Sustainable design practices aim to reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and produce healthy environments. While the core objectives of sustainable design are the same across the globe, architects must adapt to local environments.

Design work doesn’t happen in a bubble. Like all creatives, architects look to examples of past work to generate ideas and solve problems. The process of studying past work is known as precedent research, and it’s foundational to every building project.

Physical modeling is one of the most useful tools at an architect’s disposal. For centuries, the practice has helped architects solve complex problems and express ideas.

The architectural process can last several months, and in that time, a lot can happen. Whether you experience a change in budget or operations, you may want to alter the design at some point.

Taking on a building project is a big commitment. Some building owners need to devote time to the project outside their regular working hours, a commitment that may feel like an additional part-time job.

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.

In the world of high-performance buildings, the WELL Building Standard™ version 2 (WELLv2) has emerged as one of the most influential frameworks for elevating human health through design, operations, and policy. Rooted in rigorous science and public health research, WELL certification is a roadmap for designing places where people thrive. WELLv2 is built around a simple hypothesis: a built environment directly affects human wellness. Unlike many traditional sustainability frameworks that focus on resources used, WELL places physical, cognitive, and social health at the forefront of design decisions. It achieves this through a performance-based system that measures and certifies how well a project supports occupant health from airflow and water quality to nourishment, movement, and community engagement.

The architectural process can be long and complex, and throughout a project’s lifecycle, goals and priorities may shift. That’s why we periodically check in with clients and make sure expectations are aligning with experience.

Public bidding can be nerve-racking. In times of economic uncertainty, you may worry about bids coming in over budget. Thankfully, your architect can help manage uncertainty by utilizing a bid alternate.

Building projects are not limited to the design and construction of the building. As a building owner, you also need to plan for the moveable parts within the building, including the furniture, electronic systems, and decorative items.