OVERVIEW
Our built environment is flooded with glass boxes that could be located anywhere, while many of the most successful and celebrated examples of architecture reflect and respond to unique site features. Whether or not a design team has a say in siting a project, carefully assessing the site should be on every project’s to-do list.
Careful consideration of these factors can inform design and support not only sustainable design objectives but also the basic architecture of the building:
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onsite climate conditions
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unique weather patterns
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solar access
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water opportunities
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unique flora and fauna
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topography
A site assessment early in design can reduce costs, allay potential risks, support the health and well-being of occupants and native habitat, and promote other unique site features.
IN-DEPTH
Filter results:
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New Tool Quantifies Shade Tree Benefits
News Brief
A new online tool from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) allows users to calculate the energy and financial benefits of shade trees in most U.S. climates; the tool supports SMUD's efforts to provide free trees.
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Puget Sound Decision Mandates Low-Impact Development
News Brief
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Green Roof Study Finds Big Variation in Stormwater Retention
News Analysis
Researchers in Austin found that, while several common green roof designs all moderated temperature effectively, they varied in their ability to retain stormwater.
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Two Resources Promote Sustainable Urbanism
News Brief
Combine walkable, transit-served urbanism with high-performance building and infrastructure and, according to author Douglas Farr, AIA, you've got Sustainable Urbanism.
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New Standard Puts Air Barriers to the Test
News Analysis
To test the performance of air barriers in real-world conditions, a new ASTM standard uses an eight-foot-square mockup of an exterior wall.
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British Columbia Insurers Question Green Roofs
News Analysis
Some British Columbia insurers are balking at projects with green roofs, but dialogue about their benefits is helping some projects.
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Governments See New Accounting Rules for Brownfields
News Analysis
A new rule announced by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) will codify the responsibility of local and state governments to disclose their financial liabilities associated with polluted properties.
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USDA Resists Updating Plant Hardiness Zones to Reflect Warming Trend
News Brief
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2006 Green Roof Awards of Excellence
News Brief
This year's winners include a cohousing community, a museum, a library, an office building, and an apartment complex.
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ASLA Installs Green Roof on Headquarters
News Brief
