Enable low-cost embodied carbon reductions in Concept Design.

Architectural Concept Design Steps to Reduce Embodied Carbon:

1) Encourage refurbishment and reuse of existing buildings.

2) Orient the building for optimal solar gain.

3) Locate the amount of glazing on each elevation to manage daylighting and minimize energy losses.

4) Minimize the window/wall ratio appropriate to each building elevation.

5) Minimize the wall/floor ratio.

6) Minimize the articulation of exterior walls.

7) Design for future flexibility and adaptability.

Architectural Concept Design Steps to Allow Larger Carbon Reductions in Each Building System:

Structure

1) Avoid sites having difficult subgrade soils and that require deep foundation systems.

2) Establish a regular structural grid with smaller column spacings (20-24 ft).

3) Work with the structural engineer to establish a symmetrical and efficient lateral force resisting system.

4) Minimize floor-to-floor height.

5) Avoid the use of concrete or masonry for exterior cladding backup walls.

6) Avoid the requirement for column transfers.

7) Minimize the extent of underground construction.

8) Avoid the use of precast exterior spandrels or cladding.

Enclosure

1) Minimize the number of different exterior cladding types.

2) Minimize floor-to-floor height.

3) Select exterior cladding systems by evaluating alternatives and selecting low carbon compositions.

4) Minimize the area of curtain walls.

5) Avoid the use of double skin cavity curtain walls.

6) Use internal shades for curtain walls rather than external shading fins.

7) Use structural timber mullions for curtain walls where possible.

8) Avoid additional design elements on the exterior of the cladding system.

Interiors

1) Omit the need for flooring by using exposed polished concrete where possible.

2) Omit ceilings where possible, exposing the structure and MEP systems.

3) Design for open workspaces as opposed to enclosed offices.

4) Design for natural lighting of spaces where feasible.

5) Avoid using raised floor systems.

MEP

1) Design for high R-value insulation to minimize mechanical unit equipment sizes.

2) Optimize the air distribution system with the mechanical engineer to minimize ductwork.

3) Use natural ventilation.

FF&E

1) Avoid using cubicle system furniture.

2) Use centralized kitchen/break areas to minimize the number of appliances required.

3) Locate any kitchen facility on one floor.

Site

1) Minimize the use of concrete and structural steel in exterior landscaping.

2) Maximize the use of native plants and trees.