At Gorman & Company, we take a holistic approach to sustainable design. Green building is not just about high efficiency MEP systems, but understanding the impact all aspects of the design, construction and operation of the building have on the environment. This begins with site selection, continues through the specification of building materials and systems and is ultimately passed on to building operation via documentation and training of personnel.
Over the past several years, Gorman & Company has made a commitment to sustainable design. This starts with site selection. We have focused on rehabilitation projects and the redevelopment of brownfield and urban infill sites. Many of these projects are designed to Enterprise Green Communities or LEED standards. We are currently completing construction of a project that is on track to become the first LEED platinum tax-credit project in the state of Arizona.
This commitment continues into the design of the building. Products are selected that are durable and use environmentally friendly materials. Selection of regionally produced materials is done whenever possible (i.e. Cardinal Glass in Spring Green providing glass to our subcontractors). Our projects use high efficiency HVAC systems, water conserving plumbing products and Energy Star rated lighting and appliances.
During construction, detailed communication between the design and construction team ensures the sustainable design is implemented. Product submittals are carefully reviewed for compliance and substitution requests and reviewed by the entire team prior to approval. Recyclable waste is segregated to minimize material going to the landfill. Erosion control measures are closely monitored.
Once the building is complete, operations staff is trained on building products and systems. Electronic documentation of these items is passed on to maintenance staff. These key personnel are also brought in early in the design process to review existing projects. Products and systems that are not performing as specified are identified so that each successive project performs better than the last.
