Elements of Sustainable Architecture by Urbano Gutiérrez, Rosa; de la Plaza Hidalgo, Laura;

Short description:

A clear, visual introduction which helps students to develop the skills they need to create aesthetically beautiful and sustainable buildings by applying ecological considerations throughout the design process. 

Long description:

For sustainable architecture to become a reality, the way we design buildings needs to change. Many architects are concerned that sustainable technologies may interfere with a building’s aesthetic appearance, and so these are often ‘added on’ once the design process is complete.

Elements of Sustainable Architecture solves this dilemma by helping students to develop the design skills they need to create sustainable buildings – ensuring that ecological considerations are applied throughout the design process. Restoring the primacy of aesthetics and creativity to sustainable design, the book focuses on strategies that have the greatest impact on building design. It also shows the influence of sustainability considerations on choices about aspects such as composition, form, space, tectonics, materials, colour, textures, proportion and position.

Specifically designed to offer a new way of understanding architecture, the book:

• introduces students to the basic principles and methods of sustainable design;






• features current examples and inspiring case studies to support learning step by step;






• presents information in a visually appealing, intuitive, easy-to-understand way;






• includes over 500 high-quality colour diagrams, drawings, sketches and photographs.

A clear, visual introduction to creating aesthetically beautiful and sustainable buildings, this is essential reading for students in sustainable architecture courses.

"Elements of Sustainable Architecture is essential reading for students and professionals practising architecture in the 21^st century. It spans a wide range of interrelated areas, from landscape to urban management, from air quality to materials. Importantly, too, the ideas and approaches, and their feasibility, are illustrated through examples as well as a series of inspiring case studies. Its practical, comprehensive approach makes this book a major and very welcome contribution to the field."

Stuart Walker, Professor of Design for Sustainability, Lancaster University

Author of Design Realities: creativity, nature and the human spirit

"Elements of Sustainable Architecture provides a fascinating and richly illustrated compendium of 49 ‘elements’ - principles and concepts for sustainable design - to inspire students of architecture. Original diagrams are used to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by themes ranging from climate and urban landscape, to building materials. The case studies included throughout the book, and especially in the final section, provide unique insights, information and images of exemplars from across the globe."

Koen Steemers, Professor of Sustainable Design, University of Cambridge 

"This book is a compelling visual compendium of design concepts allied with practical elements to use in creating sustainable built environments at all scales.  It translates positive ecological cycles into design operations intrinsically related to culture, form and aesthetics– aspects that are often neglected in other environmental handbooks. It is a joy to read, and it should take pride of place in every design studio."

Professor Fionn Stevenson, Chair in Sustainable Design, The University of Sheffield, School of Architecture

Table of Contents:

Introduction.  Part 1: Territorial and Urban Elements.  Introduction to Territorial and Urban Elements.  1. Designing with Climate and Terrain.  2. Designing with Constructed Elements.  3. Designing with Voids.  4. Designing with the Human Factor.  5. Designing with Networks.  6. Designing through Management.  Part 2: Natural Elements.  Introduction to Natural Elements.  7. Designing with Earth.  8. Designing with Living Elements.  9. Designing with Air.  10. Designing with the Sunlight.  11. Designing with Water.  Part 3: Material Elements.  Introduction to Material Elements.  12. Designing with Natural Fibers.  13. Designing with Products Derived from Wood.  14. Designing with Metals.  15. Designing with Stone Materials.  16. Designing with Translucent Materials.  17. Designing with Textile Materials.  Case Studies.  City Council House 2.  Modern Education 
and Training Institute.  Tara House.  Umwelt Arena.  Nest We Grow.  B01 Malmö Ecocity.  Recovery and Transformation of Valdemingómez’s Landfill.  Further Reading.  Index.