SUSTAINABILITY

The Larson Group Architects is committed to preserving our natural environment, economy, health and productivity. The built environment has a profound impact on these. We are dedicated to finding the best solutions and utilizing "green" building practices in our designs.


Site Considerations

  • The Larson Group can assist with selecting an appropriate site. Some sustainable issues to consider include:
    • Location relative to existing communities or population densities
    • Access to alternate transportation resources (transportation, parking, etc)
    • Will the project reclaim contaminated property for use?
    • Can any animal species habitats or open areas be maintained?
  • All projects by The Larson Group minimize stormwater runoff and water quality with careful coordination between users, architects, civil engineers and contractors along with city officials to determine the most effective solution.
  • Light colored roofing and paving materials at Air Academy Federal Credit Union helps to minimize the heat island effect typical in urban developments.

Minimize Water Use

  • Install plumbing fixtures that use less water, such as low flow toilets, can help reduce overall water use.
  • Air Academy Federal Credit Union has dual flush toilets, allowing users to choose less or more water depending on the need.
  • Exterior water use can be decreased by planting native vegetation that requires less irrigation than others, providing a balance between aesthetics and water conservation.
  • Air Academy Federal Credit Union landscape mixes irrigated areas with xeriscape areas.

Mechanical and Electrical Systems

  • Select high efficiency mechanical and electrical equipment to reduce energy use and ongoing costs.
  • An underfloor air distribution system, such as installed at Air Academy Federal Credit Union, can provide improved air quality and decrease energy usage.
  • Alternate sources of energy can be considered to further decrease environmental waste.

Construction Material Selection

  • Install products with recycled content cuts down on garbage waste.
  • Products made of rapidly renewable resources reduce destruction of natural habitat.
  • Trees harvested from sustainable forests help maintain animal habitat and other natural resources.
  • Products available regionally can decrease fuel waste and air pollution.
  • Install materials that do not pollute the environment during manufacturing, installation or use.
  • Air Academy Federal Credit Union was built with many products made from recycled materials.
  • In a remodel project, reusing materials removed during construction diverts waste from landfills.

Occupant Comfort

  • Interior spaces can be designed to improve user comfort
    • Provide natural daylight as far into the building as possible
    • Limit direct sunlight (reduces heat gain, which also helps decrease energy use)
      • Air Academy Federal Credit Union utilizes sun shades and light shelves to decrease direct sunlight while reflecting the light further into office areas.
    • Personal control of heat, cooling, and/or ventilation
      • Air Academy Federal Credit Union’s underfloor air distribution utilizes individual air flow controls for personal comfort
    • Personal control of lighting
    • Use materials that to not emit bad odors
      • Air Academy Federal Credit Union was built with many products that do not off-gas uncomfortable odors.

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