As the world grapples with climate change and the need for environmental conservation, every industry is being called upon to rethink its practices, pivot, and redefine its strategies for a more sustainable future. The field of architecture is no exception. All over the globe, we’re witnessing the dawn of a green revolution in architecture, marked by sustainable designs, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient structures.
Let’s take a closer look at this transformation, with a particular focus on the UK, a country synonymous with architectural diversity and innovation. Among its cities, Newcastle stands out as a beacon of sustainable practices, making significant strides towards a greener future.
Understanding Sustainable Architecture
Sustainability architects seek to minimize the environmental impact of buildings through efficiency in the use of materials, energy, and development space. It’s a harmonious blend of design, functionality, and sustainability, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the environment and our constructed spaces.
Sustainable architecture principles guide building design and urban planning. They include energy efficiency, reducing waste, improving air and water quality, and making optimal use of the site. Architects employ strategies such as passive solar building design, energy-efficient appliances, water-saving plumbing fixtures, and on-site generation from renewable energy sources.
The Transformative Impact of Sustainable Architecture in the UK
Across the UK, architects and designers are increasingly integrating these principles into their work, signifying a fundamental shift in the approach towards architectural design. From the towering structures of London to the quaint cottages of the Cotswolds, sustainability is making its mark.
In London, for instance, we find the 30 St Mary Axe, or ‘The Gherkin,’ a skyscraper lauded for its energy-efficient design. The tower’s shape reduces the reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning, proving that sustainable design doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics.
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the humble Hemcrete projects in Hertfordshire, which utilise hemp and lime to create a carbon-negative building material. This innovative application highlights the potential for sustainable materials in residential properties.
The Crystal, London
Located in London’s Green Enterprise District, The Crystal, a sustainable cities initiative by Siemens, is one of the most sustainable buildings globally. It’s home to the world’s largest exhibition on the future of cities, as well as one of the most sustainable event venues. The building has achieved Outstanding BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum ratings, the highest certifications for sustainable building design. The Crystal utilises solar power and a ground source heat pump to generate its own energy, demonstrating what is possible in modern, sustainable architectural design.
The Edge, University of Bath
The Edge, the University of Bath’s arts and management building, is a testament to the potential of sustainable design in academic institutions. The building was constructed using sustainably sourced timber and incorporates a range of energy-efficient features, including natural ventilation, high levels of insulation, and an energy-efficient heating system. The Edge offers a green space in more ways than one, as its location overlooking the campus lake also encourages biodiversity.
BedZED, Sutton
The Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) in Sutton, London, is the UK’s largest carbon-neutral eco-community. This innovative residential and workspace development was completed in 2002 but continues to be a prime example of sustainable architecture. BedZED incorporates numerous sustainable features such as solar panels, a combined heat and power plant that runs on waste wood, water-saving fixtures, and a layout that encourages walking and cycling. It represents the perfect blend of architectural innovation and sustainable living, demonstrating what’s achievable in residential developments.
The Green Revolution in Newcastle
While sustainable architecture is transforming the entire UK, Newcastle upon Tyne, a city steeped in history and architectural richness, is showing how to adapt to these modern practices without losing its heritage. The architects in Newcastle are innovating in sustainable architecture, ensuring that the city’s growth also contributes to its environmental responsibility.
Newcastle University’s Urban Sciences Building, an innovation hub dedicated to the study of urban life, is a prime example. It’s a ‘living laboratory’ where emerging energy, infrastructure, and digital technologies are tried and tested, with sustainable features like photovoltaic cells, a green roof, and a rainwater harvesting system.
The Core at Newcastle Helix, one of the first buildings to be completed on the Helix site, is an embodiment of Newcastle’s commitment to sustainability. This seven-story building, primarily designed as a workspace for emerging scientific and technological enterprises, sets a high standard for sustainable design in the region.
The Core is designed to be one of the UK’s most energy-efficient buildings, offering a range of innovative and sustainable features. For instance, it has a wildflower meadow roof that enhances urban biodiversity by attracting various pollinators and helping regulate the building’s temperature.
The building’s heating and cooling system is highly efficient and incorporates a range of innovative approaches. The system uses a heat recovery process to recycle and redistribute warm air, thus reducing energy use and carbon emissions.
To reduce the need for artificial lighting, The Core has an extensive, smartly designed window system that maximizes natural light. Large windows, atriums, and skylights not only ensure sufficient daylight in all working areas but also provide panoramic views of the city, fostering a more enjoyable and productive work environment.
The Core’s design places a strong emphasis on water conservation. It includes features like low-flow fixtures and dual-flush toilets to reduce water use. Moreover, the building has a rainwater harvesting system, which collects rainwater from the roof and uses it for flushing toilets and irrigation, significantly reducing the use of mains water.
Additionally, the building’s design encourages sustainable travel, with ample bike storage, electric car charging stations, and easy access to public transportation.
With these cutting-edge green features, The Core has become a shining example for other architects in Newcastle and the UK at large. It demonstrates that sustainability and functionality can coexist, resulting in structures that are not just eco-friendly but also conducive to fostering innovation and productivity.
Conclusion
The green revolution in architecture is more than a trend – it’s an essential step towards securing our planet’s future. The UK, with its architectural prowess and environmental commitment, is at the forefront of this revolution.
As we have seen, cities like Newcastle are taking bold and innovative strides, setting an example not just for the rest of the country but for the world. The task ahead is challenging, but with every new building that rises, bearing the mark of sustainable architecture, we get one step closer to a greener, more sustainable world.
