Preconstruction

The preconstruction period holds enormous opportunity for the kind of teambuilding, design, planning and learning which will inform and guide the entire building process. This is the time to come together as a "green team" to consider lot selection and development, building design and features, energy choices, realistic assessment of needed materials and costs, and above all, solidifying strong collaborative skills and a commitment to full participation among everyone involved. Thoughtful attention to relationships, physical conditions, building performance objectives and collaborative skills now can set the stage for all to participate productively in bringing a truly viable and shared vision to life.

Design, Layout and Infrastructure

The integrated design process has goals beyond coming up with some blueprints; it aims to bring all people with a stake in the building - financers, designers, occupants, developers, and sub contractors— together to plan, communicate and work, always considering how each component will interact with others resulting in a well functioning whole system. See how a new decision making format called a charretteA collaborative multi-day planning process that harnesses the talents and energies of all project stakeholders held in the pre-design phase to develop goals and objectives, define roles, and select strategies for maximizing the project’s environmental performance. This is when a green building rating system checklist would be introduced to the team. was used in Atlanta to provide optimum conditions for exchanging information and ideas, building a wide buy-in on goals, choices and methods, and facilitating maximum green improvements because of the ease and cost savings that accrue when a plan is well integrated and the vision is clear and mutual.

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Lot Selection

Though choices here may sometimes seem limited, there is much that can be done in the areas of building design and placement, landscaping, and effective assessment of the site's opportunities and challenges before building begins. Natural and social features of the site matter, everything from water sources, accessibility to transportation, shops and recreation, potential renewal energy sources, and possibilities for appropriate greater density. BrownfieldAbandoned or under-utilized industrial or commercial sites in urban, suburban or rural areas where redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination and potential health risks. EPA's Brownfields initiative helps communities mitigate potential health risks and restore the economic viability of such areas or properties. and infill sites may offer benefits; tips and resources for making the most of these are included. Whatever the situation, there will always be ways to optimize your use of the specific site in question; here are guidelines to help you do that.

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Low Impact Lot Development

Protecting the natural environment around the building site - both during construction and occupancy - will save you money while insuring the multiple benefits of habitat protection, stewardship of water and soil resources, and greater ease in maintaining healthy systems. Taking the time to assess, understand and design for the specific site will allow you to implement conscious storm water management, bioretention techniques, and reuse and recycling methods, resulting in a whole system approach that will be pleasing to live in and easier to maintain.

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