What if we planned cities and spaces so that we’d enjoy spending time in them?

We need more public spaces that are enjoyable to spend time in without being linked to a consumerism-dependent purpose. This gives the city back to its citizens. As a space for active mobility – for better health and quality of life.

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Anke Karmann-Woessner

Stadt Karlsruhe

You want to get actively involved in sustainable architecture yourself? Start here:

What if every project had architectural quality?

The value of buildings extends beyond their primary intended use. They have the potential to foster identity and become part of cultural heritage – if they were designed with architectural quality in mind. The DGNB Diamond is a special award for this. It is bestowed to buildings that are timeless and enduring. That find the right balance. That are well integrated into their surroundings. That people enjoy using. Buildings that no-one would want to demolish again.

Learn more about the DGNB Diamond

What if we knew whether a building would actually function in its social context?

When does the work of architectural professionals end? When the building is complete? If so, who checks to see if the building actually has the social impact that was hoped for? Social Positive is a new DGNB award that recognises this. It is bestowed to projects that have a tangible positive effect on the community they are located in. The award isn’t judged according to a checklist but based on real qualities assessed during an on-site visit.

Would you like to find out more? Then please feel free to write to Dr Anna Braune (Director Research and Development) at a.braune@dgnb.de.

What if we saw sufficiency as being about what’s appropriate from a holistic perspective, not about forgoing something?

There is no shared public understanding of the principle of sufficiency. Yet it’s a central element of every sustainability strategy that needs to be applied at the start of every building or conversion project, as it addresses and consciously answers key questions of appropriateness: Can the existing building be used instead of erecting a new one? Can we make efficient use of space? Can the building be used more intensively? How much comfort makes sense? And what amount of materials and technology is needed?

Discussion on the topic: "How the principle of sufficiency is changing construction" (German)

To the Video on our YouTube-channel

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