Rainwater harvesting grabs the headlines but in some cases, architects are going to far more thorough lengths. They are able to take that knowledge and instead of simply hitting down stream, build multiple systems that work well together as if drops themselves were the resource; making true water smart architectures.
Greywater Systems: The Untapped Resource
Greywater (wastewater from sinks, showers and laundry) accounts for 50-80% of water use in a household. Smart buildings harvest it and depending on the solution treat with UV or ozone-based purification for toilet flushing water, this easily reduces 80% of our national fresh drinking water load. Greywater is an ideal candidate for year-round, dependable reuse unlike many rainwater systems. For Sustainable Architects, visit https://www.quattrodesign.co.uk/architectural-services/sustainable-architecture-design/
Permeable Surfaces: Restoring Natural Hydrology
Urbanisation causes cities to flood and water tables lower due poor quality of hard landscaping. These measures — permeable pavements, green roofs and bioswales — allow water to infiltrate naturally in the ground pools of aquifers providing groundwater while minimising stormwater runoff.
Wetland Integration: Nature’s Treatment Plant
These natural filtration systems filter wastewater and provide habitat as well aesthetic treatment.
Smart Metering and Leak Detection
Technology matters too. Identify leaks immediately in real-time water monitoring systems. It varies the irrigation depending on rainfall and soil moisture to avoid watering where it is not necessary.
Landscape Design as Water Strategy
Consideration for using plants that occur naturally in your area and thus are drought-tolerant will require less irrigation. Terraces and swales direct water to the areas that need it. All design decisions should be part of the water tale.
The Resilience Advantage
In addition to being the right thing for the environment, water-smart architecture also makes economic sense. Lower utility bills, less maintenance required and the ability to resist both droughts and flooding add up in value over time.