Sustainable Site
Site design and management is the basis for a sustainable site. We analyze the building site for potential use of on-site resources. Careful considerations are made for natural habitat and preservation of water resources.
Locations and Linkages
Choosing a building site location that has easy access to multiple transportation options, recreational choices, walking distances to local services and ample bicycle paths are all ways to reduce gas emissions and save energy.
Water Efficiency
Water requires energy in several ways: Conveyance / treatment to the building, heating the water and treatment of the water once it leaves the site. Efficiently using the water as many times as possible can be achieved by the following ways:
Rain Water Harvesting: Collecting rain water to be used for irrigation and toilet flushing.
Gray Water Collection: Water diverted from sinks, laundry tubs and washing machines can be used for irrigation.
Specifying Ultra-Low flow plumbing fixtures for faucets, toilets and shower heads improve water efficiencies and reduce impact on the environment.
Energy and Atmosphere
When designing the space there are several points to consider:
Energy Demand: Efficient design which incorporate multi-functioning spaces will require significantly less energy.
Energy Efficiency: Specifying highly efficient appliances with Energy Star rating along with high efficiency equipment will reduce the energy demand.
Energy Source: The use of on-site resources such as; photo voltaic (PV) solar panels and wind generators (where acceptable) will reduce the need for conventional electrical services. Off-site renewable energy is another alternative which is considered when choosing a site location.
Energy Performance: Is the most measurable aspect of project performance.
Awareness and Education
Providing this basic information to our clients in understandable terms helps to raise awareness and offer easily achieved performance through methodical design.
Materials and Resource
Building Materials selection is an important component of a sustainable design. When making material selections we specify:
Reused Materials: Integration of reused timber, bricks and crushed concrete.
Recycled Materials: Specifying products such as Recycled Glass Countertops.
Regional & Renewable Materials: Maximum radius of 500 miles for sourcing materials reduces energy usage and vitalizes local economies.
Sustainably Harvested Materials: Selecting materials such as Wool for insulation.
Indoor Environmental Quality
Achieved using the following design criteria:
Designed to have adequate cross ventilation and fresh air makeup.
Minimizing or eliminating emissions of potentially toxic chemicals by specifying finish materials free of urea formaldehyde and those that do not emit volatile organic compounds or VOC's.
Specifying HVAC equipment that utilizes Hepa Filtration systems, ultraviolet lighting that provide germicidal air purification.
