RESEARCH FOUNDATION
IMPACT
Envoce recognizes that architecture has a significant impact on the environment and ecology in several ways. Buildings are responsible for a large proportion of energy consumption worldwide. The design, construction, and operation impact both energy consumption and carbon emissions, as well as the use of natural resources such as water. The selection of building materials is of high importance, as it affects the use of natural resources, energy consumption, and carbon emissions. The use of sustainable materials and construction methods can help to minimize the impact of architecture on the environment.
Buildings and urban development influence biodiversity, as they fragment habitats, reduce green space, and disrupt ecosystems. Designs should therefore consider solutions that can provide habitat for wildlife. Water resources is another building aspect to consider, including the use of water for cooling and other purposes, as well as stormwater runoff. With features such as rainwater harvesting and permeable surfaces, we can help to manage water resources more sustainably.
Buildings also generate a significant amount of waste, including construction waste and operational waste. Incorporating recycling facilities and composting systems helps reduce waste and promote more sustainable waste management practices. Architects and designers have an important role to play in promoting sustainable building practices and minimizing the impact of buildings on the environment.
MATERIALITY
One of the biggest impacts sustainable architectural practices can achieve is through a responsible selection of materials. Many traditional building materials generate very high carbon emissions, something we know has a detrimental effect on our environment. Because of that, we at envoce strive to always use the most sustainable options through a life cycle perspective. This means that manufacturing, transportation, and end of life process is all taken into account when selecting between different options.
There are a multitude of materials that can be used over the most typical materials such as concrete and steel which both have very high carbon emissions. Some alternatives include cross-laminated timber which, in addition to having a broad application, can absorb carbon dioxide generated from other building components. Rammed earth is a traditional building material made from soil, sand, and other natural materials that can be used as structural walls, and can even use excavated masses in some cases. It also has great thermal mass properties which helps regulate indoor temperatures. Another sustainable material option is mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. These can be grown into strong, lightweight building materials, and is a biodegradable, non-toxic alternative for insulation.Also, reusing materials from dismantled buildings is always to prefer over sourcing new materials.
Using sustainable building materials in construction can have several positive impacts, such as reducing the carbon footprint of a building, improving energy efficiency, and improving indoor air quality. Sustainable materials are often more durable, require less maintenance, and can contribute to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. Additionally, these materials can help to promote a more sustainable building industry by reducing waste, preserving natural resources, and supporting local economies.
DISCLAIMER
This website and firm is a speculative project by SCI-Arc B.Arch student Ida Adervall. The practice does not exist beyond the school project.