AT- Environmental Program (project priorities)

High Priorities

1. First and foremost, I want my design to qualify for a minimum of a LEED certification. Obviously I would like it to achieve a platinum rating, but since this is the first project that I have ever worked on (even if it is purely academic) that is shooting for LEED points, I see this as a great opportunity to become acquainted with the process. I intend to remain consciously aware of LEED requirements throughout the design process and have a theoretical list of points that I feel the design could achieve by the end of the semester.
2. 50% reduction in energy consumption. In keeping with the 2030 challenge; "All new buildings, developments and major renovations shall be designed to meet a fossil fuel, GHG-emitting, energy consumption performance standard of 50% of the regional (or country) average for that building type." This goal is intended to be met by all buildings prior to 2010, and is a great way to aggressively move toward the goals set forth by the challenge.
3. Where possible, sustainable systems and design features will be showcased to increase awareness and drum up excitement concerning green building strategies. The 2010 imperative strives for "complete ecological literacy in design education." For this to realistically happen, design schools must also serve as laboratories for green technologies & methods to be experimented with.

Low(er) Priorities

1. All occupied spaces will have access to views and natural lighting. This type of exposure to the environment is an extremely important feature for any space used by human beings and it should be incorporated in all design.
2. All plant materials used in outdoor spaces and/or greenroof will be native plant materials suited for the New England climate and requiring minimal maintenance.
3. At least 30% of the building will/could be comprised of pre-fabricated modules. In addition to sustainability, pre-fabrication conveys a sense of speed and efficiency also. These are qualities which help make the Distance M.Arch program special and should be seen in its design.