Businesses are constantly constructing new buildings or remodeling old ones to meet their growing needs. Since this is a necessary part of growth, why not make these structures as green as possible. Building green structures is practical and it’s not as expensive as it used to be, especially since modern technology has made so many advancements.

When companies decide to invest in building green, there are certain standards they must meet. The U.S. follows the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design or LEED rating system and other countries have similar guidelines to follow.

Implementing green technology into your design can save you money. With the right design, you’ll see a good return on your investment in a few short years. There are also a number of incentives to encourage companies to make their properties more eco-friendly.

The demand for green structures has also encouraged designers to find new, innovative ways to integrate green design into commercial structures that are both beautiful and efficient. Below are three green commercial design advancements that may be a good fit for your business.

Green Commercial Design Advancements Include Photovoltaic Panels

Photovoltaic or PV panels cost less than traditional solar panels and they have other benefits that make them a great choice for your green building. They have a better semi-transparent design that looks more like windows or skylights so they’re more modern.

Another way these panels are different from older ones is that when exposed to sunlight they generate electricity immediately. Here at J. Design Group, we have some of the top interior designers in Miami to help you find the best ways to integrate PV panels into your design, along with other methods your company can use to conserve energy.

Water Conservation

Each year the need to conserve our fresh water supply becomes more evident. This has lead experts to look for new, innovated ways to conserve water when creating structural design. Today, companies have the option of doing so much more than simply installing low flow toilets and facets. You have the option of including complicated systems in your design that will reduce the amount of water wasted and your usage.

The duel plumbing system is a popular choice that separates the water you use into two categories. The potable water is the one that you use for cooking, washing and drinking. The reclaimed water is wastewater and while it’s not safe to consume, the system filters and removes any harmful bacteria and solid waste from the water.

As a result, you can use reclaimed water to flush toilets and water plants. Normally, the reclaimed piping is a different color to avoid confusion. Equipment and systems that can detect leaks are also becoming more popular and advanced to help reduce waste and living walls help collect water.

Indoor and Outdoor Living Walls

Living walls or biowalls are unique, beautiful and useful. They are walls covered with living vegetation and they can improve the air quality in and around your building. The vegetation will absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Outside living walls insulate the building, which reduces the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling. Growing gardens on rooftops is another option that provides the same benefits.

It takes an expert designer to create a fully functional biowall that is easy to maintain and to find the perfect location for the vegetation. Contact us to learn more about living walls and the advancements made in green design for commercial structures along with how to apply them to your business.