Our Green Pilot Project: 1512 South Flores

For us and for many architects, "green" design, or sustainable architecture, is not a new idea. It is integral with traditional best practices when siting a building to best climatic advantage, deciding to adapt an existing structure, or opting to reuse materials.

What is new is the expanded definition of "environmental impact." In addition to well understood principles such as incorporating recycled and sustainable materials, we now consider controlling the subtler impacts such as minor emissions released from materials and finishes, and negative factors like the carbon footprint of transporting materials over long distances.

When Alamo Architects adapted on old industrial warehouse into a spacious and technologically sophisticated work environment, we took great care to minimize the site’s new environmental footprint. We, along with OCO Architects, who share the campus with us, used the opportunity to develop what we collectively consider a model for future sustainable projects.

For those who want to know more, here is a fairly thorough checklist of the steps we took towards making our new home a green one:

Site

Urban infill development
Historic rehabilitation (preservation of original industrial form)
Community outreach (neighborhood support, uses of facilities offered)
Construction activity pollution prevention plan implemented to prevent construction debris and pollution from contaminating surrounding areas and waterways

Maximization of open space/original building footprint maintained: landscaped courtyards and gathering spaces provided for building occupants
Quantity control of storm water: rainwater collection and semi-porous paving (alternative materials to asphalt and concrete) prevent excessive runoff from site

Reduction of heat island effect (heat absorption during the day and heat radiation at night)
Reflective roof as opposed to dark roofing (rigid insulation installed above deck)

Light colored paving materials and landscaped areas, in contrast to asphalt

Water features in rear courtyard

Transportation

Located close to multiple public bus lines and stops
Stone bench, shade trees to be added at bus stop for public use
Preferred parking to be provided for hybrid and carpool vehicles
Secure bicycle storage to be offered

Water Conservation

Rainwater and reclaimed condensate to be collected in cistern(s) for irrigation. Second cistern, which will collect rainwater from the north half of the roof, to be installed.

Potable water need for irrigation to be drastically reduced (and potentially eliminated once both cisterns are operational). Xeriscape plant selections reduce need for water.
Efficient fixture selections include low-flow/motion sensors in bathrooms, reducing water use by 30 percent.

Energy Use

Optimized energy performance of mechanical systems
All systems commissioned for proper operation and efficiency
General lighting on timer/control panel to optimize energy savings, reduce power draw when building is not in use
High daylight levels reduce need for general lighting
Energy Star appliances selected
Roof Insulation = R21
Wall Insulation =R19
Glazing =1" insulated with low-E coating

Materials/Resources

Construction waste diverted from landfill through material reuse and recycling

Original building/structure components reused; these include concrete slab, frame, steel structure, structural clay tile, windows
Entry gates, trellis, feature reused steel
“Flagstone” paving, north courtyard fencing feature reused concrete
Overhead doors from old structure become workstation partitions in new work and reception areas
Clerestory frames used for loft stair guardrail, courtyard fencing
Mezzanine wood decking reused as wall paneling, door frame, window trim, partition edging
Recycling facilities available for paper, aluminum, glass, metal, plastic

Indoor Air Quality

Air quality control plan implemented during construction to reduce airborne contaminates associated with construction process and material handling

Low VOC adhesives and sealants used
Low VOC paints and coatings used
Low VOC carpets specified
High levels of natural daylight increase occupant comfort

Task lamps provided for occupant controllability
Operable windows installed for natural ventilation and occupant comfort
Outside views preserved for all occupant