building design partnership

Architects help make decisions. After talking with an architect, many people are surprised at their own definite ideas about what they want in a house or space. The architect is the one building professional who has the training and experience to guide owners through the entire building process. Architects' fees are not just added on top of project costs. They can save the homeowner money in many ways. The best answer to the question of what do architects do is open ended. Architects do renovation, energy analysis, site selection, interiors, cost analysis, construction and/or construction management.

What is Eco-Friendly or Green Building Design? Sometimes called 'Sustainable Design', it is the art of ecological planning to minimize the impact of our dwellings on the environment and ourselves. Using renewable building materials to construct our houses helps sustain our planet and conserve our natural resources. Building with natural, energy efficient and low maintenance materials not only saves money, but can reduce the amount of harmful chemicals in our homes and provide for a healthier living environment. "Green" architects or builders use eco-design strategies and incorporate eco-smart construction practices including:

•Energy conscious site planning and insulated building envelopes
•Passive solar and geothermal heating and cooling systems
•Use of local, re-harvested, recycled and non toxic materi
•Energy Star Compliant appliances and compact fluorescent lighting
•Water-saving plumbing fixtures including rain and grey water systems
•Alternate power sources including photovoltaic solar or wind