Core Principles
CLEAN DESIGN, CLEAR PROCESS
Clean Design
Our designs are not flashy or trendy, relying instead on principles of clean
design:
- Logical planning
- The building supports and improves working/learning conditions
- Quality construction
- Unique solutions to our client’s specific needs
- Simple details which are easy to construct and maintain
- Energy efficient design to lower operating costs
- No predetermined or predefined style but a sensitivity to historical precedents
and context
Clear Process
- Our project management approach is straightforward, timely and organized.
The process is both educational and enjoyable! - A transparent process, where clients are aware of design decisions and
the reasons behind them, know the schedule and are informed of the project
progress - An interactive process where clients and users are part of our design team
- An organized process in which schedules are met and information is always
available
ENERGY AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION
We assess every project’s environmental quality as a part of our basic
services and carefully consider design strategies and material selection to
increase energy efficiency, resource conservation and environmental sensitivity
to:
- Reduce the amount of energy used in construction and building operations
- Reduce resources (including water) used in construction and encourage recycling
and conservation - Promote environmental quality (of the air, water, land and light both indoors
and outdoors)
Energy Efficiency Experience
Having spent the past ten years researching methods, including two years
of study at the master’s level, we have an in depth understanding of
the complexity of the choices that must be made when designing energy-conserving
buildings. We also have experience using accurate methods and addressing user
issues to lower operating costs for cooling, heating and lighting.
Passive heating and cooling strategies:
- Proper ratio of glass to interior mass
- Low-e coatings for decreasing heat loss through windows
- Shading devices (including overhangs) to admit sun during underheat and block it in overheat periods (a more complex issue than simple winter/summer sun angles)
- Night setback thermostats
- Orientation
- Natural ventilation
Daylighting strategies:
- Light controls (photocells, dimmable ballasts, motion sensors)
- Shading devices to eliminate direct sun
- Even lighting
- Lighting shades for blackout
- Energy management system to sweep lights off at intervals throughout the
day