Sustainable Design means satisfying the needs of the present generation without jeopardizing the needs of future generations.

Our design approach utilizes technology, creativity and strategic planning to help restore the social fabric and conserve resources. This strategy is one of our methods of creating communities of unique places that express the continuity of our habitation, the interconnectedness of all people, and our relationship with the physical environment. It is our desire to create places that are worthy of affection that can only enhance the surrounding environment.

One of the most difficult aspects of environmentally-responsive design that we have experienced is to find the most suitable materials and products that help sustain the earth and human health, and to meld these with the economics of the project. Our approach is through the initial design process that gives thoughtful placement and orientation of the buildings on the site; appropriate reduction of the overall building size; consideration of energy use, efficiency and impact; innovative approaches to resource conservation and recycling as well as human health; and selection of appropriate building materials in concert with the general contractor and the project’s budget.

Tools Used to Develop Sustainable Projects

• Environmental Goals Charette
• VMWP Green Spec Check List
• LEED Certified Design Team
• TCAC/Owner Requirements
• A belief that environmentally intelligent building design and uban planning is crucial to the world’s future.

Sustainability Links:

www.usgbc.org

Mixed-use building under construction

 Nueva Vista Family Housing
Santa Cruz, CA

Nueva Vista Family Housing is a 48-unit infill affordable family housing development located on a 1.3 acre site adjacent to the famed Santa Cruz Boardwalk. The site is next to a small pocket park that serves as the community focus for this urban neighborhood.

A 2,500 sf community center and 2,700 sf day care facility are located next to this park with the housing located on top and across the street. The solar housing is arranged around a secure courtyard with parking located in tuck under conditions at each side. Sustainable materials and a photovoltaic electrical system are integral components of the development.

What Was Incorporated?

• TCAC and Owner Criteria
• Individual Electrical and Gas Meters for all Units
• All Gas Heaters Off of Individual Hot Water Heaters
• Fully Ducted Cooking
• Apollo Type Heaters Off of Individual Hot Water
  Heaters
• Energy Star Rated Appliances
• All Fluorescent Lighting
• Beat Energy Requirements of Title 24 by 15%
• Low E Hard Coat Dual Glazing
• No Cooling
• Low Water Use Landscaping
• Photo Voltaic Solar Electric Systems
• Both on Courtyard Building and Mixed Use Building
• Certified Wood

Apollo Heating Unit

Low-E Glazing