Ninth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

This paper articulates the evolving and innovative ‘water responsive’ design approach that aims to ameliorate the conditions resulting from the growing local and global water crises. I have coined the term ‘water responsive’ to differentiate this design practice from projects built for simple consumption based on its aesthetic qualities. Emphasizing water scarcity, overflow or contamination, in addition to its visual, experiential and therapeutic qualities, many experimental projects of this nature are integrating materials and technologies that, hopefully and radically, will change how we may use or build with this natural resource that is becoming increasingly in short supply. The selected case studies, from object to building scale, demonstrate how we can harvest, filter and design water responsive objects and systems as well as ‘water positive’ buildings with enhanced performance. The research and innovation aimed at maximizing water efficiency with minimal material or energy use play an important role in the development of ‘water responsive’ applications. By examining several books and articles from influential authors, my aim is to shift the discussion of water from being an aesthetic or leisurely design feature in constructed environments to a powerful and fluid force driving current design practices to be more proactive for climate adaptation.