ADVANCE

As architects, we are in a unique position to raise awareness about environmental sustainability. The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to landfills; and the buildings we work and live in consume vast amounts of our natural resources. While innovative design, systems, and materials are often perceived as risky and expensive by owners and contractors, our mission is to advance sustainable change in the building industry incrementally by education and example.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

To demonstrate the benefits and beauty of sustainable design, Saltonstall Architects (SA) designed and built a house on a speculative basis. The house was constructed under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LEED® program created by the United States Green Building Council. During the design and construction of the home, SA educated the public on the cost, health and environmental benefits of sustainable design through site tours and presentations to community leaders, builders, realtors and the curious. Further education was given through a series of public forums and newspaper articles. The house sold in less than average market time and was profitable – people realize the value of sustainable design.

project images ::

EDUCATION BY DESIGN

Tabor Academy is a preparatory school that approached SA to renovate and expand its math and science center. SA encouraged school administration to use sustainable design principles for the project. Enticed by a state of the art facility that would significantly lower utility costs and the opportunity to educate students, faculty and alumni about construction, the school embraced the project. Setting a LEED® Silver Certification as the target standard for the building, the design and construction team measured success in greatly improved building performance. Energy models guided the choice of mechanical systems that minimized building energy use. Day lighting studies led to a ceiling design that reduced the number of light fixtures, lowering material costs and electrical consumption. Design ideas were explored, measured and tested to ensure optimal outcomes.

project images ::