Eco-Architecture: Harmonisation Between Architecture And Nature

Unlike the mechanistic buildings it replaces, Eco-Architecture is in harmony with nature, including its immediate environs. Decisions have to be taken on ecological grounds concerning locations, siting and orientation, as well as the well-informed choice of materials. Eco-Architecture is by definition inter-disciplinary; it requires the collaboration of engineers, planners, physicists, sociologists, economists, and other specialists, in addition to architects. The papers contained in this book were written by different specialists and attempt to focus on the interdisciplinary character of eco-architecture. Featuring papers from the First International Conference on Harmonisation between Architecture and Nature, Featured topics include: Ecological & cultural sensitivity; Historical & philosophical aspects; Design with nature; Assessment & selection of materials; Natural technologies; Design by passive systems; Building operation & maintenance; Water conservation.