Sustainable Design Principles Research Articles

Therapeutic Playground: Typology of Solutions and Analysis of Selected Public Playgrounds as Places with Therapeutic Potential

The article highlights the need for a change in the approach to playground design toward creating spaces with therapeutic qualities that are fully inclusive and therefore meet the principles of sustainable design. The aim of the research was to identify different types of therapeutic playgrounds, to identify components that build the therapeutics of playgrounds, and to evaluate selected contemporary playgrounds in terms of therapeutic potential based on the author’s evaluation tool. The research methodology was based on interpretive, qualitative, and comparative studies. As a result of the research, the author’s typology of therapeutic playgrounds was created, solutions responsible for specific therapeutic effects were identified, and selected realizations of new playgrounds located in Szczecin (Poland) were evaluated in terms of adaptation of these solutions. The conducted research demonstrates the great possibilities of introducing the therapeutic function of play into public spaces and adapting to public playgrounds the solutions characteristic of the five types of therapeutic playgrounds identified. Unfortunately, the research also shows that the evaluated playgrounds use the therapeutic potential of play to a very limited extent. The research connects the issue of playground design with therapeutics, going beyond the accessibility problem, and leading to the identification of desirable directions in playground design. It is necessary to implement an integrated approach, based on the implementation of the identified components of therapeutics and three paths to the implementation of a therapeutic playground. This can contribute to improving not only the quality of playgrounds but also public spaces in cities and realizing the idea of a city that is friendly to all residents.

A BP Neural Network Product Design Optimization Model Based on Emotional Design and Sustainable Product Design

The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of emotional design and sustainable product design on user experience and satisfaction. Additionally, the study aims to optimize the combination efficiency and material selection methods of these two design approaches, extracting optimization parameters based on emotional and sustainable product design principles. By analyzing user satisfaction through questionnaires, various product indicators were examined. The study ultimately establishes a BP neural network optimization model by analyzing the design elements of different products and the satisfaction levels of various indicators. This BP neural network design optimization model, integrating emotional and sustainable design, demonstrates an accuracy rate of over 95% in predicting user satisfaction for different design schemes. Upon examining the emotional design and sustainable design parameter tables following data standardization, and analyzing various product models, it was concluded that the rate of change in each design parameter significantly impacts the satisfaction of each product indicator, highlighting the importance of these parameters in product design optimization.

An analysis of the Puri Brata Resort & Gallery building’s design from an environmental aesthetics and sustainability perspective

The research paper delves into the implementation of sustainable architectural design practices at Puri Brata Resort & Gallery in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The primary objective of the study is to analyze the impact of eco-friendly design principles on both the environment and visitor experience within the resort. Data collection for this research involved conducting a comprehensive survey among visitors to the resort, focusing on aspects such as air quality, temperature control, and overall visitor comfort. Additionally, data was gathered on the utilization of green spaces within the resort and the incorporation of local cultural values and aesthetics in the architectural design. The survey responses were then analyzed to evaluate the perceived impact of sustainable design elements on the guest experience and environmental sustainability. The findings of the research indicate that the integration of eco-friendly practices at Puri Brata Resort & Gallery has positively impacted various aspects, including improved air quality, efficient temperature control, and enhanced visitor comfort. The use of recycled materials, renewable energy sources, and green spaces has contributed to creating a harmonious and sustainable environment that enhances the overall guest experience. The study underscores the importance of incorporating sustainable design principles in architectural practices to create spaces that benefit both the environment and visitors. This research provides valuable insights for industry practitioners and policymakers looking to adopt sustainable design practices in the hospitality and tourism sector.

Navigating urban sustainability: balancing livability, smartness, services and environment through AHP analysis

PurposeSustainable urban development involves integrating intelligent technology into urban planning to promote economic growth, social services, and environmental preservation. It fosters inclusiveness, safety, resilience, and sustainability in urban environments. However, this strategy faces challenges balancing economic growth, social equality, and environmental preservation. Design experts must balance economic development with sustainability preservation to achieve sustainable urban development. They depend on technology for smarter communities. The paper aims to identify the criteria for sustainable urban design and design professionals' bias and their awareness of using the fourth industrial revolution technologies.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology involves a document review to identify criteria and weights for sustainable urban design. A questionnaire was conducted with 30 design professionals to understand their preferences and biases. A hierarchical framework was created, and pairwise comparisons were computed using an AHP Online System. The weight of each criterion was calculated by aggregating normalized pairwise values within each row and dividing by the total number of cells. The Consistency Ratio (CR) was determined by aggregating the values in the row to produce the weighted aggregate value for each principle.FindingsThe document review emphasizes the significance of sustainable urban design, livability, intelligence, and environmental conservation in sustainable communities. However, participants often overlook these aspects, focusing on comfort, privacy, security, and exclusiveness. They also ignore the need for smart city technologies and environmental protection. This lack of understanding may hinder Egypt’s achievement of SDG11.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper’s main limitation is the small sample size and composition, as all participants were Egyptians working in Egypt or the Arabian Gulf region. The findings cannot be generalized, and future research could involve a team from different regions. Egypt needs to address the lack of knowledge and awareness of sustainable urban design principles among design professionals to achieve SDG 11 goals. This can be achieved through educational initiatives, readjusting priorities towards sustainability, harmonizing policy and practice with sustainable urban design principles, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Design professionals should customize their methods to suit local requirements and ecological circumstances.Originality/valueThe paper reveals that many design professionals lack an integrated and holistic understanding of sustainable urban design principles that the document review outlined. Their responses and practices reveal an incomplete understanding of sustainable urban development, requiring attention to organizing the profession, training practitioners, and reforming planning education. The paper shows that AHP has the potential to serve as a suitable instrument for decision-making; nonetheless, it is essential to exercise caution when interpreting its outcomes.

Advanced sustainable interior design concept as methodological approach in the process of architectural design

Implementation of sustainable interior design in contemporary buildings is one of the most important parts of architectural design. Scientific research has shown that there is a meaning of incorporation of sustainable advanced interior design, and that the sociocultural, environmental, biophilic effects that this type of interior design has, can be manifested by physiological and emotional aspects of people in the interior design. In the analysis of the sustainable advanced interior design process, it is necessary to identify and define the phases and methods in interior design. The methods in the design process are focused on: divergence (exploration of possibilities and limitations by critical thinking, through qualitative and quantitative research methods for creating new activities towards better sustainable interior design solutions, transformation (redefining specifications for sustainable design solutions for traditional and contemporary design), convergence (analysis of prototypes of possible scenarios for better design solutions leading to gradual or significantly improved design solutions), sustainability (managing the research process, and redefining sustainable design solution prototypes over time), articulation (visual relationships between parts and the whole unit). Sustainable interior design includes several phases, such as information phase, analysis of specific requirements, specification, problem solving, presentation, idea development, implementation and evaluation of the project. Specific attention in this research has been paid to analysis of sustainable advanced interior design, as a concept of combining natural environment with interior design organization by minimal interior design, flexible interior design, ecological interior design and green interior design, The concept and the principles of sustainable interior design, sustainable green wall system and its benefits in aesthetics and usability of green space, natural look in sustainable advanced interior design, environmental values, biophilia, that create natural environment, increase productivity for the workers and costumers of interior design, define cultural and social values as integral part of the cultural environment, social interaction and artistic presentation. The expected outcome in this scientific paper is to identify contemporary design approaches in sustainable interior architectural design with specific emphasis on green technologies that contribute to the aesthetics and architectural concept of buildings and create application in international educational processes.

Effect of Passive Energy Efficiency Measures in Designing Sustainable Primary Healthcare Facilities in Nigeria

This study aims to develop a design for a sustainable healthcare centre through passive energy efficiency measures to improve the thermal comfort, cooling, lighting and ventilation requirements for primary healthcare centres in Nigeria. The methodology adopted for the study included both primary and secondary data collection. Primary data were collected from the administered questionnaire (5-point Likert scale closed-ended), a total of 350 sets of questionnaires administered and 87% were valid. A case study research strategy was adopted to ascertain the effectiveness and efficiency of building design with an emphasis on sustainable architectural design principles. A significant regression equation was revealed (F (2,257) = 33.619, p <.000, with an R2 of 0.294, which revealed that implementing passive measures for energy optimization has a significant and positive effect on designing sustainable healthcare centres. It further recommends the integration of passive design, design for deconstruction, adaptive reuse, and design for human comfort as part of architectural design principles that would result in sustainable energy optimization should be adopted in every design of primary healthcare centres by architects.

The Pilot Creation of Sustainable Stall Design to Promote Temporary Pottery Market in the Baan Muang Kung Community

Although local intellectual property products have received support from both the government and private sectors, including increasing consumer interest in craft products, the residents of the Muang Kung community, Chiang Mai province, who produce handmade clay pottery with unique and distinctive shaping techniques and intricate patterns, still lack a market space to accommodate their products. Therefore, it is necessary to study the sustainable market format to help promote community products appropriately and stimulate tourism in this area. This research aims to achieve the following objectives (1) Study sustainable market pattern design principles suitable for community markets (2) Explore the potential capabilities and the local community’s requirements in market (3) Propose sustainable market design guideline to promote community products. This research primarily explores the sustainability value of a sustainable market within the field of retail design, employing qualitative research methods such as interviews, observational note-taking, photography, and comparative case study analysis. The on-site survey to determine the project's feasibility involved convening a community meeting with 50 residents to discuss findings. The outcomes of this gathering were then used in designing the temporary market. The findings present design guidelines that illustrate how markets continue to play important socio-economic roles in local communities, serving as key components that can be transformed to promote sustainable development. The proposed design practice guidelines encompass considerations such as site layout, the application of sustainable design principles, including the thoughtful selection of sustainable materials, the incorporation of flexible design, and the creation of participatory area experiences to attract people.

Green architecture: Conceptualizing vertical greenery in urban design

This executive summary introduces the concept paper on Green Architecture, focusing specifically on the integration of vertical greenery in urban design. Green architecture, characterized by sustainable design principles and environmental consciousness, aims to enhance urban environments by incorporating vegetation into built structures. Vertical greenery, a key component of green architecture, involves the strategic placement of vegetation on vertical surfaces such as walls, facades, and rooftops. This concept paper explores the potential of vertical greenery to mitigate environmental issues in urban areas, improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance biodiversity. The paper proposes a conceptual framework for conceptualizing vertical greenery in urban design, emphasizing the importance of integrating natural elements into the built environment. It discusses various strategies for implementing vertical greenery, including the selection of suitable plant species, design considerations for irrigation and structural stability, and the incorporation of greenery into urban planning processes. Moreover, the concept paper highlights the social and economic benefits of vertical greenery, such as improved health and well-being for residents, increased property values, and enhanced aesthetics of urban spaces. It also emphasizes the role of stakeholder engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation in the successful implementation of vertical greenery projects. In conclusion, this executive summary outlines the significance of incorporating vertical greenery into urban design practices as a means to promote sustainability, resilience, and livability in cities. By embracing the principles of green architecture and integrating vertical greenery into urban landscapes, cities can create healthier, more vibrant, and environmentally sustainable communities for current and future generations. Keywords: Urban, Design, Green, Architecture, Vertical.

Integrating Sustainable Design Principles into Construction Practices: A Comprehensive Review

The global push for sustainable development has placed significant pressure on the construction industry to prioritize sustainable practices. However, navigating the complexities of sustainability in construction presents challenges, given the multitude of variables and the lack of a unified evaluation framework. In this study, we conducted an extensive literature review to redefine sustainable construction and identify existing evaluation frameworks. Our findings led to the development of a conceptual framework that incorporates specific indicators and criteria across sociocultural, economic, technical, and environmental dimensions. This framework offers a structured approach to assess the sustainability of construction practices. Recommendations for its implementation are also provided.

Integrating Sustainable Design Principles into Construction Practices: A Comprehensive Review

The global push for sustainable development has placed significant pressure on the construction industry to prioritize sustainable practices. However, navigating the complexities of sustainability in construction presents challenges, given the multitude of variables and the lack of a unified evaluation framework. In this study, we conducted an extensive literature review to redefine sustainable construction and identify existing evaluation frameworks. Our findings led to the development of a conceptual framework that incorporates specific indicators and criteria across sociocultural, economic, technical, and environmental dimensions. This framework offers a structured approach to assess the sustainability of construction practices. Recommendations for its implementation are also provided.

Urban Farming Framework, Benefits for Neighbourhood Development And Urban Sustainability

The paper, "Urban Farming Framework, Benefits for Neighbourhood Development and Urban Sustainability," represents a comprehensive exploration into the imperative need for urban farming and its multifaceted advantages concerning neighbourhood development and urban sustainability. Central to its analysis are the elucidation of various forms and definitions of urban farming, underscoring its pivotal role in implementing circular economy strategies and fortifying urban food security measures. By integrating case studies, particularly within educational institutions like schools and Anganwadi centres, the report underscores the transformative potential of urban farming initiatives in promoting sustainability, community engagement, and equitable participation. Crucially, the study emphasizes the interconnectedness between urban farming and neighbourhood development, elucidating how their symbiotic relationship contributes to fostering an inclusive society and advancing sustainable urban design principles. By accentuating the intertwined nature of these elements, the report advocates for a paradigm shift towards holistic urban planning, where urban farming assumes a pivotal role in shaping vibrant, healthy, and resilient neighbourhoods. Ultimately, this comprehensive examination serves as a clarion call for embracing and integrating urban farming as a cornerstone of urban development, fostering not only ecological sustainability but also socio-economic empowerment and community cohesion within urban landscapes.

Exploring the Influence of Dynamic Indicators in Urban Spaces on Residents’ Environmental Behavior: A Case Study in Shanghai Utilizing Mixed-Methods Approach and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Modeling

The main aim of this article is to evaluate the impact of dynamic indicators associated with urban spaces on the environmental behavior of residents in Shanghai, China. With the city experiencing rapid urbanization and increasing environmental concerns, it is crucial to understand how the design and management of urban spaces can encourage pro-environmental attitudes and actions among the population. The study specifically focuses on dynamic indicators, namely vitality, accessibility, quality, and walkability, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the utilization and experience of urban spaces. The research outcomes will make valuable contributions towards Shanghai’s objectives of achieving environmental sustainability, while also providing insights that have broader relevance to sustainable urban development globally. As the built environment significantly influences energy consumption, resource utilization, pollution generation, and overall human wellbeing, attaining urban sustainability is of paramount importance. The findings of this study will aid in informing strategies and policies that promote sustainable practices, not only benefiting Shanghai but also serving as a valuable resource for urban development initiatives worldwide. Sustainable urban design principles, including compactness, density, mixed land use, greening, and walkability, have been associated with pro-environmental behaviors, including reduced reliance on automobiles, increased walking and cycling, and heightened environmental consciousness. Nevertheless, the relationship between the built environment and sustainability behaviors is intricate and is influenced by multiple factors. Consequently, further research is necessary to comprehend how specific spatial and temporal dynamics impact environmental behaviors within urban settings. In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) was developed to estimate the quality and walkability of an area and environmental behaviors by considering the augmented vitality and accessibility factors. The ANN’s predictions demonstrate that higher levels of vitality and accessibility positively contribute to improved walkability and environmental behaviors. The accuracy of the ANN’s predictions was assessed using linear regression, which yielded acceptable error rates when compared with experimental results.

Embracing Sustainable Living : Modern Trend in Architecture

Our planet is currently confronted with a mounting number of environmental challenges, which necessitate a shift towards sustainable living practices. As a significant contributor to our ecological footprint, architecture is transforming in response to this. This paper examines how modern architectural trends are embracing sustainability. It delves into the core principles of sustainable design and analyses specific trends, such as passive design, renewable energy integration, and biophilic design, and their impact on the environment, human health, and resource conservation. Additionally, the paper addresses various challenges, such as initial costs and public awareness. Finally, the paper explores the future of sustainable architecture, including advances in materials and technologies, net-zero energy buildings, and sustainable urban planning. The research highlights the potential of modern architecture to create a more sustainable built environment for the future.

Design and Techno-economic Analysis of an Improved Multipurpose Cooker Stove

In response to the growing concerns surrounding the adverse health and environmental impacts of inefficient and hazardous traditional cooking fuels and stoves, this research aims to design and assess the performance of an improved multipurpose cooker stove. The study focuses on Zambia, a country deeply affected by air pollution and deforestation due to charcoal and firewood production using inefficient cooking stoves called Mbaula. The primary objective is to create an economically viable and environmentally friendly cooking stove that addresses the sustainability challenges of traditional cooking practices. The research is guided by key objectives. The study outlines the design process of the improved multipurpose cooker stove, emphasizing the incorporation of sustainable design principles. The improved multipurpose cooker stove demonstrated a thermal efficiency of 87.49%, significantly higher than the 11.88% thermal efficiency of traditional stoves. This improvement in efficiency is crucial for reducing fuel consumption and maximizing heat transfer during cooking processes. In addition, the research findings showed that the improved multipurpose cooker stove consumed 0.3643 kg/L less fuel compared to traditional stoves. This fuel savings not only reduces the cost of raw materials but also contributes to environmental sustainability by lowering deforestation rates and air pollution. Despite the initial investment cost of the improved cooker stove, the long-term operation costs are lower due to reduced fuel consumption and maintenance expenses. The study's findings and recommendations hold promise for addressing critical challenges related to clean cooking solutions, environmental preservation, and the well-being of households in Zambia and similar contexts.

Simultaneously improving surface area and hydrophilicity of biomass activated carbon for achieving superior desalination performance in CDI

Super activated carbon is a promising electrode material for capacitive deionization (CDI), an emerging sustainable desalination technology. Increasing its CDI performance requires improving hydrophilicity while maintaining high specific surface area. Traditionally this is challenging, but modifying super activated carbon with earth-abundant metal ions at room temperature can achieve both aims through a low-energy process aligned with sustainability. The modified super activated carbon showed higher specific surface area, improved hydrophilicity, and enhanced desalination performance. Particularly, the salt adsorption capacity of Cu2+-modified super activated carbon in 500 mg/L NaCl solution at 1.2 V increased from 35.4 mg/g to 49.3 mg/g, among the highest for sustainable carbon materials. The capacity increase was enabled by simultaneously increasing specific surface area and hydrophilicity through themetal modification process. Along with high charge efficiency (93.4%), fast adsorption rate, and good cycling stability (80% capacity retention over 50 cycles), the modified super activated carbon displayed superior overall desalination performance. This study exemplifies how sustainable design principles can be applied to synthesize high-performance CDI electrode materials, through green chemistry and engineering for optimized efficiency.

Enhancing Sustainable Railway Station Design in Tropical Climates: Insights from Thailand’s Architectural Theses and Case Studies

An environmentally conscious architectural design of a railway station can have a substantial influence on government spending. Nevertheless, an extensive collection of guidelines for using sustainable design principles in the construction of a railway station can provide several advantages. The goal is to review design visions for railway stations in Thailand, as reflected in student theses and government proposals, from 1983 to 2022 for sustainable design aspects in tropical climates. We perform an analysis of architectural design aspects including service areas, shape, entrances, roofing, style, and development in order to uncover design trends and possible areas that may be enhanced. Station designs are mostly characterized by curved and gable roofs, with 3D curved buildings being the next most common feature. High speed rail (HSR) stations stress local cultural elements in their major entrances while also improving passenger flow. Public buildings frequently employ curved or gabled porticos to achieve a majestic look. Although university theses place a high importance on conceptual design and functionality, it is essential to also consider cost-effectiveness. Key design considerations for future railway stations are transparency, connection, efficient mobility, and cost–time efficiency. The research uncovers deficiencies in user-centered design for thermal comfort and inclusiveness (design-for-all) in Thailand’s tropical environment. Addressing these aspects is critical for future sustainable railway station design evaluations.

Evaluating the key competency skills of construction professionals for the attainment of circular construction in developing economies

Climate change has become a global problem, and the construction industry (CI) contributes significantly to this challenge. To circumvent these effects, the circular economy (CE) concept should be implemented in the CI. Developing economies could possess significant potential for implementing CE principles to attain sustainability, particularly in the CI. However, achieving this would require professionals in the CI to adopt some key competencies that should propel success in circular construction. Therefore, this study aims to identify the key competencies required by professionals in the CI to attain circular construction using Ghana as a case study. A quantitative research approach and purposive sampling technique were adopted. After an extensive literature review which showed several key competencies, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among five large construction firms and fifty-two responses from experienced professionals in the industry were obtained. Relative importance index and principal component factor analysis (PCFA) were adopted to evaluate the obtained data. Key significant competency skills for construction professionals to propel circular construction were identified such as specification writing for components and materials, designing for multiple-use cycles, and designing for near-zero energy buildings, among others. Three components were extracted from the PCFA which served as the guidelines for enhancing the competency skills of construction professionals namely, implementing sustainable circular practices, embracing sustainable operations management techniques, and adopting sustainable design principles. In addition, to enhance its practical implications, a competency implementation framework was also developed for construction professionals of developing economies to propel the adoption and evaluation of their competency skills toward circular construction.

Harmony in Connectivity: Toward a Sustainable Future with Green Internet

Abstract: The widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has resulted in remarkable progress across various domains, enriching connectivity and automation. However, the growing deployment of IoT presents substantial environmental challenges, raising issues related to energy consumption, electronic waste, and resource depletion. This research paper explores the concept of Green IoT, with a focus on developing and implementing sustainable practices within the IoT ecosystem. The primary goal of this study is to investigate strategies for enhancing the energy efficiency of IoT devices, reducing their carbon footprint, and advocating for environmentally conscious practices throughout their life cycle. We delve into cutting-edge technologies, such as low-power components, energy harvesting mechanisms, and optimization algorithms for communication protocols, aiming to establish a more eco-friendly infrastructure for IoT. Additionally, this paper emphasizes the significance of sustainable materials and design principles in the manufacturing of IoT devices, emphasizing the reduction of electronic waste and the promotion of recycling. We discuss the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to energize IoT devices, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy supply for the IoT ecosystem.

Flood-resilient and inclusive futures: Integrating community, governance and ecology

Various parts of the Davao region, particularly in Davao del Norte, have recently experienced severe flooding and landslides caused by prolonged heavy rainfall due to the shear line weather system and a low-pressure area. The aftermath has led to significant displacement, disruptions in transportation networks, and loss of homes and lives. The response requires a collective effort from local authorities, NGOs, private sectors, and affected communities, focusing on well-equipped evacuation centers, meeting basic needs, and sustainable design principles. Safeguarding vulnerable populations, including women, children, and senior citizens, is emphasized, requiring tailored assistance and inclusive decision-making processes. Regenerative solutions beyond temporary relief, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban planning are imperative to address long-term challenges. Flood management is a comprehensive, multi-sectoral, and integrated approach, involving community participation, collaborative governance, and application of ecological principles. A holistic understanding of the nexus between human societies and the environment is crucial for fostering resilient social-ecological systems, encompassing coping mechanisms, adaptive strategies, and transformative capacities to thrive amidst the dynamics of nature.

Planning Campus Parking Facilities and Infrastructure: Towards Sustainable Mobility Approaches

The availability and adequacy of parking facilities are essential components of campus infrastructure, influencing the mobility and convenience of students, faculty, and visitors. This article examines the current status of parking facilities at State Polytechnic Manado, identifying challenges and proposing solutions for enhancing parking management. Through surveys and interviews, data on parking demand, utilization patterns, and user preferences are gathered to inform recommendations for improving parking infrastructure. Additionally, the study explores the integration of technology-driven solutions such as smart parking systems and sustainable design principles to optimize space utilization and minimize environmental impact. The findings emphasize the importance of strategic planning and investment in parking facilities to support the diverse needs of campus stakeholders while promoting sustainability and efficient use of resources. Overall, this research contributes to the advancement of parking management practices in educational institutions, with implications for enhancing campus accessibility, safety, and overall user experience.