With the rise in global warming and its various effects, it’s no wonder structural engineers have also kicked off the rise in sustainable construction. Greener and greener buildings have emerged all across the world for this very reason, and they’re continually becoming more and more innovative in a myriad of ways. In fact, so many of them have amassed that we’ve put together a list of some of our favorites. Read on to learn what they are and why they’ve made our list!

1. Pixel

Located in the heart of Australia, the Pixel building has been hailed by structural engineers for its unique features, especially with regards to energy recycling. For instance, in its bathrooms you’ll find mechanisms capable of producing heat from excrement, as well as solar panels attached to the outside of the building that are programmed to keep track of the sun’s movements.

While some of these features may sound grotesque, they actually represent quite a few important milestones within the industry. One of the most important facets of sustainability is the ability to conserve and recycle energy sources as much as possible, even if it’s through slightly messy means.

2. Bahrain World Trade Center

The World Trade Center of Bahrain happens to be just as efficient as it is visually appealing! The structural engineering company in charge of its design kept the idea of improving its ability to gather and use energy in mind. As a result, the building relies in wind energy, which it collects through its towers. Said towers are built to resemble sails—mechanisms commonly known for their ability to catch and glide with air.

3. OS House

Located in Racine, Wisconsin, the OS House may be small in stature, but it’s made huge strides in the world of energy saving! From its specialized plumbing with a system for delivering hot water on demand to its ample solar energy usage, you’re guaranteed to find no other house like this on the market—at least not right away!

4. The Crystal

Inspired by the famous Australian Opera House, the Crystal mimics the jagged structure of the building, but has quite a few noteworthy features of its own. It both recycles any and all nearby waste into new energy and utilizes nothing but electricity as far as its daily energy usage. Its innovations have earned it both BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) awards.

5. One Angel Square

Also hailing from England, the One Angel Square makes its home in Manchester, where it serves as a plant for all-natural and renewable energy. Like other structures on this list, it is able to recycle energy. However, it also possesses its own farm, where some of its energy output comes from. It has also received an award from BREEAM.

While all of the above mentioned buildings are commercial, you may very well be able to commission some of their features for your own home from residential engineering services in the near future. To learn more about the different advancements in green construction, feel free to contact us!