Sustainable development and architectural practice: Framing strategic approaches in the United Kingdom

The concept of sustainability is widely accepted in the design of the built environ- ment; however, in architectural practice, there exist multiple, often competing, inter- pretations and agendas. This research analyses this variety and develops a unique framework that reveals actual and potential paths for sustainable design. In‐depth interviews were conducted with 24 high‐profile sustainable architecture practices in the United Kingdom. The data reveal a range of sustainable practice, which is grouped into consistent strategies. This forms the basis of an original evaluative framework that classifies alternative approaches providing a means to contextualise different, yet equally valid, design scenarios. The findings reconceptualise sustainable design paradigms and reveal new opportunities for enhancing practice. This has implications for professional organisations, who are able to shape practice through recognised standards, as well as designers themselves. It also has significance for the education of architects who are able to explore new avenues for sustainable design.