When the city of Austin, Texas, required that public projects in the city qualify for Leeds silver status, the architects of the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless jumped on board. This public building serves the homeless population in the city in addition to offering a computer room, an art room, and offices for other public organizations. Using energy and water saving methods as well as environmentally-friendly materials, the architects succeeded in building a highly sustainable and useful building.
Architects also wanted to use recycled material wherever possible as well. So, cement partially composed of fly ash was used. And, although construction always entails producing waste, more than half ended up being recycled
In an effort to encourage alternative, clean transportation, planners designed a parking lot that limits spaces for cars (to encourage carpooling) and contains more space for bikes. In addition, the site includes a station for recharging electric cars. Its proximity to several bus lines also makes public transportation convenient.
One of the biggest challenges in green design is water conservation. On the next page, we'll learn how one building uses aerated faucets to reduce water consumption.
luxury villas
14 years ago
