OVERVIEW
More than any other building type, healthcare facilities might provide the greatest opportunity for the positive impact of green building measures.
From hospitals to doctors’ offices to outpatient clinics, these buildings provide healing space for our most vulnerable populations.
In addition, these projects are often saddled with very intensive energy demands from medical equipment and yet have high sensitivity to operating costs. An additional challenge is that many aging facilities require updates but have to grapple with supporting complex programs.
Healthcare organizations have been pioneers in green building, including in integrating the design process. They have found remarkable financial benefits from reducing energy use, along with health benefits from avoiding toxic chemicals and from connecting patients with the natural environment.
IN-DEPTH
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COVID-19 and Germicidal UV Light: Myth vs. Fact
News Brief
Germicidal UV light has a potential role in fighting COVID-19, say lighting engineers.
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The Sound of Sustainability: Acoustics in High-Performance Design
Feature Article
Acoustic performance is often overlooked by human-centered design. A holistic approach shows how to navigate the complexities of “sustainable acoustics.”
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Work Globally, Design Locally
Feature Article
In today’s global economy, American architects work on six continents—but that doesn’t mean they should all have identical glass towers.
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LEED v4 Tips from Early Adopters: Earn High Ratings Without Added Costs
Feature Article
You can avoid lower LEED v4 scores and keep costs in check. Here’s how—including the pitfalls you need to watch out for.
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The PVC Debate: A Fresh Look
Feature Article
PVC is banned by some green building programs and simply reviled by some groups. How did we get here, and has anything changed since vinyl became the enemy?
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Green Design: What’s Love Got to Do with It?
Feature Article
Beauty, place-making, and even love are motivating many green designers, who see these values complementing core sustainability tenets.
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Resilient Design: 7 Lessons from Early Adopters
Feature Article
As storms reveal weaknesses in our built environment, some project teams have adopted more robust, durable principles.
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The Chemicals on Our Carpets and Textiles
Feature Article
The array of water-, dirt-, and mold-repellent chemicals added to carpeting and fabrics is dizzying. Which are causes for concern, and how can we minimize exposure?
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Circadian Rhythm and the Role of Lighting
Primer
LEDs with color tuning are now being sold, but do we really have the light formula for waking us up and putting us to sleep?
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LVT: Like Vinyl Today? It’s Making a Comeback
Product Review
The popularity of luxury vinyl tile represents a resurgence for PVC, but there are alternatives that look as good or better.
