The goal of sustainable architecture is to incorporate creative and innovative structural components in building designs that blend seamlessly and engage positively with the natural surroundings. Also known as eco-friendly or eco-design architecture, this approach to building designs promotes sustainability and environmental conservation. 

With that in mind, in this article, we are going to share how the leading design firms like CarbonShack Design and Home Front Build are incorporating sustainable and environmentally friendly projects and how you can improve your building’s quality and sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices in your next project. 

Case study: A Sustainable Rooftop Remodel 

CarbonShack has recently designed an undulating rooftop by using reclaimed redwood. The founder of CarbonShack Design and Home Front Build, Steve Pallrand, says that the only way to survive and grow in these times is to do things by keeping sustainability in mind.  

The expertise of firms like CarbonShack lies in incorporating green architecture into their building designs. They specialize in renovating and building homes that not only meet but exceed building’s sustainable standards without compromising on their history and character. With the launch of sustainability-focused design firms, like CarbonShack, designers are putting more emphasis on the natural world through accessible and creative home designs.

Organic shapes define and open the space in a seamless and fluid manner by contracting and expanding the space experience. For example, in the aforementioned project by CarbonShack, the roof deck was made with reclaimed redwood which not only provides picturesque views but also shelters homeowners from the elements including the Sun. So, the owners can enjoy their roof terrace with optimized, unobstructed views. 

The low ceiling of the sitting area is created to achieve a protected and cozy feeling. The height of the roof increases as you move away from the sitting area and it flips up at the opening and terminus, enhancing the experience of view. To create a curved appearance, the firm roped in AMG Structural Engineers. Designers tried to reduce the inclusion of intricate components as much as possible. They set the curved structure at ninety degrees to the direction of finished lumber. Wood offers limited flexibility when it comes to bending. To overcome this design challenge, they made the undulations somewhat gentle along the length while more complex at the width. 

The Future of Sustainable Designs 

While designers have been incorporating sustainable products and technologies into their building designs for a long time now, design firms like CarbonShack have put the sustainable approach at the forefront by including the ideas of operational as well embodied carbon wherever feasible. They are translating the natural open world into stunning and functional home designs, created with sustainable products and materials. 

By using reclaimed wood—both salvaged and old-growth lumber, sustainably sourced from local vendors — and making it the focal point of their designs, designers like Steve Pallrand have demonstrated their commitment to reducing embodied carbon.

Furthermore, old, inefficient homes are being remodeled and reconfigured with thermally efficient products like steel windows so that homeowners can have ample amounts of natural light in their homes and enjoy spectacular views increasing the internal temperatures. 

When it comes to the financial benefits, sustainable designs can help increase the life expectancy of a roof as well as the overall real estate value of the home dramatically. 

Architects and designers who specialize in sustainable designs are always looking out for new innovative techniques and materials to enhance the quality, durability, and energy efficiency of sustainable buildings, without affecting their functions. 

For more information, contact Watkins Construction and Roofing at 251-299-8151 in Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort, Foley, Fairhope, Robertsdale, and Orange Beach, AL.