#ElementalDesign Advice 01 DEFINING SUSTAINABILITY

What does “sustainability” actually means when it comes to design?

Buckminster Fuller (Architect and Theorist) defined sustainability as:

 “the conscious design of our total environment, in order to help make the Earth’s finite resources meet the needs of all of humanity without disrupting the ecological processes of the planet”.

In recent times, sustainability has been thought of more holistically in terms of the “triple-bottom-line”:

PLANET: environmental sustainability

PEOPLE: social sustainability

PROFIT: economic sustainability

However, these days, there is a fourth consideration, or “quadruple-bottom-line”:

PURPOSE: meaningful or spiritual sustainability (WHY you are doing what you’re doing)

Thankfully the idea of  having a strong sense of “Purpose” is gaining momentum in businesses all over the world (such as the B-Corp movement and Big Hearted Businesses), which means these companies are more ethical and authentic, and really want to make a positive difference in the world.

So when it comes to designing our homes, all of this should be considered. You really want your whole design and construction team on board with your values of purpose, people, planet, then profit.

“Sustainable design is about comfort, healthier homes, saving money and saving earth’s resources.” – Talina Edwards

When we talk about sustainable, green, eco, environmentally-friendly or energy-efficient homes, well of course they are better for the planet  – and they will save you money on running costs if designed right – but really it comes down to YOU feeling comfortable and healthy and enjoying a meaningful life in your home….(that’s the 4 P’s right there!) and who doesn’t want that?!

Have you heard of the ‘quadruple-bottom-line’ before? Have you come across other businesses who are thinking in this way? Let me know in the comments below!

Talina Edwards Architecture: elemental design is a Ballarat-based studio, with a passion for sustainable design, green buildings and healthy homes.Click here to ensure you won’t miss out on our news!