Relationship between Formal, Programmatic and
High Performance Design Strategies and Site

Describe relationship between formal, programmatic and high performance design strategies and the site. (For example, how are building orientation, landscape, development footprint, and other strategies used to maximize site sustainability?)

Many of these items were preset because this is a rehab of an existing vintage masonry building, which did control the choice of masonry materials used in the construction of the addition and garage. The intent was to have the new structure match the existing building body while fitting into the existing neighborhood. The development footprint was also influenced by the fact that the building was pre-existing, and by code requirements for parking.

The parking requirement for 4 units eliminated 90% of the existing green space. The decision was made down zone the building to 3 units, and build a 3-1/2 car garage which provided a central location for recycling and trash storage. The garage was designed to support a 624 square foot roof deck and garden which contains native trees, bushes, vines, grasses, flowers, wetland plants, water feature and vegetable garden (see Plant List - Garage Roof Deck). Remaining landscape is native plantings which were chosen to match the locations, i.e. deep shade, partial shade or direct sun.

Maximized site sustainability features:

1) Marvin aluminum clad wood windows were chosen for thermal performance, minimal maintenance and match for the original window styles.

2) Masonry building shell with insulated exterior and interior walls.  (see Insulation Calculations)

3) Cistern for collection of storm water for watering landscaping. Roof garden for storm water absorption and slow release.

4) Deck material is 95% post consumer recycled resin. It requires no additional sealing or staining, has a 40-year warranty.

5) Lead washed copper roof has a 100-year life span and is recyclable.

6) Derbigum roofing has an 40-year life span.

7) Clerestory, skylights and laylights for illuminating interior of building. In combination with solar mass reduces heating and cooling loads.

8) Energy efficient heating and cooling systems.
Solar performance features are dependent on the orientation and siting, which were heavily weighted in the building selection process. The long axis of the building is east-west, giving the building a larger square footage for use of solar features.

High performance design features such as the clerestory and roof decks are not visible from the street.