Ecological and Sustainable Design

Ecological and Sustainable Design (ESD) focuses on the theory and practice of
architectural and environmental design that makes maximum use of the same renewable
energy flows and material cycling processes by which all other living systems on earth are
sustained. It is an approach to design that is holistic in nature, encompassing a concern for
ecological systems, building technological systems, and socio-cultural/existential systems.
Ecological systems are studied not only as the context for architecture but also as models
for design, providing the fundamental principles by which sustainable buildings are
designed and operated. Energy and resource conserving building technologies as well as
healthy and ecologically benign building materials are studied so that ecological design
principles can be implemented in environmentally appropriate architecture. The emphasis
also stresses the socio-economic, political, and cultural/existential context of design as a
complexly structured framework within which questions of sustainability must be considered
and building designs implemented. The ESD option necessarily involves the development
of a broad understanding of architectural and environmental design that is as much
philosophical as it is practical.

Recommended Elective Credits

In addition to completing the required courses, students are encouraged to select an area of focus that will support their thesis. The Ecological and Sustainable Design emphasis recognizes the interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of the sustainable approach to design. As such, at least six elective credits should be taken outside the Department. Students consult with their faculty advisors to develop a program of study that meets their individual needs and interests.