4.
Green Team –
Approaching design holistically
Generally, it’s easier to build a sustainable building if at least one
member of the design team has experience with green building. Team members who specialize in green building will
be at least somewhat familiar with the strategies that can be applied and the material
options that are available. They can help
avoid the costs associated with extra research and a learning curve because they
won’t be starting from square one. However,
one team member alone can’t make a building sustainable. It is essential that all team members work
together in a holistic approach. Because a
house is a complex combination of systems, it is vital that all the systems be integrated
and balanced to complement one another in achieving maximum efficiency. For example, improving insulation in a building
often means that the heating/cooling system doesn’t have to be as large—but the
mechanical designer needs to be made aware of this opportunity.
Recommendations:
§
Select
team members based on demonstrated interest and awareness of sustainable building
techniques, such as EnergyStar-qualified builders.
§ Hold
whole-design team meetings to make sure that everyone who will be working on the project
is familiar with the priorities.
§ Designate
a design team member who is responsible for integration of innovations to ensure a
holistic approach.
Reference:
