The future of luxury construction is in sustainability. In our modern age, to build high end is to build with intention. Luxury is more than just aesthetics, it is about optimizing retention, durability, and environmental impacts. Thinking about how to build green not only brings with it a nuance that allows for a sustainable build, but can in fact improve upon what may be considered as the ‘standard.’ In this blog, we will assess what sustainable high-end building means and through what materials you can reach that title.
What “Sustainable Luxury” Actually Means
The most common term you will see in sustainable construction, whether luxury or not, is LEED: ‘Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.’ This certification guarantees that the associated build was designed, constructed, and operated for sustainability, low operation costs, and healthier occupant environments. A LEED certification is the ultimate stamp that verifies a build’s high end sustainable design. But what materials in particular encompass the goals of green design?
Recycled Materials
Potentially the most prevalent sustainable practice: the use of recycled materials is not only a green way to build but depending on the material, can reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
- Stone – Counter/table tops, sinks, and other high end finishes can be made with recycled and/or leftover quartz, concrete, and stone all without sacrificing quality or durability.
- Metal – Aluminium and steel with high recycled percentages are still just as effective as new steel and aluminium. As a result, they can be used in structural elements such as framework and foundation or in custom finishes without risking build safety or longevity.
High Performance Materials
To build sustainably is to also build with materials that will last. Reducing the need to replace or repair is an essential part of reducing waste and impacting the environment.
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- Cross laminated timber – Stronger than traditional timber, this material can be used in a similar manner to steel or aluminum.Furthermore, it is renewably sourced and can be used in carbon sequestering practices. It carries with it a warm neutral aesthetic and lends itself to biophilic design interest.
- Engineered quartz and sintered stone – High performance materials that have been engineered to have immense durability. To use these materials may have a higher upfront cost, but will save you money in the long run.
- Concrete – A sustainable concrete material includes the likes of carbon-cured concrete. A material that captures carbon in its creation, but is stronger and more durable than its non-cured counterpart.
Smart Materials and Responsive Tech
Smart and responsive tech integration is yet another great form of green building. Smart tint glass, phase changing materials, high performance insulation will control the build’s temperature/climate while reducing energy consumption.
The Benefits and Future
To build sustainably does more than just ‘save the planet’: It reduces operational costs, increases property value, tenant demand, and thinks about your project in a long term lens.
Sustainable ingenuity will not be stopping anytime soon. The development of carbon-negative materials, circular construction practices, and tech driven performance tracking aka smart buildings are all highly lucrative and sustainable high end build practices that are on the horizon. At MODAA, we have had a plethora of experiences working in LEED certified spaces. We not only believe in, but know firsthand the benefits of green building practices. Our goals are directly aligned with the goals of sustainable builds: build with the future in mind. Create lasting impressions, ones that may even outlast and evolve after us. 25
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