THE DIFFERENCE
IN OUR APPROACH
SUSTAINABILITY, NET ZERO, PASSIVE HOUSE, WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
AND WHY DOES IT MATTER TO YOU?
There are a lot of different terms that have been used and missed used by the industry professionals and through our publications. And that’s okay, it’s been a rapidly changing field and study within architecture and design. Our performance practices have been radically tested by an ever changing world. It is our responsibility as an architectural practice to be future forward, to design something today that can adapt for tomorrow’s climate. That what we do differently matters for your long term comfort and piece of mind. Our team is highly trained in sustainability, we source local materials, we use great products that perform well in our project locations, and we do it with financially responsible way. Our detailing techniques are leading in the industry as they not only exceed today’s environmental code, but they exceed for your wellness for decades.
Passive House
Passive house techniques are the global leader in climate responsiveness and sustainable practices. The techniques are tested, proven, constructable within your budget and there is certification available from the Passive House Institute.
The passive house principles are:
Super Insulation Envelopes, Airtightness, Energy Recovery, Orientation, Thermal-Bridge-Free Detailing, Renewable Energy, and Right-sizing-Equipment
PH uses whole building energy modeling to optimize design parameters early in the project to help clients make smart decisions and minimize the budget impact. A thoughtfully designed building envelope ensures continuity and integrity of the many layers. Improving air quality, reducing thermal heat loss, and optimizing energy usage.
Green design or green architecture, was the beginning of the movement for forward thinking, sustainable practices, aimed to conserve energy, reuse and consideration of building materials and impacts on the environment.
Aimed to use all local and natural site resources when available or close by, recycled, renewable, or the least distance away were key concerns.
Green Design/Sustainabilty
LEED
L.E.E.D. or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, developed by U.S. Green Building Council, and uses its own points based rating system for excellence in green building. Certification is gained by adhering to prerequisites and credits across nine metrics.
Our team is trained and certified for these types of building techniques. We consider this an a la carte service for the extra paper work and time required for the councils reviews. Our passive house detailing covers the construction aspects and more.
Net Zero
Net zero is the goal. Net Zero energy is the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from resource consumption to zero. Not only is it about the sites energy but also the embodied energy for all material components.
The buildings become balanced with their environment, gain energy from many renewable sources, are energy efficient, and lower the cost of living, and can provide protection from energy price increases.
Energy, Water, and Waste can all be considered. Often closed, semi-closed loops, or natural alternatives can be engineered to replace the conventional systems.
Contact
We know the jargon, so you don’t have to, but we like for you to be in the know too! Energy, design, and understanding the complexities of our environments for your WELLNESS is our job. We are happy to help guide you through your project wither you are a first-timer or seasoned-yet-curious pro.
Feel free to reach out with comments/questions/ or conversation Admin@ethanmerritt.com. We are always glad to engage in a #DialogueInDesign.
Email and Instagram are linked below.