Building with Sustainability in Mind

These days, clients are often looking for green and eco-friendly solutions and alternatives. Using green alternatives or green certified products can go a long way when it comes to building with sustainability in mind.

What does sustainable building mean?

Sustainable building, or green building, can be best defined as a structure having the least, if not minimal, impact on the environment and its surroundings in comparison to other similar structures. This means that architects and contractors alike look to design and build a structure which would most likely preserve and compliment the present environment. For example, rather than have a cement structure that pollutes or uses non-sustainable materials – the architect and contractor look at creating a structure that allows for natural light that is not invasive to the surroundings.

It is not only the structure that is considered when it comes to sustainable building, but the materials as well. This isn’t always easy and contractors understand that – at times it can be hard to take a project that was not built with sustainability in mind and turn it green. However, taking small steps to determine areas which aren’t sustainable, and looking to green alternatives is a step in the right direction. Is it feasible and practical to say that using green products is enough? Unfortunately, no – the ideal situation and scenario is creating a project from the ground up that is sustainable and timeless.

Why build with sustainability in mind?

What is the importance of building with sustainability in mind? For centuries, architects and builders alike never really thought about green building before – simple. When the time is taken to create an architectural masterpiece that respects both the environment and the skyline, it means having a building that is timeless and does not negatively affect the pre-existing environment and surroundings. A sustainable building will also benefit from having a longer life than most architectural structures, as they are built and thought-out with the utmost quality designs and materials.

Will it cost more? Yes – however, it is a small price to pay for long-term results and advantages. Choosing materials that are made with renewable resources, which are biodegradable and more importantly use non-toxic coated materials makes a huge difference but more importantly contribute to the sustainability of a building.

Sustainability in Four

The best way to understand sustainability and its impact on building design, Best Access looks at five ways they make a difference to the skyline of any cityscape.

Usefulness is best defined as a building that will remain useful throughout time. For some buildings, when they are built they are created with the sole purpose of meeting the demands and requirements of the client at the time. However, sometimes, the business can change or the company chooses to relocate or even expand – this means that the structure is either sold-off or abandoned. Imagine, an abandoned fire-hall that has been converted into an art gallery or an apartment, this is a prime example of usefulness for a building. A building that is multi-faceted means that regardless of whoever the occupant is – whether it is commercial or residential— the building meets their needs.

Permanence is a structure that, regardless of when it was erected, still manages to demonstrate its skyline power and appeal. Whether it’s modern, classical or abstract – a building built with sustainability in mind will demonstrate permanence.

Authenticity when a building is designed to serve its purpose that means it has met its sense of place in its surroundings. A church that is built for acting as a church and not an office or a business has met its requirements. However, if a building is designed and its purpose is nothing like what it represents, then its sense of purpose is missing, and it becomes dysfunctional. This isn’t to say a building must be solely designed with just one purpose; however, a building that is flexible in style and use makes it last and makes it timeless.

Sense of Place a building that completes a city landscape, or rather seems incomplete without a building, means that it has a sense of place. The structure compliments the environment and works within its surrounding. A building that is airy and allows for natural light respects the surrounding towers. For some architects and designers, building a structure that has a sense of place and is sustainable will often contribute or pay homage to the history of the area. Whether it be the materials or the overall architectural structural, a building that can meet a sense of place with sustainability is timeless and, in a way, elegantly memorable.

In today's evolving world, embracing sustainability has become increasingly important for designers and contractors. Whether you're already committed to sustainable practices or looking to integrate them into your projects, even small steps can have a significant impact. Fortunately, with advancements in technology, abundant resources are now readily accessible, making it easier than ever to implement sustainable solutions in projects of all scales.

At Best Access Doors, we understand the significance of sustainability, and we are dedicated to supporting your efforts to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for your upcoming project. Our comprehensive range of products, including access panels, is designed to align with sustainable principles and contribute to your project's LEED status. Moreover, we offer exceptional client services staffed by knowledgeable professionals who are ready to assist you, whether it's through online channels or phone consultations.

By partnering with Best Access Doors, you can access the expertise and resources needed to enhance the sustainability of your projects while achieving your desired goals. Together, we can make a positive difference and drive meaningful change towards a more environmentally conscious future.