As the imperative increases to reduce our collective impact on the planet, the demand for more sustainable buildings is growing rapidly.
Today, developers, architects and building owners are seeking cost-effective methods for reducing the embodied and operational carbon of their building projects. And as is so often the way, solutions can be much simpler than we think — and sitting right under our noses.
Read on as we explore how to lower your carbon footprint without breaking the bank and reveal the powerful mindset shift that will help you better achieve your sustainability goals.
What is the KISS principle and why is it critical to low carbon building design?
The KISS principle stands for ‘Keep It Simple, Stupid’ — it’s a blunt but vivid reminder that less is more. In architectural design, following the KISS principle should not mean creating generic or dull designs. Instead, it’s about focussing on the essential elements, reducing unnecessary complexities and minimising waste. Don’t forget — simple can be beautiful.
A minimalist way of thinking is key to low carbon building because more straightforward designs result in buildings requiring fewer resources and energy, both during construction and throughout their operational life. This in turn lowers carbon emissions.
How to easily apply the KISS principle to your building design:
What elements of our design can we optimise, reduce, swap out, or remove entirely to increase cost-effectiveness and lower carbon?
Three reasons why keeping it simple is the smarter choice for low carbon buildings
1. Less material equals less carbon (and lower cost)
Adopting a ‘less is more’ philosophy helps save you money by reducing the materials needed for construction — but it also lowers a building’s embodied carbon. Here are some practical ways to implement this thinking:
Opt for minimalist design: Buildings that are designed with clean and simple lines and make efficient use of space reduce the cost of building and raw materials while achieving an appealing modern look.
Choose sustainable materials: When selecting materials, if you can, opt for lower-impact materials such as reclaimed or FSC Certified timber, and recycled concrete/steel. Where possible, remove redundant elements from the construction, such as dwangs — doing this can lower costs and carbon while increasing thermal performance.
2. Form factor: Embrace small and keep it simple
Your building’s size and shape both make big impacts on its performance and carbon usage.
Size matters Compact designs with efficient form factors make it easier to maximise your use of space, while also being cheaper to heat, cool and maintain. At Team Green Architects, you’ll often hear us talk about 'happy minimums', or 'putting the design on a diet'. This is our way of designing spaces that tick all the boxes — because they feel great, and being smaller means less material, which is better for the planet and your pocket.
Shape or form matters: A simpler design typically translates not only to a faster build, but also fewer waste materials that must be disposed of. A simpler design also minimises heat loss, reducing both operational costs and the life-time carbon impacts of your building.
3. Optimise Orientation
Picking a site which has great access to sun, then ensuring a well thought out orientation should maximise natural light, and the free energy available from the sun. A design that complements the orientation will also reduce the risk of overheating and reduce your building's reliance on air con which is often a significant contributor to operational carbon.
Conclusion
Simplifying your design will help you reduce upfront costs, but it also frees up budget which you can use to maximise the long-term potential of your investment. Extra budget could be put towards things like higher quality windows, more insulation, solar panels, and other long-lasting enhancements.
Lower build costs also provide greater financial flexibility, meaning you can invest in upgrading your building’s operational performance, such as by investing in a smart energy management system. These systems create long-term energy savings and improve tenant satisfaction, both of which boost your ROI.
Seeking a low carbon design specialist?
Team Green Architects specialise in the delicate art of balancing cost, beautiful design and sustainability. Our low carbon consulting service is made to help developers, architects and owners navigate these challenges, uncover hidden value, and achieve a low carbon build without compromise. Enquire now to learn how our expertise can enhance your project.
