Energy and materials in architecture

Abstract

Nowadays it is well know that urban systems require a huge material and energy input for its function. Previous studies have noticed that most of this energy demand is produced by construction. This ambit absorbs the energy consumed by electricity and gas, but also the energy embodied in the construction materials, which it is defined by the origin of the resources utilized, its posterior industrial manipulation and transport. The role of architecture inside energy balance and masses fluxes inside the urban system has an important relevance. In order to this, architects require new design and construction strategies that allow a better use of materials and efficiency on the energy use of our buildings. This article has the objective of expose the energetic weight of design decisions, looking for an adequate habitability of spaces and also at the technology applications and selection of construction materials. Our principal intention is to approximate life cycle of materials as an architectonic design regulator.