In looking for potential sources of energy waste, the rooftop may often be a forgotten about structure. As long as roofs are leak free and stable, sometimes not much more thought may be put into them.

There are, however, modifications that can be made to roofs to make them more energy efficient.

Darker roofing can clearly attract more heat, thus reducing energy savings. Cool roof designs use roofing materials that reflect light, therefore lessening heat absorption.

A lighter colored covering or a white roof can decrease energy consumption by as much as 20% on a hot day. Scientists have suggested that using reflective roof designs in highly populated areas could drastically reduce emissions. For example, a 1,000 square foot rooftop that has incorporated a cool roof design could annually save as much as a half-ton of carbon dioxide that is emitted from air conditioning units required to cool interior spaces.

Metal roofing that has a cool design integrated is also available. These can save energy due to the metal’s naturally reflective properties, which can help reduce heat absorption that makes a structure warmer. Metal roofs are typically long lasting, fully recyclable and have a low thermal mass that will not capture and store heat, as compared to some other roofing materials.

Also, protective roof coatings that combine light reflective pigments can be applied that come in a variety of lighter colors. These work in conjunction with cool design technology to further reduce energy loss.

Coolroofs.org has a pdf that offers an explanation of how cool roof designs work and gives the sketch below as an illustration.

Also included is a case study of a reflective roof application where researchers examined rooftop temperatures on a dark roof versus a lighter colored cool roof design. Solar reflectance, thermal emittance, and the environmental and money saving advantages of cool roofs are also explained.

Incorporating efficient designs, like cool roofing techniques, can drastically boost energy savings and reduce energy consumption.

Image Source: Coolroofs.org

We’d like to share some important tips and techniques to help you best ready for the summer heat waves. Some of our suggestions may seem like no-brainers, but they can often become neglected.

The first is to use your air conditioning unit conservatively.

This can be done in several ways. You can make sure to insulate your home so that no cool air escapes (this is also useful in the wintertime), purchase some oscillating floor fans to circulate the air, don’t put fans in unoccupied rooms, make sure your A/C unit is clean so that it doesn’t end up overworking, etc.

Make sure your refrigerator and/or freezer are updated and aren’t leaking cool air.

Older units tend to have these sort of problems as they age, so consider making a trip to your local appliance store if you discover excessive leaking. This will jack up your electricity bill before you know it. And keep your fridge door closed when you’re not using it.

You can plant trees for natural shading, and hang flowers inside your home for clean air. Also, put drapes or shutters on your windows that shine the most sun into your home. This will keep those rooms from increasing their temperatures, and will go a long way towards lowering the overall temperature of your home.

If you’re considering painting your home, you might want to think about “cool” colors, such as light green, blue, yellow, etc. These won’t suck up sunlight as much.

The same goes for re-doing your roof. Studies have shown that such preparations can keep your cooling demand by 10-15% in the summertime.

Keep track of appliances that have Energy Star ratings when you’re shopping for new products. These are proven to use minimal amounts of electricity compared to non-rated appliances, or older products.

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Sustainable products and recycled resources can be used to make spectacular fencing.

Some materials that make durable, eco friendly fences include bamboo, however ensure that it is purchased from a reputable source as some on the market may not be sustainably gathered. The Forest Stewardship Council certifies woods that are ecologically manufactured.

Old wood that has been salvaged can be a good option to purchasing new wood for fencing. Reclaimed wood fences will likely require a finishing treatment in order to preserve them. If preferred, instead of chemicals, oils like linseed or tung can be applied as needed to moisten and help protect the fence.

As an alternative to processed woods, composite blends, which are a mixture of organic fibers and recycled materials, can be made to take on a wood-like appearance, as well as other textures. These do not usually contain preservatives and are virtually maintenance free, aside from normal cleaning.

Fencing made from recycled plastic can be ideal, as it uses up already produced, non-biodegradable products. However, it may be difficult to find out what percentage is actually made from recycled product. Plastic can also react to the outdoor environment, causing the color to weaken and the fence may actually lose its shape over time, depending on the weather.

If you would like some of the privacy that a fence offers but don’t like the structure of an actual railing, think about native hedges or other trainable bushes, which can be grown and shaped. These offer a more natural design and usually only need periodic trimming.

The design of a fence should be considered, too. Fences provide a needed boundary, but can also be designed with a double duty function in mind. For example, cavity wall designs use double walls and are built with clay blocks that are hollow in order to allow a constant air flow. Clay walls stay fairly cool and absorb moisture well. This type of barrier works well for areas that are prone to high winds and heavy rains.

If you need to section off a smaller area or corner lot, galvanized steel mesh can be formed and packed with items like recycled glass or other materials to form a gabion wall. These structures naturally drain and can be filled with various objects.

This design, featured below in a recycled glass feature wall, can add a presentational aspect to an ordinary fence.

For tons of images of fencing designs, look at Home Improvement Pages for project ideas that can be pinned to an inspiration board. Many of the fencing concepts featured could be produced using recycled and reclaimed materials.

Image Source: 123RF Stock Photos

Rugs are one example of useful items that can be made from resources that are already on hand, or readily available ones that can be saved up for a project.

Plastic bags make sturdy, lasting rugs that are perfect for outdoor weather. Their colors can be incorporated into patterns and assembled into any size. Also, their constant free supply makes them an ideal material.

Homestead Weaving Studio makes “bag-in-a-tree rugs” which were inspired by driving through rural Indiana and Southern Illinois in the U.S. and observing the many plastic bags littered along the treescape. An imaginative weaver and litter hater puts the trash to use and recycles them in into durable outdoor rugs. Using plastic bags with handles, the rugs are formed by weaving together the pliable plastic ribbons on a floor loom.

Also, a design that was passed on from a relative is the rustic braided rag rug, which can be made from old rags, towels, clothes or other fabrics. The rugs are formed by cutting rags into strips and braiding them into a pattern, repeating until the desired shape is achieved. These can be turned into personalized indoor rugs without sewing, looming or using any tools, only leftover fabrics and braid willing hands.

Another simple approach that uses old clothes and fabrics is the pot holder weave-and-loom process, which produces practical and washable area rugs.

The Re Rag Rug project repurposes old, un-wearable sweaters and T-shirts into interesting designs. An exhibition of the creations that were made from cast off pieces during the course of a year is planned for August, 2013, ensuring to make a statement about the possibilities of sustainable production processes.

10 more interesting do it yourself rug designs that use salvaged supplies can be found at Cheap Crafty Mama. Made from recycled materials, the rug designs include a wine cork rug that is perfect for bathrooms and as seen below, an impressive rope rug.

Remember to use non-slip padding underneath homemade rugs if they move around underfoot, such as on a slippery or waxed floor surface to avoid accidents. Non-slip rug backing can be purchased that is made from recycled resources, or you can use objects you may already have that will adhere well to flooring, like placemats and old bath mats.

Rugs made from reused objects, without using glues or other chemical processes, make them a practical project. The initial process may take a bit of practice and requires saving up materials, but once the technique is mastered the only limitation involved is having the time to make more rugs.

Image Source: Cheap Crafty Mama

While quality design tries to evoke the senses, one element that may seemingly get lost as important in the process is the incorporation of natural aromatics.

Spaces are often more than just what is seen. There is also an invisible mood often which can be attributed to, among other things, fragrances in the air.

Sensory experiences, especially odors, can bring back memories associated with a particular smell or group of smells. Research on the importance of smell has been conducted in numerous studies.

Chemesthesis, or the detection of a chemical irritant, allows an ingrained sense of protection with regards to humans and animals. Coughing or other reactions to strong odors are natural reflexes. This defense helps safeguard against harmful substances in the environment (National Institutes of Health).

Ridding rooms of dustiness and chemical odors like those emitted from harsh paints, upholstery and carpeting made from synthetic materials can improve air quality. Things like air flow and ventilation can also affect one’s perception of smell.

Techniques of sensory design are evident in facilities like spas, hospitality destinations, hospitals and office spaces. This concept is also widely used in urban design and is a substantial marketing technique. Think of coffee, floral, bath and apothecary shops, which all use smell to entice customers. Aromatherapy is also used in many therapeutic forms.

Sense of smell as used in sensory design does not mean turning to chemicals to mask the air, though. There are simple things that can be done to naturally create an aromatic scent.

One researcher, Victoria Henshaw, states the significance of scent, and not just relying on aesthetics in a design. She has made studying scent experiences a focal point and has noted “smell walks” as an important tool for recognizing how many we actually encounter during for instance, a stroll. As part of her inquiry, she began taking partakers on these walks and has noted that many state things like breezes or flowing water can improve perception of air quality, lending to increased awareness of smells.

She provides an example of a landscape which creates a lingering fragrance. Located in the perfume capital of the world – Grasse, France is famous for its aromatic fields of jasmine and other flowers used in its popular formulas. She observed that throughout the area are also visual representations of the regional flowers, which can appear to make the spaces more fragranced with the familiar smell.

The concept of sensory gardens, or outdoor spaces that have been specifically designed to stimulate the physical senses, can be used at home to heighten the awareness of natural fragrances, as well as produce a relaxing effect.

Planting fragrant flowers or herbs by doorways and along walkways can entice before even entering an interior space. Stick with native varieties, but examples of powerfully scented ones are gardenias, honeysuckle, roses, violets, wisteria, lemon balm, rosemary and mint. Trees like cedars and pine also put off strong aromas. Certain plants can also be placed indoors in containers, such as herb gardens, for a lasting fragrance.

Homemade scents can also be used to naturally freshen the air.

Sensory design recognizes the importance of integrating the human senses, including sense of smell, into indoor and outdoor areas. Designs that keep the olfactory system, as well as the other senses in mind, can help produce stimulating spaces that are more than just visually based.

Image Source: Google Images

Wooden Pallets are an example of an object that can be used in endless ways.

Their fairly sturdy structure and versatility make them an ideal starter base for projects. They can be painted, stained, decorated, stacked, drilled and nailed into creative, usable items.

For example, wooden pallets can be turned into the perfect desks. With only a few materials, tools and securely attached table legs you can create an instant work space. The pallets open middle allows necessities to be easily accessible.

In addition to a desk, this design can also be adapted into carts, kitchen islands or other portable tables. Castor wheels can be affixed on the bottom of the table legs if a mobile version is needed, however be sure to use wheels with a locking mechanism.

A table made from a pallet that has an energy efficient twist is a solar lamp table. By inserting solar lights into the pallet it creates instant, free outdoor lighting and a table surface.

Design Rulz lists 35 incredible ways to upcycle pallets. Furniture, planters, fencing, swings and storage are just a few examples of ways to reuse them.

Repurposing pallets evolved into a comprehensively applied model for two visionaries, Andreas Claus Schnetzer and Gregor Pils, who designed the internationally acclaimed Palletten House. An amazing live illustration of how basic materials can be used as functional mediums, this house turns the salvaged wood into a livable work of art.

Made from 800 recycled wooden pallets, the design makes use of the pallet’s support and construction, incorporating their open areas with housing needs like insulation, electrical systems and plumbing. The designers are teaming up with members of the government in South Africa to develop affordable housing. They estimate that their model can be made at an economic building rate of $11.00 (USD) per square foot.

Projects that combine sustainable materials with efficiency have the potential for endless designs.

Image Source: Palletten House from designboom

Taking green structures to a higher level with heightened expectations of what a building can do though, are living buildings.

Living buildings are exactly that – buildings that have whole systems implanted to practically run themselves.

Buildings are considered living if they are able to efficiently create and sustain their own necessities, like energy and water. Renewable resources and on-site conservation techniques are employed to allow the building to function without an excess of energy consumption.

One example of an inclusive living building is the Bullitt Center in Seattle, Washington. The building has to pass a rigorous certification procedure and adhere to a strict energy budget to meet its own operative requirements.

The outdoor space encourages eco-friendly travel methods and landscaping has been used to optimize soil conditions to allow water filtration through a practical roofing system. Among the plans are to conserve water by putting a rainwater storage tank capable of holding 56,000 gallons of water, which goes through a sanitation process and is then reused.

It also features a solar rooftop overhang that is planned to generate 230,000 hours of kilowatt power and reportedly runs at an efficiency level up to 83% above a characteristically assembled commercial building. Though this structure undoubtedly cost a massive amount to complete, that is a substantial energy savings.

Another example of a qualified living structure is the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Located in in Rhinebeck, New York, this building has been constructed with ecologically sound supplies and a layout that incorporates sunlight to naturally reduce energy use during the day. The design has integrated a geothermal heating and cooling system and a greenhouse which assists by filtering the water supply for reuse.

The site will undergo an energy audit to make sure that it is functioning at its efficiency expectations as it was built to not create an excess of energy usage.

For more examples of living buildings and net zero energy productions, check out the Living Building Challenge for case studies.

Along with the price there are challenges to erecting a completely living building, like finding fully suitable materials and manufacturers. The benefits of a living design overshadow the upfront costs, and if demand for these types of smart structures increased the building rates would likely drop.

These examples show that sustainable design can be successfully implemented into livable spaces, and hopefully living buildings will continue to grow into accessible options.

Image Source: Bullitt Center

The National Trust already leads in renewable technology use with over one hundred green projects across the country, but these new plans will yet further reduce energy use in National Trust buildings.

The goal behind the initiative is to set a benchmark for other organizations and companies in how we can best install renewable sources into existing and often historically important sites.

The National Trust is charged with overseeing the maintenance and tourism interests of Britain’s most culturally significant buildings, with a grading system used to dictate which structures can be changed and in which way.

In general the National Trust’s move towards further renewables has been welcomed, but some critics argue that the changes will make no significant change to the overall well-being of the environment. The Trust counters this by stating that, firstly, the historical significance of their properties makes large scale change near impossible, and secondly, that the project is aimed at advertising green change rather than epitomizing it.

The Trust’s chairman has come under fire in the past for stated fierce opposition to wind power, which is the UK’s most lucrative renewable energy resource. Some criticize Mr Jenkins for ignoring the wider problem of global warming in favour of smaller changes to buildings that make no real change towards overall reduction in carbon emissions.

That being said, there are very few National Trust buildings currently being used in a major commercial or industry way, the vast majority being visitors attractions – it’s difficult to see how the installation of new green technology would help here as it would be rarely be used in buildings that are now historic museums. The majority of attractions owned by the Trust are free to enter, meaning there is little opportunity in charging for entry in an effort to off-set fuel use.

The National Trust’s plans include significant use of bio- and hydro-generation before the decade is out, although since the majority of buildings are almost untouchable due to their grading, main changes will most likely take place in the maintenance of buildings and the technology used therein.

The National Trust is in a difficult situation, charged with protecting the look and feel of historically significant buildings whilst pulling its weight on environment concerns – these new plans, whilst underwhelming, may be the organizations only move forward in renewables for the time being.

Image: gardenvisit.com

A step up in approach and we reach the level of true sustainable design. There are various takes on what we mean by ‘sustainable’ in architecture and trade.

A fair definition of sustainable building is that these structures fulfil the requirements of those currently using it but also embody features aimed at helping future inhabitants considering the progression of global warming and rising world population.

The goal of an environmentally stable society for future generations rests on the constructing sustainable buildings that will help fulfil this ambition.

What would a truly sustainable building consist of?

Firstly it would be entirely designed to use as little energy as possible in providing the requirements of its users. Beyond conservation, sustainable buildings generate their own energy through solar technology and recycle waste by using in-house grey-water systems. The physical materials in the building are equally important.

A sustainable building should consist of materials that can be easily recycled, replaced, and are in no way toxic despite degradation.

In recent times sustainable design has gone beyond mere architecture itself, and is now considered a societal approach bordering on a philosophy of how civilisation could live in homoeostasis with the planet. This makes good sense, since buildings and people form a wider community, city, and world – only through social and economic cohesion can the idea of truly sustainable living become a reality.

Those embarking on creating any form of sustainably designed property or product: proceed with caution. It can be all to easy to design with the environment in mind and overlook the functionality of the design itself. If the system does not serve the purpose for which it is built, it will not succeed it will not work, and will be regulated into a might-have-been idea that neither sells nor benefits the planet.

Environmentally sustainable buildings, in their fullest expression, are built almost in homage to the planet. All considerations are environmental – if this seems over the top, one should consider that without the environment there is no world to build on at all.

How near we are to a truly sustainable world depends on how quickly attitudes shift towards the philosophy of green design and living.

Hopefully as education about climate change becomes better taught and more widely circulated, attitudes will change and sustainable properties will become common currency the world over.

What is Sustainable Design – Part Two
What is Sustainable Design – Part One

Using outdoor solar lights can provide decorative illumination without using electricity.

Designing with solar lighting can be much simpler than wired lights, as they can be easily integrated where needed. They can be placed along walkways, sidewalks, patios and entryways to provide efficient, year-round lighting.

In addition to the energy conserving benefits of using outdoor solar lighting, maintenance is also low, and usually requires only periodic light cleaning and a back-up battery recharge, if necessary. Also, just like their energy consuming counterparts, solar lighting is available with automatic on and off and manual switches, as well as motion sensor detection for convenience.

Though landscaping with solar lights is a great alternative to conventional outdoor lighting, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of them. Some solar fixtures may not appear as bright as traditional lighting. Panels will need to be placed so that they will receive direct sunlight for the majority of the day in order for them to store enough energy to stay lit most of the night. Placing solar lights away from streetlights or other sources of night lighting that will reduce brightness can help also.

Solar lighting can also be weather dependent, and on overcast days they may not be as well lit in the evening. However some types that also have rechargeable back up batteries can seem brighter.

Repurposing everyday items or unconventional materials as solar light fixtures is an inexpensive and distinctive way to decorate an outdoor area.

Using things like mason jars, glass containers and hanging lanterns with solar lighting fixtures or strands placed inside are good ways to integrate supplementary portable lighting displays. Also, try revamping old light fixtures by replacing the lights with suitably sized solar lights.

Solar bottle trees, made from recycled glass bottles inverted on tree branches or posts with solar lights or strands inside, add an interesting and artistic light display. Solar kits or caps can be purchased that fit on a variety of containers like bottles and jars. Another economical outdoor lighting idea is do it yourself solar lanterns, which are as easy to make as turning a bucket or basket upside down, affixing a solar light and hanging it up.

For some inspiration on upcyled and repurposed solar lighting, Dishfunctional Designs has craft images and ideas.

For a whimsically elegant touch outside, you can also make an outdoor solar lamp. Use a solar light or panel strip placed where the light bulb would normally go, and place a lamp shade that is suitable for outdoor use on top for an out of the ordinary outdoor fixture that doesn’t have a cord to trip on and never needs to be plugged in.

This tutorial shows how to add an element of design using yard sale stickers. The round stickers were placed on the base of a lamppost and painted over for a polka dot effect. This can be done to nearly any outside feature with waterproof or outdoor paint and any favorite sticker shape.

The environmental and economic advantages to using outdoor solar lighting combined with easily inexpensive ways to decorate them make them a perfect option for landscape lighting.

Image Source: Google Images