Architecture is only partly about design. It's also about organizing a process to accomplish the goals of the project. The building is a means to an end. Sustainable design is the umbrella for making the right things happen. It is a tool. Every aspect of a building should be focused on serving project goals.

The first 5% of design represents 90% of the owner's commitment to both first cost and long-term costs. So it's very important to have a well designed and well-integrated process. Visioning can include setting goals and objectives, facilitating the sustainable design process, and working with your consultants (who may have little experience with sustainable design) to get the most value.

LEED* is a system for improving the performance of buildings and then publicly affirming the effort. More importantly, it's a way of monitoring and documenting that the design and building process is a)integrated, and b)moving in the intended direction.

LEED is not rocket science. But implementing it in a cost effective manner requires both experience and understanding. There are a wide range of choices that impact both short and long term costs. We can help you sort through this maze to make the best choices possible.

*the LEED Green Building Rating System is developed by the US Green Building Council

Effective process is key to integrated solutions. We can review and analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a situation and help create a process to address the issues.