Page 41 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 34
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The Environment
Image from http: //www.builderbill-diy-help.com/
tongue-and-groove-joint.html
2. Health-Conscious Building Materials
Modern construction heavily relies on
synthetic adhesives, treated metals, and
composite materials, many of which emit
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These
compounds degrade indoor air quality and Intricate design of wooden joints on the Tamedia Building: https: //www.
pose long-term health risks. By integrating arch2o.com/japanese-wood-joinery/
woodworking techniques, untreated,
natural timber can be used to construct pure wood techniques and detachable
interior elements like flooring, partitions, or joinery offers a solution by enabling the
cabinetry, reducing chemical exposure for easy disassembly and reuse of building
occupants. components.
For instance, modular walls or flooring
Such practices align with biophilic design
principles, promoting healthier indoor systems made with interlocking joints can
environments while connecting inhabitants be taken apart and reassembled in new
with nature through the use of organic configurations, reducing material wastage.
materials and textures. Additionally, the absence of chemical
contaminants makes the wood easier to
recycle or biodegrade at the end of its
3. Sustainability Through Recyclable and
Repurposable Design lifecycle.
Buildings generate significant waste during
demolition, much of which is difficult to 4. Organic Aesthetics and Architectural
recycle due to contamination from adhesives, Elegance
metals, and composite materials. Use of Incorporating such techniques into modern
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