OVERVIEW
New construction projects include design and construction of new buildings, and major renovations of existing ones. As defined by major programs like LEED, which has a rating system dedicated to new construction (LEED-NC), a major renovation involves major HVAC renovation, significant envelope modifications, and major interior rehabilitation.
In line with the LEED-NC emphasis, new construction often refers to new commercial office buildings, but many other commercial occupancy types can fall under this category, including hotels, mid- and high-rise residential, and institutional buildings such as libraries and schools.
Sustainability in new construction typically means a range of considerations:
-
siting (e.g., locating near public transit, using previously developed land)
-
water efficiency
-
energy efficiency
-
sustainable and healthy materials
-
construction waste management
- indoor environmental quality
IN-DEPTH
Filter results:
-
The Combined Effectiveness of Prefab, Wood, and Passive House
August 6, 2018News Analysis
Recent projects have combined modular prefabrication, wood construction, and Passive House design to address sustainability goals.
-
BREEAM for New Construction Is Coming to U.S.
July 16, 2018News Analysis
The BREEAM New Construction standard is being adapted for use in the U.S.
-
The BuildingGreen Guide to Insulation
Report/Course/Study Guide/Live Webinar
The BuildingGreen Guide to Insulation provides detailed guidance on insulation products and practices, including cost comparisons and detailed recommendations on what insulation to use, and what to avoid.
-
Mass Timber to Be Recognized in Washington Code
May 8, 2018News Brief
Supporters of Washington’s new mass timber law hope it will increase tall wood construction.
-
Affordable Housing and Sustainable Design: The Goals Are Aligned
October 6, 2017Feature Article
Green building is not just for those with means.
-
The Sound of Sustainability: Acoustics in High-Performance Design
September 6, 2017Feature Article
Acoustic performance is often overlooked by human-centered design. A holistic approach shows how to navigate the complexities of “sustainable acoustics.”
-
Would Wood Skyscrapers Improve Urban Sustainability?
April 4, 2018News Analysis
Plans to build a wood skyscraper in Tokyo will promote large-scale mass timber construction in cities.
-
Work Globally, Design Locally
February 7, 2017Feature Article
In today’s global economy, American architects work on six continents—but that doesn’t mean they should all have identical glass towers.
-
20 Ways to Advance Sustainability in the Next Four Years
January 4, 2017Feature Article
In this age of political revolution and environmental urgency, it’s time to step back and take a look at priorities, challenges, and opportunities
-
Mouth, Meet Money: Case Studies of Outcome-Based Design
September 7, 2016Feature Article
Performance-based incentives are a growing (and positive) trend. They’re not as risky as they sound, but there are some steps you should be taking to prepare.
