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Sustainable House Design—Features, Benefits & More

Sustainable House Design—Features, Benefits & More Dubai is the reflection of its breathtaking skyline and luxury architecture. To reduce the effect of modern construction on the environment, the city is gradually adopting sustainable design concepts. 

Considering that, we will discuss the basics of sustainable design, as well as its benefits and features. Read on to learn practical methods used by leading interior design companies in Dubai.  


First Things First, What is Sustainable House Design?

home interior design Dubai

Sustainable house design is energy efficient and causes less damage to the environment. The design of a sustainable home is not limited by any set format or specifications.  

Rather, it frequently includes a range of elements that support green practices. To save energy, the home’s architecture may maximize natural light and heat.  

When creating sustainable houses, our architectural services in Dubai consider natural components and integrate elements that support a sustainable agenda. 

Let’s Have a Look at Some Eco-Friendly Marvels in the UAE…

Multiple buildings and neighborhoods in the UAE are now adopting green designs such as: 

Sustainable City Dubai

The residents of Sustainable City Dubai can live in a carbon-neutral environment thanks to this innovative concept.  

It is a perfect example of sustainable living with urban farming plots and solar-powered villas.  

Masdar City Abu Dhabi

Masdar City Abu Dhabi

Masdar City was built with a zero-carbon and zero-waste concept, utilizing wind for natural cooling while incorporating traditional Arabic architecture. 

Read also: Space Planning in Interior Design: An Ultimate Guide 


Common Features of Sustainable Design

The home design and construction in Dubai depends on critical aspects. These include energy saving, microclimate management, internal cooling, natural insulation and outdoor comfort. Because of this, interior designers should carefully include sustainability principles in their work.  

The core objective of Dubai’s government is to reduce energy and water usage by 30 percent by 2030.  

This can only be achieved through sustainable planning; and what’s that?  It means holistic planning through strategy, layouts, schematics, and interiors.  

Let’s discuss some prominent features of sustainable design.  

  • Utilizing Solar Power 

solar panels

The sunny climate of Dubai is a great advantage for sustainable buildings. The top architectural design services in Dubai make the most of the sun’s availability by skillfully adding solar panels to the designs.  

Other than adopting renewable energy, this modern method sees buildings as power generators. 

This way buildings can make pace toward a more sustainable and green energy ecosystem. By utilizing clean energy sources, we can lessen the reliance on conventional power systems. 

  • Use of Smart, Well No, Smarter Materials!

It’s the era of smart aspects! 

So, in place of conventional concrete, many interior design companies are utilizing smart materials like bamboo, recycled concrete, cross-laminated timber, and pebbles. 

The materials are more resilient and require less maintenance. This contributes to a reduced carbon footprint.  

The improved interior quality of modern buildings is further ensured by the use of low-emitting materials, paints, sealants, and adhesives. 

With the help of intelligent materials that reduce energy expenses and offer insulation, several types of smart exteriors are also in use. 

Read more: How to Choose Sustainable Materials for Interior Design? 

  • Installing High Performance Windows

high performance windows

It’s no surprise that poorly built windows let a lot of heat escape from homes. Modern window technologies increase insulation and block off hot and cold air. 

Climate is frequently considered while constructing a sustainable home to identify which window features will lead to greater energy savings. 

For example, in warmer areas like Dubai, low-solar gain windows are more common. Whereas, in cold zones like Canada, triple-glazed windows with insulated frames are more common.  

  • Retrofitting to Be More Eco-Friendly

The retrofitting of older buildings with more sustainable systems, energy sources, and techniques is a major factor in Dubai's sustainable initiative.  

These older buildings are becoming more energy-conscious thanks to solar panels. Also, improved ventilation results in cooler interior airflow.  

Builders in Dubai are also benefiting directly from retrofitting as it reduces their energy and maintenance expenses. 

Read also: 10 Ways to Modernize an Old House 

  • Smart Cooling Techniques

That’s a given! 

Dubai’s harsh environment demands modern approaches to efficient cooling without consuming more energy.  

Architects are leading the way in using cutting-edge cooling methods.  

Modern home designs depend on natural ventilation, including cool roof technologies, and thoughtfully placed shade elements.  

This comprehensive strategy reduces the need for energy-intensive air conditioning, which ultimately lowers carbon footprint. 

  • Impact of Natural Elements 

natural elements

Dubai’s sustainability is greatly influenced by nature. This is observed by the numerous buildings and homes that are built with ecological balance in mind.  

To provide a sufficient supply of fresh air and natural cooling, architects are creating designated areas within the home for natural life. 

To promote greater sustainability, native Dubai vegetation and plant life are being added into a number of construction plans. 

This serves as a recreational space where families can enhance their quality of life and enjoy living in the natural in-home environment. 

Read also: Interior Design Considerations: Key Factors for Creating Beautiful Spaces 


Benefits of Sustainable House Design

Masdar city central park

Sustainable homes use eco-friendly construction material and building techniques, paying close attention to the natural habitat.  

The home designs by our expert architectures are not only visually appealing but also have several social, economic and environmental perks.  

Eco-friendly houses have multiple advantages, such as: 

1- Reduced Cost of Energy Bill 

roof garden design

Dubai’s eco-friendly houses include solar panels, insulating systems, and energy-friendly appliances to help cut down on energy use. Cooling costs can be lowered with green roofs.  

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) claims that energy costs can be reduced by 50 percent in buildings that follow green construction standards. 

Solar panels, energy-friendly appliances, and insulating materials can lower the amount of energy required to heat or cool the house. 

2- Health and Well-being

outdoor design Dubai

Sustainable homes have areas that promote and maintain both our physical and mental health. That's why many people call them healthy homes. 

Through its design, sustainable architecture focuses on factors like natural light, outdoor views, air quality, ventilation, thermal comfort, and a sense of connection to nature. 

There's more to sustainable home design... 

Incorporate landscaping into the design, framing views of greenery, and organic and non-toxic elements.  

This type of design actively boosts our well-being apart from visually appealing. 

3- More Property Value

The green construction movement in Dubai has impacted the property value of houses. 

Recent studies indicate that green homes increase in value when they are sold throughout the country.  

In fact, sustainable houses are selling far more quickly than traditional houses. This is because many buyers consider sustainable features to be “must haves”. 

4- Long-Term Cost Savings (What More Could You Ask For!)

We know there is a bit of an upfront expense linked to construction of eco-friendly homes in Dubai. But there are substantial long-term cost benefits. 

By 2050, Dubai aims to produce 75% of its energy from renewable sources. Creating sustainable homes can help the city achieve this objective.  

Read also: Importance of Interior Design in Your Home 


FAQs 


What is the best design for a sustainable house?

A sustainable house design is one that incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient elements. It should focus on insulation for maintaining warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer.  

Natural light coming from windows can reduce the dependency on lighting. Additionally, adding panels and rainwater conservation systems can contribute to conserving energy and water resources. For example, a green roof decorated with plants not only helps in insulation but also enhances air quality. These aspects collectively enhance a home’s efficiency and eco-friendliness. 

Read also: Principles of Lighting in Interior Design 

What 7 elements are required for sustainable building design?

terrace interior design Dubai

The 7 key elements for creating sustainable building designs are: 

  • Energy Efficiency: Opt for energy-conserving systems and materials to minimize energy consumption. 
  • Water Efficiency: Install water-saving mechanisms such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting. 
  • Sustainable Materials: Choose construction materials that are eco-friendly, recyclable or renewable. 
  • Indoor Air Quality: Utilize non-toxic substances and ensure proper ventilation for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. 
  • Natural Lighting: Make the most of the natural light to reduce the need for artificial lighting. 
  • Solar Energy: Integrate solar panels or other sustainable energy sources into your home design. 
  • Green Spaces: Add landscaping features and green spaces to enhance the visual appeal of your property. 

What are the principles of sustainable home design?

The main focus of sustainable home design is to lower energy consumption, carbon emissions and waste throughout construction, operation and maintenance. To achieve this goal, the best interior designers in Dubai follow these principles when creating home designs. 

  • Enhance indoor environmental quality 
  • Optimize operational and maintenance practices 
  • Sustainable materials 
  • Renewable energy 
  • Waste reduction 
  • Sustainable building materials 
  • Design for healthy environments 
  • Recycled architectural materials 
  • Adaptability and toughness 
  • Healthier living 
  • Optimize building space and material use 
  • Minimize non-renewable energy consumption and waste 
  • Passive design 

How can you make a house sustainable?

To ensure sustainability in home design, follow these tips: 

  • Go for eco-friendly materials i.e., renewable source materials. 
  • Use of energy-saving systems. Utilize LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances and solar technology. 
  • Proper insulation is crucial for warmth during winter and coolness during summer. 
  • It is advisable to install low-flow fixtures. Invest in rainwater collection systems. 
  • Incorporate green spaces. Add plants and green roofs to boost air quality and insulation. 

What material is more eco-friendly?

eco-friendly material

The eco-friendly option not only benefits the environment but also enhances a home’s sustainability. When it comes to home design, you can use the following eco-friendly materials: 

  • Bamboo: Instead of traditional hardwood, go for this renewable resource. 
  • Recycled Steel: Known for its durability, it helps lessen the demand for new resources. 
  • Cork: Sourced from oak tree’s bark without harming the trees, it provides insulation and is renewable. 
  • Reclaimed Wood: Opting for reused wood helps minimize waste and reduces the need for fresh lumber. 
  • Rammed Earth: Created from soil, this material offers insulation properties with minimal environmental impact. 
  • Green Concrete: It requires less energy during production and can include recycled components. 
  • Recycled Glass: Ideal for tiles and countertops, it not only reduces waste but also offers unique design options. 

Read also: What Points Should We Consider Before Designing House? 


Summing It Up

The rise of sustainable living in the UAE is not just a reflection of an architectural trend, but also the progressive mindset of the country. 

As the global focus is now shifting towards environmental protection, the UAE is leading the way in showcasing the compatibility of rapid urban expansion and ecological awareness. 

The primary step in designing a sustainable home is to include certain elements in the plan before construction even starts. That’s why our expert residential interior designers in Dubai go for delicate designs, eco-friendly blueprints, and modern plans for sustainable homes.  

Looking for a sustainable home design but not sure where to start? Get a free consultation with us at (+971) 50 300 0794.

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