Environmental Sustainability, Private Realm

Design Principles:

1. Build ‘Green’: Green buildings are resource efficient, use less energy, utilize construction materials efficiently (including recycled, renewable, and reused resources), are designed reduce internal and external impacts on the environment, and can reduce operating costs. Green building methods should be considered for both large and small projects.

2. Recycle & Reuse: Heritage structures were often built for long term value. As these buildings outlive their intended purpose, opportunities for adaptive reuse should be explored to find new uses while retaining their historic features. Similarly, old materials can be given new life through recycling.

3. Sustainable Site Plan: The site plan should also address environmental sustainability principles. Water quality, consumption, and runoff are key site sustainability issues. A range of appropriate design measures should be considered such as the preservation of natural features, reduction of hard surfaces and addition of extensive landscaping.

Source: Regional Municipality of Niagara, Model Urban Design Guidelines, 2005