WS Outside Spaces

I can't say "back when I as studying design" with any certain date in mind--or when I first started confidently using the phrase "sustainable" when discussing design choices with clients--and the word was welcomed and understood by all involved to the extent possible.  Sustainable design is evolving and changing constantly.  

I too am always studying, evolving, learning, and striving--because every project is different--every year an advancement in technology or access.  The demands of every project, whether it be diving in and truly understanding the priorities, needs, and limits of every client, and every client lifestyle and budget, is still key--or the demands of a site or a desire--whatever the scope or the scale of the project--the angle is towards sustainability.  

Understanding innovation in both the supply chain, new product introductions, and ways to communicate have accelerated and made being able to do something striking as well as a great lifestyle fit is now more than ever possible.  The basics of designing with a mind towards economy, value, form following function, and creativity is a given, so the idea of sustainability or selectivity with an eye towards "green" design is really nothing new, and luckily, is more easily afforded and accessible than in years before.  Today it is a given.  And understanding that is a good thing for all of us as designers--consumers--and producers.  Resources always have a limit.

Put that together with an understanding of scale, proportion, building standards, an eye based on history so you can innovate from whatever place you want to start--and you have the potential to create a sustainable, fresh, and long lasting, beloved space, place, and environment.  All of which is the ultimate goal--to create something you won't become bored with, or it will fail in performance before it should--which of course is the opposite of sustainability.

--JDH