Jane Duncan, designer at NERO, explores the need to re-evaluate the office space in a three part series.
Part Three: Sustainability and Green Options
Sustainable practices are in the foreground of any designer’s conceptualisation process. Designers aim
to reduce their clients’ carbon footprint while maintaining key elements of design.
When assessing the concept of sustainability and green options, designers traditionally consider
renewable material options. In addition to choosing textures and materials that are fast growing and
have been locally sourced, designers also review the biodegradability and recycling potential.
‘Upcycling’ is a rising trend. The term refers to converting discarded furnishings, such as family
heirlooms or sourced antiques, into usable materials, fittings and furniture. As people strive to reduce
clutter and avoid wastage, pieces are restored and re-styled and incorporated in interior settings. The
trend of upcycling has given life to vintage pieces, incorporating old and new within the corporate
interior.
Delving deeper into the concept of sustainability – focusing on present needs without infringing on the
needs of the future – designers understand how to incorporate green options in the services of a
building. Options, such as solar panels, LED lighting, water considerations, and heating systems can be
installed with environmental responsibility and best practice in mind.
