Journal of Engineering and Architecture

Green Building Design Related to Feng Shui Issues in Taiwan
Shihchien Chan

Abstract
With growing awareness of climate change and the increasing importance of sustainability, green building design has become an important trend in architectural design in Taiwan. The Taiwan government encourages people to participate in the promotion of green buildings, and has also established building regulations and accreditation which require newly constructed buildings to satisfy related requirements. The green building accreditation system being executed in Taiwan includes the architectural characteristics of ecology, energy saving, waste reduction, and health (EEWH) issues. On the other hand, the ancient concept of Feng Shui for dwellings, which concerns environmental living issues for people, is still exerting a strong influence on dwelling space arrangement. The concept of Feng Shui emphasizes harmony between people and the natural environment; it has strong connection with green building as it respects the sustainable environment. Interviews of experts, literature review and content analysis methods were applied in this study. The results indicate that design issues of green planting, water retention, energy saving, water resource, and sewage have strong connection between green building designs and Feng Shui concepts in some aspects. If designers can consider the relevant aspects of Feng Shui during the initial design process of green buildings, it would greatly facilitate the promotion of green building policies.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jea.v3n1a3