Reducing waste and helping the environment is a big task for architects. A change to the core principles of how we design and build could be necessary. It would improve residential, public, and commercial architecture. You could even apply it to other projects such as infrastructure.

The classic model

Since the Industrial Revolution, the economic model in the UK has been take, make, and dispose. It is an approach that does not work today. In fact, it is harmful to the environment. It is one of the reasons why 60% of all waste generated here is from building, demolition, and excavating materials.

The big issue is that many buildings were built with no concern for the future. Instead the focus was on the short term needs. It means they can quickly be out of date, especially with the speed of technological development.

A better option would be to design with Circular principles from the start. This economic model works to keep waste and pollution to a minimum. To do this, the goal is to keep resources and materials in use rather than disposing of them. It opens new opportunities and helps the ecology.

Main principles

There are a number of things you can do here, whether it is commercial architecture, homes, or other structures. Let’s explore some of them.

Reusing

One of the most wasteful things is demolishing buildings and sending all the material to a landfill. A better option is to reuse as much of what is there as possible. Renovating, adapting, and repurposing materials can all help. Tearing things down should be the very last option.

Use the right materials

Using reclaimed materials where possible is a fantastic idea for the economy and environment. This is especially true if you use ones from your local area. You will need to be more flexible with your design here. You may need to adapt it when you start looking at what resources you can use.

Create a materials bank

Another great idea is to think beyond the current use of the building. When you choose what to use for building and finishing a property, think about future uses. Ideally you want materials that will be reusable in the future. Try to use things that will be easy to take apart and remove.

Design waste out

Whether it is a huge piece of commercial architecture or a single home, projects can involve lots of people. A good strategy is to design the project to minimise waste in every area of the job. The way to do this is ensure everyone communicates effectively. There can then be minor adjustments to make everything easier. It can save materials, energy, time, and reduce the total cost.

Leasing

It can also be a good idea to look at leasing different things instead of building permanent ones. For example, why not lease a lift? This way you can choose a service where the parts can be removed and reused elsewhere when you no longer need it. That is better than a permanent installation that can’t be removed.

Talk to us about commercial architecture and more

At Coffey Architects we know that the right approach and design can make all the difference. There is plenty of room to do it with Circular principles in mind. It can also result in more appreciation for the structure with more people prioritising the environment.

So, if you want to discuss plans for commercial architecture or anything else with us, please get in touch. We would love to help you design a property.