Author(s)

R. J. Koester

Abstract

This paper describes the role of abstraction in providing informational structure to the complex tasks of the design-for-sustainability process and the use of that abstraction in facilitating the participation of the many players needed to assure the successful execution of projects. The distinction is made between \“seeding” and \“modelling” as parts of an iterative function in service to design-for-sustainability. Distinctions are drawn between the trappings of the labelling and symbology associated with systems used to index sustainable performance (such as the US Green Building Council LEED Rating System), the role of both computer-based and hands-on simulation/emulation tools used to quantify sustainable performance, and the inspirational evidence to be found in nature as exemplary embodiments of sustainable performance—all of which can contribute support to the integrative process needed to assure the effective pursuit of design-for-sustainability. Specifically, discussion is provided of the distinctions between symbol, metaphor, and analogue. In addition, critique is made of Ecological Design and Open Building Design as used to promote sustainable design. Only by clarification of the respective distinctions and with a thorough understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each of these, as a tool, can we be prepared as designers to seed and model—and thereby effectively achieve—a sustainable architecture. Keywords: symbol, metaphor, analogue, modelling, design process, green design, ecological design, open building, sustainable design. 1 Introduction In the face of the pervasive social concern for environmental, social and economic sustainability and the need to find ways to integrate this content into

Keywords

symbol, metaphor, analogue, modelling, design process, green design, ecological design, open building, sustainable design.