--- title: Sustainable Design Blog & Information | green building description: green building | Sustainable design blog providing articles, insight, & research information for green building projects. --- # Sustainable Design Blog ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hubfs/Blog_images/2370858.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable-design) ### [Must have construction material made from recyclables](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/must-have-construction-material-made-from-recyclables) Wed, Mar 02, 2016 --- ![The Wellness community center used recycled products for its construction materials!](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog_images/2370858.jpg?width=1024&name=2370858.jpg "The Wellness community center used recycled products for its construction materials!")(The Wellness Center incorporates recycled construction materials - See the project by [Carlson Studio Architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/green-healthcare-community-design-by-carlson-studio-architecture-leed-gold-certified))   ### 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](http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2015/02/150212-ocean-debris-plastic-garbage-patches-science/)). 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](https://www.carbonae.com/sustainable-design-blog/how-to-incorporate-embodied-energy-into-your-green-building-designs) 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](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/](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](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](https://www.carbonae.com/contact-us-green-architectural-design-services) today!   [![Free Consultation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/42364/8bdfe16f-4ce4-4d5e-8dad-af326b29dafa.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/42364/8bdfe16f-4ce4-4d5e-8dad-af326b29dafa)     ---   [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/must-have-construction-material-made-from-recyclables) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-2415004158-jpg/images/twinlakespark1.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable-design), [Green Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-design) ### [Sarasota Green Building Exemplifies Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/114002/sarasota-green-building-exemplifies-sustainable-design) Wed, Jan 21, 2015 Call it *sustainable*. Call it *high performance*. **Building green** is the common sense approach to improving operating efficiencies while decreasing environmental impact, and creating the healthiest environment for the building’s occupants. **Did you know that in the U.S., buildings account for:** With numbers like these, how can anyone be resistant to the idea of going green? The benefits to our environment are invaluable, and the result of sustainable design also benefits the bottom line; it's a win-win, no matter how you look at it. ## **Twin Lakes Park Office Complex – A Golden Example of Going Green** ![Twin Lakes Park Office Complex](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-2415004158-jpg/images/twinlakespark1.jpg)Once used as a dormitory for a professional baseball team, the **T****win Lakes Park Office Complex** in Sarasota, Florida was later refurbished to become as one of the “greenest” office buildings in the state. The project is recognized as the area’s first “green” office complex, and serves as a model for the simplicity and savings associated with going green. **Many environmental factors were taken into consideration for this project, including:** ![Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-2415004168-jpg/images/twinlakespark2.jpg)The buildings’ orientation to the sun and strategic window placement ensures maximization of northern sunlight for day-lighting within the buildings, enabling heating from the sun during winter months and optimal shading during the summer. Any electric lighting in the building is automated to monitor and adjust light levels, reducing energy waste. These lighting methods lead to a cost reduction of 40 to 60 percent. #### **Here’s a closer look at some energy-efficient features that make Twin Lakes green:** **Sustainability** **Water Efficiency** **Energy Efficiency** **Materials and Resources** **Indoor Environmental Quality** In addition to achieving the primary goal of reducing environmental impact with this green building project, the advantages of these upgrades are readily seen in resulting bottom line benefits: ## **Leading Experts in Sustainable Design** ![Carlson Studio Architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14235967-jpg/images/carlsonlogo.jpg?width=200&height=39&name=carlsonlogo.jpg)The 26,000-square-foot [Twin Lakes Park](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public/twin-lakes-office/) Complex, which took over two and a half years to complete, was designed by Architect Michael R. Carlson, founder and principal of **Carlson Studio Architecture**, a Sarasota-based architecture and design firm that specializes in sustainable, high performance buildings. At [Carlson Studio Architecture](http://www.carlsonstudio.org/), the integrated design approach that we utilize in all our work allows us to provide high quality, high performance buildings for our clients. We are happy to provide** a complimentary consultation to determine how you can incorporate sustainable design** into your projects, for green building or renovation. Simply click the button below to submit your request, and we'll respond promptly to schedule your consultation. [![Free Consultation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/42364/a14a01fd-5a19-4779-b13d-fe55ecfa3eef.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/42364/a14a01fd-5a19-4779-b13d-fe55ecfa3eef) [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/114002/sarasota-green-building-exemplifies-sustainable-design) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1464635726-jpg/images/logo-cs.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable-design) ### [CSA Green Building – A Model for Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113949/csa-green-building-a-model-for-sustainable-design) Sun, Jan 11, 2015 Michael Carlson could give Kermit the Frog a run for his money.  Carlson, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, principal and founder of **Carlson Studio Architecture**, wants Sarasota to know that **being green is easier than you think. ** At his firm’s corporate headquarters near Fruitville and Orange in downtown Sarasota, he’s living by example. ![Carlson Studio Architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1464635726-jpg/images/logo-cs.jpg)Founded in 1997, **Carlson Studio Architecture** is celebrating its 18th year anniversary in March 2015. Carlson himself has lived in Sarasota for over twenty-eight years.  His first exposure to green building happened while he was an architecture student at Ball State University in Indiana.  There he worked with professors and classmates in the university’s Center for Energy Research/Education/Service.  But it wasn’t until 2000 that he fully dedicated his practice to **sustainability**. ## **Green Building Increases Value, Lowers Cost** **The staff at Carlson Studio Architecture incorporates green design principles into every project.**  According to Carlson, with the advances in building materials, the cost of a green project isn’t necessarily greater than the cost of a quality non-green building.  The nature of sustainable design is that it is long-lasting and low maintenance.  These attributes help to **increase long-term value while decreasing cost **associated with upkeep.  *“Sometimes a client will be cutting-edge green,”* Carlson reveals.  *“Other times, we might have a project where we’re ‘stealth green.’  This is when a client may not be interested in sustainable design****,**** **but we still can make simple, responsible choices without raising costs.”* Examples of “stealth green” specifications include **low-chemical paint.  **Even when a project isn’t destined to be green, low-VOC paint can be specified; it’s better for the environment and the health of the builders and future tenants.** **While all business owners are motivated by different reasons, Carlson believes that sustainable design is the right thing to do.  *“Architecture is more meaningful and purposeful when sustainability is a factor,”* says Carlson.  *“In the age-old discussion of form verses function, I work to** join aesthetic and utility through sustainable design.**”* At Carlson Studio Architecture, about one-third of the projects are residential, leaving the remaining two-thirds devoted to commercial developments.  The firm concentrates on Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Hardee and Hillsborough counties, but has completed projects all over Florida and a few out of state. In designing his Sarasota headquarters, Carlson set out to **renovate the historic Cheney Building to meet the [LEED](http://www.usgbc.org/leed) (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver designation for Commercial Interiors (CI).**  ![Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-2415003858-jpg/images/csa-offices1.jpg) LEED-CI is the industry benchmark for green design and construction of tenant improvements.The focus is on **proven contributors to employee productivity and well-being**** ****in four areas:** 1. Thermal comfort 2. Access to daylight and views 3. Minimizing interior pollutants and energy 4. Water conservation techniques.  **The LEED certification process benefits the consumer in two ways:** 1. Third parties* *certify that buildings have met the criteria for environmental health 2. The market begins creating products to meet these standards.  The Cheney Building renovation began in January 2007.  Carlson Studio Architecture moved into the space in June 2007, and the project was fully completed in August.  LEED-CI Certification (Silver level) was achieved in December 2007.  The project was just the 3rd LEED-CI project in Florida at the time. ![Green Building](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-2415003868-jpg/images/csa-offices2.jpg) According to the U.S. Green Building Council, *a healthy workplace environment enhances individual well being and productivity while reducing employee absenteeism and operating costs.*  Carlson’s team employed several resources to transform the 1930’s grocery store into a professional office complex that reduces environmental impact, maximizes occupant comfort and improves building performance: - Transparent interior walls enable each workspace to have access to the increased daylight and outside views afforded by the oversized windows and glass doorways that Carlson added. - Cork and Interface carpet tiles were specified underfoot.  Cork is a replenishable material since only the bark is harvested, while the Interface carpet tiles are chemically free, include recycled content and are carbon neutral. - All glues, sealants, caulks and paints are chemically free and produce low VOCs with no “off gassing,” (VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, have been identified as cancer-causing agents). - To continue minimizing indoor pollutants, the office is cleaned with green housekeeping methods and non-odorous cleaning products. - Converted “low-flow” plumbing and other features help to conserve water and energy.  Carlson estimates that installing these conservation measures will reduce water usage by thirty percent. *“We promote green buildings and green interiors to our clients every chance we get – and now we made the same decisions about cost and materials that our clients make every day,”* said Carlson. While only the interior of Carlson Studio Architecture is being considered for LEED-CI certification, improvements were made to the entire Cheney Building.  With investment partner Victor Appel, ASID, Carlson replaced the roof with an [Energy Star](http://www.energystar.gov/) roof to maximize efficiency.  Adding extra insulation and high-performance glass also reduces energy use. By way of their own practice, Carlson Studio Architecture is committed to quality design solutions that promote commercially-viable sustainability by minimizing the consumption of materials and maximizing their reuse, all while protecting the environment.  **With Carlson’s easy tips, we all can be a little greener without breaking the bank:** 1. Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs and energy efficient T-8 fluorescent tube lighting (both are widely available). 2. Use low-VOC paint offered by most name-brand paint manufacturers. 3. Buy Energy Star appliances to increase the efficiency of your energy and even water use. 4. Increase insulation, especially in the attic, and use an efficient air conditioning system.  *“Even small changes can make a big difference, and it’s easier than you think,”* says Carlson.  Sarasota architecture firm’s LEED-CI (Silver) green building offices demonstrate how easy it is to incorporate sustainable design into projects. ## **LEED Accredited Professionals in Sustainable Design** At [Carlson Studio Architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/), the integrated design approach that we utilize in all our work allows us to provide high quality, high performance buildings for our clients. We are happy to provide** a complimentary consultation to determine how you can incorporate sustainable design** into your projects, for green building or renovation. Simply click the button below to submit your request, and we'll respond promptly to schedule your consultation. [![Free Consultation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/42364/a14a01fd-5a19-4779-b13d-fe55ecfa3eef.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/42364/a14a01fd-5a19-4779-b13d-fe55ecfa3eef) [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113949/csa-green-building-a-model-for-sustainable-design) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1687457735-jpg/images/photo-csa-offices.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [green renewal](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-renewal), [LEED Certified](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed-certified) ### [Green Building Renewal: A Closer Look at CSA](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113213/green-building-renewal-a-closer-look-at-csa) Tue, Sep 23, 2014 The third LEED-CI project ever certified in Florida was the new offices for Carlson Studio Architecture. When **Carlson Studio Architecture** needed a new home for the growing sustainable design firm’s headquarters, a 1930’s-era abandoned grocery store seemed like the ideal location.  The building’s open layout, ample size and walkable urban setting offered all the features Michael Carlson, AIA, LEED AP and principal of the firm was seeking in an office.  It was just waiting for someone to come along and recognize its “green potential.” # Green Building Renewal Details ![Green Building Renewal](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1687457735-jpg/images/photo-csa-offices.jpg?width=299&height=353&name=photo-csa-offices.jpg)The firm purchased the 4,400-square-foot parcel with a partner and sub-divided the space.  Carlson Studio Architecture shares their 2,400-square-foot area with Carlson Studio Marketing, a green PR & marketing agency, run by Grace Carlson.  The businesses consciously made the decision to seek USGBC LEED Silver Commercial Interior (CI) certification for the project, which was achieved in December 2007.  The reason was two-fold.  Because the business owners believed in the value of LEED certification, they wanted their building to serve as a demonstration model to current and potential green building clients.  They also recognized the investment in third-party certification would increase the value of their asset. The **LEED system** was selected, over other available systems, because LEED standards are rigorous.  Anyone can call a building *green*, but if the [U.S. Green Building Council](http://www.usgbc.org/) says its green, those results are undeniable. Renovation costs were roughly $85 a square foot plus commissioning fees and extra features, which were $8,800 and added 4% or $3.71 per-square-foot to the budget.  USGBC Certification fees for the office were $2,200. The firm expect a rapid return on their investment.  > - RENOVATION +/- $85 PER SQUARE FOOT, INCLUDING GREEN BUILDING SITE WORK. > - HOW MUCH “EXTRA” DID IT COST? (Above and beyond normal construction that would have taken place with or without seeking LEED certification.) > - LEED CERTIFICATION                      $2,200 > - COMMISSIONING                           $5,000 > - ENERGY SAVING FEATURES         $1,600 > - TOTAL INITIAL INVESTMENT       $8,800 (about 4%) **RETURN ON INVESTMENT** > - A COMBINED ENERGY AND WATER SAVINGS OF $1,325 PER YEAR (15% ANNUAL ROI) > - FIRST YEAR APPRECIATION VALUE FOR GREEN BUILDINGS +/-5% (this was not realized due to a region wide downturn in real estate values) The 15% annual ROI provides for a about a 6-7 year payback all by itself.  Now that we have been in the green building for over 7 years **we have realized the full ROI on our initial investment**.  And we will continue to realize the savings year after year for as long as we occupy the green building. **Making our staff more productive:** ESTIMATING A CONSERVATIVE 5% PRODUCTIVITY INCREASE WILL PROVIDE AN 82% ANNUAL ROI. (Over the life of the green building, productivity payback not only pays for the “green premium” it pays for the entire cost of construction) While all elements in sustainable design work synergistically together to maximize the outcome, **here are some specific goals that were incorporated into the building:** > - Improve the building envelope for thermal comfort and operational savings > - Reduce Water Consumption > - Reduce Energy Consumption > - Provide natural daylight and views to the exterior, for all occupants. > - Minimize indoor pollutants through exclusive use of environmentally friendly paints, adhesives, furnishings, cabinets, and flooring. > - Improve productivity of Occupants. > - Adaptive reuse of the existing building saved carbon emissions, land fill waste and energy. > - Adding windows increased access to day lighting and exterior views. Using double pane, impact resistant, and Low E tinted glazing reduced solar heat gain. > - Replacing the roof with additional insulation and an Energy Star rated single ply reflective membrane roof system enhanced energy savings. > - The mechanical systems were replaced with more energy efficient equipment. > - Energy efficient fluorescent lighting with direct / indirect light was installed throughout the interior.  Compact fluorescent light fixtures and occupancy sensors were installed in restrooms and storage rooms. > - Site lighting for security was minimized to reduce light pollution. > - Low flow plumbing fixtures, dual flush toilets and motion sensors were installed for water conservation. ## **Green Building Design by CSA** At [Carlson Studio Architecture](http://www.carlsonstudio.org/), we believe that *going green* doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality or comfort... and certainly not convenience. Our own offices are a perfect example of not only how EASY it is to go green, with full return on investment in minimal time. We are happy to provide a **complimentary green building consultation** to determine how your green building projects may best be implemented, whether it’s for a new green building or renovation of an existing structure. Just click the button below to submit your request, and we'll respond promptly to schedule your consultation. [![Request A Consultation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/42364/9a26ff7e-f82e-48ef-825a-835c66a6081c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/42364/9a26ff7e-f82e-48ef-825a-835c66a6081c) [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113213/green-building-renewal-a-closer-look-at-csa) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1640423713-jpg/images/photo-csa-office.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [Green Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-design), [carlson studio architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/carlson-studio-architecture) ### [Green Building Renewal: A Historic Building is Reborn](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113127/green-building-renewal-a-historic-building-is-reborn) Tue, Sep 16, 2014 ![Green Building Design](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-1640423713-jpg/images/photo-csa-office.jpg?width=331&height=132&name=photo-csa-office.jpg)In my previous blog, I talked about the background, details, and return on investment that Carlson Studio Architecture realized when we purchased our office building in 2007 and built out a** LEED-CI Silver Certified project**, which was the third LEED-CI project ever certified in Florida at that time. I was happy to share the detailed information about this green building accomplishment. One thing I have seen over these many years in working in the sustainable design realm is that **people with a “green” mindset are very open to sharing the details with others**, whether it is an ROI calculation, or a green building design concept, or a specific detail.  A strength of the green building world that is its willingness to share, and bring everyone up along the way.  As they say, 1 rising tide lifts all boats. So, we felt strongly that we should walk the walk and design our own office to be LEED certified. # The Green Building Offices at Carlson Studio Architecture Having now worked in this green building for over 7 years, I have a few observations.  We used some simple, basic technology throughout the office that we have become so accustom to, we miss it when we go elsewhere, including: > - **Motion sensors** in all the private offices, conference rooms, bathrooms and lobby. > - The **T-8 lights** come on when we walk into a room, and go off a few minutes after we leave. > - The** bathroom motion sensors** are also tied into the exhaust fans, so they stay on automatically for a few minutes as well, then turn off automatically so as to not exhaust all the air conditioned air out of the green building. > - The **dual flush toilets** work great. > - The faucets in the sinks are all on **automatic sensors,** so when you put your hands under the faucet, the water turns on, and when you remove your hands it shuts off immediately. > - The faucet motions sensors are **battery operated**, and the flow of the water out of the faucet turns a small turbine wheel and recharges the batteries constantly. We have yet to change the batteries.  I have gotten so accustomed to not turning the lights on and off, and not having to turn the faucet on and off, that when I am away from the office I typically expect those things to happen automatically, but they don’t very often. All of this is simple technology has **no maintenance** and *nothing* to break. Other simple things like **programmable thermostats**, automatically turn the air on in the morning about an hour before we open, and reset to a bit warmer temperature in the evening to save energy when the building is not occupied.  There is also a weekend setting that is similar to the night time setting.  The thermostat allows these setting to be easily manually overridden by a user who may come in at night or on the weekend. We also added a **simple timer switch** that closes the fresh air intake damper at night and on weekends when the office is unoccupied.  This saves additional energy because the A/C system does not have to bring in and dehumidify the hot and humid Florida outside air at night or on weekends. More about real experiences working in a LEED office in a future [green building blog](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/green-building-links/). ## **Green Building Design by CSA** At [Carlson Studio Architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/), we believe that *going green* doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality or comfort... and certainly not convenience. Our own offices are a perfect example of not only how EASY it is to go green, but also that ultimately those people living and working in green buildings come to discover that life can be decidedly simpler when your building 'does the work for you'. But be forewarned: it's easy to get spoiled by such effortless simplicity, and to miss it when you're away; just as we do here at CSA. We are happy to provide a **complimentary green building consultation** to determine how your green building projects may best be implemented, whether it’s for a new green building or renovation of an existing structure. Just click the button below to submit your request, and we'll respond promptly to schedule your consultation. [![Request A Consultation](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/42364/9a26ff7e-f82e-48ef-825a-835c66a6081c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/42364/9a26ff7e-f82e-48ef-825a-835c66a6081c) [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113127/green-building-renewal-a-historic-building-is-reborn) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14242442-jpg/images/_ddp6015.jpg) [LEED](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed), [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [sarasota](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sarasota), [Jedd Heap](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/jedd-heap), [aia](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/aia), [Michael Carlson](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/michael-carlson), [florida](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/florida) ### [Local AIA chapter features CSA's Sun N Fun project at annual meeting](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/90622/local-aia-chapter-features-csa-s-sun-n-fun-project-at-annual-meeting) Wed, Oct 17, 2012 | Don’t miss out on the opportunity to tour Sarasota’s newest LEED Gold building, Sun N Fun’s Lifestyle Wellness Center. This year the Gulfcoast AIA will be hosting free tours of the project at their annual meeting. Also in attendance will be members of the Green Drinks networking group, USGBC, CSI, and GBCX members. All are welcome to attend and enjoy cocktails & hor d’oeuvres on the pool deck. Designed by local architecture firm Carlson Studio Architecture, the Lifestyle Center features an indoor pool, aerobics room, and extensive exercise facilities. Sustainably designed, the project captures rainwater, uses the pool for cooling, and uses local materials. Architecturally it has been heralded as a new landmark with it’s soaring curved wood beams and innovative steel ‘V’ shaped column. All are welcome to attended the tour and reception, please rsvp @ [info@aiagulfcoast.org](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/info@aiagulfcoast.org) Event info: October 25th, 2012 6pm – 8pm Sun N Fun 7125 Fruitville Rd Sarasota, Florida, USA 34240   | ![sun n fun leed](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14242442-jpg/images/_ddp6015.jpg?width=200&height=299&name=_ddp6015.jpg) | | --- | --- | | ![snf flyer sm](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14240820-jpg/images/snf_flyer_sm.jpg) | | [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/90622/local-aia-chapter-features-csa-s-sun-n-fun-project-at-annual-meeting) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14237047-jpg/images/dsc_9981_20090504_fix-resized-600.jpg) [usgbc](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/usgbc), [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [LEED AP](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed-ap), [school](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/school), [tampa](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/tampa), [architect](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/architect), [florida](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/florida) ### [Case study of Learning Gate Community School is being featured on the USGBC website](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/76677/case-study-of-learning-gate-community-school-is-being-featured-on-the-usgbc-website) Fri, Oct 28, 2011 | As part of its hands-on, nature-based curriculum, Learning Gate School has chosen to build all future additions to its campus in an environmentally friendly way. [...](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public/learning-gate/) | | --- | [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/76677/case-study-of-learning-gate-community-school-is-being-featured-on-the-usgbc-website) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14237332-jpg/images/fgcc_usgbc_10.18.11-91-resized-600.jpg) [architecture](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/architecture), [usgbc](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/usgbc), [Sustainable](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable), [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [LEED AP](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed-ap), [Jedd Heap](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/jedd-heap), [award](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/award), [LEED-CI](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed-ci), [Michael Carlson](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/michael-carlson), [Gulfcoast](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/gulfcoast) ### [Carlson Studio Architecture Wins 3 Awards At US Green Building Council LEEDership Awards](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/76232/carlson-studio-architecture-wins-3-awards-at-us-green-building-council-leedership-awards) Mon, Oct 24, 2011 | Sarasota’s Carlson Studio Architecture, a regional leader in sustainable design, won 3 awards at the USGBC Florida Gulf Coast Chapter LEEDership Awards ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 19 in St. Petersburg. CSA received awards in the following categories: Outstanding Project of the Year LEED-CI (Commercial Interiors) for the design and construction of the [firm’s own offices](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public/carlson-studio-offices/), located in downtown Sarasota.   The offices of Carlson Studio Architecture received LEED- CI Silver Certification from the USGBC in 2007, making it only the third LEED-CI Certified project in Florida at the time of certification.  Sarasota’s RC Moore Construction was the General Contractor. Outstanding Project of the Year LEED for Schools (K-12) for the [Learning Gate Community School](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public/learning-gate/), located in Lutz, FL.  This project received LEED Platinum certification from the USGBC, and was also recognized as the first LEED Platinum Public Charter School in the Country.  Local consultant Two Trails was the LEED administrator for the project, and Charles Girard was the General Contractor. Outstanding Project of the Year LEED-NC (New Construction) for the design of the [Cancer Support Community’s new facility](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public/wellness/) located in Lakewood Ranch, FL.  This project received LEED Gold Certification from the USGBC.  [Willis A. Smith Construction](http://www.willissmith.com/), Inc. was the General Contractor. The LEEDership Awards program, hosted by the [Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the USGBC](http://www.sustainabletampabay.org), was started in 2010 as a way to support the chapter’s mission of encouraging environmental knowledge and values as they relate to the built environment. For more information, visit [www.usgbc-fgc.org](http://www.usgbc-fgc.org). LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. ([http://www.usgbc.org](http://www.usgbc.org)) | ![FGCC USGBC 10.18.11 91 resized 600](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14237332-jpg/images/fgcc_usgbc_10.18.11-91-resized-600.jpg?width=300&height=453&name=fgcc_usgbc_10.18.11-91-resized-600.jpg) Left to Right: Presenter Judah Rubin, LEED-AP, Jedd Heap, AIA, LEED-AP (CSA), Michael Carlson, AIA, LEED-AP (CSA) ![USGBC Awards 007 resized 600](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14241615-jpg/images/usgbc_awards_007-resized-600.jpg?width=300&height=199&name=usgbc_awards_007-resized-600.jpg)   | | --- | --- | |   |   | [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/76232/carlson-studio-architecture-wins-3-awards-at-us-green-building-council-leedership-awards) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14235728-jpg/images/bcc41956.jpg) [carlson](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/carlson), [usgbc](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/usgbc), [LEED](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/leed), [Sustainable](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable), [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [sarasota](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sarasota), [consulting](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/consulting) ### [City of Sarasota's Palm Avenue Garage Wins Award from ENR Southeast](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/75056/city-of-sarasota-s-palm-avenue-garage-wins-award-from-enr-southeast) Tue, Oct 11, 2011 | After extensive review, the judges for ENR Southeast's annual "Best Projects" competition met Sept. 8 and determined this year's winners. The judges chose 35 winners from a group of more than 100 entries from the states of Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Alabama, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. They picked a top winner in each category, along with "Award of Merit" winners in many of the categories. The Palm Avenue Garage earned and "Award of Merit" in the transportaion catagory. The Palm Avenue Garage was designed by JPA Architects and built by Suffolk Construction. [Carlson Studio Eco-Consulting](https://www.carbonae.com/eco-consulting/) provided green design & LEED Administration services for the project team. The Garage is seeking LEED CS Gold certification with USGBC's LEED Greenbuilding rating system. Green featrures include LED lighting, shade structures on the west fascade, daylighting in the retail and parking spaces, and PV panels on the roof. Energy Effiecent mechanial units and low VOC materials were also included in the building. [see the other winners](http://southeast.construction.com/opinions/blogs/?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=13506d49-1969-4925-b282-756982c11f10&plckPostId=Blog%3a13506d49-1969-4925-b282-756982c11f10Post%3abfe5a3fe-72e0-4c46-8d27-6ca471f39287&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest) | ![LEED Gold Garage](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14235728-jpg/images/bcc41956.jpg?width=300&height=218&name=bcc41956.jpg)  Photo by Barry Grossman, Grossman Photography, Grossmanphoto.com | | --- | --- | |   |   | [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/75056/city-of-sarasota-s-palm-avenue-garage-wins-award-from-enr-southeast) ![](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14240146-jpg/images/new_horizons_1-resized-600.jpg) [green building](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/green-building), [Sustainable Design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/topic/sustainable-design) ### [The state of School design today: A case for Green design](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113887/the-state-of-school-design-today-a-case-for-green-design) Mon, Jul 26, 2010 The Sarasota Herald Tribune's Business Weekly section today (July 26, 2010) had announcement that a local Sarasota Architect was recently awarded a new school project by the School Board of Polk County.  Congratulations to the architecture firm, BMK Architects Inc.  That's not the purpose of this post.  What I found curious was how the press release was worded.  It said the school was "a 115,000 square foot elementary school in Mulberry.  The campus will be a secure environment for students and staff, with gated entrances providing controlled access and buildings sited to allow visual observation of the entire campus from the administration building."  That was it.  Who decided that was the only thing to convey about the new school in this press release?  Is that the most important feature we are looking for in our school designs these days?  It sounds more like a prison than a school.  What if it said the new school would be full of natural daylighting and void of toxic chemicals?  It would be a healthy place to learn and the new design would increase test scores in the students by 10%, and it would have lower electric and water bills saving taxpayers money.  What if it said all these claims will be verified by an independent third party. What if the press release said the new school would seek LEED for Schools Certification from the US Green Building Council? The trend in new public school design is safety at the sacrifice of everything else.  Safety of the students is important, but it is not the only important thing.  Students need the best possible enironment to learn in.  Teachers need the best possible environment to teach in.  We need to demand more from the buildings our kids spend so much time in.   Check out Carlson Studio's design for a [new green school](https://www.carbonae.com/projects/---public-/-education-copy/) in Las Vegas. ![Green School Building](https://www.carbonae.com/hs-fs/file-14240146-jpg/images/new_horizons_1-resized-600.jpg)    [Read More](https://www.carbonae.com/journal/bid/113887/the-state-of-school-design-today-a-case-for-green-design)