principles of Environmental Architecture

Five principles of an environmental architecture (Thomas A. Fisher, AIA, November, 1992):



Healthful Interior Environment. All possible measures are to be taken to ensure that materials and
building systems do not emit toxic substances and gasses into the interior atmosphere. Additional
measures are to be taken to clean and revitalize interior air with filtration and plantings.


Energy Efficiency. All possible measures are to be taken to ensure that the building's use of energy
is minimal. Cooling, heating and ligeliminate energy use.


Ecologically Benign Materials. All possible measures are to be taken to use building materials and
products that minimize destruction of the global environment. Wood is to be selected based on non
destructive forestry practices. Other materials and products are to be considered based on the toxic
waste out put of production.


Environmental Form. All possible measures are to be taken to relate the form and plan of the
design to the site, the region and the climate. Measures are to be taken to "heal" and augment the
ecology of the site. Accomodations are to be made for recycling and energy efficiency. Measures
are to be taken to relate the form of building to a harmonious relationship between the inhabitants
and nature.


Good Design. All possible measures are to be taken to achieve an efficient, long lasting and elegant
relationship of use areas, circulation, building form, mechanical systems and construction
technology. Symbolic relationships with appropriate history, the Earth and spiritual principles are
to be searched for and expressed. Finished buildings shall be well built, easy to use and beautiful.hting systems are to use methods and products that conserve or