A model for a ‘Sustainable District’

What does it mean anyway? Yes, it's another architectural buzzword, but perhaps it's one more relevant now than ever.

Half of the earth's population now live in cities and this is only ever-increasing. Cities produce a large portion of greenhouse gases which are the main cause of climate change. The world is radically changing and so must our cities. The architecture profession is increasingly pressured to act upon the growing environmental crisis. One of the main challenge for architects and urban designers is to provide sustainable cities that are attractive, resilient and innovative.

The criteria of a ‘sustainable district’ comes from low carbon mobility, green-blue smart grids, energy-neutral buildings, efficient water and waste management, access to green and blue spaces. These should all be facilitated with innovative ways of thinking to encourage and maintain green habits among residents.

Inspired by my recent trip to Scandinavia, some great examples of such developments are the BO01 West Harbour in Malmo, Hammarby Sjöstad in Stockholm and the Torpedo Hall Apartments in Copenhagen.

The BO01 West Harbour (figure 1) was chosen by the Swedish Government as a national exemplar of urban sustainable development supplied with 100% renewable energy. Its real appeal is on the environmental features, connection with the sea and the intimate spaces between the variety of vibrant building typologies designed by 18 different developers and 23 architects. Social mixing is promoted with different range of house sizes and prices. There is no car parking in the area as walking and cycling are encourage supported by scenic footpaths, cycle lanes and good public transport. Also, notice the use of rainwater pipes as sculptural elements unapologetically exhibited before releasing the collected water to the open channels and feature ponds (figure 2). There is a real sense of community spirit and ownership within the vibrant neighbourhood.

The second district I visited was the former Royal Naval Dockyard in Copenhagen, with particular focus on the Torpedo Hall Apartments. This adaptive reuse is located in the 155-meter long Motor Torpedo Boat Warehouse that left the structural elements (trusses and columns) intact and integrated with the new apartment complex. Footbridges connecting the apartments run across and along the internal courtyard consisting of a communal street and a canal to give a dynamic movement within. The old roof was opened up to reveal the steel trusses and allow daylight and natural ventilation. The trusses also support the new roof for the loft-style apartments.

The Warehouse contributes to a great part of the maritime history and significant architectural value of the city. The internal canal secures the continued attunement with the water. It is a great exemplar for re-using an existing building under the sustainable agenda.

Attractive ways to integrate sustainable measures to combat these challenges is required to make the developments not only functional but also desirable. The recent advances in scientific and practical solutions include: providing more green and water zones, green roofs/facades, rainwater drainage systems, wetlands, use of renewable sources, use of raw materials and existing buildings, green technology and better public transport.

The success of sustainable projects in these cities is affected by the positive cooperation of architects, urban developers, water managers, urban ecologist, various agencies and companies. Standardised sustainable methods and materials, plus the cost for green technology have also dropped significantly due to the increasing demand becoming more affordable and easily replicated.

However, there are criticisms about these developments. They are not green enough, just yet! The production of construction elements alone stands for a large part of energy use and C02 emissions. The desirability of these houses also increase the pricing which limits social mixing that therefore results in homogenous neighbourhoods. Sustainable projects in our suburbs, towns and cities need a serious upscale and quick implementation if we are to combat the oppressing environmental crisis we face today.

Of course, there are far more challenges and solutions to discuss in creating a sustainable district. This short article provides a brief insight to make one curious and think. You may have already visited or lived on one. Next time, why not try and look for sustainable measures in your area or places you visit?

#architecture #sustainability #waterdistrict #waterfrontdevelopment #copenhagen #malmo #denmark #sweden #buildings #renzopiano