Architectural Sustainability found in Bernardo Bader's Projects

Abstract

(Background and Purpose) With the current speed of global climate changes and the negative impact on lives, it has become the global goal to establish sustainability in many different fields. In architecture, when sustainability of a building is discussed, the main focus is on the efficiency of energy consumption and its impact on the environment. However, in the past few decades, the interest has broadened to actively include the sustainability aspect from a broader perspective, which includes social, cultural as well as environmental aspects. The main aim of this research to illustrate a broader the notion of sustainability in architecture by examining the architectural culture of Voralrberg, Austria focusing on the works of Bernado Bader. (Method) The study will start by examining the general understanding of sustainability in architecture and how this concept has been widened. Followed by a review of the unique background of the architectural culture of Vorarlberg and the important role of the main material timber. The residential projects by Bernardo Bader will be analyzed to illustrate sustainability achieved through architectural design and construction decisions. They will be analyzed in the following criteria; Form, material, involvement of local industry, energy strategy and contemporary interpretation. The findings will be compared to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the detailed objectives. (Results) Many characteristics found in Bader’s residential projects in Vorarlberg, have the qualities that satisfy at least six of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The architectural culture in Vorarlberg promotes the virtuous cycle of collaboration between many parties, such as authorities, architect, craftsman and industries that also educate and train the next generation. The local building codes are also set out to promote sustainable energy use. Lastly, Bader makes unique, yet conscious interventions in each of the projects that accommodate modern living, within the form of an old regional envelope, as well as making each of the houses special to meet the requirements of the clients and the site conditions. (Conclusions) The symbiotic relationship between the architect, local industries (craftsman), choice of material, unique interpretation and intervention work seamlessly together to preserve the local history and culture. The notion of sustainability in architecture, therefore, is illustrated from a broader perspective, such as a way of preserving and continuing the regional heritage, promoting the local economy, taking responsibility for consumption and production, as an act of providing work and economic growth, so that architecture becomes an act of maintaining a sustainable environment and society.