In the early phases of planning the new home for Roswell Community Masjid, the Vision 99 team had a clear goal: to build a space that would stand the test of time—lasting for 99 years and beyond—as a testament to our role as stewards of the earth, as we’re taught in Islam. We envisioned a masjid that would leave no footprint on the environment, one that truly honors the earth and brings our community and neighbors together.
As we explored ways to bring this vision to life, we came across the Living Building Challenge. It was exactly what we were looking for—a rigorous, holistic framework that aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability. The Living Building Challenge encourages us not just to minimize harm, but to create a building that actively contributes to the environment. Inspired by this approach, we integrated it into our planning process, ensuring that Vision 99 would be more than just a building—it would be a lasting symbol of our dedication to the earth and our faith.
Understanding the Living Building Challenge
The Living Building Challenge (LBC) is more than just a certification; it’s a philosophy that redefines the relationship between people, buildings, and the natural environment. Unlike traditional green certifications, which often focus on reducing negative impacts, the LBC sets a higher bar by requiring buildings to function as efficiently and beautifully as nature itself.
The Challenge is divided into seven performance areas, known as “Petals”: Place, Water, Energy, Health & Happiness, Materials, Equity, and Beauty. Each of these Petals addresses a different aspect of sustainability and together they form the holistic framework that defines a Living Building. To achieve “Living Building Certification”, a project must meet all of the requirements of each Petal, which ensures that the building is truly regenerative.
The Impact of Living Building Certification
Earning a Living Building Certification isn’t easy, but it’s a powerful statement. It shows that a building doesn’t just exist in harmony with its environment; it actively contributes to it. For instance, a Living Building will generate all of its own energy using renewable sources, capture all rainwater on-site, and use materials that are safe and sourced responsibly.
But the impact goes beyond environmental benefits. Living Buildings also prioritize the health and happiness of their occupants, creating spaces that are not only sustainable but also beautiful and inspiring. They are designed to be adaptable and resilient, ensuring they will continue to provide value to their communities for generations.
Vision 99: A Living Building in the Making
At Vision 99, we are embracing the principles of the Living Building Challenge as we aim to set a new standard for eco-friendly construction. Our goal is to create a space that isn’t just a building, but a living, breathing part of the community—a space where our faith is centered in everything we do. We are embracing the principles of the Living Building Challenge as we aim to build a community that is socially just, culturally rich, and ecologically restorative.
The Living Building Challenge provides a roadmap for Vision 99 to achieve its vision of sustainability. By adhering to its rigorous standards, we’re not just building for today, but for 99 years and more. We’re committed to making Vision 99 a global benchmark for sustainability, and the Living Building Certification is a critical part of that journey.
The Living Building Challenge represents the pinnacle of sustainable building practices. It’s about creating spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also socially and culturally enriching. At Vision 99, we’re proud to be part of this movement, and we’re excited to see how the Living Building Challenge will continue to inspire and transform the world of architecture and construction.
