Page 38 - 2012 SDCA Project

SUSTAINABILITY

PROPOSALS

The suggested interior, architectural, and landscape designs proposed for achieving similar results at less or no premium space, it will introduce green space and open areas for the
that are presented for this project have already incorporated costs. It might also result in higher certification levels and public, which will then be designed to beneficially manage
many sustainable features. The purpose of this narrative is corresponding life cycle savings within the established storm water and provide shade and reflective hardscapes for
to further elaborate the various sustainable strategies that budget. There is also the possibility of receiving specific an enjoyable atmosphere and experience.
should be considered in the proposed renovation of the donations for some of these strategies (e.g. solar panels) Our recommendations to further these advantages are:

building and surrounding community. that would lessen any first-costs. - Provide bicycle racks for better non-vehicular access
as well as preferred parking for low emitting vehicles and car
LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Our recommendations will follow the LEED organization of and van pools.

is a 3rd party green building rating system developed by the site, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and - Ensure that construction activities do not damage
United States Green Building Council (USGBC). We have resources and indoor environmental quality. Please also existing green space and restore native vegetation in the
followed this system in our evaluation of the sustainable refer to the specific recommendations made in other areas surrounding areas without the need for irrigation, or use non-
opportunities that this project provides. of the booklet. potable water for irrigation. We are recommending rain water
Please refer to the LEED® Checklist that accompanies this harvesting for the building but this same approach should be

narrative that lists the various prerequisites and credits that To start, we have considered that this project would be most considered for the community areas.
we feel will be able to be incorporated into the project’s applicable to the LEED rating system for New Construction - Use green areas (bio-swales and retention areas) to
design and construction at minimal additional costs. Some (NC) under Building Design + Construction as it will be manage and capture storm water and provide irrigation for

of these items may increase the initial cost of materials 100% owner-occupied. plantings.
or systems to be included in the project, but should be - Provide reflective hardscapes, such as light colored
considered along with the energy and water savings over SITE pavers, that do not contribute to heat island effects.
their life span, as well as in conjunction with their health - Additionally, exterior lighting and lighting that escapes
and environmental benefits. One aspect that should The building site is established and not intended to from the building should be designed to minimize light

be mentioned is that a LEED project (and any green or change. The larger vision of incorporating the building pollution to the surrounding areas, while maintaining proper
sustainable project) lends itself to an integrated design-build into the surrounding area for the community offers many safety and security.
approach, such as has already begun with this project. One opportunities to enhance and protect the environment.

advantage of this approach is that preliminary estimates can By its location, there is public transportation and trails within
be done in early design stages resulting in options walking distance. The building will serve as an attraction
and focal point to invite public to the area. With community
38 RAGS 2012