GREEN STRATEGIES

The term “green” is used to describe sustainable design as it pertains to the design and building industry. Green buildings, also called high-performing buildings, are not only environmentally responsible and energy/resource efficient, they are also healthier places to work. The benefits of healthy buildings and spaces are felt by owners, employees and the general public alike.

Beyond saving money, high performing buildings are healthier for its occupants. ISI can help.

For more information, please contact us so that we can provide further information on our Greentegrity sustainable design services.

Some basic strategies to a well designed, high performing building are as follows:

MATERIALS - INTERIOR/EXTERIOR

STRATEGIES	BENEFITS
Investigate use of recycled or reclaimed materials.	Selecting recycled or reclaimed materials can add tremendous character without adding cost and can in fact cost less in many cases.
Research the use of rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo, cork and Mesquite hardwood flooring as examples.	By selecting materials that do not have a finite supply you can not only assist in the conservation of world resources but often times support the community and local businesses in the process.
Incorporate FSC Certified (Forest Stewardship Council) materials and substrates.	The integration of FSC Certified materials ensures the promotion of responsible forestry management.
Incorporate low or no-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, adhesives, sealants and substrates.	Low or no-VOC materials create less off-gassing of contaminates resulting in improved indoor air quality and healthier buildings and their occupants.

INTERIOR PLANNING

STRATEGIES	BENEFITS
Plan interior spaces efficiently by minimizing dead spaces such as corridors and maximizing shared services and appropriate adjacencies.	Bigger is not always better. Through efficient space planning, you can potentially reduce the size of your building which can reduce both construction and operational costs.

RECLAMATION PROGRAMS FOR INTERIOR MATERIALS

STRATEGIES	BENEFITS
Investigate companies that will reclaim materials that typically are disposed of in landfills such as acoustical ceiling tile, light bulbs, carpet and resilient flooring and tile.	By having your demolition and construction waste diverted you can not only save on landfill tipping fees but also ensure that old product can be used for something new saving valuable resources.