8 things you can expect from a B Corp architect
Many people know that B Corps are businesses that are working to make a positive impact, both socially and environmentally. But you might be wondering what it means to be a B Corp certified architect.
The legal stuff - a B Corp architect is legally committed to using business as a force for good and positively impacting society and the environment. There must also be accountability and transparency, so they must let all clients, contractors and suppliers know of their responsibility to design buildings with this front of mind.
Here’s a handy guide to what you can expect from a B Corp architect:
No greenwash - being accountable means that none of what you get from a B Corp architect is greenwash. B Corp architects will have interrogated their supply chain, not only looking at the environmental footprints of products and materials, but also the social and economic footprint; i.e. is the supplier locally based, do they have a diverse workforce and fair employment policy, will the profits feed back into the local economy.
Comfortable, less toxic homes - buildings designed by B Corp architects have the potential to be exceptionally comfortable spaces to live in. This is because, where possible, the latest in energy-efficient materials and technology will be specified. Imagine the difference made by triple-glazed windows and underfloor insulation! If you are concerned about the use of materials that are damaging to human health, you can be reassured that we seek out the most natural alternatives. Mechanical Heat Ventilation Recovery (MVHR) systems are often specified to clean and circulate air in homes, are great for allergy sufferers, and are also really quiet.
Benchmarking – a very workie-word, but it means a lot and is hard to do. B Corp architects should measure the outcomes of their projects, did they save energy, reduce water use, create biodiversity net gain, and improve the well-being or health of their occupants? After all, without measurements, how can you improve?
Lower bills - renewable sources of energy such as solar panels and heat pumps will often be proposed to reduce the energy consumption of your home, also reducing the carbon footprint.
Future-proofed homes The B Corp commitment to work for the good of the planet means taking a longer-term view, and the longevity of a building as important, as well as its resilience to climate change.
Community - B Corps have a commitment to the community in which they work. This means not just local litter picking or painting a clubhouse; but a meaningful donation of skills, time, or finance. For us, this means helping a chosen charity by developing a design with them and guiding them through the process.
Truly bespoke work from local makers - one of the B Corp commitments is to support other local businesses. We have long-standing relationships with talented local fabricators, such as metal workers and stone masons, who are able to provide a truly bespoke service for your project.
A home that is connected to nature - a B Corp architect is more likely to consider protecting the natural environment surrounding your home. At Austin Design Works we offer landscape design alongside architectural services, giving clients the option to truly enhance natural habitats for wildlife.
There is a lot more behind B Corp certification than this, but hopefully these points help to clarify how a B Corp certified architecture studio would approach your project.
