Sustainable commercial design is the practice of creating spaces that are environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable. It aims to reduce the negative impacts of buildings on the natural resources, human health, and climate change. But how do you learn sustainable commercial design? Here are some tips to help you develop your skills and knowledge in this field.
Learning sustainable commercial design begins with understanding the basic principles and concepts that drive this approach. These principles include reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through renewable sources, efficient lighting, and passive design strategies; conserving water and preventing pollution with low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and green roofs; improving indoor environmental quality and occupant wellbeing with natural materials, enhanced ventilation, and biophilic elements; minimizing waste and promoting circular economy through reusing, recycling, and repurposing materials, furniture, and equipment; and respecting the local context and culture through adaptation to the site conditions, climate, and history.
The most basic principles and concepts of sustainable commercial design are the same of sustainable design and they are most basic than strategies mentioned. Environment-social-economy relationships, global warming, finite resources... ... ...
The second step to learn sustainable commercial design is to familiarize yourself with the standards and certifications that measure and verify the performance and impact of green buildings. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a rating system that evaluates buildings based on their sustainability, innovation, and human experience. WELL (Well Building Standard) is a certification that focuses on how buildings affect the health and wellness of the people who use them. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a framework that assesses buildings on their environmental, social, and economic aspects. Lastly, the Living Building Challenge is a vision that challenges buildings to be regenerative, resilient, and equitable.
Others certification programs should be exposed and compared with these mentioned robust standards. Passiv Haus, Edge, Earthship ...
Exploring examples and case studies of successful projects that have implemented sustainable commercial design is the third step in learning this approach. Visiting green buildings, reading books, magazines, blogs, and podcasts that showcase sustainable projects, joining online or offline communities and networks, and attending webinars, workshops, courses, and events are all great ways to do this. These activities can offer insights on best practices and resources for sustainable commercial design while providing learning opportunities for professional development.
The fourth step to learn sustainable commercial design is to apply the skills and knowledge you have acquired to your own projects. To do this, you should conduct a sustainability audit to identify the goals, challenges, and opportunities for your project. Additionally, you should use tools and software that help you design, model, and evaluate your project in terms of energy, water, waste, and indoor environment. Furthermore, it is important to collaborate with other professionals and stakeholders who have expertise and experience in sustainable commercial design. Lastly, seek feedback and improvement from peers, clients, and users who can provide valuable insights and suggestions.
The fifth step to learn sustainable commercial design is to stay informed of the latest trends, innovations, and research. You can do this by subscribing to newsletters, journals, and reports that provide reliable information and data. Additionally, you can follow the leaders, influencers, and organizations that are driving the change in this field. Participating in surveys, polls, and discussions that invite your opinions and perspectives on sustainable commercial design issues and solutions is also beneficial. Moreover, engaging in lifelong learning and continuous improvement by taking new courses, earning new credentials, and joining new projects is essential.
The sixth and final step to learn sustainable commercial design is to enjoy the process and celebrate the outcomes. Doing so can bring a number of benefits, such as creating beautiful, functional, and meaningful spaces; enhancing creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills; boosting reputation, credibility, and competitiveness; and making a difference and inspiring others. All of these are possible through learning and practicing sustainable commercial design.