Jody A. Woodley, AIA
Plan the Work. Work the Plan.
When creating sustainable work and educational environments, designing “green spaces” is only part of the equation. We know design extends beyond the building, its finishes, and its functions to transform how people think, act, and interact throughout the day. HEALY BENDER PATTON & BEEN ARCHITECTS is committed to finding environmentally, socially, and financially equitable strategies for your next building project. We understand the importance of building environments for occupant well-being and performance while meeting the growing demand for low-emission solutions.
Our approach to LEED Certification is to ‘Plan the Work’ and ‘Work the Plan’. Planning identifies sustainability goals and objectives. Working tracks progress toward compliance and the eventual approval of LEED credits from the USGBC. With this approach, Green Building Design is the active driver for many of our design solutions.
Prior to Design Commencement
In concert with the Owner, design team, and other project representatives, we review and discuss prospective LEED credits based upon known site information and preliminary building assumptions.
We perform an Eco-Charrette with the Owner, design team, and other project representatives to review prospective LEED credits including their financial implications. We discuss everyone's commitment to pursue certain credits based on budget, sustainability goals, and project objectives. Results of the Eco-Charrette are placed into several categories; 'YES' – 'Maybe YES' – 'Maybe NO' – and 'NO'.
Get the project registered with USGBC based upon decisions made at the Eco-Charrette.
Explore grant opportunities to take full advantage of OPM (Other People’s Money).
Design Phases
Utilizing results of the Eco-Charrette, we organize the project design effort toward the goal of credit compliance. Building orientation studies with energy modelling are utilized for the basis of early design decisions.
Throughout the fluid progress of design, we conduct regular LEED meetings to review status of credit documentation and compliance. When and where necessary due to budget, project scope, or other factors, we look for adjustments needed to achieve compliance with as many credits as possible.
Upon final design and after a comprehensive audit of Design Credits, we submit the project to USGBC for review.
Construction Phase
It is critical in the construction phase to continue regular LEED meetings to review construction credit documentation and compliance.
Follow up with basic and enhanced commissioning ensures conformance with design requirements.
Upon completion of construction and a comprehensive audit of Construction Credits, it's time to submit to USGBC for review.
‘Plan the Work’ and ‘Work the Plan’. Good documentation, follow through during design and construction, and compliance will result in a great project - one everyone can be proud of.