Sustainable Design

The creation of a building and site that have a positive environmental impact starts with an integrated approach to design. CambridgeSeven begins this integrated approach by working with clients to identify the social, environmental, and resiliency goals of a project and then identify forward-thinking design goals tailored to the mission and vision of the client.

Through this initial collaboration we identify goals that most align with their priorities, which may include net zero, energy use intensity (EUI), water use intensity, daylight autonomy, lighting power density and building envelope performance, onsite energy generation, and third-party certification (LBC certification, Net Zero certification, WELL or Fitwel certification, LEED certification, etc.)

We advocate for sustainable goal-setting early in the process to maximize impact and control costs. These sustainable design goals may include:

• Optimize reduction in energy loads by designing passive systems, such as massing and orientation, high-performance building envelopes, and thermal massing before engaging active systems and on-site energy generation
• Optimize reduction in water loads by using potable water only as necessary, planting native species, managing stormwater on-site based on current ecological conditions, recycling building water, and treating and managing grey and black water
• Prioritize design decisions that provide triple impact:
  returning value to the client in energy savings, increased health and productivity to building users and increased resilience
• Capitalize on educational opportunities to communicate the sustainability and resilience efforts of the organization internally and externally

CambridgeSeven has a 60-year history of designing buildings that teach respect for our environment. We strive to educate the public about conservation through both example and content. We have written various articles about how clients can think about incorporating sustainable design into their own goals. 

We’re firm believers in the AIA’s 2030 Commitment to pave the way for a more sustainable and carbon-neutral future, and many of our projects have achieved LEED Platinum, Silver and Gold certification. You can read more by selecting one of the related stories or resources below.