Holistic Approach to Building Design & Construction

 

Beyond only solving problems, holistic design takes into account every element of the ecosystem that a product is used in. This includes aesthetics, sustainability, spirituality, and other topics. The aesthetics is what makes a product appealing to buyers, and one of the main factors that affects consumers' decisions to choose one product over another is visual appeal. Furthermore, sustainable design is when long-term solutions are produced to maintain human well-being and benefit the environment. This can be done by using recyclable, compostable, and reusable waste material in creating new products. Lastly, holistic looks at the spiritual aspects of things like how a building affects a person's daily life and helps a person. 

The image to the left is a diagram that explains holistic design and explaining its importance on humans. When designing a space, holistic design is critical because it indicates what a space should do for someone and how it betters the environment. This is why the three main keys to think about when designing a space is "How does this space make a person physically feel?" (Body), "How does this space affect a person emotionally?" (Mind), and "How does this space make a person spirituality feel?" (Soul). After evaluating these three questions, it is easy to break down designing the space on functionality, style, and comfort. Lastly, designers must consider all three aspects (Body, Mind, and Soul) when designing a space because they are all connected. Holistic Design does not work if only one aspect is being put into play.

Focusing on more of the sustainability side, the theories of sustainable design help reduce the use of nonrenewable energy sources and trash. Use things that are better for the environment. Theories of sustainable design include the natural step, technological design, Hannover principles, biomimicry, permaculture, national park service, cradle-to-cradle, biophilic design, and ecological footprint. 

To be certified in sustainability in a design project there is a point system rating that takes place. These ratings can come from a third party such as the Forest Stewardship Council, Greenguard, and Scientific Certification System (SCS). The second-party certification is a procedure where an industry certifies a product from its industry on its own. First-party certification is more team members such as architects, interior designers, and LEED Accredited professionals. 

                                                   The images below show raw sustainable materials that come from plants and animals. 

LEED, also known as American Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, was established in 1998 by the US Green Building Council. LEED was put into place to achieve six goals: reduce contribution to global climate change, enhance individual human health, protect and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem, protect and restore water resources, promote sustainable and regenerative material cycle, and enhance community quality of life. In simple terms, LEED decreases negative impacts on the environment and maximizes energy efficiency. Being LEED certified is based on sustainable sites, energy and atmosphere, water efficiency, indoor environment quality, material resources, innovation in design, and regional priority. Material resources are a big chunk of the point system in allowing a building to be LEED certified, it contains 16 points. The material and resources come down to construction materials used and managing construction waste. These types of materials are raw- materials which means that it is either plant/tree-based, animal-based, or mining-based. Examples of raw materials used in becoming LEED-certified are steel, coal, minerals, gasoline, and reusable plastic. Using raw materials helps better than the environment due to it being natural. 

Judson University Interior Space Evaluation

Judson University's library, Benjamin P. Browne Library, is a space where the Judson and public community of Elgin go to study, look at books, and use computers. I personally use the space as a privacy and isolation spot. When I go to a private room in the library or just sit upstairs, I concentrate more due to not having as many distractions as I would when trying to do an assignment in my dorm room. Additionally, I go to the library to isolate myself from friends and classmates. Isolating myself once in a while allows me to focus on myself and gives me peace. 

As an interior designer, it is important to look at the aspects of how a space makes a person feel emotionally, physically, and spiritually. For the Judson University Library, the space makes me feel motivated, concentrated, and less stressed. Additionally, the space makes me feel at peace due to the limited distractions and people around me. The library is definitely a space that I go to when I just want to be alone or need to study solo. Physically, the space made me feel comfortable especially when being on the second floor in a room. The rooms have couches and comfy chairs to make you feel more comfortable and at home when being there, and it definitely works. Lastly, the library spiritually makes me feel peaceful and productive. Again, emphasizes that the space is relaxing and enjoyable to me because it allows me to just be alone in a quiet space.