Miller's Green Building Practices
Integrated Design
Every day, Miller Architects & Builders improves upon integrated design methods for effective and sustainable building. If done right, integrated designs can result in long-term sustainable solutions for building owners. But what is integrated design?
The word “integrate” in designing and constructing a building means to coordinate and blend all aspects and systems into one functioning, unified whole. For example, if a project’s architects, structural engineers, and systems engineers work together from the beginning, they can ensure every element of the facility can work together in one cohesive unit. And with our design-build services, integrating building designs is easier, because all design and building team members are housed with Miller Architects & Builders.
Daylighting
Optimal use of daylight in a building’s design plays a critical role in sustainability because it’s a free, renewable light source. Daylighting, shading and lighting control strategies can help to provide a naturally lit and cost-effective building. The most common design sources of natural light include tactfully-placed:
- Windows
- Skylights
- Light shafts
- Atriums
- Translucent panels
A building’s careful architectural design and orientation can both maximize natural light and maintain indoor temperature regulation. While our architects begin creating design schemas, they will also take the building location and orientation into account. Working with the construction team and contracted engineers, we can orient a building to maximize daylight potential, while also taking into account the sun’s daily movement.
Building Location
During the pre-construction phase, if you’re having trouble picking a location for your new facility, we will assist with your site evaluations and comparisons. This step involves analyzing the site selection based on several factors including: location, topography, environmental impact, potential excavation costs, utilities, road access, and size. Where does the sustainability come in to this step?
For example, take into account your building’s location in regard to public transportation. If the building’s tenants can easily take the train or bus to and from that location, you can infer they will use less gas from driving, and therefore, have a positive impact on the environment. This is just one of the more discreet ways Miller Architects & Builders incorporates sustainability into our building practices.
Call on Our Design-Build Professionals Today
Miller has always investigated and implemented the most energy efficient and cost-effective solutions in terms of materials and building systems. We strive to take advantage of the latest technologies with respect to their availability, efficiency, long-term use, and reuse. For more information about our sustainable design and building practices, contact us today.