Sustainability is an important issue in architectural design at CYMA 2. Architecture has a major impact on the natural environment and we feel that it is an important issue to address in our designs. Former partner Chris Hussey has incorporated sustainable design techniques since the last push for environmental awareness in the 1970s. Mr. Hussey was the professional advisor to a regional competition for energy efficient homes, sponsored by the New England Electric Company. We are continuing to expand our involvement in this area. Buildings are a major consumer of energy and natural resources, and with a limited supply, it is imperative that we reduce our consumption and look to alternative resources to energize our built environment. Below is a list of guidelines used by CYMA 2 to achieve our
goals of sustainable design.
- Approach to Transportation
Goal: To take in consideration the possible modes of transportation accessible to the site and to take advantage of public, or non-mechanical modes of transportation whenever possible.
- Approach to site
Goal: To develop a design that has the least impact on the natural environment and identifies and respects the sites inherent properties.
- Re-Use of Existing Structures
Goal: To investigate all possible means of re-use of existing structures before opting for demolition. If demolition is necessary, recycle or re-use materials in other ways.
- Controlling Size:
Goal: To recognize that increased building size means more energy consumption and more building materials. Also to recognize and respect the scale of the neighborhood.
- Energy Efficiency
Goal: To design a building with energy conservation as a major influence, including envelop, mechanical equipment, and appliances. To Investigate alternative energy uses whenever appropriate.
- Water Management
Goal: to recognize and reconcile the buildings influence on runoff and drainage. To investigate gray water systems when possible and to spec, low water use appliances.
- Chemical and Pollutant Control
Goal: To recognize and minimize the use of products with toxins including all adhesives and caulks. To create a safe environment for the occupants.
- Design Efficiency
Goal: To create a design that maximizes the usable area in the structure as well as material usage, minimize construction waste.
- Material Selection
Goal: To consciously select materials based on:
- Renewable or recycled content
- Recycleability
- Toxicity
- Embodied Energy
- Life expectancy
- Cost
- Causal Impact
Goal: To recognize and minimize impact on the immediate environment and neighborhood.
