August 2012 in our architectural practice
For Reid Brewin Architects environmental responsibility is more than a concept, it is a voluntary process of quality management applied to environmental design projects. As part of a proposed restructuring for the headquarters of a major corporation RBA developed an innovative environmentally responsible design.
Environmental diagnosis of the architectural design
Early in the project the Reid Brewin Architectes team conducted an environmental diagnosis of existing site as part of the sustainable development approach. This preliminary analysis allowed us to identify key environmental issues and also to manage the orientation of buildings, circulation planning, energy consumption, the indoor air quality, and acoustic comfort. This led us to develop an architectural brief providing a high quality solution in accordance with the client’s goals and expectations for the refurbishment project.
A responsible approach to green design
As part of the refurbishment project RB-Architectes worked to develop an architectural concept based on a balance between economic, social and environmental factors. Our team developed a scheme to improve the design of the building while minimizing its environmental impact. The concept aims to fit harmoniously into its environment; it maximizes the efficiency of resource use (energy, water and construction materials).
Sunlight Tracking and Energy Management
Whether undertaking the construction or refurbishment of buildings, the practice’s approach is to integrate green design criteria into the project and promote good practice to improve the quality of building performance. For this project, RB-Architectes have completed an extensive study of the sun path thanks to Revit. By simulating the natural light at different times of the day, we were able to optimize the architectural design to make best use of it and achieve energy savings.
Passive Ventilation
In order to significantly improve the environmental impact of the building in terms of air conditioning, our studies led us to design a project promoting passive ventilation. By developing an atrium at the heart of the building and equipping its roof with sloping vents we were able to make the most of the natural air circulation throughout the building.
