Ecological works in architecture, sustainable ecosystems

Ecological works in architecture are very present in large and small cities. The eco-friendly concept goes beyond including green elements. An ecological project tries to integrate the architectural design into the environmental environment in which it is located using sustainable resources. In fact, a design that respects the ecosystem has multiple advantages:

• We gain health. The materials used in this type of work are harmless, therefore, it does not affect our health. The use of cement and synthetic mixtures are reduced to a minimum or not used at all to avoid allergies or respiratory problems. In exchange, they are replaced by other natural resources such as stone or wood. At Beltá & Frajumar we are committed to quality and care for the environment in each of our jobs.
• It represents economic and energy savings. Ecological works are capable of reducing electricity and heating consumption. To do this, the work is prepared with an insulation system using materials such as cork or wood so that it maintains the optimal temperature. Another key factor is the use of natural light with large windows or the use of low-consumption lights to improve the energy efficiency of the work.
• We build in an environmentally responsible way. Ecological works that respect architecture and its environmental surroundings consume much less energy. Construction is responsible for most of the carbon dioxide emissions in our atmosphere. Therefore, the development of ecological architectural projects helps take care of our planet.

Examples of ecological works in architecture

Some ecological works recognized in the world are by the Italian architect Renzo Piano. This architect has designed, for example, the roof of the California Academy of Sciences. The incorporation of vegetation in the upper part of the building allows rainwater to be filtered and reused in addition to air conditioning the space, maintaining heat in winter and coolness in summer.   Other architecture studios have also carried out eco-friendly house projects such as Fabrica718. This studio designed the interior of the Tighthouse in New York. This house is known because it was the first ecological-passive house in the city. The architects included in their design the installation of photovoltaic solar panels to reduce energy consumption. In addition, they placed large windows in key points of the house such as the kitchen or the art studio.   At Beltá&Frajumar we have also collaborated with various projects of ecological works in architecture. Casa Baqueira (Lérida) – Beltá & Frajumar The interior design of this holiday apartment in Baqueira has been carried out together with the interior design studio Dröm Living. From scratch, warm and welcoming spaces have been created where natural materials such as leather and wood are the main protagonists in textiles and furniture. Both the ceiling and the walls are covered with wood conglomerate that acts as thermal insulation. Several glass windows have also been opened to let in natural light. The materials and finishes of this accommodation coexist in harmony with the environment and give it that vintage touch characteristic of the house.   The importance that we give at Beltá&Frajumar to ecological works in architecture has led us to organize the International Contract Environment Design Competition, InterCIDEC, every year. The purpose of this contest is to reward the best innovative idea and turn it into a real project. Social responsibility in design is one of the hallmarks of our brand. We hope that the ecological works that we have exposed in this article inspire you in your future projects. Sustainable architecture is not the future, it is our present.