Sustainable/LEED® Experience

Our experience with sustainable design dates back to the Shoreline Office Building which won an award in 1984 for “Most Outstanding Project in the Category of Energy Conservation”. In the years since, we have completed numerous other projects that utilize sustainable technologies such as geothermal heat, natural day lighting, high efficiency windows, advanced lighting and HVAC controls, reflective roof membranes and re-used/recycled materials. In combination with our knowledge of sustainable technologies we are familiar with the most common certification processes such as LEED (we have three LEED Accredited Professionals on staff and currently the office remodel for McAlvain Construction is under review for LEED Gold Certification), Green Globes and Energy Star. This makes us well qualified to help you achieve your sustainability goals whether they include one of these certification processes or not.

There are many reasons to be sustainable; to be a responsible steward of the Earth, to reduce life cycle operating costs of the building or to gain public recognition of your efforts. LEED, or any of the other certifications, while a good gauge for the level of sustainability, are not really necessary for good stewardship or lower operating costs, but they will go a long way toward your public relations goals.

Toward that end, we begin by working with the project owner during the pre-design phase to determine the sustainable design priorities. During the subsequent phases we will explore the cost-benefit of sustainable building techniques to determine the most beneficial and cost effective to pursue and we will present the results in a written report. If required, we will incorporate the requirements for LEED, or other, certifications into all documents at all phases of design and will work with the contractor and mechanical and electrical sub-contractors to insure a coordinated effort toward a certified building during the construction process.

The Team Approach

BRS Architects has been teamwork focused since inception. Understanding the value of teamwork and how it relates to project success is one of the most distinguishing characteristics of BRS. From the initial kick-off meeting, through project completion the firm’s approach to design and project administration is based on a collaborative effort. Through all aspects of a project, BRS utilizes this approach by maximizing the talents, skills, and experience of all the members of the project whether they are a BRS employee or an outside consultant. This team centered approach provides the client with the highest value for their project by enhancing efficiency, providing better communication, and creating a highly effective method for problem solving.

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Our Staff