**Key Sentences Extracted Based on Importance to a Homeowner Researching Indoor Green Walls:**

1.

Invite nature into your home by creating a verdant "living wall" display.

The most common way to do this is by creating mounted plant displays.

You can take the pots off the shelf for easy watering and care.

A masterpiece is only as good as its upkeep.

The technique used by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd ensures the user does not have to spend much time tending and taking care of the plants.

Use of plants that can survive in a tropical climate.

All three experts were keen on the idea of vertical gardening.

Plus these elements can also add privacy and serve as a focal point in your outdoor space.

The art of garden design is becoming increasingly important as people look to their outdoor areas as a haven from the daily grind.

Before we embark on this journey, remember that cultivating a garden is not just about beauty—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and enhance our well-being.

Some updates can also benefit the mental and physical health of those who occupy the space.

Consider these ideas to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also impart a sense of well-being.

**These sentences highlight the aesthetic, maintenance, and wellness aspects of green walls, the practicality of vertical gardens, ease of care, the need to choose climate-appropriate plants, and the potential mental health benefits.

**Key Sentences Extracted Based on Importance to a Homeowner Researching Indoor Green Walls:**

1.

Title:

Content: Raised Patios, Rooftop Lounges and More: How Homeowners Are Transforming Small Yards In Big Ways

While most homeowners would love a spacious corner lot, the majority aren’t so lucky. Fortunately, limited space doesn’t have to mean limited use when it comes to your yard.

With a little creativity — and some clever use of space — today’s homeowners are transforming their small yards in some pretty big ways.

Do you have a backyard with limited square footage? Here are five ways to expand it and get more use from your yard.

[Building a Backyard Pond: Is It Worth It?]

Second-Floor Decks

Second-floor decks are “one of the most cost-effective” ways to transform a small outdoor area, according to Andrew Brown, a real estate advisor with Keller Williams Next Move Boston. With these, your deck expands off a room on your second floor — often a bedroom, den or game room — and then offers stairs down to the actual yard area.

“This option not only provides homeowners with a private outdoor retreat but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property,” Brown says. “It can incorporate ideas like built-in seating, retractable awnings for shade and vertical gardens that add a touch of greenery without occupying floor space.”

You can also create staggered, multilevel decks that stem from a second or third floor.

“This can give you separate areas for dining, lounging or a fire pit,” says Artem Kropovinsky, founder of interior design firm Arsight in New York.

The cost of building a second-story deck varies widely, but according to HomeAdvisor, the average sits around $4,800 to $6,000 for a 10-foot by 12-foot space, or about $40 to $50 per square foot.

Rooftop Lounges

For homeowners with flat roofs — typically those in more urban settings — expanding to the top of the house may be an option. These rooftop areas can include everything from putting greens, herb gardens and workout areas to entertaining elements like pizza ovens, fire pits and hot tubs.

“For homes equipped to support them, transforming rooftop areas into garden terraces or entertainment spaces offers a unique outdoor living experience,” Brown says. Just be sure to consider marketability and resale value when building yours out, he says. (So don’t include extra-niche features that only you will enjoy.)

Also check with city building codes, as well as your homeowner’s association if you have one, before moving to the roof, as there may be rules dictating how your roof can be utilized.

[15 Cheap DIY Backyard Game Ideas for Summer]

Vertical Gardens

If you’re itching for a lush garden but don’t have the space, think upward — not outward, experts say. Just choose a fence or exterior wall of your home, and build a garden vertically instead.

“Use the space up from above and not from the ground,” Kropovinsky says. “Vertical gardening can make a little backyard into a verdant, space-effective sanctuary.”

As for how these work, it depends on your setup. You may be able to attach plants in individual baskets or planters to the wall directly, or you could install a trellis, wire or shelving system to support your foliage. Stacking upturned concrete blocks or bricks — and housing small plants and succulents within them — is also an option.

“When it comes to plants, the options are nearly endless,” says Joe Raboine, vice president of design at landscaping solutions company Belgard. “You can use green vining plants, edible plants or other colorful blooms.”

Smarter Seating

Everyone wants a place to kick back and relax in the great outdoors, but if you’re short on square footage, traditional patio furniture can be challenging — often taking up much more space than it’s worth.

One alternative here is to add a bench (or several.) You can even have benches installed on a wall or fence and fold out, allowing you to save even more space.

“Bench seating is a great way to create more usable space in a small backyard,” says Jared Blumberg, a real estate agent with Compass Werner Blumberg in New York. “A bench can generally accommodate more people and take up less space than a traditional outdoor chair.”

You can also opt for multipurpose items that function as seats and serve other purposes. Modular ottomans or stools with built-in storage are one option, for example.

[How to Make Your Yard a Pet-Friendly Oasis]

An Extension of Your Home

Last but not least, you can just skip the idea of having a traditional “yard” and have your outdoor space serve more of an extension of your home — like an extra room, almost. You can dedicate it to entertaining, dining or even playing a sport, experts say.

“At some point, a backyard becomes too small to really function as a proper yard,” says Rafi Friedman, chief executive officer at Coastal Luxury Interiors in Florida. “In these cases, you can often get the most value out of these spaces if you completely finish them into something else.”

This might mean turning your yard into a full-size swimming pool or pickleball court, or paving the lawn and adding a large table and chairs for al fresco dining.

And if you’re looking to become the new go-to spot among your neighbors, Friedman says, “Outdoor kitchens, bars and fire pits can be great ways to turn your small yard into a low-maintenance social gathering space.”

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Raised Patios, Rooftop Lounges and More: How Homeowners Are Transforming Small Yards In Big Ways originally appeared on usnews.com

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Invite nature into your home by creating a verdant "living wall" display.

Title:

Content: Invite nature into your home by creating a verdant "living wall" display

Humans need plants to survive.

We eat them, drink them, use them as medicine, and even decorate with them in order to bring joy to our daily lives.

Once you start caring for a couple of houseplants, it's easy to spiral into an obsession with our magnificent, leafy friends. If your collection of 20-plus houseplants isn't enough to satiate your need for greenery in your home anymore, why not take it to the next level with a full-blown living wall?

Living walls, or vertical gardens as they're sometimes called, are made up of an array of live plants that are planted vertically and can range in size from just a few square feet to entire walls in large atrium spaces.

However, larger installations can cost upwards of $125-$225 per square foot of wall and aren't exactly feasible for renters or homeowners who are on a strict budget or have limited space.

While you can certainly contract a company to install a living wall in your home, there are also local and handcrafted options to consider depending on your budget, your lifestyle and what look you're going for.

click to enlarge
Chiana McInelly photo
Dominic Villareal in front of A Modern Plantsman's living wall display.

Dominic Villareal, the owner of A Modern Plantsman, weighed his own options when expanding his Colfax plant store to downtown Spokane in late 2021.

"My partner and I were scoping out the local plant scene, and we noticed immediately that there was a lack of living wall installations in Spokane," he says. "There are no plant stores or nurseries in the area that have one."

When Villareal secured the space for his shop on the main floor of the Hotel Indigo building, he began designing a plant wall that was eye-catching as well as functional for his customers. The plant wall, constructed by Villareal himself, features wooden shelves that are just deep enough to hide the pots that the plants reside in, giving it the appearance of a living wall.

"That's very doable for a home setting," he says. "You can take the pots off the shelf for easy watering and care."

Villareal recommends plants that trail for any DIY living wall project, but also says that including plants of different heights can give the wall a much more textured and varied appearance.

"Start with plants like pothos, heart leaf philodendrons and prayer plants," Villareal says. "Prayer plants specifically can deal with very low-light situations, which is perfect for a home installation. They'll disguise any nonnatural elements of the wall once they start to trail down."

Previous owner of Sage + Moss and seasoned houseplant parent Annecia Paulson recommends utilizing organic elements when creating your display for ease of watering and a more harmonious facade.

The most common way to do this is by creating mounted plant displays. Mounted plants are plants that have been affixed onto an object using moss or other organic materials.

"Creating mounted plants is actually a really easy process," she says. "You simply remove most of the dirt from the roots, place the plant on the piece of bark and then attach it using sphagnum moss and fishing line."

The upkeep and care of mounted plants lie in the choice of wood, Paulson says.

"Using cork bark is the best option — it's lightweight and naturally mold-resistant. Just soak the whole thing in water, let it drip dry and then hang it on your wall using Command hooks or string. Super simple," she says.

If the trial and error of diving in headfirst just isn't your thing, many area plant stores, including A Modern Plantsman, offer workshops on how to create mounted plants and products that can assist you in your journey to creating a living wall.

"We really try to act as a resource for people in the community," Villareal says. "We want to help people learn how to do these things. I've already gone through the trial and error of the projects that people attempt at home, so I'm happy to give people that knowledge." ♦

Lila Shaw Girvin: Gift of a Moment @ Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture

Tuesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 12
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About The Author

Madison Pearson

Madison Pearson is the Inlander's Listings Editor, managing the calendar of events and regularly contributing to the Arts & Culture section of the paper. She joined the staff in 2022 after graduating from Eastern Washington University.

Title:

Content: Homegrown Business: Conner Tidd and Kevin Jakiela of Just Vertical

Just Vertical manufactures and sells beautiful indoor gardens for residential, office, and commercial settings. It was co-founded by long-time friends Conner Tidd and Kevin Jakiela who were both masters students at U of T. We got to speak to the company’s Head of Marketing and Growth, Christopher Di Grazia, to find out more about them.

What is your business called and what does it do?

At Just Vertical, we manufacture and sell breathtaking indoor gardens for residential, office, and commercial settings. Our gardens enable year-round cultivation of herbs, leafy greens, and vegetables in any indoor space.

What made you want to do this work?

Just Vertical started when co-founders and long-time friends Conner Tidd and Kevin Jakiela were Masters of Science students at the University of Toronto. Conner had been working in ‘Big Ag’ gaining a real perspective on the food problems faced by people around the world.

Meanwhile, Kevin had just come back from pioneering indoor growing research in the Canadian Arctic, as well as teaching indigenous youth in remote arctic communities, and saw firsthand how cutting-edge plant science and hardware (like vertical farming) could be used to grow in any environment.

Over lunch in 2017 the two friends were catching up and sharing their work experiences. They decided that to make a real impact on the world, and truly help to eradicate food insecurity, they needed to think of a way to enable folks to grow their own food at home. The idea was to provide vertical hydroponic growing systems that fit seamlessly into urban living spaces. They applied their combined knowledge of plant science, engineering, manufacturing and business development and thus, Just Vertical was born.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

We established our business with the following goals in mind:

– Providing Access to Year-round, Pesticide-free Produce – In many regions, weather conditions limit the ability to cultivate fresh produce year-round without the use of harmful pesticides. Our indoor gardens allow growers to bypass this issue and produce healthy, pesticide-free crops throughout the year.

– Empowering Individuals to Make Independent Food Choices – We believe that people should have the power to make independent food decisions that are not subject to the fluctuations of the market. Our gardens enable our growers to exercise greater control over the food they consume, free from the vagaries of inflation and other economic factors.

– Reducing Food Miles – The average distance between where food is grown and where it is consumed is approximately 24 hours. With our indoor gardens, food production is 24 steps away, reducing transportation time and helping to reduce carbon emissions.

– Integrating Hydroponic Technology with Aesthetic Design – While hydroponic growing technology is not new, traditional hydroponic systems are often unsightly and confined to basements or other hidden areas. Our gardens bring hydroponic growing into the home, combining efficient growing technology with aesthetically pleasing design.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Our demographic spectrum spans a diverse array of individuals, including young urban singles, rural families, and seniors in assisted living facilities. However, our primary demographic focuses on women aged 27 to 47 residing in urban environments.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

Our revenue stems from the sale of our hydroponic garden systems and the associated supplies purchased by our clients. The success of our business model hinges on the performance of these gardens and the value they offer to our customers.

Our gardens use hydroponic (soil-less) technology to cultivate fresh produce. The steps for successful growth are:

1. Unpack the garden

2. Begin growing desired plants using our seed starter kit

3. When seedlings reach 3-4 inches in height:

a. Fill the bottom reservoir with water.
b. Plug it in to set the light & pump in the reservoir
c. Move the seedlings into the garden.
d. Allow plants to mature and harvest when ready.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to our comprehensive guide available here.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

We primarily offer our gardens for sale via our online platform. They are manufactured in Etobicoke and showcased at various locations in Toronto, including:

1. Evergreen Brickworks

2. Brightworks Energy in Markham

3. Village Juicery in Roncesvalles

For a complete list of our physical display locations, please visit this link here.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

What sets Just Vertical gardens apart? Our approach uniquely combines hydroponic growing technology with elegant furniture design. We believe this technology deserves a prominent place in homes and those growing their own food should take pride in it. Our gardens are meticulously designed to seamlessly blend into any home environment, becoming an integral part of the household. They epitomize a perfect balance of beauty, practicality, and functionality.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

We take immense pride in our work at Just Vertical, firmly believing our gardens are contributing to global change. The world faces a significant environmental challenge, underscored by the overuse of agricultural chemicals, rapid degradation of farmland, extensive food transportation, and disconnection from food sources.

Our product empowers individuals to cultivate their own food, fostering environmental consciousness through innovative technology. This further encourages a dialogue about the importance of caring for our planet, our health, and our food.

The worst part about our work lies in raising immediate awareness about the significance of autonomous food choices. The prevailing agricultural system thrives on indifference, and advocating change through products like ours can be a considerable task.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

This is probably a little less of a joke and more of a statement we love, but we’ve used the line before with our gardens that if you buy one, you can Netflix and Dill.

Where can we follow you?

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Tiktok | LinkedinEmail

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Evergreen Brickworks

About Joel Levy 2420 Articles
Editor-In-Chief at Toronto Guardian. Photographer and Writer for Toronto Guardian and Joel Levy Photography

Title:

Content: Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd Now Provides Singapore Properties with Vertical Green Walls

Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd is famous for its vertical wall planters, green walls and flower backdrop in Singapore. The company caters to residential and commercial clients as well.

Singapore, 2023-Jan-04 — /EPR Network/ — Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd, the leading landscaping company in Singapore is offering vertical green walls to commercial and residential properties. Whether it is a retail showroom or a high rise, the vertical green wall is an innovative approach towards introducing nature amidst the concrete jungle.

The company uses quality vertical wall planters, ensuring the healthy growth of the plants. These vertical walls are easy to maintain, assemble, install, disassemble, and reinstall. The technique used by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd ensures the user does not have to spend much time tending and taking care of the plants.

Along with green walls, the company also provides clients with exquisite flower backdrops in Singapore to complement the greenery around them. It’s a long-term investment as a green wall can last up to 25 years.

Vertical walls by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd come with some unique features:

  • Custom design to suit the client’s needs.
  • Minimal watering of the green wall plants.
  • Ultra-low maintenance ensured.
  • Quick installation due to a modular system.
  • Use of plants that can survive in a tropical climate.

Why choose a vertical green wall?

  • Reduces waste of energy.
  • Improves air quality.
  • Makes the structure sustainable.
  • The space becomes more fire-resistant.
  • Minimizes ambient noise.

The general installation cost for a vertical green wall by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd ranges between $200 per square meter and $1200 per square meter, depending on the design, the kind of plants used and the installation process.

About the company:

One of the oldest nurseries in Singapore, Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd has 50 years of experience in the industry. Started out humbly as a flower shop, Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd have evolved into a full-fledged landscape design and installation specialist.

Contact Details

Telephone: 65 6763 7000

Fax: 65 6892 2700

WhatsApp: +65 8838 3479

Email: buzz@prince.com.sg

Address: 53 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 698998

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Title:

Content: Crafting Timeless Beauty: Customized Landscape Solutions

words Al Woods

In a world where landscapes reflect the signature of Mother Nature and human ingenuity intertwined, crafting an outdoor space is akin to composing a piece of art that withstands the test of time. It’s a canvas where scenery echoes the narrative of the homeowner, where functionality marries aesthetics. In the pursuit of personalized paradise, humanity has turned to customized landscape solutions, creating gardens, backyards, and outdoor environments that are as unique as the individuals who inhabit them.

The Personalized Garden: A Reflective Space

Gardens have long been spaces where the human soul finds solace and peace, often mirroring the inner landscape of those who tend them. The personalized garden, cultivated with detail to reflect one’s tastes and aspirations, serves not only as a place of quietude but as an extension of the home’s narrative. Consider the charm of a garden that unfurls colors reminiscent of a cherished childhood memory, or the fragrant pathway that leads one to a contemplative corner adorned with a favorite sculpture. The beauty of a personalized garden lies not in its form alone but in the stories it tells and the emotions it evokes for those who experience it. Having meticulously planned landscape designs ensures that your garden is a timeless space, growing and evolving with you. This space becomes a reflection of your life, where memories are made and cherished forever.

A Symphony of Seasons

The essence of timelessness in landscape solutions lies in their ability to adapt to the capricious face of nature. As the seasons change, so too must the splendor of a garden. Customized landscape designs factor in the nuances of the local climate, allowing for a symphony of seasonal transformations that keep the outdoor space fascinating year-round.

Imagine your garden in the variety of hues offered by spring’s floral ballet, or the quiet dignity of the winter scape, punctuated by stoic evergreens and the delicate latticework of bare branches. Each season brings a new melody to the experience, ensuring that the landscape — an ode to the environment it inhabits — remains eternally captivating.

Form Meets Function

While the aesthetic appeal of personalized landscapes is paramount, a design that does not address functionality is akin to a story with no substance. The symbiotic relationship between form and function is crucial. It transforms an outdoor space from a mere view to a living, breathing part of your daily life.

Balancing recreational areas with low-maintenance greenery, incorporating privacy buffers, and integrating sustainable practices into the design all contribute to the functionality of a landscape. The result is an environment that not only pleases the eye but serves as a functional extension of your living space — a harmonious integration of nature and necessity.

Ecological Elegance

In today’s world, ecological mindfulness has taken center stage, and landscapes are no exception. Customized solutions that champion sustainability not only reduce the carbon footprint but also foster an enduring relationship with the environment.

This can be accomplished through the use of native plants that require less water and maintenance, the inclusion of edible landscapes that promote self-sustainability, or the implementation of rainwater harvesting and permeable paving to mitigate environmental impact. Harmonizing the landscape with the local ecosystem ensures an enduring, elegant environmental legacy.

The Role of Technology

Advancements in technology have revolutionized the way landscapes are designed and experienced. From 3D modeling that allows homeowners to visualize their ideas before implementation to smart irrigation systems that minimize water wastage, technology plays a vital role in crafting contemporary timeless landscapes.

Integration of outdoor sound systems, automated lighting that accentuates the architectural elements of the landscape, and apps that help in plant maintenance are just a few examples of technology enriching the outdoor experience. When used judiciously, technology serves to enhance the natural beauty, making the personalized landscape not only visually appealing but also high-function and adaptive.

The Craft of Maintenance

A masterpiece is only as good as its upkeep. The craft of maintenance is the unseen hand that maintains the integrity and beauty of a personalized landscape. Routine care, seasonal rejuvenations, and the occasional refreshments ensure that the outdoor space remains a source of joy and tranquility.

Engaging with landscape professionals who understand the customized nature of your outdoor environment is key to keeping it in prime condition. Regular consultations, proper pruning, and proactive management of issues like soil erosion ensure that the landscape not only survives but thrives, becoming more enchanting with each passing year.

When crafting your personalized outdoor haven, focus on the holistic picture. Ensure that your landscape tells a story unique to your life and aspirations; that it is functional, sustainable, and connects with the local ecosystem; and that it stands the test of time and seasons. Customized landscape solutions are not merely about aesthetics; they are a reflection of your values, your identity, and your desire to fuse the comfort of home with the magnificence of nature.

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Title:

Content: AD It Yourself

How to Create an Outdoor Oasis When You’re Short on Space

Experts chime in with smart solutions for limited backyard square footage, from plant propagation to thinking vertically

Though we can daydream of summer lunches beneath a pergola, the reality for many of us is that square footage is limited. But with great small backyard ideas, having limited outdoor space shouldn’t be a reason to discard your fantasy of a lush retreat at home. There are many innovative ways to craft an inviting outdoor retreat yourself, from layering your plants strategically to using multipurpose furniture. Below, we asked three experts to weigh in on how to create a compact oasis that will leave guests wondering your secrets.

Figure out your budget and plant hardiness zone

Maryah Greene, New York–based plant doctor, stylist, and founder of Greene Piece, recommends putting some thought into how much you’d like to spend and what plants will work best in your zone. “Consider this before going hard and decking your outdoor space out [completely], because you may find that you only get to enjoy those plants for a few months unless they’re perennials,” she advises. “The most common mistake that people make is investing a ton of money into their outdoor space just to realize that some of those plants won’t grow back next year!”

When choosing plants for a truly tight space, Fernando Rubio, landscape architect and founder of Defined Outdoors, picks plants that thrive in those conditions. “Opt for compact varieties such as herbs, dwarf shrubs, and container-friendly trees,” he says. “Also, consider using small-size foliage to add a layered, multidepth feel to your outdoor space.”

For budget-conscious DIY’ers, Greene suggests repurposing extra indoor items as planters or decorative elements. You should also try propagating, she says. “Different plants propagate differently, but for the ones that are cutting propagations, plop your cutting into a jar of water until it roots. From there, you can plant it in your garden or outdoor space without spending a dime on a new plant.”

Find practical solutions for your tiny footprint

Lacking a “typical” outdoor space? Small space consultant, author, designer, and stylist Whitney Leigh Morris dares you to get creative when it comes to small backyard ideas. “Even the tiniest slice of outdoor space surrounding your home can be transformed into a functional and tranquil retreat without much effort,” she says. “A stoop, driveway, porch, or miniature garden can all be effective ways to enlarge and enhance your living space. In order to maximize utility, keep reality in mind rather than being lured into styles that don’t suit your practical needs or the qualities of your surroundings.”

One of Greene’s favorite ways for urbanites to flex their green thumbs is by planting in window boxes. “If your fire escape allows you to sit a small planter right outside your window, this can make for a great place to grow herbs or add a few colorful flowers,” she adds. Just remember to keep safety first; avoid obstructing the pathway. Morris is a fan of container gardens, “whether [it’s] repurposed, staggered-height pots, wall-mounted vessels, or balcony planters,” she says.

All three experts were keen on the idea of vertical gardening. “Vertical elements like hanging planters, wall-mounted planters, trellises, and pedestals can draw the eye upwards, creating the illusion of more space. Plus these elements can also add privacy and serve as a focal point in your outdoor space,” Rubio says.

Make it an extension of your home

You don’t need a massive patio or garden for dreamy indoor-outdoor living. The key is continuity: Decorate your outdoor space just like you would your interiors. “Don’t overlook ambiance,” Morris says. “It’s not just important for visual impact, but for your nervous system and well-being too. Soft, warm-hued lighting; soothing sounds; lush greenery; textile layers such as outdoor rugs and upholstery; and privacy borders, from billowing curtains to trellises to folding screens, can all play a vital and impactful role in establishing a serene setting.”

Lighting can make all the difference in how your space feels,” Rubio adds. “Adding some ambient lighting like string lights or lanterns can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you’re handy, task lighting—like spotlights or pendant lights—can also highlight specific areas or features.”

Rubio also advises keeping the design simple and pared back, if that’s your vibe. “When working with limited space, a minimalist approach to layout and design can make your space feel more spacious and relaxing,” he says. “Streamlined design elements, a simple color palette, and plenty of negative space can help create a visually appealing and calming outdoor oasis. Plus it makes maintenance a lot easier in the long run.”

Prioritize function

To make sure your small outdoor space is one you’ll actually use, consider what will make the reimagined zone work best for you. “For example, if you get abundant rain, make sure to use weather-proof pieces and incorporate waterproof storage into your design features,” Morris offers. “If you entertain a great deal, keep not only your guests in mind but also their belongings. Where will everything be placed to avoid overcrowding when you host? If your outdoor area is exposed to ongoing direct sun, explore safe methods of blocking the sun through plants, umbrellas, or sail shades.”

For Greene, it’s all about growing what you can use. “Herbs, veggies, flowers…if you cook a lot or just enjoy the occasional bouquet on your table, save yourself money and reward yourself,” she says.

Meanwhile, Rubio recommends smart outdoor furniture: “In small outdoor spaces every inch counts, so incorporating multifunctional elements can be a game changer,” he says. “Benches with built-in storage or planters that double as seating can maximize your space and make your outdoor area more practical. Modular furniture is also a smart option, allowing you to easily rearrange and adapt your space as needed.”

Plus these elements can also add privacy and serve as a focal point in your outdoor space.

Title:

Content: Elevating Your Outdoor Sanctuary: Tips for Cultivating a Vibrant Garden Oasis

The art of garden design is becoming increasingly important as people look to their outdoor areas as a haven from the daily grind.   Before we embark on this journey, remember that cultivating a garden is …

The art of garden design is becoming increasingly important as people look to their outdoor areas as a haven from the daily grind.

Before we embark on this journey, remember that cultivating a garden is not just about beauty—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and enhance our well-being. For more inspirational green insights, consider visiting this helpful link.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Garden Design

Starting with a blueprint ensures that your garden is a feast for the eyes and a functional space. Take your time sketching out your ideas, considering how different sections of your garden will relate to each other and the overall aesthetic of your property. A garden should be an extension of your home; therefore, the design should flow seamlessly from the indoor to the outdoor spaces. Think about the movement through the garden, how you interact with the plants, and the views from inside the home.

Selecting Plants for Year-Round Interest

Strategically chosen plants create a captivating garden landscape and deliver a succession of blooms throughout the seasons. Designing a garden that looks great in all seasons requires a careful balance of plants that peak at different times of the year. Consider incorporating a mix of bulbs for spring, annuals for summer color, perennials for autumn hues, and evergreens for winter structure.

Understanding your local climate zone and soil type is crucial when looking for plants that will thrive in your garden. Hearty native species can offer a more resilient and sustainable option that supports local ecosystems.

Soil and Nutrition: The Foundation of a Healthy Garden

Whether sandy, clay, or loamy, the soil is perhaps the most overlooked yet fundamental aspect of gardening. Your garden’s vitality begins with the ground, so investing time in understanding and improving your soil’s health can yield lasting benefits. Simple steps such as regular amendments with organic compost can significantly improve soil structure and fertility. Moreover, soil testing can inform you about deficiencies and guide appropriate nutrient management.

Embracing natural methods helps the soil and ensures that your garden is part of a sustainable practice. Natural fertilizers like fish emulsion, bone meal, or green manure techniques invigorate the soil without the harsh effects of chemical fertilizers.

Creating a Habitat for Wildlife

Inviting biodiversity into your garden brings it to life and assists in the natural control of pests. Birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial creatures can all find a haven in a garden thoughtfully planted with their needs in mind. Planting native species is particularly effective in supporting local wildlife because these plants have evolved alongside the local fauna. Establishing various plants that offer food, shelter, and nesting sites will make your garden a bustling hub of natural activity.

Keeping Your Garden Thriving: Maintenance and Care

A garden is a living canvas that requires attention and nurturing. Regular maintenance like pruning, weeding, and deadheading keeps your garden looking its best and encourages healthy growth and blooming. Each season brings specific tasks—from spring planting to fall cleanup—and staying on top will ensure your garden remains a place of beauty and serenity.

One of the most critical aspects of garden maintenance is monitoring for pests and diseases. Early detection and environmentally friendly control methods can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Being proactive about the health of your garden will reward you with a vibrant outdoor space that continues to thrive and enchant year after year.

Some updates can also benefit the mental and physical health of those who occupy the space.

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Content: Many homeowners looking to improve their living spaces seek out upgrades that can add visual appeal, improve functionality or increase resale value. However, some updates can also benefit the mental and physical health of those who occupy the space.

While making your home healthier can involve simple steps like decluttering, swapping out cleaning products for natural versions and opening windows to let in more fresh air, there are other projects that can be done to create longer-lasting results.

Consider these ideas to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also impart a sense of well-being.

Apply Fresh PaintChanging the color of a room can transform your space while also positively impacting your mood.

Bright, warm colors like yellow may be uplifting while cooler shades like beige, pale green and soft blue can be soothing. Repainting can also help prevent mold and mildew growth on walls while repelling dust and allergens. Traditional oil- and latex-based paints give off gases that may cause issues such as eye and respiratory irritation.

Look for paints with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and that are certified not to contain heavy metals, carcinogens and other harmful compounds.

Upgrade FlooringMade of natural materials, hardwood flooring is not only attractive but is a hygienic, easy-to-clean choice. The organic beauty and grain of the wood creates an intrinsic connection to nature.

You can set the foundation for your living spaces with an option like artisan-crafted Carlisle Wide Plank Floors. Each floor is handcrafted from sustainably sourced timbers. Whether you select each detail — wood species, grade, texture and color — or choose from a collection of popular tried-and-true finishes, the result is a unique floor with distinctive character.

Learn more at wideplankflooring.com.

Add Natural LightIf your home lacks adequate natural lighting, adding or replacing windows and skylights can allow more sunlight into your living space. This offers several benefits, including an improved sense of well-being and increased productivity, not to mention the potential cost savings when you install energy-efficient versions.

Additionally, light-blocking shades and adjustable light technologies can work with natural circadian rhythms to enhance sleep.

Modernize KitchenFrom appliances to countertops, there are a variety of kitchen upgrades that can make your space healthier. Incorporating automated technology like a touchless faucet can reduce the amount of contact with germs while a water filtration system can improve the quality of your drinking water.

Updating your countertops with a non-porous material like quartz, which replicates the look of natural stone, provides a contemporary aesthetic, and the antimicrobial surface will not harbor bacteria or viruses.

Bathroom OasisEven a small space like the bathroom can benefit from wellness-focused updates.

Soaking tubs and spa showers with hydrotherapy shower heads can help reduce stress and provide a mental respite. Additionally, a heated towel rack not only brings a touch of luxury but can reduce energy usage and keep towels free of mold and mildew between washes.

Touchless faucets and toilets can also help reduce the spread of germs while bringing convenience.

**These sentences highlight the aesthetic, maintenance, and wellness aspects of green walls, the practicality of vertical gardens, ease of care, the need to choose climate-appropriate plants, and the potential mental health benefits.


Here are the key sentences extracted from your provided text, prioritized based on their relevance to your presentation on sustainable building innovations—specifically focusing on vertical gardens/green walls, their practical benefits, environmental impact, and sustainable design principles:

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World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven.

Provide green areas in and around the office.

This reduces the need for cooling and helps mitigate the urban heat island effect.

In some ways, eco-friendliness has always been a key aspect of good design.

Traditional techniques, on the other hand, can help us build truly sustainable green homes that stand the test of time.

The architects are also talking about the act of co-creating not just with humans but also with the surrounding natural context.

Although the project is ongoing, the effects on the quality of urban spaces are visible and felt by the local communities and the city at large.

Once they can affect change in their spaces, they feel more connected to them.

While the text did not explicitly discuss vertical gardens or their specific benefits (such as air purification, temperature regulation, or mental health impact), these sentences capture the broader context of incorporating green spaces and sustainable strategies—relevant principles that support the case for indoor green walls in architecture.

For additional scientific and technical detail regarding vertical gardens, more targeted sources or technical literature may be required.

Here are the key sentences extracted from your provided text, prioritized based on their relevance to your presentation on sustainable building innovations—specifically focusing on vertical gardens/green walls, their practical benefits, environmental impact, and sustainable design principles:

1.

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World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven

Jun 04, 2023 05:47 PM IST

On this World Environment Day, embrace a greener future with these five innovative and sustainable design ideas to transform workspaces into eco-conscious hubs.

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a global initiative that raises awareness about pressing environmental issues. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet. With an increasing focus on environment-friendly practices, "future of workplace" has evolved into a more sustainable approach to design spaces that we work in. Creating a sustainable workspace is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the well-being and productivity of employees. In honour of World Environment Day, let's discover five innovative and practical design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven, fostering sustainability and eco-consciousness. (Also read: 5 environment-friendly and cost-effective home design strategies )

Sustainable Workspace Design Ideas

Apoorv Mittal, Architect, Concept Consilio India Pvt. Ltd, shares with HT Lifestyle, five innovative design ideas that not only enhance productivity and well-being but also prioritise environmental sustainability.

1. Use furniture and fixtures that are sourced locally

A huge part of designing a space sustainably is to source all the furniture and fixtures locally. This cuts down immensely on carbon emissions in transportation and in turn, helps in reducing building costs of the project.

2. Provide green areas in and around the office

Pockets of green around the office can create a net positive impact on the well-being of the users as well as give the space a refreshing energy. Furthermore, there can be several HR initiatives that can help support the biophilic nature of this design scheme; such as "adopt a plant" and the use of hydroponic plants.

3. Use of modular meeting spaces and booths

Modular meeting spaces and modular booths are great innovations in truly reusing and recycling not only the waste that we create but also the spaces we use. Using such modular settings enables the design to last longer, which in turn leads to a more sustainable approach.

4. Proper use of natural light

Designing efficiently to maximize the use of natural light can reduce the load of electricity consumed by a space. On similar lines, the use of diffused light should be considered and utilised as much as possible to increase visibility while reducing the heat incurred. This brings down the air conditioning needs of the design as well.

5. Utilizing eco-friendly materials

The utilization of eco-friendly materials involves employing natural alternatives instead of synthetic products, which not only imparts a visually appealing natural aesthetic but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach. An example of such an alternative is the use of cork boards as a substitute for synthetic materials in the construction of acoustic panels. By opting for cork boards, we not only achieve a rich natural appearance but also prioritize sustainability and the preservation of our ecosystem.

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World Environment Day: 5 sustainable and eco-friendly design ideas that can transform your workplace into a green haven.

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Some of the world’s top architects are competing to transform a downtown space into something worthy of a nation’s capital. The competition ends April 26

When was the last time the federal government commissioned a great building? This hasn’t happened for half a century in Ottawa, where recent public architecture has been unambitious and underwhelming. That is likely to change with Block 2, a new office complex to be built across the street from Parliament Hill.

Some of the world’s top architects are vying to lead the Block 2 design, in an international competition conducted in collaboration with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. Next Tuesday, a 25-member jury of parliamentarians, academics and architects, led by the philosopher and novelist John Ralston Saul, will announce a winner from among six shortlisted teams.

These teams unveiled their designs for Block 2 in a public online presentation last week. While they presented a diverse set of visions, whichever is selected will become the most ambitious work of public architecture the capital has seen for many years.

However, it won’t be flashy. Block 2 will be largely an office complex, for the use of parliamentarians and civil servants. It forms part of a 25-year project to rebuild the entire Parliamentary Precinct, the area on and around Parliament Hill. Block 2 is bounded by Wellington, Sparks, Metcalfe and O’Connor streets; this city block currently includes 11 existing buildings and several vacant lots. Two buildings in the middle are reserved for a future Indigenous Peoples’ Space. The remainder will be demolished or incorporated into the new office complex.

The government launched the process in March, 2021, with a request for qualifications from design teams. Twelve of these were invited to develop a detailed design concept. The jury then whittled them down to six, using an exhaustive set of aesthetic and technical criteria. These many constraints, not to mention the challenge of responding to the Parliament Buildings across the street, make it difficult to create an icon.

Instead the shortlisted designs show sophisticated and varied solutions to the competition’s puzzle. The designers include an international who’s who of contemporary architecture. They nod to the materials and detailing of the triad of Parliament Buildings; they include bold modernist form-making and articulation; and they incorporate thinking from Indigenous architecture.

There are commonalities. Several of the schemes extensively use engineered wood, or mass timber, an attractive and low-carbon material. All of them respond to the competition requirements with a mix of office space, meeting rooms and grand atriums.

But there are also some key differences in approach. The team led by London firm WilkinsonEyre imagines a rooftop C-shaped conference space. The team led by Paris-based Renzo Piano Building Workshop takes liberties with the existing heritage buildings to establish a uniform, monumental facade along Wellington Street. And the team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy bets heavily on Indigenous design to shape Block 2 itself.

Some of these designs stretch the rules of the competition, which is apt; the main benefit of a design competition is to test different ideas and designers, in order to produce an excellent result. Block 2 is likely to deliver on that aim. Its public areas and street facades will send two clear messages: that the work of government matters, and that public architecture can embody the highest cultural aspirations.

Here are early assessments of the six shortlisted schemes, based on the architects’ video presentations.

Zeidler Architecture with David Chipperfield Architects

Of the six proposals, this is the clear standout. David Chipperfield’s London firm is known for its sensitivity to heritage. This proposal “weaves together past, present and future to create a tapestry of forms and styles,” Mr. Chipperfield said during the presentation. The scheme, created by a team that also includes Toronto’s Zeidler Architecture, retains almost all of the exteriors of the existing buildings. The new ones have mass-timber structural systems and are dressed in panels of recycled copper – a poetic nod to the copper roofs of Parliament.

Inside, two large atriums link the existing buildings on site, unifying floor levels to provide accessibility, while a variety of meeting and hallway spaces feature recycled masonry. The team – including Mohawk architect Matthew Hickey of Two Row Architect – has also designed a Peoples’ Square that sits alongside a new Indigenous centre and in line with the Peace Tower across the street. At a small scale and at the scale of the block, this promises complexity and variety that could, as the architects suggest, represent the diversity of the country.

NEUF architect(e)s with Renzo Piano Building Workshop

This project, by contrast, remakes the facades along Wellington Street into two uniform and finely detailed boxes – the kind for which Renzo Piano’s Paris-based firm is globally known. (Its partners on this project include Montreal’s NEUF.) Clad in clear low-iron glass and limestone, these facades present a timeless and beautiful face to Parliament, topped with rooftop groves of large trees. The other main facade, on Sparks Street, restores and keeps elements of some heritage buildings, as is the case with the other schemes. But this design tops them with precisely carved slabs of glass and arrays of solar panels. If the competition jury wants a statement of uniformity, coherence and precision, there is no proposal better suited for the task.

Diamond Schmitt Architects with Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), KWC Architects and ERA Architects

This team brings together international stars BIG with established Toronto and Ottawa firms. Its vision includes buildings that are multifaceted, literally: New office blocks facing Wellington are irregular in shape, slanting inward from top to bottom to define new public squares around the future Indigenous centre. (Thoughtfully planted rooftop gardens by the landscape architects PUBLIC WORK provide an additional amenity.) The facades arrange Queenston limestone panels into a forceful modernist grid, contrasting with the remaining restored heritage facades. Windows are sized and arranged to control light and heat gain on each facade. Inside, offices and atriums are consistent, and rather bland, in finish and spatial qualities. This scheme aims to balance architectural flash with Ottawan conservatism.

Provencher Roy

The team led by Montreal’s Provencher Roy focuses hard on the Indigenous component of the project. Working with Indigenous architect and planner Aaron Aubin, it imagines a round Truth and Reconciliation Tower that stands opposite the Peace Tower and houses committee rooms. This attempts to address a fundamental challenge of this block: the decision to put an Indigenous centre in what used to be the U.S. embassy on Wellington. That 1932 building by architect Cass Gilbert speaks a language of neoclassicism that has strong negative connotations for many Indigenous people. It’s an open question whether the Provencher Roy design of rather corporate-feeling spaces within Block 2 meaningfully solves this problem.

WilkinsonEyre with IDEA Inc.

The London architecture firm WilkinsonEyre, which recently completed a new headquarters for CIBC in Toronto, is the dark horse. (Its partners on this project include Ontario firm IDEA Inc.) This team’s design builds on the neoclassicism of the former U.S. embassy building, translating the three-part organization of its facades into an architectural language familiar from contemporary London. To add Canadiana, wooden “trees” of structural timber show up both on the interior and the exterior. Ovoid meeting rooms hang within the building’s large atrium, like berries on stems. This design has a symbolism that is easy to read; however, the busy and mannered approach to the interior architecture may not age well.

Watson MacEwen Teramura Architects with Behnisch Architekten

The German/American firm Behnisch is known for its commitment to sustainability, and that is reflected in the design of this team, which also includes Ottawa-based Watson MacEwen Teramura. A complex series of atriums and winter gardens on different levels aids in the management of light and ventilation, helping the building complex function for part of the year without mechanical ventilation. Like most of the other shortlisted designs, this one breaks up the mass of the offices into smaller pieces. Stefan Behnisch suggested in his team’s presentation that the architecture should “herald tolerance, inclusion, collaboration and communication.” But it goes further than most, covering the exterior with slanted light shelves that provide shade and capture sunlight with solar panels. The effect, inside and out, is very subtle. Is subtlety the right architectural message? That is for the competition jury to decide.

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Provide green areas in and around the office.

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Content: 7 Bioclimatic Façade Strategies for Tropical Architecture

When we think of the word "tropic," the image that typically comes to mind is an exotic space, characterized by perpetual warmth and humidity, with frequent and heavy rainfall nurturing lush vegetation. Throughout history, this tropical climate has been romanticized as a paradise and criticized for potentially fostering weakness due to its perceived clemency.

Thankfully, those judgments and associations have been relegated to the past, paving the way for theoretical and practical projects that outline the advantages and disadvantages of living in a tropical climate. These projects acknowledge the various strategies to enhance human adaptability within these distinctive climatic conditions.

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Certainly, climate is the most pivotal element of the natural environment, as it impacts all geomorphological processes, from soil formation to plant growth. It's this profound interconnection that renders climate change so concerning. Hence, akin to how the natural environment reacts to climate, architecture must also be responsive to it.

In temperate climates, houses typically remain "closed" to shield occupants from harsh weather, retaining warmth. Conversely, in tropical climates, it's essential to "open up" the house to dissipate heat and humidity while shielding it from the sun and heavy rainfall. The abundance of tropical climate and vegetation often encourages outdoor living or greater interaction with nature. The main challenges in tropical architecture involve protecting against rain and direct sunlight, with a focus on strategies to regulate internal temperatures.

Bioclimatic strategies play a crucial role in achieving these objectives. They guarantee that buildings adapt to the local climate, boost energy efficiency, and enhance occupants' comfort. These strategies encompass principles and design techniques that leverage natural elements to establish sustainable architectures. By minimizing buildings' environmental impact and prioritizing occupants' well-being, these strategies collectively contribute to overall sustainability.

Since many of these strategies are implemented at the junction between a building's interior and exterior, we've listed below seven bioclimatic strategies and how they are applied to the facades of residential projects in tropical climates.

Shading Elements

Incorporating shade devices such as brise-soleil, cobogós, or other latticed structures on facades is crucial. These elements effectively block direct sunlight while allowing diffused light and natural airflow. This helps to minimize solar heat gain, reduce glare, and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

The Kenz House / Srijit Srinivas Architects

Casa Delta / Bernardes Arquitetura

Vegetation

Introducing vegetation on facades through vertical gardens, living walls, or planters can provide natural insulation, reduce heat absorption, and improve air quality. Plants also contribute to shading and evaporative cooling through transpiration, further enhancing thermal comfort and reinforcing the tropical ambiance within architecture.

Tropical Shed / Laurent Troost Architectures

Stepping Park House / VTN Architects

Ventilation Strategies

In tropical architecture, facades often incorporate operable windows or strategically positioned openings to facilitate cross-ventilation and natural airflow. This design approach effectively reduces humidity levels and improves indoor air quality.

Valley Expansion House / Studio Heya

OF House / Studio Otto Felix

Sun Orientation

Ensuring the correct solar orientation of buildings maximizes natural light penetration while minimizing solar heat gain. In tropical climates, designing buildings with a north-south orientation reduces direct sunlight exposure, particularly during peak heat hours of the day.

The House of Silence / Natura Futura Arquitectura

Country house in Puente Iglesias / Oficina de Arquitectura y Paisaje OAP + MDE estudio

Thermal Mass

Using materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete, stone, or adobe, in facade construction helps absorb and retain heat during the day. The heat stored during the day is gradually released at night, helping to stabilize indoor temperatures and reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems.

Discreet House / Jirau Arquitetura

Earth Farmhouse / Studio Verge

Reflective Surfaces

Using light-colored or reflective materials on facades helps minimize heat absorption by reflecting solar radiation. This reduces the need for cooling and helps mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Nagato House / RASA Architektura

House COVE(R) / TOUCH Architect

Adaptability

By integrating responsive facade systems like adjustable blinds or dynamic shading elements controlled by sensors or automation, buildings can adapt in real-time to environmental conditions. This real-time adjustment optimizes both energy performance and occupants' comfort.

Patio House / Caio Persighini Arquitetura

ABK House / Bernardes Arquitetura

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Cite: Ghisleni, Camilla. "7 Bioclimatic Façade Strategies for Tropical Architecture" [7 Estratégias bioclimáticas aplicadas nas fachadas da arquitetura tropical ] 10 Apr 2024. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simões, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1015392/7-bioclimatic-facade-strategies-for-tropical-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

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How businesses learned to embrace sustainable design—and where it’s headed next

We look at the winners of Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Awards over the past 10 years as a lens onto a broader shift toward sustainable design thinking.

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When Fast Company launched the Innovation by Design Awards in 2012 to honor creativity in business, just two of the winning entries embraced sustainability as a central design thesis.

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This year, roughly a third of the winners prioritize the environment, ranging from a converted coal power plant to a device that transforms salt water into electricity. As the effects of climate change become increasingly visceral, spreading fires, hurricanes, and other disasters around the globe, design is becoming a crucial tool of adaptation. “Designing for human survival will become the new necessary field of design,” says Slow Factory Foundation founder Céline Semaan in a special Fast Company report on where the industry can have the greatest impact in the next decade.

In some ways, eco-friendliness has always been a key aspect of good design. Legendary industrial designer Dieter Rams declared it nearly 50 years ago, as one of his 10 principles of good design. But the parameters of what constitutes sustainable design have shifted over time. Is a plastic coffee maker that lasts 20 years, but ultimately ends up in a landfill, really sustainable? Today, many designers understand that every part of product development, from the materials used to a product’s afterlife, must be carefully considered to limit waste. Others have gone a step further and found creative ways to actively reuse waste. Forust, the winner of this year’s Innovation by Design Award in materials, uses 3D printing to turn sawdust into furniture, bowls, and other accessories. RED, the winner of 2019’s student Innovation by Design Award, explored using red mud, a waste product of aluminum manufacturing, to create gorgeous ceramics and building materials.

Some designs were simply ahead of their time. An early winner of Innovation by Design was the Fisker Karma, one of the world’s first luxury plug-in electric vehicles. It had a solar panel on its roof and sustainable materials inside, like trim made from salvaged wood. “The Fisker shows what you can do by taking risks in sedan design,” judge Erica Eden of Smart Design said at the time. Shortly thereafter, the company went out of business when its sole battery supplier filed for bankruptcy. Intriguingly, the Karma’s design ideas live on in this year’s winner of the products category, Polestar 2. An electric car spun out of Volvo’s skunkworks lab, it has seat backs crafted from old water bottles and carpet made from fishing nets. It also uses blockchain technology to trace the origin of its cobalt, a key component of lithium-ion batteries that is often mined to devastating effect on both people and the planet. Polestar’s investment in these features shows the long tail of bold design.

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Many of the biggest strides in sustainable design over the past 10 years have come from architects. This may be a case of necessity breeding invention: Architecture and construction are responsible for nearly 40% of global CO2 emissions, an astonishing footprint for an industry that doesn’t garner nearly the attention of polluters like agriculture (representing 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions) and aviation (representing about 2%). Architects have responded with a range of thoughtful solutions, including offices that usher the outdoors in and buildings that generate more power than they consume, but adaptive reuse may be the profession’s most impactful legacy. It’s the idea that one of the greenest ways to build is to reuse what’s already there. In Long Island City in Queens, New York, the architecture firms SWA/Balsley and Weiss/Manfredi converted an abandoned industrial landscape into a 30-acre park that is designed to protect the area from rising flood waters. The project, called Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park, was an Innovation by Design winner in 2019. Two years later, the Chicago architecture firm Studio Gang has won accolades for another adaptation of industrial space, the Beloit Powerhouse, which transformed a coal power plant into a gym and student center at Beloit College in Wisconsin.

Some areas of design still have a ways to go. Disposable goods remain far too common in retail, and fashion and tech companies are particularly guilty of flooding markets with planned obsolescence in mind. “After nearly 15 years, I am using my fourth iPhone,” Frog Design founder Hartmut Esslinger tells Fast Company in the special report on design’s future impact. “Each time I had to buy a new one because of CPU (central processing unit) performance, [and] I put otherwise perfectly functioning products into my closet.” He calls on designers to extend their thinking beyond products and services to the very economic forces underpinning their work. “Recycling is a good thing, but not enough,” he says. “Design must inspire a new economic model and deliver much more long-term solutions.”

See more from Fast Company’s 2021 Innovation by Design Awards. Our new book, Fast Company Innovation by Design: Creative Ideas That Transform the Way We Live and Work (Abrams, 2021), is on sale now.

About the author

Suzanne LaBarre is the editor of Co.Design. Previously, she was the online content director of Popular Science and has written for the New York Times, the New York Observer, Newsday, I.D

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Rediscovering Sustainability: Green Homes With Traditional Techniques

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In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the idea of building a green home using traditional techniques might sound like you’d be taking a step backward. However, it's important that we re-evaluate our approach to sustainability and consider the wisdom that the past has to offer. While modern construction methods offer many conveniences, they can often come at the cost of the environment. Traditional techniques, on the other hand, can help us build truly sustainable green homes that stand the test of time.

A shining example of sustainable building, meticulously designed with a keen emphasis on the utilization of reusable materials and ancient techniques, can be found in the Italian Pavilion from the most recent World Expo. Remarkably, this pavilion stood out as the lone carbon-neutral structure among the 192 pavilions present. The project team used reusable materials like upturned boats for the roof, walls adorned with rope made from recycled bottles, and flooring with recycled orange peel to reduce landfill waste. Notably, the Italian Pavilion didn't have air conditioning despite the desert heat. Instead, it relied on its cleverly designed rope walls for natural ventilation, showcasing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional building practices that contribute to climate change, and demonstrating how sustainability and innovative design can coexist effectively.

Natural Materials

Traditional construction techniques often emphasise the use of natural materials like cob, timber, and straw bales. These materials are chosen for their eco-friendliness and sustainability. Cob, for instance, is a mixture of earth, sand, and straw that can often be locally sourced; timber, when harvested responsibly, is a renewable resource; and straw bales are a byproduct of grain production.

Selecting such materials reduces reliance on resource-intensive manufacturing processes, such as those required for steel or concrete production. Moreover, these materials are biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally, reducing waste and pollution.

Passive Solar Design and Energy Efficiency

Before the advent of modern heating and cooling systems, people relied on intelligent architectural designs to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Passive solar design, an ancient technique, uses the orientation of a building and the placement of windows to maximise natural heating and cooling. By embracing this approach, we can significantly reduce our reliance on energy-intensive HVAC systems, resulting in lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact.

The materials used in traditional construction often provide excellent thermal performance. Thick walls, natural insulation materials like straw, clay, or wood, and thoughtful design create a building envelope that naturally regulates temperature. Therefore, these homes stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Finally, these construction methods can work together with modern energy-efficient technologies, such as solar panels or wind turbines, making them even more sustainable and energy-efficient.

Local and Sustainable Sourcing

Traditional construction techniques rely on locally available materials. This supports local economies and reduces the environmental impact of long-distance transportation of construction materials. Using materials from nearby sources minimises carbon emissions associated with transportation, making the construction process more environmentally friendly.

Rainwater Harvesting and Greywater Systems

Traditional techniques often include rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems. Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for non-potable uses like irrigation or toilet flushing. Greywater systems treat and reuse water from sinks, showers, and laundry for similar purposes. These practices reduce the strain on municipal water resources, lower water bills, and minimise the environmental impact of water consumption.

Handcrafted Quality

Older construction methods were rooted in craftsmanship, a dedication to detail, and a commitment to creating structures meant to stand the test of time. The contrast with modern mass production is stark, as the focus on quantity can, on occasion, come at the expense of quality.

By embracing traditional techniques, we can reintroduce the concept of handmade homes. These structures are built to last for generations, reducing the need for frequent replacements and the waste associated with disposable consumer culture.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage

Reviving old-fashioned building techniques offers benefits beyond environmental considerations; it also plays a vital role in preserving our cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. These techniques are integral to our shared history, and by employing them, we establish a connection with the past while paying homage to the craftsmanship and wisdom of our forebears.

This preservation of cultural heritage can help foster a sense of continuity and identity within communities, strengthening their ties to local history.

Considerations

Traditional construction techniques offer environmental and cultural advantages but come with challenges. They demand skilled labour, potentially increasing time, and cost. Finding artisans skilled in these methods can be difficult, slowing construction. Traditional materials may have lower structural strength and insulation, impacting energy efficiency. Reliance on local materials may not be feasible in resource-scarce areas. Rainwater and greywater systems reduce water consumption, but effectiveness varies with local factors.

Despite these considerations, the overall advantages of using traditional techniques for building sustainable green homes remain compelling. They promote the use of natural materials, reduce carbon footprints, foster a connection with cultural heritage, and prioritise long-lasting quality and authenticity. By carefully addressing their challenges and limitations, we can harness the best of both traditional and modern approaches to create homes that are not only environmentally friendly but also practical for modern living.

Conclusion

Building a sustainable green home using traditional techniques is not about rejecting progress but rather embracing the best of both worlds. We can combine the wisdom of the past with modern innovations, such as energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources like solar panels, to create homes that are both environmentally friendly and equipped for modern living. At a time when climate change and environmental degradation are pressing concerns, it's essential to explore all avenues for sustainable living.

Overall, traditional construction techniques offer valuable lessons in resourcefulness, craftsmanship, and ecological mindfulness. By rediscovering and adapting these methods, we can build green homes that not only reduce our environmental footprint but also provide lasting comfort, durability, and a link to our architectural heritage. It's time to look to the past so that we can build a greener future.

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Content: What Is Co-Creation in the Context of Architecture and Urban Planning?

What Is Co-Creation in the Context of Architecture and Urban Planning?

In recent years, the term “co-creation,” a buzzword in the business and management sector, has made its way into the architecture and urban planning discourse. The term is used to define a large concept that describes working intentionally with others to create something jointly. But architecture is already the result of a collaboration between multiple actors, architects, clients, investors, developers, and local administration, to name a few. Can the term still apply to this field, can it bring forth new forms of knowledge, and does it differ from the concept of participatory design?

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The term appears to have originated in the business sector, with some mentions in the early 1990s and its popularization in the 2000s, with C.K. Prahalad and Venkatram Ramaswamy’s article in the Harvard Business Review. The article describes a paradigm shift as globalization and technology developments challenge the traditional role of the expert. The new marketplace is beginning to understand that consumers have become a new source of competence, a source that can be tapped into to increase the value of the product. Now a similar shift is taking place in the world of design.

Since the onset of Modernism, and maybe even before, the image of the architect has been mystified as a strong-willed, free-thinking, and uncompromising figure. In stories such as Ayn Rand’s novel “The Fountainhead,” this romanticized heroic character is caught in a struggle between his own creative vision and the external collective opposition, an image reminiscent of Modernist architects such as Mies van der Rohe or Le Corbusier that has leaked into contemporary renditions of the starchitect. The image of a collective process of design stands in stark contrast to this. As architectural problems are growing in complexity, the necessity to find new methods of communicating and collaborating efficiently increases. Involving not just the typical actors but also the end-users in the design process promises to offer multiple advantages by deepening the understanding of the larger context, empowering communities, and generating long-lasting change.

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The Expert Citizen: A Change of Perspectives in Participatory Design

A Citywide People’s Network: The Example of Jhenaidah

Jhenaidah is a city in southwest Bangladesh built along the Nobogonga River. Despite being an important resource for the city, throughout the years, the river has become neglected, polluted, and even dangerous. A self-initiated local organization set out to change this and return the river to the inhabitants. The resulting project developed through an intensive dialogue between the architects at Co.Creation.Architects, the local municipality, and the local community. Small and accessible interventions along the riverfront transformed it into an accessible, open, and vibrant public space.

One of the keys to this success is the design process that stood behind it. The architects worked closely with the residents, especially the vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and the disabled. By implementing their inputs, like installing changing cabins or slip-safe paving, the architects ensured that the solutions provided an answer to their specific needs. The architects are also talking about the act of co-creating not just with humans but also with the surrounding natural context. According to them, the process of adapting to the environment is naturally occurring in communities. Thus, the role of the architect is to facilitate communication and bridge the gap between local communities and the authorities and professionals.

Although the project is ongoing, the effects on the quality of urban spaces are visible and felt by the local communities and the city at large. The people are bringing a deeper understanding of their environment while also changing their perspective on it. Once they can affect change in their spaces, they feel more connected to them. This also has a snowballing effect. Once local organizations see that change is possible, more and more initiatives are born, further developing well-adapted and site-specific solutions.

Is Co-Creation Reserved for Public Projects?

Most user-centered design initiatives focus on public spaces and larger communities, making it easy to dismiss the idea when it comes to smaller or privately-owned projects. Here communication with the client is often more straightforward. But the client and the user are not always the same entity. Taking into consideration all those affected by the project and involving them in the process ensures the projects are better fitted to the reals needs and, thus, more profitable for the client or developer.

A housing development in Amsterdam proves the contrary, demonstrating the advantages of involving future residents in the process and giving them the freedom to define their needs, both in terms of individual homes and collective spaces. The EnBloc project by Marc Koehler Architects developed a method for working with future residents in a cohesive and productive way. It uses a Tetris game approach, creating a system of units of 30 or 50 square meters. The units can be linked both vertically and horizontally, allowing the residents to vary the size of their homes according to their needs and budgets. The units were also empty, so the residents worked with the architects to create personalized solutions and create the rooms and spaces they needed. The project looks and feels coherent because f the framework developed by the architects, yet it empowers the residents, who were involved from the start, to create the spaces and communities they wished for.

And something else I find important: you move somewhere where you have known your neighbors for five years. This co-creation element in the design process creates social cohesion. As far as I’m concerned, it should be mandatory in new construction projects. – Iwan, one of the residents of EnBloc

Co-Creation: Beyond Participatory Design

Both terms, co-creation and participatory design, refer to aspects of Human or User-Centered Design, an attitude based on the belief that everybody can meaningfully participate in the act of design. Participatory design is often centered on the involvement factor, aiming to create a design that is centered on the users’ involvement in it. While there are some successful renditions of this concept, it often takes the form of token participation, mimicking involvement but avoiding to enact real change. Participatory design is also interpreted as consulting the community at one stage of the process, picking up the ideas suggested, and moving forward with the process.

On the other hand, Co-design refers to a collective creativity that is applied across the whole span of a design process. The concept understands the users and other parties as sources of competence, exploiting their knowledge about their own needs. The concept is also aligned with Jeremy Till’s idea of the expert citizen, viewing residents as experts in their environment and their needs. The result is a design process based on a collaboration between experts in different fields. Therefore, the users become part of knowledge gathering, idea generation, and concept development. The architect or designer retains responsibility for the design, acts as a moderator between experts and creates the structure of the process of collaboration.

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Cite: Maria-Cristina Florian. "What Is Co-Creation in the Context of Architecture and Urban Planning?" 17 Nov 2022. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/992363/what-is-co-creation-in-the-context-of-architecture-and-urban-planning> ISSN 0719-8884

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