The Philippines has one of the highest electricity rates in the world, making sustainability a necessity in architecture. Architects and builders have been prioritising energy efficiency and sustainability in their designs, using renewable energy sources and sustainable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled steel.
This shift towards sustainable architecture is also reflected in urban infrastructure design, which includes incorporating green spaces into urban areas and designing public transportation systems that are powered by renewable energy.
Technology is also playing a significant role in the modernisation of architecture. Architects are increasingly using advanced 3D modelling software to design and visualise buildings, which allows them to make changes and modifications more easily.
This technology also enables architects to design buildings that are more efficient, both in terms of energy usage and space utilisation. Data analytics and computational design also help to optimise building performance and reduce energy consumption.
Having been an architect for two decades and counting, pivoting to sustainable architecture was a natural process for me, as I have always been conscious of the impact of human activity on the environment.
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As a parent, I became even more aware of the world we are leaving behind for future generations. As an architect, I have a responsibility to design buildings that not only serve the needs of the present but also contribute to a sustainable future.
Why sustainable architecture?
The built environment sector is, unfortunately, one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation, accounting for approximately 40 per cent of annual carbon emissions. Buildings consume a significant amount of energy and resources during construction, operation, and demolition.
It is pertinent to pivot to sustainable architecture because it is essential for mitigating the impact of climate change and protecting our planet. Sustainable architecture focuses on reducing energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, and carbon emissions throughout a building’s life cycle. It involves the use of renewable energy sources, sustainable materials, and green building practices that promote energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant health and well-being.
Starting Ecotecture Design Studio was a way for me to incorporate sustainable design elements into my work and promote environmentally conscious design practices. We aim to create buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but have a positive impact on the environment and the communities they serve. We strive to minimise the use of non-renewable resources, reduce waste generation, and prioritise the use of sustainable materials in all our projects.
Expanding to Singapore with Ecotecture Design Studio is an opportunity to bring our sustainable design expertise to a new market. Being at the forefront of greening buildings in Southeast Asia, Singapore has set ambitious targets to green 80 per cent of all buildings by 2030.
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Our sustainable design practices align with these goals, and we hope to make a positive impact on the built environment sector in Singapore. Hence this was a natural next step for us.
Interspersing modern design with sustainability as the way forward
Sustainable architecture is a critical aspect of modern design, and we strive to create buildings that are not only beautiful but also promote sustainable living. We plan to work closely with the Singaporean government and other stakeholders to promote sustainable architecture in the city-state.
We also plan to continue our efforts in the Philippines by designing and constructing sustainable buildings that have a positive impact on the environment and promote sustainable living.
Looking ahead, the built environment sector is expected to focus increasingly on sustainable architecture as environmental concerns continue to grow. As the global population increases and urbanisation continues, the demand for sustainable buildings will only increase.
With the increasing use of technology in architecture, we can expect to see more efficient buildings with advanced energy systems, building automation, and smart technologies to optimise energy usage and reduce waste.
Overall, sustainability and technology are driving the modernisation of architecture. As the architecture industry continues to evolve, it will be critical to prioritise sustainability and technology in building design and construction to ensure a more sustainable future for all.
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