Green building and sustainable designs

Green design...it's the goal of producing places and spaces that minimize environmental impact and connect people to their natural surroundings.

Ahead of the trend and leading the way in green design

While it's a growing trend in architecture, Balance Associates has embraced green building and sustainable design since our inception. In fact, we've been leading the 'green movement' for more than 25 years and continue to stay ahead of the curve. That means we have the experience. We've consulted on energy efficient building design with several state and local governments and utilities, as well as other architects, builders and individuals. And, Tom Lenchek, principal of Balance Associates, has written many articles and books on the subject and been a contributing editor to Solar Magazine. Bottom line, we believe green design is just good design practice.

Building green from the word go

It's more than just the materials you select. The green building concept starts with understanding the surrounding environment, such as vegetation, topography and microclimate. We create a design to compliment and utilize those natural surroundings. From the orientation of the building to the placement of the windows, we factor in things like wind direction and sun angle for passive energy opportunities. For example, natural light instead of artificial light and wind for cooling instead of mechanical ventilation.

Our designs also include energy efficient systems and technologies which use less energy, limit dependency on non-renewable resources, limit pollution and ultimately save money over the life of the building. One great example is selecting energy efficient heating systems like radiant in floor heating and Heat/Energy recovery ventilators (H/ERV).

Creating a healthy home inside and out

Along with saving energy and preserving the environment, our designs include several healthy home strategies. Indoor air quality is more important than ever. That's why wherever feasible Balance Associates uses clean running or low-impact materials like:

While each building and site is unique and presents different opportunities and constraints, material selections and technologies are an important part of green building/sustainable design. We use and select materials & technologies according to the following sustainable criteria:

If you're ready for green design, but aren't sure where to start our team can provide proven leadership and guidance. From initial design to qualifying your project for LEED of Homes or Built Green Certification, Balance Associates ensures you hit the mark. And, our previous experience and continued application of Green Design uniquely qualifies us to discuss, test and implement materials and technologies fundamental to sustainable design and building practices.

Unique designs that support sustainability. It's a goal we can live with.

Examples of Sustainability in Our Projects

Energy efficiency

Alternative Building Systems

Healthy Homes

Recycled Materials

Contact Balance Associates to start your Green Design project today. 206-322-7737