Is Ecological-Focused Architecture going to become Mainstream?

 How to incorporate environmentally focused design in all forms of architecture, or if it is even possible. Throughout school, and especially in masters, we have been encouraged to design environmentally friendly and ecologically focused buildings/master planning. And after Professor Franco’s presentation, the history and importance of designing environmentally is clearer. But after the presentation and reading Mostafavi’s paper “Ecological Urbanism”, there are two big questions still lingering in my head.     

    

The first point is how is this applicable in all forms of architecture. Some examples shown were masterplan designs, museums, and other “once in a lifetime” architectural programs. These programs seem to be able to adopt ecological principles into their design easier than others, such as industrial architecture, most commercial architecture, and even high-rises. Yes I know one could find examples of each of these programs and some kind of sustainable design, but to me it just doesn’t fit the “flavor” of these function focused buildings.   

    
My other argument might be stronger than my last, but isn’t ecological design more expensive than the normal design measures? I understand half of the battle is architects getting on board with research and designing environmentally focused, but does the customer want to pay for that? From my limited experience, the cheapest budget is always the focused from the client and any non-necessities are immediately scrapped. It almost seems impossible to suggest green-design with cost-focused lenses. To me, it almost seems impossible to fully launch an ecology-centered-design campaign until the IBC starts mandating green design. Hot take