Past was prolog: Flashback to Green architecture in 2000

“…The client had not explicitly stated green design as a goal…the budget was extremely tight, meaning that all decisions turned on first cost issues. … The project provides several object lessons.  The design team needs to be willing to move away from traditional practices. Consultants need to share in greening goals from the beginning if their innovations are to be incorporated. “  

WOW!  Well said!!!  But when he means “sharing” it means that each member of the team has to work selflessly and with completely informed decision making

Then there is the technical revelation of the article:  

“An example of the benefit of early coordination with the engineers is the [computer] model that enabled Ove Arup to [develop] passive cooling [design options].  This is in contrast to the more traditional method that brings in the mechanical engineers after the design is already well established. That practice tends to oversize equipment and bypass opportunities for engineering innovations.…has helped to change the way we design buildings at NBBJ….”
 

I was really taken with this article back in 2000, and the link has been on my machine for years. And you might ask, “what have I been doing since then?!”  I got romantic, I bought a house, moved in with my fiance, and got married. Is that so wrong?

 here is the original article 

http://www.architectureweek.com/2000/0816/culture_1-2.html