of sustainable development, remember that every mindful choice made on-site is a step toward leaving a lasting legacy of responsible and inspiring construction. Together, we can create a world where our buildings reflect our commitment to a greener, more equitable future.

Ar. JOEY CASTANEDA

Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

Photo attributions:

All photos courtesy of https://pixabay.com