Beijing national stadium
ith buildings worldwide contributing to over 30 per cent of global
greenhouse emissions, architects have been quick to think
green. in fact, the industry can trace its green efforts back to
the 1970s, when building designers first began experimenting
with solar panels and recycled materials. A decade later, the
term “green architecture” was coined, and by the 1990s,
environmental rating systems for buildings were introduced.
Today’s green architects have it easier than their predecessors; the
technology has improved, and the world now believes in what they’re
doing. As a result, they’re more relaxed, more confident, and more
inclined to take risks. The 21st Century green building is not only gentler on our
natural environment, it’s also a monument to nature in many ways. Design Space
takes a look at some green architecture trends that may soon find their way to a
building near you.
PlAying WiTh PlAsTiC
A lightweight plastic is about to take the world by storm. invented by the makers of
Teflon, eTFe – a flurocarbon-based polymer – is fast becoming the material of choice
for universities, office buildings, and other landmarks across the uK and europe.
And when Olympic season rolls around this August, the world’s eyes will be on the
Beijing national stadium and the national Aquatics Center (otherwise known as the
“bird’s nest” and the “watercube”), both spectacular displays of what can be achieved
with eTFe.
environmentalists will find it hard to resist what eTFe has to offer – the material can
be melted and reused, is an excellent light transmitter, and is so light (one per cent of
the weight of glass) that it guarantees lower building and transport costs. At the same
time, eTFe is extremely durable – it can extend up to three times its length – although
it is vulnerable to punctures by sharp objects, which is why it usually features on
rooftops. it can also be customised to any shape, size, or colour, giving architects
free rein to work their imaginations. And the best part is, just like with Teflon, nothing
sticks to eTFe, not even dirt. Welcome to the era of the self-cleaning building.
green rOOFs, green WAlls
The concrete jungle of the future may contain more jungle than concrete. Architects are
bringing green back to the city by wrapping rooftops and walls in lush vegetation. These
leafy structures don’t just sit pretty – they help prevent buildings
from gaining or losing too much heat, reduce air pollution and absorb
storm waters, which can cause flooding and other problems such as
erosion and water pollution. Of late, green rooftops have also become a haven
for urban wildlife. For one, the California Academy of sciences is turning acres of
rooftop into a home for the bay checkerspot butterfly, which is facing extinction.
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