High Performance Buildings
A high performance building is one that performs optimally in all respects – it is comfortable, economical, and resource efficient. Green buildings exemplify best practices of design and construction, at a cost often comparable to that of conventional buildings. Beyond their critical energy efficiency, these buildings also feature excellent site design, water efficiency, indoor air quality, and environmentally preferable materials.
Integrated design is a critical component of high performance design and construction. Whereas buildings are typically designed in a linear manner, with little early communication between players, integrated design calls for everyone involved to meet early and regularly. That collaboration results in a building with systems that complement and enhance each other.
For example, early discussion between an architect, HVAC engineer, and lighting consultant typically allows us to downsize the heating and cooling equipment required due to improved efficiency measures and energy conservation.
Through fee-for-service consulting, we help owners and tenants of both new and existing buildings set goals, make decisions, and measure performance over time. Our services fall into several categories: commercial buildings, homes, schools, and municipal buildings. This site also lists many of our current projects and features a growing number of case studies.
Often our clients choose to pursue LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification through the U.S. Green Building Council, but we are happy to work with other certification programs or assist projects that seek high performance without any certification at all.
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