R.H. Crawford and A. Stephan (eds.), Living and Learning: Research for a Better Built Environment: 49 th International Conference of the Architectural Science Association 2015, pp.598–610. ©2015, The Architectural Science Association and The University of Melbourne. The use of Integral Theory to evaluate architectural sustainability – a case study Astrid Roetzel, Robert Fuller, Priya Rajagopalan and Mark Luther Deakin University, Geelong, Australia astrid.roetzel@deakin.edu.au, rjfull@deakin.edu.au, priya.rajagopalan@deakin.edu.au, mark.luther@deakin.edu.au Abstract: DeKay’s concept of Integral Sustainable Design (ISD) is based on Integral Theory, a framework proposed by the American philosopher, Ken Wilber. It offers four simultaneous perspectives (represented by quadrants) which each take a different view of the problem. The ‘experiences’ quadrant focuses on individual human experiences. The ‘behaviours’ quadrant looks at environmental performance. The ‘cultures’ perspective focuses on the collective interpretation of meaning, symbolism and worldviews and the ‘systems’ quadrant investigates the response and interaction with context. Integral Theory can act as a reminder for architects of the different perspectives that a sustainable building should address. In order to evaluate ISD, the Waterfront Campus Building of Deakin University has been used as a case study. The building, its performance, impact and perception, has been evaluated using both quantitative and qualitative data. Two surveys have been conducted to gather qualitative data to: (i) determine the experience of building users (staff and students) and (ii) the perception of non-users (Geelong residents and tourists). Data from building services and a site analysis has enabled quantitative assessments to be made. These inputs have been analysed, guided by ISD, to evaluate the usefulness of ISD as a sustainability assessment tool. Keywords: Sustainability; assessment; Integral Theory. 1. Introduction The built environment in all its forms is probably the single biggest contributor to the increased human impact on the planet. The impacts are wide ranging, numerous and well researched. For example, there is the: operational energy to heat and cool the structures; embodied energy in the construction materials used; loss of biodiversity at all stages of manufacture and use; water consumption and effect on run-off; and the waste generated from cradle to grave. These are the conventional metrics by which, at the very least, we should be evaluating our new buildings. The built environment has other impacts, however. The built environment shapes the way we behave, think and experience the world around us. If we are serious about building in harmony with the planet, rather than against it, we must consider a