Three designers at Barcelon Jang Architecture became LEED Green Associates over the past two months.
A credential issued by the U.S. Green Building Council, a LEED Green Associate signifies that the holder has a documented, up-to-date understanding of the most current green building principles and practices, and is committed to his or her professional future.
"LEED accreditation represents a socially and environmentally conscious message. It encompasses the current evolution of our industry,” said Michelle Miller. Nayive Kalkach believes that as a designer, she has a responsibility to propose projects that protect the environment and enhance the well-being of building users. Ariel Chang sees being a LEED Green Associate as the first step in helping her understand more about sustainability and spread the idea of sustainability.
Recycled PET bottles used for the construction of the EcoARK building in Taipei.
Their favorite sustainability features used in the design of buildings:
- Sustainable Materials: Ariel says, “I love to see how people use salvaged materials and materials with recycled content into their new designs. Used resources embody history, which accentuates the beauty of contrast.” Her favorite example is EcoARK in Taipei, Taiwan, constructed in 2010 for the Taipei International Flora Exposition and made from 1.52 million recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles. The transparent bottles bring in the natural light, and combine with solar energy use and LED lights. A spray system throughout the building reduces the temperature inside.“
- Adaptive Reuse: redesigning an old building for a purpose other than which it was built. “I love a challenge, solving the problems of today’s built environment using yesterday’s structures,” Michelle says. “Existing structures are abundant. It makes sense both environmentally and economically to utilize old or abandoned buildings in new designs. With adaptive reuse, we are honoring the history of our built environment while conserving resources.” The Exploratorium and The Ferry Building are her favorite local examples.
- Daylighting: illuminating buildings by placing windows, openings or reflective surfaces to naturally provide indoor lighting. “It really improves the productivity and the sense of well-being for the users,” says Nayive, who points to the Monkseaton School in northern England as a good example of how daylighting can change the energy level of people within the building.
Daylighting examples
Read more about the USGBC LEED Green Associate.
Get tips from Nayive about how to study for the exam.