At Egan | Simon Architecture, we work hard to sustain natural resources
and our environment for future use through conscious architectural choices. We incorporate
strategies that work with nature, not against it. Not only does this decrease the
adverse impact on our planet, but we believe that it also creates architectural
spaces and buildings that are more enjoyable and enhance quality of life for the
occupants. We are always looking to the future, learning more, and evolving to benefit
the environment we live in.
LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a certification process,
established by the U.S. Green Building Council, which measures “green” buildings.
Projects are ranked in a range from “Certified” to “Platinum” level. The program
provides a concise framework for improving building energy performance while advocating
for improved human health conditions. We have provided services to numerous LEED-rated
projects, including five Platinum Level LEED for Homes recipients. Richard Fedrizzi,
President, CEO and Founding Chairman of USGBC, noted our work as “invigorating and inspirational.”
Energy
The dawn is rising on a new energy infrastructure era. From advances in solar photovoltaic
electrical systems, to solar thermal hot water heat exchange and wind power, we
look to renewable building system technologies as current and future building standards.
Converting solar energy into electrical power, capturing the wind, or using the
sun’s heat as part of a domestic hot water system reduces our reliance on conventional
energy sources. Consequently, building operational costs are significantly lowered,
carbon emissions are reduced, existing energy infrastructures are less impacted
by development, and most importantly our future becomes brighter.
Water
It is imperative, and we believe our responsibility, to include water conservation
as a primary design element. Potable water is a diminishing primary life supporting
resource. Responsible development includes low consumption plumbing fixtures, drip
irrigation systems, and the use of reclaimed water. Clean water for the future starts
with decreased demand.
Lifecycle
Where is a material from? What it is made of? And, what will happen at the end of
its lifecycle? These questions equate to the benefits of local production, durability,
and recycling. Egan | Simon specifies local products to reduce the impact of transportation,
products with high percentages of post-consumer recycled content, and products which
will be recycled in the future, thereby reducing our dependence on landfills. From
finish materials such as countertops, flooring and paint, to rough materials such
as insulation, adhesives and lumber, every projects lifecycle will end. Our goal
is to prolong the building lifecycle, recycle the past development, and acknowledge
future material demands.
Holistic
Holistic design interconnects buildings and their environment. From site orientation
to aesthetics, the impact of each design element together defines the project whole.
Our projects strive to optimize natural daylight and ventilation through prevailing
breezes and solar angle exposure. Concurrently, shading of the structure to reduce
building envelope heat gain (heat island effect) significantly reduces building
air conditioning system demands. Through the selection of materials with low or
no volatile organic compounds (VOC), chemicals which in high concentrations can
cause various health problems, indoor air quality is increased.
