DESIGN TOOLS
Sustainable Design Tools
There are several sustainable design tools available for use on varying types of projects. These tools can provide certification or rating to a predetermined level which is an indicator of the extent to which sustainable elements of the tool have been achieved. These ratings can assist with regard to commercial value and, in some cases such as NABERS (National Australian Building Environment Rating Scheme), the energy efficiency rating is required for all new buildings over 2000sqm and building for sale or lease.
Paterson Architects aspires to engage with Clients who are passionate about implementing sustainable processes and achieving sustainable outcomes.
Some of the tools we reference and/or engage with accredited professional and certifiers include:
Residential Projects
NatHERS - National House Energy Rating Scheme
A star rated system out of 10.
Liveable House Design Guidelines
Silver, Gold and Platinum levels for achieving up to 15 core elements.
HIA GreenSmart House
Sets out 7 environmental sections where a set number of minimum criteria and leading practice criteria must be achieved in each category.
We also reference innovative programmes such as the Mayo Clinic Well Living Lab, The Australian Zero Emission Demonstration House (AusZEH project), Passive House and the Australian Government’s Your Home website.
GBCA - Green Building Council of Australia, through its Future Homes program is developing a Green Star Homes Standard “to assess the health, resilience and energy efficiency of our homes”. It is geared to volume home builders with the final standard scheduled for release in “early 2021”.
Non-Residential and Mixed-Use Projects
ILFI Living Building Challenge
Once a project has been completed and a 12-month performance period is achieved, it can be assessed for certification under a number of pathways:
Zero Carbon
Zero Energy
Core Green Building Certification
Living Building Challenge - Petal certification for all core elements plus water, energy, and materials
Living Building Challenge - Living Certification - the summit of holistic aspiration
Paterson Architects would be delighted to explore these accreditation pathways with our Clients and engage with like-minded consultants capable of assisting and assessing the sustainable economic, social and environmental benefits.
Enhance life by the design that surrounds it.