What is the concept of green architecture?
Green Architecture Concept: 5 Best Principles for 2025
Green architecture concept is all about designing buildings that are friendly to our planet. It
involves using energy-efficient methods, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly designs
Source: https://constructive-voices.com/philippines-top-green-buildings-2/
Zuellig Building (Makati)
The Zuellig Building in Makati is an exemplary LEED-certified green building in the Philippines. It
has achieved gold and platinum level certifications for its sustainable design and energy-
efficient features. The building’s commitment to reducing energy consumption is evident in its
innovative systems and technologies.
One of the notable features of the Zuellig Building is its low-emissivity glass system, which
effectively reduces solar heat gain while maximising natural light. This feature not only creates
a comfortable indoor environment but also helps lower energy use for cooling and lighting
purposes. In fact, the building has achieved a 15% reduction in energy consumption.
The Zuellig Building also prioritises water conservation through its rainwater catchment facility.
This facility collects rainwater and utilises it for various purposes, such as irrigation and toilet
flushing, reducing the building’s reliance on potable water. Additionally, the building
implements a centralised paper recycling system, promoting waste management and recycling
practices.
Key Features of Zuellig Building:
Key Feature Benefits
Reduces solar heat gain and energy
Low-emissivity glass system
consumption
Conserves water resources and reduces reliance
Rainwater catchment facility
on potable water
Centralised paper Promotes waste management and recycling
recycling system practices
One of the key features of 8 Campus Place – Building A is its focus on water
conservation. The building implements efficient plumbing fixtures and non-potable water
usage for plant irrigation, reducing water consumption and promoting sustainable
practices. By incorporating these measures, the building demonstrates its dedication to
environmental stewardship.
In addition to water conservation, 8 Campus Place – Building A prioritises the use of
low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials. These materials emit fewer harmful
chemicals, improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier environment for
occupants. With its energy-efficient architecture, the building also minimises its
environmental impact by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.
“8 Campus Place – Building A is a shining example of how sustainable design can be
seamlessly integrated into modern buildings. From its water conservation measures to
the use of low-VOC materials, this LEED Gold certified building sets a new standard for
eco-friendly construction in the Philippines.”
Sustainability Features of 8 Campus Place – Building A
Feature Description
Efficient plumbing fixtures and non-potable water usage
Water Conservation
for plant irrigation
Use of materials that emit fewer harmful
Low-VOC Materials
chemicals, improving indoor air quality
Minimises energy consumption and carbon
emissions
Energy-Efficient
Architecture
BTTC Centre significantly reduces its carbon footprint and decreases the reliance on traditional
power sources.
The water system implemented in the BTTC Centre also demonstrates its dedication to
sustainability. The building incorporates rainwater harvesting facilities, which collect and store
rainwater for various uses within the premises. Additionally, the BTTC Centre has a state-of-the-
art sewage treatment system that ensures the responsible management of wastewater,
minimising its impact on the environment.
Summary Table of Green Features
Building Location Key Green Features
Double-glazed glass facade, advanced
The Zuellig
Makati City HVAC, water recycling, rainwater
Building
harvesting, CO₂ monitoring
Rainwater harvesting, green roofs,
Circuit
Makati City open spaces for biodiversity, energy-
Makati
efficient lighting
Energy-efficient HVAC and lighting,
Bonifacio
Net Park motion sensors, stormwater
Global City
management
Solar panels, water reclamation,
ADB Ortigas,
energy-efficient chillers, green
Headquarters Mandaluyong
landscaping, waste management
Recycled materials, energy-saving
Menarco Bonifacio
mechanical systems, indoor air quality,
Tower Global City
natural lighting
Solar panels, green roofs, rainwater
DLSU Henry
Manila harvesting, natural lighting and
Sy Sr. Hall
ventilation
Rainwater collection, energy-efficient
One/NEO Bonifacio
HVAC and lighting, waste segregation,
Building Global City
green spaces
Heat-reducing facade, energy-efficient
UnionBank
Pasig City lighting, water conservation, eco-
Plaza
friendly waste disposal
Rainwater harvesting, waste
BTTC Centre San Juan management, energy-saving lighting,
natural light
Energy-efficient cooling, water
Philam Life
Cebu City recycling, low-emission materials, large
Centre
windows for natural lighting
These buildings reflect the Philippine green building movement’s priorities:
reducing energy and water consumption, enhancing indoor environmental
quality, and creating healthier spaces for occupants.
Conclusion
Green buildings in the Philippines are revolutionising the construction
industry by prioritising sustainability and environmental stewardship. LEED
certifications, such as gold and platinum levels, are being awarded to
buildings that demonstrate energy efficiency, water conservation, waste
management, and sustainable design. These buildings are setting new
standards for green architecture and showcasing the feasibility and benefits
of sustainable construction practices.
As the country strives to address energy challenges and combat climate
change, the importance of net zero and carbon-neutral buildings is growing.
These buildings, like ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower and the Zuellig
Building, are leading the way in sustainable design and serve as symbols of a
brighter and greener future.
With their energy-efficient designs and commitment to sustainability, these
green buildings are not just structures, but beacons of hope. They
demonstrate that sustainable architecture is not only possible but also
essential for a sustainable future. By embracing sustainable practices and
obtaining LEED certifications, these buildings are paving the way for a
greener and more eco-friendly Philippines.
