Climate: A Design Imperative
Climatic variations across regions alter architectural demands for shelter, warmth, cooling and the relationship of indoor and outdoor living spaces. A structure which ignores its climatic context risks undermining functionality and sustainability.
Michael Sandberg of Sandberg Schoffel Architects comments that environmental considerations and sustainability issues are “tremendously important” for both local and international architects and landscape designers Mr Sandberg adds that, in architectural design, “climate has always been a major factor” however it is only now, given the recent drought and associated climate extremes experienced in Australia, that it is becoming a much more public discussion.
Countries with extreme climates are further advanced in producing and designing environmentally friendly architecture. Due to a warm climate and ample natural resources, in the past “Australia has lagged behind” other nations in terms of climate responsive. Little need for insulation, warmth conservation and water proofing meant Australian architects made fewer climatic considerations in design.
Now that the Australian climate has become more extreme there is a greater sense within both the design and broader communities that climate responsive architecture and design is an imperative. Long term rainfall deficiencies across southern and eastern Australia have now led to greater scrutiny and emphasis being placed on water saving design features in residential and commercial properties.
