One of the biggest challenges for the architecture industry is sustainability. It is a hot topic and one that can influence everything from the choice of materials to design elements. If you are thinking about it for your project, we would love to help. We have some of the top architects London can offer and experience of an array of projects. These include all kinds of sustainable materials.

The philosophy

Most people will know what the sustainable philosophy is. At a basic level it means using materials in a way that does not deplete the stock of resources. The aim is to get an ecological balance.

In a grander sense you can look at many different pillars of sustainability. The first is environmental factors and looks to preserve resources like land, air, minerals, and water for future generations. The second is human, and it focuses on health and wellbeing. Thirdly, is social and how we can sustain society and cultures. Finally is economic, with a focus on improving growth in the economy and improvements in quality of life.

Think local

An interesting thing about sustainable materials is that they can actually change depending on the local area. We all know that wood is a great choice because we can grow trees to replace any that are lost. However, it is more than just choosing any old timber. It is a good idea to think local. What timbers can you find in the local area? Using them is better than buying a timber from elsewhere and then having to ship it. The emissions from transporting it can make it less sustainable than you hope.

Using local materials is also more sustainable for social and economic reasons. Often materials can become a vital part of the character of an area. Using them in projects can mean the new buildings fit in and celebrate this. Economically, it is better to buy from local producers who will keep the money in the local economy.

Talk materials with top architects in London

At Coffey we look at all the connotations that come with choosing materials. We try to choose the most sustainable options, making sure we consider the area and all of the factors that make things sustainable. We can go one step further too and design buildings that fit into the landscapes.

So, if you have a project in mind, whether it is a family home or any kind of commercial or public space, we would love to help. You can rely on us to provide all of the advice you would expect from some of the top architects London has to offer. Then, you can look forward to receiving all the support you need.