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Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is one of the oldest and most popular green building rating systems. Overseen by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED provides a holistic, verifiable approach to sustainability in the built environment. 

Buildings are designed for occupants. The architectural process should involve those who use the space daily and lead to solutions that fit their needs.   

Selecting a site is one of the first steps of a building project. Although this process can feel overwhelming, an architect can provide direction. 

Greenbuild is the largest annual event for green building professionals worldwide. It offers the opportunity for designers, building managers, contractors, and community organizers to come together and learn solutions for improving sustainability in the built environment.   

Building project commissioning is the process of checking building systems and verifying that they are designed, constructed, and operating as intended. Investing in the service can prevent operational inefficiencies and reduce maintenance and energy costs. It is also a requirement for many building verification systems, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). 

A building project is an opportunity to reduce your energy consumption and operational costs, and throughout the design process, you can expect to discuss building performance with your architect. 

Commissioning is the process of analyzing a building’s systems to confirm they are working correctly and prevent operational inefficiencies. The service is often an additional project cost that provides a return on investment through energy savings and improved occupant comfort. 

Utilizing a certification system is one of the most effective ways to achieve a high-quality, high-performing building. While some systems focus on specific metrics like energy performance or occupant health, others provide a more holistic approach to sustainability. Building certification systems also verify that your building operates as intended. 

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a framework for healthy and efficient buildings. Overseen by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), it has become the most widely used third-party green building rating system worldwide. 

According to the American Institute of Architects, the built environment accounts for nearly 40% of greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the importance of architecture in the fight against climate change.