Sustainable Design Blog

I was in attendance at the International Living Futures Institute’s (ILFI) Living Futures 2016 conference in Seattle the week of May 9, 2016.  It was an amazing gathering of leaders in sustainability.  

One of the keynote addresses was given by Ed Mazria, Founder and CEO of 2030 Architecture and of the 2030 Challenge. The imperative that he spoke about is that we reach zero net carbon emissions for all new buildings by 2030 and for ALL buildings by 2050.  He spoke about how not only is it important, but it's an absolutely necessity for the survival of our species.

Many see it as a bold plan, because it simply won't accept business as usual in the built environment, but not us, because we know for a fact that these goals are attainable, and they're just the things that motivate us every single day.

This got me thinking:  What do we need to be doing, as architects in Florida, to stay on track to meet the 2030 Challenge? 

It's a road already built:

2030 Architecture has a detailed plan to get us to net zero carbon emissions in the built environment.  Their web site states, “The Roadmap to Zero Emissions is a flexible plan that sets out the emissions reduction targets necessary in the building sector worldwide to avert dangerous and irreversible climate change, including the actions and financing instruments needed to reach the targets.”

The target of Architecture 2030 and of the COP21 held in Paris last December and just recently ratified, is to hold global temperature rise under 1.5% Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit), and to avoid exceeding 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees F) of temperature rise at all cost.  Any scenario of 2 degrees Celsius is uncontrollable, leading us to the point where it cannot be stopped.

Find the roadmap here

http://architecture2030.org/initiatives/roadmap-to-zero/

Calculating Our Goals:

The current 2030 goal in 2016 is 70% reduction of carbon emissions below the base line set for buildings in 2003.

I have done some research, with some help from some experts, (thanks TLC Engineering for Architecture  http://www.tlc-engineers.com) and this is how I think we need to meet the 2030 challenge TODAY, based on the requirements of the current Florida building code (FEC).  

• The 2014 Florida Building Code (FEC) is based on the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which in turn is based on ASHRAE STD 90.1-2010 (the new LEED v4 benchmark).
• The Architecture 2030 folks, working with the AIA 2030 Commitment, have determined that a building that meets the 2012 IECC can be expected to operate at 40% less energy than the 2030 Challenge baseline (coming from the 2003 CBEC survey of existing commercial buildings) building.  So, if a baseline building has an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 100 kbtu/sf/yr, then the 2014 FEC/2012 IECC code minimum building would be about 60 kbtu/sf/yr.

The current 2030 goal of a 70% reduction of the 100 kbtu/sf/yr baseline example means that a building that meets that goal would use no more than 30 kbtu/sf/yr (including energy cost reductions and any on- or near-site renewable production).

Plans:

So the short answer to my question is that in order to meet the current 2030 goal, a building would have to use 50% less energy than a minimally compliant 2014 FEC/2012 IECC building.

There you have it.  We know what we need to do.  Now we need to go out and do it.  

Why Carbon:

Sustainable building design requires a well balanced approach that takes many factors into consideration, not just energy use and carbon emissions, but I wanted to focus this blog on Carbon emissions to highlight its importance.  

You may remember Carlson Studio had its big year end party in celebration of COP21, and we did it on the day of the conference designated as “Buildings Day” December 3, 2015, because anything that has to do with saving our planet from irreversible distruction is something we celebrate. After all, this stuff is engrained in us.

Click here to receive a free green building consultation of your own:

To learn more about the International Living Future Institute, start here:

http://living-future.org/

To learn more about Buildings Day at COP21 start here:

http://web.unep.org/climatechange/buildingsday

Well... Do you want to be green, or do you want to be GREEN?

A green building consultant specializes in sustainable design and LEED certified projects. They may also have expertise in other green building rating systems and Energy Star.

For inexperienced project teams, the consultant can lead the entire team through the entire process. For more experienced teams the consultant may assist with any aspect of the project; from establishing sustainability goals at a project kick off meeting to documentation in the LEED online system when construction is completed.

Basically, a green building consultant will either make or break your project.

Basic requirements:

The first key to success is to look for a company that has experience working with the LEED family of certification products including, New Construction (NC), Commercial Interiors (CI), Core & Shell (CS), Schools, Homes, and Existing Buildings (EB&OM) that fits the scope of your project.

It's helpful if they have experience in all of those areas, because it means they're exposed to a lot more, which may prove to be useful for you. Either way, look for a company that has LEED Accredited Professionals on staff. The firm itself cannot be LEED Accredited, but the people performing the work can be.

What your Eco Consultant can do for you:

Facilitate early design “Eco-Charrette(s)” establish sustainability goals

This is a dynamic and interactive “workshop” or brain storming session or sessions where the entire project team gets together and determines then plans the key elements of the project. (Get more from Carlson on this by clicking HERE)

Establish Owners Project Requirements

This is a written document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria that are determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project.

Basis of Design documentation

This includes design information necessary to accomplish the owner’s requirements, including system descriptions, indoor environmental quality criteria, assumptions, and references to applicable codes, standards, regulations and guidelines.

Preliminary LEED Checklist evaluation

Use the checklist as a tool to evaluate all aspects of the design

LEED Project registration

An on line process to register the project with GBCI and gain access to the credit templates and complete certification process.

Specification review and assistance

The consultant should have experience writing specs and directing the contractor on how to document the credits that they will be responsible to document.   

Design Consulting

If the consultant has architects on staff, they can help integrate the sustainable design concepts into the building design.    The key here is to let the green building design goals inform the design form the start.  A critical mistake that is often made by project teams is to come up with a design for the building and then try apply green features to the design to chase credits.

Document review at each phase

It is important to check your progress against the certification criteria at each step of the way including schematic design, design development and construction documents.  The process continues during the construction phase in the shop drawing process and final documentation at the end of construction.

LEED Certification Documentation

This is an on line process that the entire project team will need to participate in.  It is important that the effort be led by someone who has experience.

Public Relations and marketing support for LEED projects

Green projects have great stories to tell.  Tell your story with the help of an expert in marketing and public relations.

Integrated Design Process

The consultant may lead integrated design process, bringing all the stake holders of a project together early in the process, to work together for the shared success of the project.  Owners, architects, engineers, contractors, facility mangers, community stakeholders, and building users all can have meaningful contributions to the design and construction process.  

It's important to remember that buildings are not comprised of isolated components or functioning as independent silos. Each system in a building interacts with other systems, the building users, and the environment itself.  Using the integrated design process, and thinking about the “whole system” leverages the complex and complementary interactions of the building components, which leads to synergies between systems and ultimately increased energy and water savings, as well as a more healthy, productive and creative environments to live or work in.  

Sustainability Goals

Each project and client has different sustainability goals.  A good consultant will help you establish those goals and help you understand what is truly important to you for your project.

I have worked with many clients, and they each have a unique combination of sustainability goals for their project. It could be any number of the following:

• A desire to reduce operation and maintenance costs as much as practical while limiting the impact to the first cost of a project
• Maybe net-zero energy is a must
• Maybe increased productivity or a better indoor environmental quality is a high priority

Design features

Lower energy bills lead directly to operational savings and a return on investment that can be calculated and consider by the owner, and compared to the initial construction costs.  

There are many passive design features, such as proper building orientation, an energy efficient building envelope, or the proper use of natural daylight that do not add cost, but have significant performance and cost benefits over the life of a building.   Active systems such as efficient cooling systems, water saving fixtures and photovoltaics all work better when they are integrated into a project that is already doing all the passive and subtle things properly.

CONCLUSION:

Everyone these days is a “green building expert”.  Many have now recognized that the “trend” that they thought would pass is not going away and have recently jumped on board. This dilution has made it a bit challenging to sort through the rif-raff, but if you ask the right questions, you will get the right team.

When evaluating a green building consultant, look at their leadership and commitment. Look at how long the people and company have been involved, and if they are a leader or a follower in this space.

Interested in a free green building design assessment for consultation services? Click HERE to schedule a call with Carlson today!

How green is your favorite candidate?

This year's election is proving to be quite the dramatic showdown. Trump just all but sealed the Republican nomination, and Sanders and Clinton are brawling for every last delegate on the table.

There are a lot of hot button issues too - from building walls across national borders (what an architectural feat that would be), to freedom of religious expression, to our economy, to the dichotomy of lower income earners and the top 1%

But let's not also forget about the climate. Yes, this too has been somewhat of a contentious debate, and the outcome may reshape everything we know about our future, since the President will be leading policy change and very likely decided 4 new Supreme Court Justices if they make it two terms.

That's a pretty big deal for us greenies... and anybody who enjoys living on this rock we call Earth.

So, what do they think about when it comes to the environment?:

I wrote this a few days ago, by the way, before Kasich and Cruz dropped out, but their stances are still very meaningful, and they still hold office.

1. Hillary: the US must act

We'll start with Hillary. She has a commanding lead, and she and Bernie believe in a lot of the same things when it comes to climate change. So, what is she saying about it?

“The science of climate change is unforgiving, no matter what the deniers may say; sea levels are rising, ice caps are melting, storms, droughts and wildfires are wreaking havoc.” - Hillary Clinton, Remarks to the League of Conservation Voters in New York, November 13, 2015

 

“For this generation of Americans, climate change is our Space Race. It is our home-front mobilization during World War II and it is our response to the Great Depression.” - Hillary Clinton November 4, 2007.

2. Bernie: The US must act

Bernie is no stranger to climate change politics either.

“Today, the scientific community is virtually unanimous: climate change is real, it is caused by human activity, and we have a moral responsibility to transform our energy system away from fossil fuel to energy efficiency and sustainable energy.” - Bernie Sanders, Democratic Presidential Debate, October 13, 2015

 

“...the greatest global crisis that we face,” - Bernie Sanders

 

(MORE LIKE THIS: Evaluating the US/China Climate deal)

3. Cruz: It's a myth

“The scientific evidence doesn't support global warming... The satellites that actually measure the temperature showed no significant warming whatsoever ... Climate change is the perfect pseudoscientific theory for a big government politician who wants more power. Why? Because it is a theory that can never be disproven.” - Ted Cruz, NPR interview, December 9, 2015

“Climate change is not science, it's religion,” Ted Cruz, Glenn Beck interview October 2015.

 

4. Trump: IT'S A MYTH

“Snowing in Texas and Louisiana, record setting freezing temperatures throughout the country and beyond. Global warming is an expensive hoax!” Donald Trump, Tweet, January 29, 2014

“I don’t believe in climate change,” Donald Trump, CNN interview. September 2015

 

5. Kasich: Well...

“I think that human beings do affect the climate... We have to take our time to have remedies.” - John Kasich, NPR Living On Earth program, January 24, 2016

“We are going to continue to work on cleaning coal, but I want to tell you, we are going to dig it, we are going to clean it, and we are going to burn it in Ohio, and we are not going to apologize for it.” John Kasich, May 20, 2012

 

6. Nasa: science!

I realize NASA isn't running for president, but they do have an opinion on the issue that might help some of you naysayers or those on the fence about this issue...

“Multiple studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals show that 97 percent or more of actively publishing climate scientists agree: Climate-warming trends over the past century are very likely due to human activities. In addition, most of the leading scientific organizations worldwide have issued public statements endorsing this position”

“Scientific evidence for warming of the climate system is unequivocal.”- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

 

So at least there is clarity out there. The candidates are clear on their positions (except maybe John Kasich) and the science is clear. We can measure the level of the oceans, the temperature of the planet and carbon dioxide. We can compare it to previous data we have gathered. We can now observe the effects of our warming planet. Have we become a society that does not care what it leaves to the next generation (or the next 7 generations)?

CONCLUSION:

I often look to Neil deGrasse Tyson for perspective in the madness. You have probably heard this already. He says, “The good thing about science is that it's true whether or not you believe in it.”

Sustainable building design (get the free ebook about green home design by Carlson Studio) can a play a big part in solving the climate issues we face. Buildings use about 48% of all the energy in the US (from architecture2030.org). Transportation uses about 27%.

Energy use directly impacts CO2 emissions, given our current infrastructure that typically burns fossil fuel to create energy. As we now know, there options to create energy without CO2 emissions. Sources of energy such Hydroelectric, solar, wind, geo thermal, etc. can all help the main made environment become more sustainable. And that is just the energy part. Sustainable design, if done properly, can improve water conservation, improve human health and happiness, conserve resources and materials and have a gentle impact on the building site.

As Katherine Hayhoe told us at Green Build 2014 in New Orleans, there will be some level of adaption to climate change and some level of suffering. Our actions are coming too late to eliminate all suffering. We get to choose how much change and how much suffering us and future generations will be exposed to. http://katharinehayhoe.com/ She is also very hopeful, as am I.

What will the voters decide? What will you decide?

Interested in doing your part beyond voting? How about a free consultation about green design or LEED consulting? Our team of talented architects and eco consultants at Carlson Studio Architecture are here to help!

What are some green building materials that many builders are unaware of?

We could probably spend this and several more blogs discussing what green materials actually are, but I will let you decide that, and get on with some of the materials we have been using over the past 15 years in our sustainable design work.

This comes after receiving a lot of great direct feedback from posting this article by Peter Hortsman on the same subject (Must-Have Construction Material Made from Recyclables by Carlson Studio Architecture).

Building materials are constantly being improved or replaced with better materials, and because the modern sustainable building industry in the United States has been around for a couple of decades now, we have great materials that are already proven, and I'm going to share some of those that are a little less commonly known but very good for our planet.

How we got here:

What we have seen, beginning with the launch of the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED V2.0 green building rating system, is that manufactures are addressing this market sector in so many ways, both for the homeowner and the professional.

For example, back in 2002 when we tried to specify products that recycled content, or low VOC’s, the manufacturer’s themselves did not have that information available to their sales force. More than a decade later, however, this has changed. Now this information is published in all the product specs, and you can even buy sustainable building materials at your local Lowes or Home Depot store.

But educate yourself before you shop, because there is still a lot of green washing out there, and just because a label leads you to believe it's good for the planet, that doesn't mean it actually is!

1. Your Walls

First, let’s look at how we build a wall.  Historically, our 2 options have typically been wood-framed (sometimes called stick framed), or concrete block (CMU). Today, however, we have so many more choices that provide a higher performing, proven building envelope, such as:

Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF):

ICFs are over-sized, Styrofoam blocks that get filled with reinforcing steel (rebar) and concrete to create a very strong, tightly sealed, and well-insulated wall system. They will arrive as individual “Lego” style blocks and are assembled on-site.  They may also be used for foundation walls if there is a basement. Some examples of ICF systems include:

• Quad-Lock  http://www.quadlock.com
• Fox Block http://www.foxblocks.com/  

We used Fox Block on our design for the 2009 HGTV Green Home project in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs):

SIPs are a panelized wall system, filled with rigid foam with a skin on both sides of either wood, such as oriented strand board (OSB, is an engineered wood particle board formed by adding adhesives and then compressing layers of wood strands) or an aluminum skin. This wall is also very strong, tightly sealed, and well-insulated.

It is typically manufactured off-site and is delivered as panels already sized and shaped to create the design. (like a 3D puzzle with all the pieces numbered) Our favorite:

• Murus - for more info on SIPs at http://www.murus.com/

We used Murus SIPS on our Birch Haven Residence green building design in Michigan.

Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC):

AACs come in both panels and blocks:

• (see http://www.cement.org/think-harder-concrete-/homes/building-systems/autoclaved-aerated-concrete)

Straw Bale construction (just like it sounds)

Wood Chip Cement:

• forms like Faswall (http://faswall.com), which is a bit like an ICF, but the forms are made of wood chips.

We used AAC panels and blocks on our LEED Gold certified office project, Twin Lakes Park.

Say "no" to particle board:

Particle Board is one of the nastiest things you can put into your office or home. It is full of VOCs, and Urea Formaldehyde. Particle Board can off-gas these chemicals into your home or office for a year after they are installed! There are better options now:

• Skyblend Particle Board is a good option http://www.roseburg.com/Product/skyblend-particleboard/
• Columbia Forest Products http://www.columbiaforestproducts.com/resources/green-products-or-green-standards/# makes plywood, particle boards and veneers that are a healthy alternative to the old particle boards you are familiar with

2. Your Flooring

Flooring is another amazing topic, because there are so many great options available to us, and this is where great strides can be made in your quest for green.

• Bamboo is a rapidly renewable, hardwood flooring system.  (You can also make cabinets from bamboo plywood).
• Cork is a wonderful flooring system that is easy on your feet, and soft on the acoustics in the space as well. Cork flooring is available in both commercial and residential grades.
• Carpet tile is a great choice for many reasons. It can be made from recycled materials such as plastic soda bottles. It can be reclaimed at the end of its life and recycled into new carpet, and if an area gets damaged, only the damaged tiles need to be replaced.  We use it almost anytime we specify carpet.

3. Everywhere else

So many green materials and so little time…  Here are some more materials you may not know about.

• Ceramic tile made with recycled glass
• Spray Foam insulation (instead of using fiberglass batts)
• FSC Certified wood products: Forest Stewardship Council, https://us.fsc.org/en-us
• Greenguard Certified products- http://greenguard.org/en/index.aspx
• Find products at http://productguide.ulenvironment.com/QuickSearch.aspx
• Cradle to Cradle products-  http://www.c2ccertified.org/
• Find products at http://www.c2ccertified.org/products/registry

It is not hard to find good green materials. Rely on those good third party, independent agencies to help you along and point you in the right direction. Put your money where your month is and support the companies that make healthy and sustainable products. If your favorite brands are not doing the right thing, ask them to.

There is no need to take a chance on an unproven product these days, unless you enjoy being an early adopter.  And, of course, when it is time to design your new home or office, work with an architect that has decades of experience evaluating and using the best green materials in your area.  

CONCLUSION:

Green building materials can be many things. Depending on your personal definition, that could mean they are local or regional, they have recycled content, they are easily recycled at end for life, they are non-toxic and low chemical, they conserve water or energy, and I'm sure you can continue adding to that list.

Everyday items that you may not think of as green often have a green option that is readily available. Things like paints, caulks, adhesives, glues, stains, and sealants all have low VOC (Volatile Organic compounds), low toxic, low chemical options.  Many are off the shelf.  Some you may need to order.  

Whatever you do, do everything you can to keep VOCs out of your home and office.

Interested in learning more about how to incorporate green into the build of your next home or commercial building? Set up a free consultation with Carlson Studio Architecture today!

What important components should one use to sell Their BOD on a green Commercial building design ?

So, you find yourself in an organization that needs to build facilities, and you have heard about green buildings or you already understand the benefits a green facility can provide, but you need to convince those higher up in your organization to consider the idea.  

                              What do you do?

Let's assess:

The only reason NOT to do a green building is if your organization wants to build the absolute cheapest first cost building it possibly can, and the organization does not want to own it for very long after it is built.

It is best to call a spade a spade and get on with your life. I don’t have a case I can make for you that will move that mountain. I don't mean to sound skeptical, but I've seen this conversation before, and it doesn't usually end well.

Don't go it alone

If this is not the case, my first suggestion is PASS THE BUCK!  Get in touch with an architect who knows what they are doing, has been designing green buildings for decade or 2, and have them help with the pitch. Trust me- they have heard it all before, and they want you to win the battle!

Or do... if you insist! 

It is important to find out what motivates the decision makers.

• Are they a bottom line type, and care about saving or making money as their first priority?
• Do they see the value in happy and productive employees (People)?
• Do they care about their children’s future and their community, locally and/or globally (Planet)?  

Some may be motivated by more than one aspect, but one is typically dominate in the decision-making process. Once you understand where they are coming from you are half-way home.

Cater to what motivates them

Profit (making and saving money) is probably the easiest one to address.Green buildings by design use a lot less energy and water than with typical code-minimum designed buildings. After all, saving energy and water saves money.

One may even want to spend a little bit extra in the construction cost to save even more money in the long run. This return on investment (ROI) is straightforward and easy to calculate. For example, if it takes 5 years to pay back the extra cost to create more energy savings, which is a 20% annual ROI. Not bad, huh? It's very likely to be MUCH better than any other investment the organization is making in the market, so why not?

Other ways of saving or making money include using materials that are easy to maintain and are long lasting (lowering operating costs), and increasing productivity of your employees (more on this below).

Resale is also a consideration. Green certified buildings are typically worth about 5% more than non-certified buildings.

“People” is likely the next best way to make the pitch. Do the decision-makers understand productivity, job satisfaction, attracting and retaining employees?

Do you know that 95% of the cost of a typical office building over its lifetime is the cost of the employees that work in the facility based on their salaries?  Increases in productivity are huge, and LEED certified buildings have been proven to increase productivity.

This will make the profit motivated people really happy too! As noted by the International Well Building Institute, even a small increase in productivity makes a big difference in the bottom line. Healthy, non-toxic, naturally day-lit interior spaces (the things that increase productivity) also make people happy and healthy, which improves job satisfaction and reduces absenteeism.

IE - Everybody wins!

The best companies compete for the best employees and need an advantage over other company’s recruiting efforts, and sustainable design is perfect for this, and a very attractive quality to Millennials.

And finally, the “Planet." The planet is stressed, and we have to stop ignoring that.

To be clear, when I say "planet" I really mean how people will be impacted by the things that we're doing to the planet. The Earth will be fine with or without us. It will make self-corrections and move on. It's already doing that, actually, in response to our abusive behaviors.

Does your BOD wish the organization to exist for many generations? Do they want to make the world a better place for their children? Do they want to lessen their impact on the environment?Can they see their role in the big picture?

I think many organizations can and want to say yes to these questions, but they might need to be reminded of the bigger picture from time to time.

Tie it to the cause

Everything about green design and LEED certification assists with these goals. In addition to the qualities of green design listed in the Profit and People categories above, an organization can do its share to make the planet better when by doing things like reducing construction waste, using materials that have a low carbon footprint, buying materials with recycled content and low chemical content, buying local and regional materials (LEED says that is within 500 miles), and using less materials- such as not building any more space than one needs.

CONCLUSION:

Think globally, act locally; be the change you desire.

Find out what motivates the decision-makers, and understand that green design has a way to make them happy. Once you know what your organization is thinking, and why, connect the dots back to the strengths of green building design that fortifies their existing beliefs.

Want help pitching your green design idea to the powers that be? Schedule a free consultation with Carlson Studio Architecture today!

What are some systems for solar power generation that I should consider?

People come to our firm for green design because it's a very personal mission of ours to contribute to the sustainability of our planet and the preservation of our species. We also design beautiful buildings, if I do say so myself...

So, it's not all that uncommon to get questions about how to include solar power, our abundant and clean resource, in the overall design.

First some basics:

Solar panels (aka Photovoltaic Panels, aka PV) make electricity from the sun. They produce DC power, like batteries, which can be used directly to charge your electric car, stored in a large battery system, or be converted to AC power and used directly in your home or business.

The cost of PV has been dropping steadily for the past decade. Our first PV install was in 2003, and the cost was round 11 cents per watt.  Now PV is running around 3.5 cents per watt, and even less for larger installations

Here are some other useful facts that will help you narrow in on the right system for you.

1. Battery vs AC vs Net Metering

Battery storage is not required, and although battery storage systems are getting better, technology still needs improvement. You may have heard of the Powerwall, by Tesla. It is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery product for home or small commercial use. It stores electricity for consumption, load shifting, and backup power.  

Converting the DC power to AC and using the power directly is still the best option. Net metering is also very helpful, but eligibility varies greatly depending on the location of the property. Ideally, net metering is provided by your local power company and allows you to sell the power you make back into the grid at the same price that you pay to buy power from the power company.

Be aware- Sometimes the utility company sells electricity at one rate but buys is back at lower rate. Since many power companies are monopolies, and exist for the benefit of their shareholders, not their customers, you need to check with your local utility to determine if they have a net metering option, and exactly what the details are.   A good net metering program allows you to use the utility grid as your "battery" to store the excess power you make on site.  

If you have true net metering (1:1 buy/sell pricing) putting PV on your home or business makes great sense.  If you do not have access to net metering, you want to size your PV system so it makes some or most of power that you need, but does not typically make more power than you would normally use.

Net metering gives you a better opportunity to achieve net zero energy if that is your goal.  You can size your PV system to make more power than you need at some times of the day or year, so you have excess power "stored" in the grid to use when you cannot make all the power that you need, such as in the hottest part of the summer in Florida when your electrical loads are the highest.  

2.New construction

For new construction, considering the price of PV and the rising cost of electricity, the best thing to do is include your PV in your construction budget and install it when the building is constructed. It is a great investment with a strong return.

Can't afford it today, but want to stack the deck in your favor?

The next best thing is to set up your new building to be solar ready.  This means positioning the building so it can gather the sun when PV panels are installed in the future. Provide South facing, sloping roofs that are set up for panels to be installed later.  A standing seam metal roof is best for mounting, but other roofs can be accommodated.

If your building design wants to have a flat roof, be sure there are no other structures on the building that could prevent the sun from shining directly on the roof, such as stair tower, tall parapet walls, etc.  Of course your roofs will be light in color to reflect the heat of the sun, but that topic was covered in an earlier blog (Green roofing system selection by Carlson Studio Architecture). Typically, proper "solar ready" orientation will tend to create a building that has it long sides facing North and south, with it short sides facing east and west.  

Roofs oriented within 15 degrees of due south are recommend in the LEED for Homes criteria. The Birch Haven residence designed by Carlson Studio in southwestern lower Michigan is a good example of setting the home up properly for solar panels.  The site boundaries were oriented 35 degrees west of due south.

This was less than optimum, so we created a design that allowed the main roof of the home to be facing only 15 degrees west of due south, while the interior of the home was still aligned with the site boundaries to take full advantage of the build-able area of the site and the views.  And, we included the PV panels into the construction budget, so a 7KW PV system is about to be installed on the roof as the project is nearing completion.  

And if you're thinking about the long-term value of your investment, you should know that buildings that are"solar ready" are going to be worth more than those that are not, as noted by this study by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) and personalized to your situation with this PV home value calculator by SolarSimplified.org.

3. Existing Buildings

For existing buildings, everything discussed above still applies, but you may have been dealt a less than ideal situation based on your building's orientation. Hopefully you did not just buy a home or office building with no way to retrofit solar panels onto it.

Get together with your experienced sustainable architect (Carlson) and have them evaluate the possibilities for your existing building.  The panels are lightweight, so most existing structures can support them, and wiring from the roof to the electrical room is just being able to get the conduit runs to work through the existing building.  

CONCLUSION:

PV panels can last 25 years of longer. The initial payback ROI can be as short as 5-10 years, depending on your net metering options, and the cost of your electricity. There is still a 30% Federal tax credit available too.  And the cost of energy is rising.

Of course, our planet is also wasting away with the excessive usage of fossil fuels and other non-renewable sources. Now is the time to get PV on your home or office building, or at the very least, set yourself up to succeed and save money in the near future by being prepared to add PV at any time.

Interested in learning more? Set up a free green architectural design consultation with Carlson Studio Architecture today!

“What is a good process for selecting a general contractor?” - It's something we hear a lot

It's also one of the most important questions you can and should be asking about your upcoming build, because not every contractor is the same. They can make your project if they share your vision and goals, or break it if they are rowing in a different direction or don't have the right kind of experience.

So, I thought I would help you out by sharing four important steps to the GC selection process. Keep in mind as you read these how important building the right foundation is to any kind of successful build.

1: When to hire

Timing is really important when it comes to hiring your contractor, because you want them involved early in the design process, as soon as you know you have a viable project. They should actually be your second stop after hiring your design team.

Why hire so early? Well, it's important to have the contractor on board to accomplish the integrated design process. It's also important to get the entire project team together early so everyone can work together to achieve optimum results.  

Many smart heads are better than one, after all, and there is a big advantage to the project when the people who are going to build it participate in the design process and understand why the design is the way it is and why the decision to have it that way was reached.

2: Go for experience 1st, not low bid

Select your contractor based on their experience, not by low bid. Remember, it is early in the process and the project design is not fully developed. You don’t want to hire a GC based on a lower price quoted up front before they understand the details of the project. That's just askin' for trouble.

3: Ask for help & get to the fees

Ask your design team and others you trust for names of good contractors.  Interview about 3-4 GCs that seem like a good fit for your project.  (If you invite too many contractors they will become less interested.

It is important that each gets a fair chance to compete for the work. A 1:3 or 1:4 chance is more appealing than a 1:10 chance if you were to invite that many contractors for interviews).

Talk to them about their related experience, how they structure and charge for the pre-construction services phase, how they do cost estimating early in the process, how they approach a project like yours, who will be working on the project from their company, what their insurance coverage is, and what they anticipate for overhead costs (referred to as general conditions).

Make sure you also ask what their fee % will be.  (Their fee is usually a % of the total construction contract or it could be structured as a cost plus arrangement). They can estimate their fee based on a rough estimate of the total cost of construction, and the complexity of the project.

4: Get a pre-construction agreement

Once you pick your General contractor, you'll need to enter into a pre-construction agreement with them.  They will charge you a fee for this service.  If things work out the contractor will often credit back some or all of the fee when you sign the agreement to have them do the actual construction.  

If for some reason the project does not go ahead, the contractor is paid for the work they performed and the process is equitable to everyone.   Should you decide to proceed with the project, but not with the General Contractor that did the pre-construction services, again the contractor is paid for the work they performed and the process is equitable to everyone.  This is why you sign a pre-construction agreement early in the process, but not the contract for the full and complete construction.

Hiring your General Contractor to do Pre-construction Services during the design process makes those who will actually build the project part of the project development team as well.  They will typically provide cost estimating, and assist the owner and design team in understanding cost implications of various design decisions.  They can develop the construction schedule in conjunction with the estimating.   They can even bring in key subs, such HVAC contractors to evaluate system options and approaches.

WHY YOUR WALLET WILL THANK YOU: 

Many initially think this approach leads to a lack of competition in the bidding process, and ultimately to higher costs. Using this approach, however, you are still able to get competitive bids. Your general contractor will bid out all the sub-contracts to multiple sub-contractors for each trade needed on the job.

Often, the GC will share all the sub-contractor bids with you and you may decide together who to use.  Remember, you are really trying to get the most value for the price of the work.  You are not looking for the cheapest price if the services performed are substandard in quality or unreliable. 

CONCLUSION:

So, hire your contractor early in the project development, base your decision on quality and experience over low-bid, get input from your design team, use the pre-construction services agreement scope, and utilize your contractor’s knowledge and expertise in building projects like yours.

These early decisions make a huge difference in the end, both in the success of the project and your ability to control costs throughout the build process.

(The Wellness Center incorporates recycled construction materials - See the project by Carlson Studio Architecture)

WHY Recycled Products in Construction

Whether or not you believe that Climate Change is man-made, you cannot deny that the problems associated with trash, specifically plastic, are not caused by Mother Nature.

In an article by Laura Parker in the National Geographic, published Feb 13, 2015, she notes that 8 million tons are dumped into the ocean every year.  This is the equivalent of filling 5 grocery bags with trash and lining them up on EVERY foot of coastline in the entire world! 

As of the year 2014, this was estimated to be a total of 245,000 tons floating in the ocean (source: National Geographic). That doesn’t even account for what is sitting in landfills, lining the side of our highways and roads, or what has been ground up into microplastic and sunk to the bottom of the ocean.

That's a lot of plastic, and quite the mountain of a problem to solve. 

A new way of thinking:

One of the ways that we could help reduce this growth of waste is to make it even more profitable for the waste to be recycled into usable products.  As is happening in the organic food industry, this occurs when the public demands it.  As a start, why not insist that as many construction products as possible are made from recycled products? 

Here are some already in existence that make us very happy. If more people ask about them and insist upon them, then we may be able to reduce the amount of trash AND the amount of manufacturing of products using new material and/or harmful production processes.

Building green, after all, takes more than installing components that help you live with minimal impact on the environment once you've moved in. It also means thinking about the building process itself and incorporating embodied energy whenever and wherever possible.

1. Plasphalt ¹

Asphalt for roads, parking lots, etc., that is made from grains of plastic from unsorted waste that replace the sand and gravel used in regular asphalt.  It has been reported that plasphalt wears better and longer because the asphalt emulsions bond better to the plastic particles than the sand and gravel.

2. Nappy Roofing ¹ 

Roofing tiles made from disposable diapers – yes AFTER they’ve been used!  The organic compounds are removed and the remaining polymer is used to create fiber based construction products such as roof tile.

3. Plastic Blocks ¹

Used plastic bags and plastic packaging (some of our most problem and prolific waste) are placed in a heat mold and compressed to form decorative blocks that can be stacked to make non-load bearing indoor or outdoor room dividers.

4. Composite deck products

Tired of building and rebuilding that outdoor deck because it rots and warps within 5 to 10 years, and has to be constantly recoated – even if it is cypress?  Then look into composite decking, including structure and railings, made from recycled wood and plastic with eco-friendly manufacturing processes.  The slightly higher initial material cost is paid back in the reduction of maintenance and replacement costs.

5. Plastic Floor tile ²

There are plastic floor tiles made from recycled plastic that can be recycled and made into new tiles.  They are also interlocking and not adhered (no VOC’s).

6. Carpeting

A majority of carpet is made from plastic fibers, so why not be sure it is made from recycled plastic fiber?  There are many manufacturer’s that also assure that when it is time to replace the carpet, they will take it back for free and recycle it into new carpeting.  Let’s try to reduce the amount of new plastic that needs to be produced while keeping the existing plastic in circulation.  After all, it is the durability and non-degradable aspects that make it so desirable for flooring in the first place.

7. Plastic Lumber

Tired of termites destroying your home including the structure and the moldings and trim? How about moisture damage and dry rot in humid climates?  There is 100 % plastic lumber that is 90%+ recycled content.  It comes in premium grade products for finished work and trim applications as well as structural grade lumber.

8. PVC Windows ³

Normally not considered a sustainable product, there are European companies that are now producing PVC framed windows that are made from 98% recycled content delivering significant CO2 savings during processing.

CONCLUSION:

And this is just a start of the way that we could keep plastic from sitting in the ocean for the rest of our lifetime let alone the generations after us.  Here at Carlson Studio Architecture,our 14 LEED certified projects including 2 Platinum, and 5 Gold awards, all have a wide variety of materials that are produced with recycled content, such as carpet tiles, gypsum wallboard, metal roofing, hollow metal doors and frames, and linoleum flooring.  Check out such projects as the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center, The HGTV Green Home, and the Wellness Community Center, to name a few.

1. http://www.citymetric.com/skylines/9-building-materials-made-entirely-waste-products-932 , 9 building materials made entirely from waste products, as taken from the book Building With Waste, complied by Dirk E. Habel, Marta H Wisniewska, and Felix Heise.
2. http://www.proudgreenhome.com/news/recycled-plastic-flooring-tiles-install-without-smelly-adhesives/ Recycled plastic flooring tiles install without smelly adhesive
3. http://www.bpf.co.uk/sustainable_manufacturing/recycling/The_Worlds_First_100_percent_Recycled_PVC_Window.aspx The World’s First 100% Recycled Content Window

Interested in learning more about designing and constructing a green building? Schedule a free consultation with Carlson Studio Architecture today!

The next phase of evolution for green building design

As you may know, CSA joined the USGBC in 2002 and we have been members ever since.  Our staff began to become individual members of the USGBC when chapters began to be formed in Florida in 2003-2004.  Currently, our entire staff are members or the USGBC Florida Chapter. 

Maybe you've heard… the Florida Chapter is a new USGBC entity, and I have the skinny on why and how it formed.

(Click to visit Carlson Studio Architecture's LEED certified project gallery)

What's new

The 7 existing Chapters of the USGBC have recently merged into one, statewide USGBC chapter. The 7 existing Board of Directors have been dissolved and a single Board of Directors has been appointed, which is made up of one representative from each of the prior existing chapters, and I happen to actually be one of those founding 7 board members, representing the Florida Gulf Chapter.

This is an important step forward, because the existing former chapter boards and the many branches will continue to function, hold elections, and govern themselves as part of the larger organization, but they will be unencumbered by the organizational and administrative functions of running the organization itself. 

What's notable

USGBC Florida currently has 3 paid staff.  The primary mission of the organization remains education, with most of its work in the past focused on sustainable buildings.  Last month, the 7 Board members appointed Four (4) additional board members, to bring the board up to 11 people, and four more will be elected by the Florida Chapter membership in 2016.   

The big picture

It is a critical time in the evolution of the Florida USGBC.  I see this as an opportunity to redefine the organization and make it more effective in delivering its mission.  For me, I participate because I want to have a greater positive impact on sustainability in Florida, beyond my ability to design individual structures in my community, and this gives me greater reach and influence for supporting this great cause.

It also brings more diversity, and creates a board of professionals with much-needed skills.  I feel one key will be to introduce the ideas of social and economic equity and overall well-being into the mix as the reasons WHY we exist.

Raising the level of consciousness of our members and stakeholders could be the tipping point.

I think the State USGBC organization, its membership, stakeholders, governments in Florida, and citizens of Florida can all benefit by having increased awareness of the issue that are critical to Florida’s future.   For the implementers (the USGBC volunteers) my hope is they feel appreciated, recharged and feel that they have a purpose that really makes a meaningful difference in their communities and for a greater good.

CONCLUSION:

There are many forces acting in our state these days.  Negative impacts could be green washing, exploitation by commercial interests, political retaliation, and/or increased social and economic inequalities.  But there is  an opportunity to make a difference and provide leadership that understands the past but wants to redesign and replace the old organization with its next generation.  

I think a statewide USGBC has a lot of potential to influence/advocate for good for all in the state.  What do you think?

IInterested in receiving an architectural design consultation from Carlson Studio Architecture, one of the founding members of USGBC in Florida?

We're beyond sustainable architectural design for the environment, to design for sustainable societies and economies.

I have dedicated the better part of the last two decades to green architectural design, both in practice and in educating the public of its economical and environmental benefits. So have my talented colleagues. We wanted to have an impact on the world around us that was bigger than ourselves, so we have dedicated a lot of energy into it.

But sustainability doesn't end there. It's a bigger concept that finds its way into all sorts of corners and crevices in our lives, and we have been fortunate at Carlson to be able to integrate our designs into pieces of the world that many don't realize are critical to sustaining our socio-economic climates.

Sustainability in the built environment is our primary focus, but we also recognize that is not enough by itself to create a truly sustainable community.  Social and economic equity are also key component.  

We have completed many projects throughout the years for non-profits that have similar goals in social or economic equity.  Projects like the Cancer Support Community (more at www.carlsonstudio.org), Easter Seals, and the Community Center at Janie’s Garden Public Housing complex all support a greater purpose.

The Business Of Sustainability

Here are a couple of recent projects that combine both as well: 

1. Project 180

Project 180, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is a reentry program for male prisoners in Florida. They provide assistance for those about to be released from prison in the state to assist in their transition back into society.

The goal is to reduce the impact of repeat offenders upon public safety, public spending, Florida families and individual lives. They begin to provide assistance 6 months before a prisoner’s release.

Project 180’s next major goal is to open a residential facility that can assist those who do not have immediate access to housing when they are released.  Upon the grand opening, it will feature a two year, highly structured, 24/7 clean and sober residential environment, marketable job skill training, paid apprenticeships, academic education, rehabilitation, and safe, slow reintegration into the community.

Some amazing statics provided by Project 180 about Florida

• Florida’s prisons currently house over 100,000 inmates.
• Over 30,000 return to our communities every year.
• More than 45% of those housed in the Florida state prison system are repeat offenders.
• Almost 40% of Florida’s prisoners test at or below a fifth grade education level

2. Kashi By the River

Our Kashi by the River Project is a 41 unit multifamily project in Sebastian, Florida.  It is specifically designed for up to 10 individuals to live together under one roof, and provide support for each other in a caring, small community environment.  Each person has their own sleeping room and private bathroom, and they share common functions and spaces such as the living area, kitchen, dining, pantry and laundry.  In the case of Kashi by the River, we also provided accommodations for a few couples, and we clustered four 10 bedroom buildings together to create a small neighborhood of like-minded individuals.

The community creates an environment of harmony with nature and each other, a kind of sustainability that isn't easiest to measure, but very easy to see.

CONCLUSION:

Throughout the years we have found that our clients are motivated by many different things.  Some are motivated to create a healthy and comfortable place to live or to work; others like to save money by reducing their energy and water bills through conservation of those resources (the return on investment is amazing - by the way); some have a passion to reduce their carbon footprint and combat the effects of climate change on an individual or corporate level; others simply want better design in harmony with the natural environment.

I personally look for opportunities for sustainability everywhere (probably driving the people who know me well a little nuts from time to time).

After all, everything is connected.  Architecture that is good for the triple bottom line- social, environmental (or ecological) and financial.  (Also referred to as the 3 P’s-People, Planet and Profit) should benefit everyone, and reduce our negative impacts in every way possible.  There are so many like-minded organizations around the world that are tackling the important issues of our society today.  

Organizations like Project 180.

Interested in discussing an architectural design concept or master design project that harnesses sustainability beyond the envelope? Schedule a consultation with Carlson Studio Architecture today!