Publication Date

6-2016

School

School of Business

Major

Business: Finance

Keywords

Sustainability, Architecture, Environment, Energy, Economics, Finance, Construction, Design, Landscape, Renewable Resources, Green, LEED, Environmentalism

Disciplines

Architecture | Business

Abstract

This thesis examines the movement of environmentalism, and its impact on architecture and construction. During an interview with a professional architect, a basis for research of sustainable design was devised, when he explained that “good” architecture attempts to holistically integrate the external and built environment. Presently, the main measurement for sustainability is energy efficiency. Therefore, architects constantly implement new technology in an attempt to unify both the external and built environment in an energy efficient manner. Furthermore, this thesis provides an environmental and financial cost analysis of implementing sustainable design and build. Research shows that the life cycle and up-front costs are the most important considerations for the construction industry. If the operational costs and up-front costs can be decreased, sustainable build may become a more attractive business venture. In conclusion, expectations would be that as sustainable construction technology continues to be refined, the momentum of the environmental movement and economies of scale will cause sustainable construction to become more attainable.

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