In a significant triumph for sustainable architecture, the Samartex project by Orthner Orthner & Associates (OOA), an architectural firm based in Accra, Ghana, has been awarded the EDGE Advanced Certificate by the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This recognition solidifies the project’s standing as a trailblazer in sustainable building practices, marking a notable milestone in its 13-year journey.
The EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification, a globally acknowledged standard for evaluating the environmental performance of buildings, focuses on resource efficiency in water, energy, and materials. OOA’s Samartex project has not only met but exceeded these stringent criteria, earning the coveted Advanced Certificate. This places the project among the distinguished group of only nine EDGE-Certified buildings in Ghana for the years 2022 and 2023, with the additional distinction of being the sole recipient of an Advanced Certificate since EDGE’s establishment in Ghana six years ago.
Rosemary Orthner, a key figure at Orthner Orthner & Associates, proudly holding up the EDGE Certificate, stated, “This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable design and innovation. The Samartex project was conceived with a vision to push the boundaries of eco-friendly construction practices, and receiving the EDGE Advanced Certificate validates our efforts.”
The Samartex project now stands as a beacon of inspiration within the architectural community, showcasing the heights that can be achieved in terms of sustainability. By surpassing the EDGE certification criteria, the project not only reinforces OOA’s dedication to environmentally conscious design but also highlights the positive impact such initiatives can have on various stakeholders, from occupants to the broader community.
The certification process evaluates factors such as energy-saving technologies, water conservation measures, and the use of sustainable materials, providing a comprehensive assessment of a building’s ecological footprint. OOA’s Samartex project excelled in these areas, demonstrating the firm’s commitment to creating structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.
Images of the Samartex project reveal its striking architectural design and innovative features aimed at reducing environmental impact. The recognition of the project underscores OOA’s enduring dedication to sustainability and ecologically sound architecture. The firm’s commitment to these principles, as exemplified through the design and execution of the Samartex project, reaffirms the pivotal role of architects and designers in driving positive change towards a more sustainable built environment.
As Ghana’s architectural landscape evolves, OOA’s Samartex project sets a precedent for future developments, urging industry professionals to prioritize sustainability in their designs. The EDGE Advanced Certificate serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a catalyst for continued progress in creating a greener, more sustainable future for the built environment.