What is social sustainability in construction?
The terms "social sustainability" and "socially sustainable communities" are coming up a lot more in the construction world. So, let's define them and take a look at the considerations to take with sustainability, beyond the environment.
As soon as somebody mentions "sustainability" our first thoughts flicker to green imagery, trees and nature. And we instantly think about the planet and its environment.
But that isn't the only factor we should consider. Social sustainability has its own level of importance. Consideration of this aspect during a construction project gives you more chances at creating, enabling or maintaining a flourishing society.
The Business Dictionary defines social sustainability as "the ability of a community to develop processes and structures which not only meet the needs of its current members but also support the ability of future generations to maintain a healthy community."
When it comes to construction, it's ultimately about creating spaces that promote the wellbeing of its inhabitants by understanding what people need from the places they live and work.
Why build sustainable communities? And what steps can construction take?
With more and more housing and business infrastructure shooting up, some would argue that mass construction can equal a loss of community. Equally, totally new communities could be forced together, where the dangers of social dysfunction are real.
A typical example of this is city expansion or business district expansion where old buildings or green spaces are lost to make way for the new. This rapid urbanisation means that there will undoubtedly be an increase in varying communities and neighbourhoods coming together. Making sure every group is catered for is essential.
We should be aiming to build sustainable communities for the betterment of the health and wellbeing of residents, and for the local economy to better thrive. By constructing without social consciousness, we could inadvertently be creating a dysfunctional space with unhappy residents.
To make sure we don't do this, it's paramount that resourcing new construction takes economic and environmental sustainability into account. We need to think about how the new buildings will be powered, maintained, and the impact it will have on the local economy.
We need to consider demographics too. With an ageing population, any built environments for the elderly will have to cater for age related-disabilities, physical and mental.
SMART cities are also a consideration, especially in new corporate builds. The digital revolution only continues to accelerate and to have businesses enabled to survive and thrive in this new environment is a priority.
Construction projects have a lot to consider
Social sustainability plays a huge role in the health and wellness of inhabitants alongside their sense of place and pride in which they live and work. New construction projects must ensure they are enabling future societies to function and flourish, empowering the local economy.
Some examples of Kallisto helping to build socially sustainable societies
Through everyday projects and collaborations, we hope to improve the quality of life of residents, students or any intended beneficiaries.
The Denham Film Studios are a unique collection of 224 conversion and new build homes, including 154 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and 70 four and five-bedroom family townhouses.
Features within the new development will include a retained and restored cinema with a bar and a community hall/fitness space. The unique properties are designed around garden squares, landscaped grounds, rill water features, private gardens and protected woodland complete with parking and garaging.
Not only are these new-build homes and apartments providing new homes for a community, but their health and wellbeing and sense of pride in where they live is taken care of. No design expense was spared in the renovation of the studio, and our spiral staircase designs sit at the heart, giving easy and artistic access to upper floors.
Lime Grove Mews is located in the heart of Shepherd's Bush; they combine classic English architecture with contemporary designer luxury.
Situated amongst leafy parkland and nestled within the traditional Victorian streetscape, the complex is within minutes of direct transport links into central London's world-renowned retail and financial districts.
Our role was ensuring the safety and security of residents by providing a stable, precast stair structure with minimal impact on the construction site.
We'd love to help with your next project
If you've got a new project coming up, or are looking to acquire luxury staircases for your home, we'd love to help. Creating or renovating builds that improve the quality of life for residents and homeowners inspires us, and we're ready to be a part of your project. Please get in contact with us today to learn more.