Ar. Arjun Rathi, Arjun Rathi Design

The key concept behind sustainable architecture is to build in a way that reduces or minimises harmful impact to the environment. I believe India has a strong history of creating sustainable and climatically sensitive architecture. Open building designs and local / climatically sensitive materials have been extensively used throughout Indian buildings. The challenge arises in integrating new technologies with urban architecture typologies for rapidly expanding towns and cities. Renewable energy systems like solar and wind power, power saving technologies for artificial ventilation, integrating recyclable materials and environment-friendly methods of water and waste management are a few elements which have become essential to modern sustainable buildings.

The challenge is in integrating new technologies with urban architecture typologies for rapidly expanding towns and cities

I admire...
The world’s first ‘Algae Powered’ building was recently unveiled in Hamburg, Germany, designed by Arup Engineering. Through the facade system, the algae is used to harvest the energy needed to power the essential systems of the building. Apart from generating renewable energy, the facade also controls the temperature for the interior spaces and gives a visually appealing look to the building. This makes it a great example of integrating technology and innovation into urban architecture.