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 Theories of Sustainable Design

Over time, designers have developed new ways of building that benefit the Earth more. Concepts like the Green Building Rating Systems help make sure buildings are not hurting our environment. This is called Sustainable Design. There are many theories around sustainable design. The first is the natural step. This theory says that to become a more sustainable society, we must eliminate things like taking substances from the earth’s crust, the physical degradation of nature, and undermining people’s capacity to meet their basic needs. Another theory is Ecological Design, which says we should connect the built world and the natural world more. 

Hannover’s Principles discuss more ways to ensure sustainable design. They insist on the rights of humanity and nature to coexist. They recognize interdependence and respect relationships between spirit and matter. They accept responsibility for the consequences of design and instead create safe objects of long-term value. They rely on natural energy flows and eliminate the concept of waste. They understand the limitations of design and want to constantly seek improvement through the sharing of knowledge. These principles should be followed by designers to not only better their designs but also better the world around them. These principles should be followed so that designers can protect the beautiful world we live in. 

Another theory of sustainable design is Biomimicry, which is using design found in nature to solve human problems. Some examples of biomimicry are Velcro and wind turbines. Velcro was inspired by hooks on burrs. The shape of wind turbines was inspired by a humpback whale’s fins to increase efficiency. Both of these examples have greatly benefited society thanks to biomimicry. 

Another theory of Sustainable Design is Permaculture. Permaculture is when you create a local ecosystem that is sustainable. Some examples of this are creating a food forest or harvesting rainwater. Biophilic Design is another form of Sustainable Design. Biophilic Design integrates nature and designs based on nature into interior design. This has become very popular and has benefited Sustainable Design and Interior Design. Biophilic Design is not only good for the environment, but is also good for humans. Scientific studies have shown that including nature in a space helps humans feel more alive and happy. When humans are more connected to the world around them, they have reduced stress and more productivity. 

Product Oversight and Rating Systems

There are First, Second, and Third Party Ratings. The Third Party ratings are the most rigorous review, and it is done by an outside review organization. Second Party certification is where an industry provides its own certification of a product from its own industry. Carpet and Rug Institute is an example of this. They provide ratings for their own products. For each design project, there are different team members with different jobs. These members include the architect, interior designer, engineer, general contractor, owner, specialists, and a LEED Accredited Professional. An LEED Professional has passed the LEED exam, which ensures they are familiar with green building practices and the LEED Rating System. They make sure that the project is achieving Sustainable Design.

Observation on Campus

I observed the Chapel on campus this week. I went there for a few different events, but overall, each event made me feel very content and happy. The first event I observed was a women’s bible study on Sunday night. I felt very spiritually filled and happy at this event. Girls from all different sports, majors, and interests came together to learn more about God. The space felt filled with joy. Girls were all sitting next to each other and talking. The second event I observed was chapel on Monday morning. I went early, and it was so peaceful in the space. Once all of the students started showing up for Chapel, the space felt very full of joy. Friends and teammates were high-fiving and hugging each other as they found their seats for Chapel. Everyone was talking with their friends and connecting with others. Chapel is a place where you get to see friends that you might not have classes with or sports with. It is a place where everyone comes together for one common goal of worshipping the Lord. The Chapel is probably my favorite place on campus. I always feel very happy and grateful to God when I am in that space.