Architects and interior designers always need to think ahead. They want their work to stand the test of time, but don’t want to be stuck in the past. This means they must balance the tried-and-true with the cutting edge. One of the most important trends right now is the movement toward more sustainable construction. Commercial enterprises are more cognizant than ever of their environmental impact on the planet. As a result, they’re demanding that their facilities contribute to their overall sustainability goals. Green building encompasses every element of the process, from choosing materials to determining how the space will be used for years to come. Design professionals must be able to do their part to deliver projects of this type. Here are some of the most important ways an architect or interior designer can create a greener commercial space.

Choose Day-lighting

One of the biggest drains on natural resources in an office, warehouse or production facility is artificial lighting. Although this may seem like it’s unavoidable, it doesn’t have to be. With enough daylighting through windows and skylights, the need for interior lights can be reduced dramatically. This means the property will use less electricity. More natural light also can inspire workers to be more productive and happier in their jobs. Simply considering how every space could be lit with sunlight could make a tremendous positive difference in a building’s design.

Pay Attention to Insulation

When a building is not adequately insulated, HVAC systems must work harder to heat or cool the space. Designing properties with insulation in mind prevents one of the biggest sources of energy waste. When you consider your options, look to ecologically sound wrapping instead of fiberglass insulation. This achieves the results you want and will be much easier on the ecosystem in the future. 

Use Renewables

If at all possible, try to incorporate as many opportunities for renewable energy sources as you can. In most cases, this will mean finding a place for solar panels, although geothermal may be an option depending on where the facility will be located. Installing renewable energy solutions will reduce the building’s reliance on traditional energy sources. Reducing dependence on the grid will help improve the ecological profile of the structure for a long time to come. 

Go Green

Including plants in your designs is a low-effort but valuable means of making a property more environmentally friendly. For example, installing plantings on the roof can reduce the “heat island” effect. This phenomenon typically results in structures absorbing warmth from the sun and driving up cooling costs. A living wall of vines and foliage also can help keep an office cooler during the summer. Inside, plants help remove pollutants from the air. This makes spaces more comfortable and healthier. When it comes to the landscaping, choosing native plants will help ensure that they don’t use too much water. 

Pick the Right Materials

What you use to build your project can have a tremendous impact on its sustainability. For example, bamboo grows much faster than most trees, making it a more eco-conscious choice than old-growth wood. But it’s also important to consider where your materials are sourced. Shipping them from far away creates emissions from trucks, so finding local sources may be a better idea. 

As a design professional, you’re always looking ahead to the next big trend. However, eco-friendly design is more than trendy. It’s a discipline that will bring benefits to tenants today, and to the planet for many years to come. Before you start your next project, think about how you can incorporate some or all of these tips to achieve greater eco-friendliness.

Author bio: Dan Dulik is Vice President of Marketing at Litetronics, manufacturer of commercial lighting products, including bulbs and a full line of fixtures and led retrofit kits. An alumnus of DePaul University’s Graduate School of Business, he has more than 15 years of experience in B2B and B2C marketing.