Sustainable Architecture: How Mamo Designs with Energy Efficiency at the Forefront
At MaMo Architects, they see architecture as more than just designing structures; it's about shaping environments that reflect their values and respect our planet. In today's world, where environmental concerns loom large, their focus on sustainability isn't just a choice—they consider it a responsibility.
Their firm is known for its commitment to promoting green architecture and energy-efficient design. For them, it's not enough for buildings to be aesthetically pleasing; they must also tread lightly on the Earth. This ethos is ingrained in everything they do, from the local, sustainable, materials they choose to the strategies they implement.
Below, we will explore the broader context of architecture and environmentalism through their lens. We'll take you behind the scenes to understand the principles and methodologies that guide their sustainable design approach. From harnessing renewable energy sources to selecting eco-friendly and recycled materials, each decision reflects their dedication to creating spaces that prioritize both people and the planet.
A Brief History of Sustainability in Architecture
The marriage of sustainability with architecture is not a recent phenomenon but a progression rooted in a rich history of environmental consciousness within the field. Over the decades, architects have increasingly recognized the importance of designing with the environment in mind, spurred by growing concerns about resource depletion, pollution, and climate change.
The recent roots of sustainable architecture can be traced back to the early 20th century, with pioneers such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Walter Gropius exploring the concepts of organic architecture and holistic design. These visionaries emphasized harmony between the built environment and nature, advocating for principles such as passive solar design, natural ventilation, and using local materials.
The environmental movement of the 1960s and 1970s further catalyzed interest in sustainable architecture, prompting architects to reconsider their design practices in light of emerging ecological concerns. Concepts such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green building materials gained traction, ultimately leading to sustainable design guidelines and rating systems.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, sustainability became increasingly integrated into mainstream architectural discourse. Organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) introduced initiatives such as the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, which provided a framework for evaluating and recognizing environmentally responsible building practices.
Today, sustainability has become a central consideration in architectural practice, with architects striving to design buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort and well-being. The evolution of sustainable architecture reflects a broader shift towards a more conscientious approach to design—one that acknowledges the interconnectedness of human activity and the natural world.
How MaMo Embraces Sustainability in Architecture
Q: What drives MaMo Architects' commitment to eco-friendly architecture and energy-efficient design? In other words, why does the firm prioritize sustainability in its projects, and what values or beliefs underpin this focus on environmental responsibility?
A: MaMo’s focus on sustainability is at the core of our mission. To connect people to the land through the architecture we create. Sustainability starts with how a building sits in the landscape, how the sun moves across the facade, and how the prevailing breezes can move through a home. Sustainable solutions are a natural outcome when the environment is given a seat at the table.
Q: What are some key principles or methodologies that MaMo Architects adhere to when designing for energy efficiency?
A: We employ several principles and methodologies when designing energy-efficient buildings:
Energy Efficiency: Focusing on reducing energy consumption through smart design.
Renewable Energy: Incorporating sources like solar and wind to power projects.
Using Local Materials: Sourcing building materials locally to minimize transportation emissions and support the local economy.
Natural Daylighting & Ventilation: Maximizing the use of natural light and airflow to reduce the need for artificial lighting and cooling.
Sustainable Material Selection: Choosing materials that are sustainable and have a lower impact on the environment.
Solar Integration: Designing buildings to harness solar energy efficiently.
Geothermal: Utilizing geothermal systems for heating and cooling to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources.
High-performance Building Envelopes: Creating building exteriors that maintain energy efficiency by keeping heat in or out, depending on the climate.
Q: Can you share examples of past projects where energy efficiency was a primary focus? How did these projects integrate sustainable practices?
A: MaMo believes that listening to the client is our most important role. While we have a lot of sustainable strategies that can be applied to any design the client’s desires come first. Each design creates different opportunities for sustainability.
On the Charred Barn project, we used geothermal and PV panels to create a home that was almost completely off the grid while simultaneously using less technical interventions like a natural heat chimney for passive venting and reclaimed material for a lot of the millwork and furniture.
At Sacred Hollow, all of the exterior materials were selected for their sustainability. The standing seam metal roof, Sho Sugi Ban siding, and corrugated metal siding are extremely durable and will require little to no maintenance.
Utilizing natural daylighting on the Blackbird project provided the benefit of a lot of natural light but also created a large amount of solar gain. By selecting to use Loewen’s triple pane windows with 366 coatings and utilizing Lutron shades that were connected to the passage of the sun, we were able to get the best of both worlds.
Q: In what ways does MaMo Architects approach the challenge of balancing aesthetics with energy-efficient design solutions?
A: Every design problem presents the opportunity for multiple solutions. MaMo believes that the heart of a design must serve as a filter through which all other decisions are made. This allows decisions about sustainable materials and the location of windows to be considered alongside cohesive material palettes and prevailing wind paths.
Q: What role do passive design techniques play in your architectural projects, and how do you ensure their effective implementation?
A: Passive design techniques are the backbone of our design ethos. They come naturally when one considers the passage of the sun, natural view corridors, and local building materials/practices. The only way to ensure the effective implementation of any design is to see it through. MaMo feels that by working with an integrated design team early in the process we can discuss options with the entire team from inspiration to execution.
Q: Could you discuss the selection process for sustainable materials in your projects? Are there specific criteria or certifications that guide your choices?
A: MaMo looks to select sustainable materials that are durable and beautiful. On the exterior, these materials are often modified wood products that are no longer susceptible to the effects of moisture. These more natural selections are often combined with corrugated metal for its low maintenance properties and Boral trims. Boral is manufactured by utilizing waste products from coal consumption. Being located in the Northeast we are often able to source materials that are produced locally.
Q: How does MaMo Architects incorporate renewable energy sources into its designs, and what are some innovative approaches you've employed in this regard?
A: We have found that in the past 10 years, most clients want to utilize geothermal and solar energy whenever possible. Currently the tax credits available make both of these a great investment.
Q: What are some of the common challenges faced when implementing energy-efficient designs, and how does MaMo Architects overcome them?
A: Often when one puts on the sustainable and efficient mindset beautiful design can fall by the wayside. One of the challenges when dealing with sustainable materials is still creating homes and spaces that feel rich and warm. These homes do not need to feel like cold modern boxes full of shiny technology. MaMo’s design always comes back to the beauty of natural palettes and warm spaces that improve people’s lives.
Q: Looking ahead, what are the emerging trends or technologies in eco-friendly architecture that MaMo Architects is excited about exploring?
A: The future of eco-friendly homes is in the building shell. So many advancements are being made in insulation, exterior sheathing, and thermal break sealers that the energy load needed to keep homeowners warm in the winter and cold in the summer is less and less. This partnered with advancements in heating and cooling equipment that is easily connected to geothermal or solar infrastructures further supports the need for less and less energy consumption. All the individual pieces and parts that go into creating a home are being redesigned with efficiency and sustainability in mind.
Q: Finally, how does MaMo Architects measure the success of its eco-friendly designs in terms of both environmental impact and client satisfaction?
A: The success of a project is always measured by the reactions and feedback of the homeowners. When clients can enjoy spaces full of natural locally sourced stone and warm reclaimed wood with automated shades that provide privacy from expansive views of the landscape and prevent excessive thermal gain all while commenting on how much their energy bills have gone down, success has been achieved on all fronts. When considering the environmental impact we consider how a building feels in the landscape and if we have created a building whose life cycle will stand the test of time.