At Smith + Andersen, we recognize our unique professional position to provide environmental stewardship in design. In fact, we have been meeting the challenge to provide energy efficient designs since our firm was formed in the 1960's and brought to the forefront during the 1970's energy crisis. We encourage the use of proven techniques and diligently review emerging technologies with our clients for application where viable.
Our solid experience in energy efficient design allows us to meet today's challenges for more holistic, sustainable designs with a range of services to meet a client’s sustainable building objectives.
Currently, Smith + Andersen has 34 staff members who are LEED® Accredited Professionals (AP) and Green Associates. Our environmentally conscious staff is trained through internal and external workshops and seminars to be kept up-to-date with the latest technologies, design standards, rating systems, incentive programs and the integration of these into the marketplace.
Smith + Andersen's added services for projects seeking LEED® certification includes:
• Providing advice/comments in the preparation of credit point summary or similar reporting solution by the LEED consultant;
• Attending integrated design meetings throughout the schematic, design development and contract documents phases where the LEED® rating system is followed
• Designing and studying advanced mechanical and electrical systems to obtain LEED® certification, which is not typically included in our base service. This is considered to be a value-added service and is encouraged
• Including an added scope that is primarily focused on the design process. The cost of this service is in part proportional to the total construction cost of the project and dependent on the LEED® certification level that is being targeted. There are also costs in the construction and post-construction phases but these will typically be included as one service for the entire length of the project
• Advising upon input for the LEED consultant for use in LEED Worksheets, spreadsheets, letters on those LEED credit that are specifically mechanical or electrical including ASHRAE 62 and ASHRAE 55 related credits.
Smith + Andersen demonstrates compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 standard for “Energy Efficient Design in New Buildings” or the Model National Energy Code for Buildings by designing the mechanical and electrical systems to comply with the prescriptive requirements. IF energy Code compliance through the performance method is desired, S+A recommends the use of Footprint, our affiliated sustainability consilting firm that specialized in energy modelling.
Adherence to ASHRAE 189.1 – Design of High Performance Green Buildings:
• Smith + Andersen follow the principles that are outlined in ASHRAE 189.1 which is a coded version of the LEED rating system and ASHRAE 90.1 combined. In most instances, the requirements in ASHRAE 189.1 largely follows those outlined in the LEED rating system and integrates technical energy efficiency requirements outlined in ASHRAE 90.1.