Eco-Architecture Design Tips

Design to Keep In Mind During Commercial and Residential Real Estate in Irvine

The architectural industry coming out of COVID-19 will undoubtedly never be the same. Regardless of the human impact the virus has had, this global phenomenon has in more ways than one become a mirror for humanity to collectively look at our daily routines, environmental impact, and carbon footprint on the whole. Our use of resources, our building practices, the foods we eat, the number of throwaway plastics we use every day, even our transportation. All of these considerations are now scrutinized under the environmental microscope of today’s global climate. This will ultimately alter the way in which we choose to build and design architecture, forever.

In a US state as environmentally aware as California, it has become common practice and necessity even, to go into a design process with utmost intention and regard for the environment. When initiating your architectural project in Irvine, California- be it residential or commercial- there are a few key considerations that must be taken into account before the heavy machinery arrives on site. We will examine these steps, including eco-design concepts such as directional positioning, alternative energy sources, and sustainable materials. Achieving an entirely off-the-grid structure is not exactly the first inclination for most architects and contractors. Yet if we wish to further develop our environmental awareness and contribution as a country then we need to be building innovative, environmentally intelligent structures that are not only built to last but also built to sustain.

Directional Positioning

In order to achieve a structure that is energy-efficient, cost-effective, and works with a natural environment, directional positioning is a necessity that needs to be taken into account. This refers to the positioning of the structure to effectively utilize and take advantage of wonderful natural daytime light brought in by large windows, that will provide not just visible light, but sustained temperature regulation throughout the building during all hours of the day. South Facing Windows in the northern hemisphere that face the sun obtain a maximum solar gain, while in the southern hemisphere, the windows should be designed to face the north in order to maximize solar gain. This intelligent design dramatically reduces heating and cooling costs, saving you money, and reducing the need for carbon-heavy HVAC systems. This concept is called Passive Solar Heating and Cooling, and it is widely adopted by architects and builders throughout the world today. To further your gains while designing with this concept, you can maximize light spread by installing glass wall partitions and sliding glass room dividers in order to transfer heat and light all the way through the house. Fantastic for home offices, frosted glass office walls, and glass office partition panels let in beautiful natural light, and create a warm, pleasant sanctuary perfect for concentrating and enjoying productive at-home workdays.

Alternative Energy Sources

When setting out to design your dream home or commercial building in Irvine, take note of the year-round great weather that affords you amazing eco upgrades that other states with less sunlight miss out on. Irvine is the ideal location for installing rooftop solar panels, as there is plenty of available daytime sunshine, and a wealth of wonderful solar companies to choose from. Switching to solar is not only an environmentally conscious decision, but a savvy financial move as well. Many don’t realize that when you install solar, you don’t just benefit from being off the grid and financially free from the heavy price of annual electricity, but you can also sell your energy back to the electric companies for them to use. Additionally, you can effectively generate your own home-made electricity using small-scale wind turbines. Installing a typical residential wind turbine system in an exposed site in a coastal city like Irvine can easily generate more power than your lights and electrical appliances use. Lastly, though this alternative energy source is very site-specific, you can use hydropower to generate enough electricity to power your home appliances and electronics. Your home or commercial building would need to be located within close proximity to a flower river, stream, or canal in order for this to work. However, the great thing about hydropower is that you don’t have to worry about rainy days or partial sunlight detracting from your ability to store energy, as compared with solar panels.

Sustainable Materials

Sustainable materials when ethically sourced, are the future of building. Materials such as hemp, bamboo, glass, repurposed wood and plastics, cork, recycled paper and fibers are all considered extremely sustainable, environmentally friendly materials. Using real glass for sliding room dividers or wall partitions rather than acrylic or plexiglass is a more sustainable option, as it is longer lasting, it can be recycled later down the road, and it is easier to clean and maintain.

With all of these wonderfully cost-effective, innovative, and green considerations, you’ll enjoy a novel sense of awareness when designing your ideal home or commercial business in Irvine, California. For more inspiration and space optimizing solutions, don’t hesitate to check out the best glass office wall partitions, sliding glass closet doors, sliding room dividers and accessories offered at The Sliding Door Company. Visit Us Online to browse our online viewing catalog and Enjoy A Free Consultation from one of our team members to actualize your vision today!

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