WIA_ISSUE2_2023

SUSTAINABILITY
recognising the economic benefits
of sustainable practices, such as
cost savings and improved brand
reputation. This presents a significant
market opportunity for designers
like myself who can offer sustainable
design solutions that meet the growing
demand for sustainable products and
services.
What is the relationship between
sustainability, creativity and artistry
in architecture, and how does your
creativity feed into green designs and
vice-versa?
Morales: Sustainable design requires
creative and innovative solutions
that integrate technical and aesthetic
considerations while also addressing
the social and cultural context of
the project. All in all, creativity and
artistry in architecture are essential
to develop sustainable solutions that
respond to the unique challenges
and opportunities of each project
and create buildings that are both
functional and aesthetically pleasing,
while also engaging people and
contributing to the social and cultural
fabric of the community.
A brief look at your projects reveals
you use a lot of wood in your designs.
What about wood attracts you? What
is the role of wood and wood-based
materials in green architecture?
Morales: I use a lot of bamboo in my
projects for numerous reasons. First,
bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable
resource that can be harvested
without damaging the environment.
Unlike hardwood trees that take
decades to mature, bamboo is one
of the fastest-growing plants in the
world, growing up to 91cm or 35in
per day, and it can be harvested every
3-5 years, thus making it a highly
renewable resource. Additionally,
it can grow in diverse climates, not
requiring fertilisers, pesticides,
or irrigation, which reduce its
environmental impact.
Second, bamboo is a durable and
versatile material that can be used
in various applications. Bamboo is
stronger than many hardwoods, and
it has a tensile strength that rivals
steel. This makes it an ideal material
for use in flooring, furniture, and other
interior and architectural applications.
Additionally, it can be processed
into a variety of shapes, sizes, and
textures, making it a versatile material
that can be used in a range of design
applications.
Third, using bamboo in interior and
architectural design can help reduce
carbon emissions. It absorbs more
carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
than most trees and plants, making
it an effective carbon sink. Using it in
design applications helps sequester
carbon from the atmosphere and
reduce the carbon footprint of the
project.
What do you think is necessary for
sustainable architecture in the long
run? Do you think purely using woodbased
materials is enough?
Morales: Using wood and wood-based
materials can be a sustainable option
for architecture, but it should not be
the only solution. While wood is a
renewable resource and has a lower
carbon footprint than some other
materials, it is important to consider
the source of the wood and ensure that
it is harvested responsibly. Additionally,
there are limitations to using wood,
such as its susceptibility to fire, which
can impact its suitability for some
building types and locations.
Therefore, sustainable architecture in
the long run requires a multi-faceted
approach that considers environmental,
social, and economic factors and
incorporates a range of eco-friendly
materials and techniques to create
buildings that are both functional and
environmentally responsible.
Use of eco-friendly materials:
It is crucial to use eco-friendly
materials that have minimal negative
impact on the environment. This
includes materials that are renewable,
non-toxic, and energy-efficient.
Energy efficiency:
Buildings should be designed to use
minimal energy by incorporating
features such as passive solar design,
efficient lighting, and insulation.
Water conservation:
Buildings should be designed to
conserve water by incorporating
features such as low-flow fixtures,
rainwater harvesting, and greywater
systems.
Site selection:
Site selection is an essential aspect of
sustainable architecture. It is important
to choose sites that are already
developed or are located in areas with
access to public transportation.
Green spaces:
Sustainable architecture should also
prioritise the creation of green spaces
that promote biodiversity and enhance
the health and wellbeing of people and
the environment. WIA
The Tagaytay
Weekend Home
in Alfonso Cavite
municipality
28 WOOD IN ARCHITECTURE • ISSUE 2 – 2023