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:
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siting (e.g., locating near public transit, using previously developed land)
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water efficiency
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energy efficiency
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sustainable and healthy materials
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construction waste management
- indoor environmental quality
IN-DEPTH
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“Tall Wood” Now Code Approved
February 4, 2019News Brief
The International Code Council will allow heavy timber buildings taller than 85 feet.
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The BuildingGreen Guide to Insulation
PDF Report
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.
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International Green Construction Code Now Meshes with LEED
November 15, 2018News Analysis
IgCC 2018 crafters hope to dispel confusion and increase uptake with rating system harmonization.
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Affordable Housing and Sustainable Design: The Goals Are Aligned
October 6, 2017Feature Article
Green building is not just for those with means.
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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.”
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The Urgency of Embodied Carbon and What You Can Do About It
Spotlight Report
Building materials emit massive amounts of carbon long before the lights go on. Here’s how thoughtful design can reduce global warming impact.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
