Eco-efficiency Strategies in Architecture: Driving Sustainable Innovation for Environmental Impact Mitigation and Social Well-being

The global vision of architecture adapted to life and space constitutes one of the human disciplines capable of challenging traditional standards in the creation of everyday environments, offering new possibilities to improve both the user experience and the environment [1]. From an ethical perspective, this vision implies the responsibility to provide sustainable community solutions, considering the impact of our decisions on future generations [2, 3].

In parallel, the application of nanotechnology in the construction industry is gaining relevance due to its advantages over conventional products and its potential to reduce resource and energy consumption throughout the building's life cycle. This incorporation represents an innovative breakthrough, introducing smart and multifunctional materials that optimize the structural and environmental performance of buildings. Regarding resource productivity, it is evident that approximately 10% of the materials from an old house and 3% from a new one could be integrated into the circular economy, applicable to both past and future architecture [4].

In this context, biophilic design emerges as an essential strategy not only for its contribution to environmental sustainability, but also for its benefits to the physical and mental health of the community [5]. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the construction sector is one of the main consumers of energy worldwide, which underlines the need for architects to prioritize responsible designs that are committed to the built environment. In this context, innovation plays a crucial role, as it enables the development of sustainable solutions through new materials, technologies, and design strategies that reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency [6].

Although sustainability has been a constant concern in the field of construction, sustainable interior design still receives little attention [7]. This issue is related to the absence of sustainability modules in architectural education, the lack of knowledge among designers, and the limited interest on the part of clients [8]. In this context, it becomes essential to rethink traditional design approaches through an innovative perspective that allows for the integration of emerging technologies, eco-efficient materials, and regenerative design methodologies. Innovation, as a transformative axis, offers new opportunities to integrate sustainability transversally into architectural design—particularly in interior spaces, which have historically been overlooked in this regard. Thus, in the face of climate challenges, reducing excessive energy consumption and generating knowledge becomes imperative to train architects capable of developing optimal and sustainable designs [9].

Along these lines, the development of green buildings seeks to meet functional and performance requirements while simultaneously minimizing their negative environmental impact [10, 11]. An additional requirement has also been established, focusing on the sustainable use of natural resources, such as the reuse and recyclability of materials after demolition, the durability of buildings, and the efficient use of materials. However, the promotion of green and sustainable construction strategies still lacks coherence due to its multidimensional implications [12, 13].

The decisions taken in the initial stages of planning are critical to achieving eco-efficient sustainability in a building [14-16]. In this context, the study aims to identify the eco-efficiency measures applied in the sustainable design and construction of architectural projects, considering their social impact. The Melbourne Council House 2, One Angel Square and Tower Pearl River projects are taken as reference, and the aim is to describe the fundamental indicators that architectural professionals must meet to replicate these innovative projects independently of the urban and social context in which they are implemented.

The study is based on the analysis of eco-efficient architectural projects, which not only serve as models of innovative design but also integrate environmental protection factors with a strong social impact. The research focuses on notable projects in Australia, the United Kingdom, and China that exemplify contemporary architecture committed to the efficient distribution of resources and the use of natural energy. Through these case studies, the research aims to demonstrate how the integration of sustainable practices into architectural design can bring direct benefits to communities, improve quality of life, promote social equity, and contribute to the creation of healthier and more resilient urban environments.

Although the projects analyzed are widely known, the value of this study lies in its ability to reinterpret them from a social perspective, offering new insights into ecological efficiency when assessed beyond technical performance to include its community dimension. This approach reveals the potential for replicating these models in Latin America not only as environmental solutions but also as strategies for social inclusion and urban regeneration. In this regard, the study makes an original contribution by understanding eco-efficiency as a catalyst for transformative architectural practices tailored to specific contexts.

Eco-efficiency in architectural design is defined as the application of life cycle assessment in membrane buildings, highlighting design strategies from their earliest stages as a response to environmental sustainability [17-19]. Furthermore, the gap between research and practice in building design is identified, reinforcing the importance of integrating sustainability from the beginning of the process. Additionally, it is identified that environmentally responsible design should be considered a specialization within training in eco-efficient interior design [20]. Granero and García Alvarado [21] emphasize the importance of identifying the sizing and design of openings to optimize natural lighting, which is linked to both privacy and exterior vision, thus contributing to comfort and energy savings.

Godard Santander et al. [22] highlight that future architects must be aware of the ethical principles that govern their activities in order to develop optimal designs. Along these lines, Angulo et al. [23] argue that it is essential to evaluate interior finishing factories to transform them into environmentally responsible facilities, reducing their energy consumption and emissions. For his part, Morales-Pacheco [24] analyzes the way of designing projects and thus advancing with technologies, improving modeling and exploration times. On the other hand, Moreno [25] offers strategies to define sustainable attributes in buildings, while Andrés and Barón [26] agree that architecture challenges everyday design standards and proposes new sustainable solutions from the environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

In the environmental dimension, Parra Martínez et al. [27] address the imperative need to transform conventional architectural practices into models of empathetic and sustainable design, where environmental sensitivity becomes a guiding principle. This perspective conceives eco-efficiency not merely as a technical achievement but as a holistic commitment to long-term environmental stewardship. Within the scope of this study, eco-efficiency is understood as a multidimensional construct that encompasses material sustainability, energy performance, and ecological integration. Gamboa and Gamboa [28] emphasize that ecological buildings—particularly those using low-impact natural materials—generate measurable benefits for both environmental preservation and human health, reinforcing the idea that material selection is not solely an aesthetic or structural decision, but a key indicator of environmental efficiency. Zari and Jenkin [29] underscore the need to harmonize the building with the urban ecosystem as a foundational principle of sustainable design, positioning eco-efficiency as a context-dependent and relational concept. Furthermore, Zari [30] notes that sustainable buildings produce less wastewater and consume less water, suggesting that water efficiency and resource management are essential metrics for evaluating eco-efficient performance. Accordingly, the incorporation of renewable energy technologies, efficient ventilation systems, and water-saving infrastructure emerges as central to the operationalization of eco-efficiency in architectural projects. These elements collectively enable the practical identification of eco-efficiency through the convergence of design strategies that reduce environmental load without compromising functionality, comfort, or durability.

In the social dimension, Durante [31] proposes expanding the concept of "social architecture" beyond low-income housing, promoting projects that respond to user needs and recognize the role of architecture in shaping everyday experiences. This vision aligns with a broader conceptualization of social impact, defined here as the extent to which architectural design fosters physical, psychological, and social well-being. Villalobos González [32] emphasizes the social responsibility of the architect in the creation of eco-efficient projects, underscoring that sustainability must be understood not only in ecological terms but also in relation to accessibility, equity, and cultural relevance.

In the social dimension, the variable of social impact is conceptualized as the extent to which architectural design contributes to individual and collective well-being. Durante [31] proposes a broader definition of "social architecture" that transcends the confines of social housing, advocating for inclusive projects that actively respond to user needs and promote quality of life. This vision aligns with a multidimensional understanding of social impact, encompassing not only physical comfort but also emotional, cultural, and psychological dimensions. Villalobos González [32] emphasizes the ethical responsibility of the architect in fostering socially responsive design, asserting that eco-efficient projects must consider accessibility, equity, and participation as critical indicators of their success. These contributions support the operationalization of social impact through qualitative dimensions such as safety, inclusivity, and community integration, reinforcing that sustainability in architecture is inseparable from the human experience it aims to enhance. Pazmiño et al. [33] identify social indicators of sustainability, such as quality of life, well-being and freedom, while Serra-Permanyer [34] highlights the role of this dimension in improving the standard of living and promoting cultural diversity. Furthermore, community participation in design processes has become essential to ensure that architectural projects respond to the real needs of the population. The inclusion of sustainable and accessible public spaces is also key to promoting social cohesion and collective well-being.

Regarding the economic dimension, Ramos et al. [35] introduce the concept of circular economy in architecture to optimize the use of materials and reduce the environmental impact. Mondragón López [36] analyzes the economic evolution and its relationship with architectural development. Carrasco Pérez [37] recalls Le Corbusier's Domino system as an economic solution after the First World War, based on the reuse of materials. De Grazia et al. [38] highlight European agreements to reduce environmental impact through economic, environmental, social, and urban planning indicators. The implementation of sustainable construction solutions has also proven to be a viable strategy for long-term cost reduction. Furthermore, investment in sustainable technologies boosts the competitiveness of companies in the construction sector.

Because of the analysis of the reviewed theories, it becomes evident that eco-efficiency in architectural design has undergone a significant transformation over time. In its early stages, it was primarily confined to technical parameters focused on energy efficiency and rational material use. However, with the emergence of new theoretical frameworks and interdisciplinary approaches, eco-efficiency has evolved into a more comprehensive concept that incorporates social, economic, cultural, and ethical variables. This theoretical evolution has broadened its scope, integrating issues such as social equity, public health, community participation, and the circular economy. Nevertheless, the analysis also reveals a persistent gap between theory and practice, particularly in contexts where structural conditions limit the implementation of these strategies. Therefore, future theoretical approaches to eco-efficiency must adopt a situated and adaptable perspective that aligns with local realities, reinforcing applicability through flexible and multidimensional frameworks.

In this regard, the reviewed literature reveals important advances in sustainable design with social impact, such as Ming et al. [39] investigated the impact of eddy currents and silicate ions on the electrochemical behavior of high- strength steel in simulated concrete pore solutions. The methodology employed electrochemical techniques such as field impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization to evaluate the corrosion resistance of steel in the presence of chloride ions and leakage current. The results indicated that eddy current weakened the passive film of the steel, making it more susceptible to corrosion. However, silicate ions acted as ecological inhibitors, improving the steel's resistance under adverse conditions. This finding suggests a potential solution to increase the sustainability of construction materials by reducing corrosion and extending the durability of reinforced concrete structures, which has a significant social impact by improving the safety and longevity of the infrastructure.

Olatunde et al. [40] aimed to explore strategies and technologies to improve energy efficiency in architecture, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. The methodology employed included the review of various passive design strategies, such as orientation, shading and natural ventilation, combined with active technologies such as high-performance insulation, efficient lighting and renewable energy systems. The results showed that the integration of these approaches significantly improves the energy efficiency of buildings, reducing dependence on mechanical systems and promoting a healthier and more economical environment for occupants.

Zambrano-Asanza et al. [41] aimed to estimate urban photovoltaic potential and analyze how the integration of solar panels in buildings can meet energy demand without negatively affecting the electrical grid. The methodology employed included the simulation of load flows for a low-voltage distribution network in Cuenca, Ecuador, considering the use of conventional solar panels and photovoltaic tiles. The main results indicated that, by integrating conventional solar panels on available roofs, up to 46% of the energy demand could be covered, while the incorporation of induction cookers and energy storage could increase this coverage to 73%. This approach highlights the potential of solar energy as a sustainable and economical solution to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

Majid et al. [42] aimed to analyze the adoption of eco-efficient and sustainable innovation actions by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe, assessing how these practices impact business performance, cost reduction, and their contribution to sustainable development. The research is based on data obtained from the Flash Eurobarometer survey, which collects information from SMEs in 28 countries of the European Union. To assess the relationships between eco-efficient actions and company performance, descriptive analysis and ordered logistic regressions are used. The results indicate that resource efficiency actions, such as the use of renewable energy and waste reduction, improve long-term business performance, increasing profitability and reducing operational costs. The adoption of green products also contributes to higher market performance. These changes not only favor the economy of SMEs, but also generate a positive social impact, promoting more sustainable development.

Likewise, Cao et al. [43] analyzed the design, environmental control, and energy conservation of urban underground spaces, highlighting their relevance to the sustainable development of cities. The methodology employed is based on an interdisciplinary approach that combines knowledge from architecture, civil engineering, and air and environmental management to improve energy efficiency and safety in these spaces. The results indicate that, despite high energy demands and challenges related to ventilation and lighting, well-designed underground spaces can significantly contribute to energy savings and the sustainability of the city. Furthermore, these spaces, if properly planned, can generate a positive social impact by improving connectivity, accessibility, and urban quality of life by efficiently integrating natural resources such as light and air.

Wang et al. [44] highlight the objective of developing an energy-efficient design method for green additive manufacturing, aiming to reduce energy consumption and material waste by integrating this assessment into additive manufacturing (AM) design processes. The goal is to improve the sustainability of manufacturing processes without compromising the mechanical performance of the produced parts. The proposed methodology is based on the use of a Multimodal Attention Fusion Network (MAFN), which leverages multiple modalities derived from computer-aided design (CAD) and the manufacturing process. A mathematical model of energy consumption (EC) is built to identify key modalities and predict EC. The multimodal fusion unifies processing, pixel, and geometry data, while the Attentional Feature Fusion Module (AFFM) optimizes the combination of attentional features, avoiding data redundancy. The results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly improves energy efficiency in additive manufacturing without losing mechanical performance. Furthermore, the approach outperforms current CE prediction methods, contributing to greener, more energy- and resource-efficient designs, positively impacting the sustainability of manufacturing processes.

Attia [45] compares two net-zero energy buildings, representing two distinct paradigms in architecture: efficiency and regeneration. The main objective was to understand how these approaches affect the design and operation of buildings, using life cycle analysis (LCA). In terms of methodology, two case studies were compared, the Research Support Facility (RSF) and the Green Office, evaluating their performance through indicators such as primary energy, carbon emissions, and material efficiency. The results highlighted that, although both buildings met energy efficiency targets, the Green Office, with its regenerative approach, outperformed the RSF in terms of carbon footprint, due to its greater use of renewable materials and construction processes with a lower environmental impact. This study highlights the importance of adopting a regenerative paradigm, which not only seeks to mitigate environmental impact but also improve ecological carrying capacity, fostering a positive impact on the community and the built environment.

Umoh et al. [46] aimed to provide a comprehensive review of innovative design and construction techniques used in green architecture, with a focus on how they improve energy efficiency. The methodology is based on the evaluation of various sustainable strategies, such as passive design, green roofs, and the efficient use of insulation systems, in order to reduce energy consumption and promote a healthy indoor environment. The results highlight that, by incorporating innovative building materials such as bio-concrete and automated building systems, it is possible not only to improve energy efficiency but also to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This approach not only favors environmental sustainability but also generates a positive impact on communities by improving the quality of life of inhabitants and encouraging more resilient urban development.

The literature review reveals important strengths, notably the methodological diversity employed and the interdisciplinary approach of the studies, which address sustainable design from architectural, energy, economic, and social perspectives. In this regard, the analyzed works present significant advances in energy efficiency, innovation in construction materials, urban regeneration, and the use of renewable energy sources, with results applicable to improving community well-being. However, significant weaknesses are also identified: many studies focus on developed contexts, overlooking the cultural, economic, and technical limitations characteristic of developing regions. Furthermore, there is a limited critical assessment of the practical feasibility of emerging methodologies, such as exergy analysis or automated systems, which restricts their real-world applicability. A lack of comprehensive studies analyzing the financial and technological barriers to implementing these solutions in actual projects is also evident. These gaps highlight the need to deepen the social dimension of sustainability by promoting research that connects eco-efficiency with diverse socioeconomic contexts and seeks to foster more equitable and resilient communities.

This study was conducted using a qualitative methodological approach, utilizing documentary analysis within a non-experimental design. This methodology allowed for an in-depth examination of three technical records of sustainable building projects located in distinct geographical contexts: Australia, England, and China. Through documentary analysis, primary and secondary sources were reviewed to efficiently retrieve relevant information. By not manipulating variables, the study was limited to observing phenomena in their natural setting, allowing the information to be synthesized and structured within a conceptual framework that facilitates answering the research questions.

The research focused on a detailed analysis of three technical files for eco-efficient projects, which seek to ensure sustainability in construction through innovative solutions in the design and execution of construction projects. The selected projects represent advanced practices in sustainable architecture and engineering internationally. The cases studied include Melbourne Council House 2 in Australia, One Angel Square in England, and the Pearl River Tower in China. These projects stand out for their focus on energy efficiency, carbon emission reduction, and the use of eco-friendly materials, establishing themselves as benchmarks in contemporary green architecture. The objective of the analysis is to understand how these initiatives have implemented eco-efficient strategies that contribute to both environmental sustainability and occupant well-being.

The unit of analysis consists of projects internationally recognized for their ecological approach. In 2000, only 41 construction projects in the United States were classified as "green buildings," underscoring the importance of analyzing pioneering initiatives. Inclusion criteria considered the use of recycled materials, renewable energy, efficient water management, and the integration of vegetation on facades and interiors, promoting naturally oxygenated environments. In contrast, projects that violated legal regulations or did not guarantee sustainability or the use of renewable energy were excluded.

The primary technique employed was document analysis, an effective strategy for deepening the understanding of complex topics through the review of primary and secondary sources. As a tool, a document review guide was used to organize and systematize the information gathered from technical files, specialized articles, and academic journals. This guide facilitated the collection of accurate and relevant data, allowing for a detailed evaluation of each source consulted. This approach enabled the compilation of a solid information base, including original technical documents from the projects and scientific publications that contextualize their progress. A thorough analysis of the Melbourne Council House 2, One Angel Square, and Tower Pearl River projects made it possible to understand the eco-efficient strategies implemented. The information collected was compared with reliable sources, ensuring the validity of the data and its applicability in future research.

Data collection was conducted using descriptive analysis, allowing for the organization and presentation of information in a structured manner. The most relevant green building projects worldwide were highlighted, selecting those that meet high sustainability standards. Furthermore, each country’s specific sustainable building criteria were considered, which vary according to local regulations, technological advances, and regional environmental approaches. This comparative analysis allowed for an assessment of how these projects align with global sustainability trends and regulations.

For data analysis, a comprehensive documentary approach was employed, allowing for the systematic examination of original sources relevant to the research objectives. This method provided access to detailed project information, enabling the recognition of underlying design principles, material strategies, and sustainability criteria. The analysis focused on identifying meaningful patterns and conceptual alignments within the selected case studies, offering insights into the practical implementation of eco-efficient practices in architecture.

From an ethical perspective, responsible management of the collected information was guaranteed, ensuring the reliability and validity of the results. Priority was given to the integrity of the sources consulted, citing them appropriately and acknowledging the work of the original authors. This commitment to academic ethics reinforces the transparency of the study and the quality of its conclusions.

The results obtained through the comparative analysis of the Melbourne Council House 2, One Angel Square, and Tower Pearl River projects stand out for their ability to integrate eco-efficient strategies that not only positively impact the environment but also social well-being and economic viability. These cases represent concrete examples of sustainable architecture that serve as models for future urban developments, contributing to climate change mitigation and improving urban quality of life.

Figure 1 is located in Australia, the Melbourne Council House 2 (CH2) building is recognized as one of the most sustainable in the country, having earned a six-star rating from the Green Building Council. This building was constructed using recycled wood and is equipped with photovoltaic panels, temperature-regulating surfaces, a water recycling system, and a cooling system that operates through five water towers to moderate the nighttime temperature. It also features a design that maximizes the entry of natural light.

The City of Melbourne set a goal of achieving net-zero emissions for the municipality by 2020, with a particular focus on reducing the energy consumption of commercial buildings by 50%. CH2 was conceived as a model for local market development, based on passive energy systems and maintaining high-quality standards. Its architectural design incorporates nature-inspired elements, such as climate-adapted facades, tapered vents, and undulating concrete floor structures that contribute to the building's heating and cooling.

In Figure 2, it is an office building located in Manchester, England. Construction began in 2010 and was completed in February 2013. This iconic building houses the headquarters of the Cooperative Group and is distinguished as one of the most sustainable buildings in Europe. It obtained the "Outstanding" rating from BREEAM, the Building Environmental Assessment Method. Research Establishment. The building is powered by a biodiesel cogeneration plant that uses rapeseed oil to generate electricity and heat.

In Figure 3, its design incorporates the use of natural resources, optimizes passive solar gain for heating, and utilizes natural ventilation through its double-skin façade, adiabatic cooling, rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and waste heat utilization. The building exceeded its European sustainability goals, achieving a world-record 95.32% BREEAM rating. Furthermore, it is an energy-positive building, generating surplus energy and zero carbon emissions. This design reduces energy consumption by 50% and carbon emissions by 80%, contributing to a 30% reduction in operating costs.

The Pearl River Tower is an energy-efficient skyscraper located in Guangzhou, China. Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill with Adrian D. Smith and Gordon Gill as principal architects, construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2013. Unlike other buildings that rely on add-on technologies to generate sustainable energy, the Pearl River Tower's structure was designed to produce energy in an integrated manner.

The building incorporates wind turbines, solar panels, raised floor ventilation, and a radiant ceiling heating and cooling system. It is considered one of the greenest buildings in the world, being the largest building with radiant ceiling heating and the most energy-efficient skyscraper. The tower reflects China's commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions per unit of GDP by 40% to 45% by 2020, compared to 2005 levels.

The identification of smart and sustainable designs has enabled the development of architectural projects that effectively connect natural resources with construction solutions. Sustainability is central to the design and construction process, even before the construction works are executed. The results obtained demonstrate that the implementation of sustainable and smart construction methods, such as those employed in the Melbourne Council House 2, One Angel Square, and Tower Pearl River projects, successfully integrates various dimensions of sustainability. The incorporation of natural ventilation optimizes the energy efficiency of buildings, reduces their environmental impact, and contributes to more comfortable living environments. Furthermore, the use of renewable energy and recycled materials is key to defining the fundamental characteristics of sustainability.

The findings of this research demonstrate a strong alignment with theoretical contributions that emphasize the tangible impact of eco-efficient strategies on environmental performance and user well-being. Indeed, Gamboa and Gamboa [28] argue that buildings using low-impact natural materials directly benefit both health and the environment—an assertion supported by the analyzed cases, in which material selection contributed simultaneously to environmental objectives and the quality of indoor spaces. Similarly, Zari and Jenkin [29] stress the importance of harmonizing buildings with the urban ecosystem, a concept reflected in the effective integration of passive ventilation systems and green infrastructure in the evaluated projects. In Table 1, a strictly environmental perspective, the results are consistent with Zari [30], who highlights that sustainable buildings must minimize wastewater generation and optimize water use, reinforcing the view of sustainable design as a strategy for the rational management of natural resources.

However, the study also reveals significant tensions between theoretical models and their real-world application. While Durante [31] proposes an expanded vision of "social architecture" focused on user satisfaction, the examined projects offer limited evidence of participatory design processes or mechanisms to effectively incorporate community needs—suggesting that the social dimension remains secondary to technical criteria in practice. In the same vein, Villalobos González [32] emphasizes the architect’s social responsibility and advocates for more active engagement with users, a principle that appears weakly developed in the reviewed cases. Likewise, De Grazia et al. [38] argue for the integration of sustainability indicators into urban planning and regulatory frameworks; however, the analyzed projects reveal challenges in achieving coherent regulatory alignment and in establishing long-term monitoring mechanisms. These discrepancies suggest that, while theoretical models offer valuable reference frameworks, their effective implementation requires operational, institutional, and cultural adaptations. Consequently, this study advocates for a rethinking of current theoretical approaches in favor of more flexible, contextually grounded, and interdisciplinary models that respond to the actual constraints and opportunities of contemporary urban environments and that successfully translate eco-efficiency principles into tangible, effective, and sustainable architectural interventions.

From an environmental perspective, in Table 1, projects stand out for their focus on sustainability, utilizing eco-efficient materials and innovative solutions such as solar panels, natural ventilation systems, and double-skin facades, which significantly contribute to reducing environmental impact and optimizing resource use. These buildings not only reduce carbon emissions but also maximize energy efficiency, establishing themselves as key examples of sustainable architecture. From a social perspective, the priority is focused on creating spaces that minimize environmental impact while improving users' quality of life, ensuring comfort and well-being with sustainable technologies, without compromising the efficiency or functionality of the space. Finally, from an economic perspective, the projects demonstrate a comprehensive approach by reducing operating costs using renewable energy and the implementation of energy self-sufficiency strategies. Furthermore, constructing new buildings instead of renovating obsolete structures represents a smart investment that optimizes resources and ensures greater long-term returns, both in economic and social terms.

One Angel Square and Tower Pearl River projects, a shared approach to sustainability stands out, in which both buildings implement innovative technologies to maximize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. These projects follow the sustainability principles proposed by authors such as Gamboa and Gamboa [28], who emphasize the importance of using ecological materials and technological solutions that favor the reduction of carbon emissions and the consumption of natural resources. Furthermore, the use of renewable energy and natural ventilation systems in both buildings contributes to the creation of healthier spaces, improving air quality and providing a comfortable environment for users, as pointed out by Zari and Jenkin [29] in their studies on the harmonization of the building with the urban ecosystem. Likewise, according to Olatunde et al. [40], these efforts not only reduce the environmental footprint of buildings but also foster greater ecological awareness in the communities that inhabit them.

In the social dimension, Table 2 analyzed projects show a clear commitment to improving the quality of life of users, focusing on the creation of inclusive and accessible spaces. The integration of energy efficiency technologies, such as natural ventilation and the use of solar panels, contributes to a healthier and more comfortable environment, which is in line with Villalobos González ' [32] recommendations on the importance of stakeholder involvement in the architectural design process. Furthermore, the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of sustainable practices in these buildings contribute to improving the well-being of users and creating more resilient communities aware of the environmental impact, as highlighted by Pazmiño et al. [33] in their studies on social sustainability in architecture.

From an economic perspective, in Table 3, these projects demonstrate how the integration of eco-efficient strategies not only benefits the environment and society but also generates a long-term economic return. In turn, Zambrano-Asanza et al. [41] claim that the implementation of renewable technologies, such as solar and wind energy, contributes to reducing operating costs and improving the competitiveness of companies operating in these buildings. This approach is in line with the studies by Mondragon [36] on resource optimization in architectural design, which highlight how investment in sustainable technologies can generate significant economic benefits. On the other hand, Cao et al. [43] indicate that the reduction of operating expenses and the optimization of energy consumption allow these projects not only to be profitable but also to contribute to the creation of a fairer and more sustainable environment for future generations.

Likewise, from a theoretical perspective, Table 4 demonstrates that the findings of this study present significant implications for the scientific community by reinforcing the interdisciplinary link between architecture, sustainability, and social well-being, providing evidence of how eco-efficient design positively impacts quality of life. These theoretical implications are particularly relevant to related fields such as urban planning, environmental sciences, and public health, as they allow the integration of design variables into broader and more complex analytical frameworks. From a practical standpoint, the implications of the study offer decision-makers and authorities both technical and social arguments for the formulation of public policies that promote sustainable construction, incorporating eco-efficiency criteria into urban regulations and local development programs.

Although this study has achieved its stated objectives through a comprehensive analysis of data from previous research, certain limitations must be acknowledged. Chief among them is the inability to explore specific variables in depth due to the secondary nature of the data and the absence of direct empirical verification through fieldwork or interviews. These constraints limit the ability to generalize the findings across different socio-geographic contexts, as well as to capture the full complexity of eco-efficient design implementation in real-world settings. From a methodological standpoint, the reliance on existing literature restricts the capacity to observe interactions between design strategies and contextual variables such as cultural norms, governance structures, or informal urban dynamics, which are critical to the practical adoption of sustainable architecture. These limitations may affect the internal validity of some inferences and suggest a degree of caution when extrapolating the results.

Therefore, future research should aim to address these gaps through the incorporation of mixed-method approaches, including qualitative fieldwork and participatory assessments in diverse urban settings. Such methodologies would provide richer empirical evidence and allow for the refinement of current theoretical models by grounding them in context-specific realities. Furthermore, comparative studies between different regions—especially within Latin America—would be instrumental in evaluating the transferability and adaptability of eco-efficiency principles under varying environmental, economic, and social conditions. In this way, subsequent research could offer more nuanced insights and contribute to the development of sustainable and contextually relevant architectural practices.

The main objective of this research was to evaluate the social impact of implementing eco-efficient design in sustainable buildings, highlighting how this approach optimizes resource use, maximizes energy efficiency, and reduces environmental impact. From an environmental perspective, it emphasizes the importance of building responsibly, using ecological materials, and promoting the use of renewable energy, which reduces polluting emissions and resource consumption. From a social perspective, eco-efficient design improves users' quality of life by creating comfortable, healthy, and safe spaces, which promotes overall well-being. Furthermore, the implementation of these strategies allows for a harmonious integration between nature and the built environment, promoting urban sustainability.

From an economic perspective, eco-efficiency offers significant benefits, such as reduced long-term operating costs and increased profitability. The use of energy-efficient technologies and the incorporation of sustainable materials contribute to lower operating costs, generating a faster return on investment and increasing the market value of sustainable buildings. Adopting these approaches not only drives economic development but also ensures a more resilient, healthy, and balanced future, aligned with sustainability principles.