How can you learn to design environmentally friendly buildings?

1 Learn the principles

The first step is to understand the basic principles and concepts of environmental design, such as passive solar design, bioclimatic architecture, green roofs, natural ventilation, daylighting, rainwater harvesting, and energy efficiency. You can learn these principles from books, online courses, podcasts, or webinars that cover the fundamentals of environmental design. You can also look for examples of environmentally friendly buildings in your area or online and analyze how they apply the principles in practice.

2 Get hands-on experience

The second step is to get some hands-on experience in designing or building environmentally friendly structures. You can join a local community project, volunteer for a non-profit organization, participate in a workshop, or enroll in a certificate or diploma program that offers practical training in environmental design. You can also use software tools, such as SketchUp, Revit, or Ecotect, to create and test your own designs and simulations. By getting hands-on experience, you can develop your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in environmental design.

3 Seek feedback and guidance

The third step is to seek feedback and guidance from experts, peers, or mentors in environmental design. You can join online forums, groups, or networks that connect environmental designers and enthusiasts from different backgrounds and locations. You can also attend events, conferences, or seminars that showcase the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in environmental design. By seeking feedback and guidance, you can learn from others' experiences, insights, and advice, as well as expand your network and opportunities in environmental design.

4 Keep updated and inspired

The fourth step is to keep updated and inspired by the developments and challenges in environmental design. You can follow blogs, podcasts, magazines, or newsletters that feature the latest news, research, and projects in environmental design. You can also explore different styles, cultures, and contexts of environmental design, such as vernacular architecture, biophilic design, or urban regeneration. By keeping updated and inspired, you can broaden your perspective, knowledge, and curiosity in environmental design.

5 Apply your learning

The fifth step is to apply your learning in your own projects, whether personal or professional. You can start with small-scale or low-cost interventions, such as improving the insulation, lighting, or ventilation of your home or office. You can also look for opportunities to collaborate with other environmental designers, clients, or stakeholders on larger or more complex projects, such as designing a community center, a school, or a hotel. By applying your learning, you can demonstrate your competence, creativity, and commitment in environmental design.

6 Reflect and improve

The sixth step is to reflect and improve on your learning and performance in environmental design. You can evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, identify your goals and challenges, and seek feedback and support from others. You can also review your portfolio, update your resume, or showcase your work online or offline. By reflecting and improving, you can enhance your confidence, skills, and portfolio in environmental design.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?