These are no ordinary bricks and beams, But buildings with big sustainability dreams.
Sustainability
Sustainability means taking care of our planet by using what we need without wasting, so there will be enough for everyone now and in the future.
The children’s hospital, standing so tall, Has windows to let in sunshine for all.
“Please, come in, where fresh air and plants thrive
For
the health and well-being of all who arrive.”
Tall office towers are a downtown sight,
“I
have solar panels that capture daylight.”
Solar Panels
Solar panels are flat, shiny things we put on roofs to catch sunlight and turn it into electricity to power buildings – from our homes to the tallest skyscrapers!
Wind Turbines
A wind turbine is a tall machine with large blades that spin when the wind blows, turning the wind’s energy into electricity.
A few miles away, wind turbines spin ‘round,
Providing clean power for all folks in town.
The net-zero school where kids learn and play,
“I collect raindrops in a fun, clever way.”
Each tiny drop is stored and reused,
In this green school that’s sustainably infused.
Net-Zero
Net-zero means using only as much energy as you make, so you don’t add any extra pollution to the air.
Ecosystem
An ecosystem is like a big family where plants, animals, and people all live together and help each other to stay healthy and happy.
A neighborhood park offers much fun for all, “My natural landscape has plants oh so tall!”
The birds, bees, and trees that sing in song, Thrive in an ecosystem where they belong.
A library stands with its doors open wide,
As a place where all are welcomed with pride.
Encouraging equity and inclusion
“I help build bridges in a world of seclusion.”
Equity
Equity means making sure everyone gets what they need to be happy and healthy, even if it’s different for each person.
Inclusion
Inclusion means making sure everyone feels welcome and valued, no matter who they are or where they come from.
On
a college campus with buildings so strong,
Working diligently all the day long.
Emissions
Emissions are the gases and smoke that come out of cars, factories, and other places, which can make the air dirty and hurt the environment.
“Reducing emissions is my quest,
To become carbon-neutral — above all the rest!”
Carbon-Neutral
Carbon-neutral means not adding any extra carbon dioxide to the air, so we don’t make the planet warmer.
In the grocery store, where wonders delight,
Health and happiness boldly take flight.
“Inside my walls, diverse cultures all blend, and local farmers find a steadfast friend.”
Remember, dear reader, as we close this tale.
Buildings do talk and help our planet prevail. With design that shines regenerative light,
We can build a future so wonderfully bright.
Regenerative
Regenerative means fixing and improving nature so it can stay healthy and keep giving us what we need, like clean air and water.
Now think of the buildings you use every day.
If they all had voices, what things would they say?
Use the following page to draw the stories you think those buildings would tell about how they help make the world a healthier place!
thatsolar“Ihavepanels daylight.” capture
“Ikeep people dry and safe fromstorms!”
At Little, we believe that architecture has the power to transform lives and we’re excited to inspire the next generation of designers, engineers and planners to fall in love with the built environment.
Author: Melanie Hawley
Melanie is a marketing strategist and Senior Associate at Little in Durham, NC. The mother of young children and a passionate storyteller, she hopes to inspire kids to see buildings as friends with their own stories that help our environment. Melanie aims to spark curiosity and imagination, encouraging young readers to explore design and architecture.
Cover Artist: Elaine IVEY
Elaine grew up in a rural community, surrounded by the tranquility of fresh air and expansive blue skies. From an early age, she found joy in observing her family’s gardens flourish and evolve over time, fostering a deep appreciation for nature’s beauty and cycles. Her creativity is rooted in this organic perspective, reflecting a harmonious blend of simplicity and elegance in all her designs.
Layout Designer: Cory Hester
Cory is a designer who believes in working hard, having fun, and helping people elevate themselves and their ideas. Growing up around blue-collar work, he is committed to functional design and developing creative solutions that reveal their story and purpose.
About the Artists
Caitlin Blue is a Charlotte, NC-based interior designer. Despite her profession, she is rarely inside and can usually be found outside exploring with her dog. Caitlin is passionate about herbalism, history, and all things art and design.
Maite Bruno is an architectural designer in Orlando, FL, and graduate of the University of Florida. She is committed to crafting designs that positively impact people and their communities. Maite spends her time outside of work exercising, reading, and spending quality time with her family.
Courtney Downey is an interior designer and Design Principal at Little in Newport Beach, CA. She is known by her clients and peers as a collaborative, innovative designer with an award-winning project portfolio. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys seeing local live music, traveling abroad, and snuggling with her Labrador.
Jen Todd is an architect and Director of Little’s Regen CoLab in Charlotte, NC. With a strong passion for sustainability, she guides design teams at Little in making decisions that positively impact both people and the environment. Jen enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and exploring the outdoors.
Russell Hopper is an architect, musician and violin maker in Charleston, SC. As an architect and designer, he is passionate about coaching future leaders in architecture. Russell enjoys playing Irish fiddle with friends, hiking, and whitewater rafting.
About the Artists
Rish Saito is a Japan-born, US-based designer at Little in Newport Beach, CA. With professional experience in both Japanese and American architectural practices, he was a finalist in the 2020 Urban Confluence Silicon Valley competition. Rish holds a master’s degree in Architecture from SCI-Arc.
Shub Chuhadia is an architect at Little’s DC office with a passion for bringing buildings to life and teaming up with designers and engineers to create amazing spaces. He loves sketching and music, especially playing the piano and guitar. Shub’s family is his biggest inspiration, and he believes in always being the best version of himself.
Michael Magee is an architect and Studio Principal in Charlotte, NC. He approaches design the same way he approaches life, with an empathetic perspective working to bring the best out of any opportunity. Michael likes to spend time with his family and young kids, play golf and video games, listen to music, and solve his Rubik’s cube.
Libby Ulrich is an architectural designer in Little’s DC office. She graduated from Virginia Tech after falling in love with the studio atmosphere and seeing other’s creative minds. Libby enjoys sketching, spending time in the Shenandoah, and debating with her coworkers about whether a hotdog is a sandwich.
Shannyn Grandlienard is a Durham, NC-based environmental graphic designer. She partners with brands to foster placemaking and storytelling while exploring innovative ideas that push boundaries. Outside the office, Shannyn enjoys traveling and expressing her creativity through sketching and rug-making.
