Sustainability
Sustainable development is that which meets the needs of the present generation without prejudicing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
At AD Architects we apply our analytical skills and experience with a willingness to innovate, to produce socially, economically and environmentally sustainable buildings for our clients.
AD Architects takes a long term view and considers the implications of embodied energy in existing buildings before advising on the pros and cons of refurbishment or new building. We train our staff specifically in sustainable design. We avoid fashion architecture and look for timeless solutions (the 1967 Highbury Fields School science block above is still being used to this day). We design adaptable buildings that can respond easily to changes of use and function. We do not believe that the addition of features such as wind turbines or solar panels necessarily make a building sustainable, and that in many cases the use of such devices is merely symbolic. We prefer to focus resources on issues such as: orientation and aspect (to control and exploit solar gain), adaptability (to make sure the building can embrace new technology or uses) and proven technologies (particularly those with short payback periods) such as the brise soleil and green (sedum) roof on the University of Hertfordshire and Oaktree School projects above.
AD is quality assured under BS EN ISO 14001:2004
