EPQ Model - Sustainable architecture:

 

For my EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) I decided to investigate how sustainable architecture could reduce the carbon footprint of a property during its construction, habitation and end-of-life. I digitally designed a three-bedroom, two-bathroom property which was then made into 1:100 scale model to show how these techniques could be put into practice.

In my report, I collected primary research from surveys to understand consumer needs and price points. Additional secondary research was collected from multiple government sources and other university papers. 

I also conducted an interview with a practicing architect who specializes in sustainable architecture to better understand practically how buildings could reduce their carbon footprint.

This report also calculates the property’s theoretical reduced carbon footprint and compared it against the average emissions produced from a typical home in the UK. From the calculations, the property produces 265.41tCO₂ whereas the average calculated was 421.05tCO₂. The calculations showed there was a 38.1% reduction of the carbon footprint of this property compared to others. This is because recyclable and sustainable materials and heat and power systems were chosen.  This property also comprises 82.5% recycled materials to reduce its carbon footprint during the construction phase.

Video below takes you through the digitally rendered model so that you can have a clearer understanding of the property.