How architects can better manage the risk associated with California’s increased code requirements

Although the pandemic has had the greatest impact on humanity in quite some time, in the building industry, we were already facing numerous challenges before the quarantine started. 2020 has also been a year for some rather stringent code changes in both residential and nonresidential construction, particularly in California. With new code requirements, including the … Continue reading How architects can better manage the risk associated with California’s increased code requirements →

Improving indoor air quality with a visit the local library?

Many people that know me also know that I am very involved with the San Diego Green Building Council. One of the programs I allocate quite a bit of time to is our highly regarded Green Assistance Program (GAP), which gives our volunteer community an opportunity to work on improving the operations and maintenance of … Continue reading Improving indoor air quality with a visit the local library? →

Do energy efficient building practices result in better feedback loops and better workmanship?

My wife and I have been lucky to have three kids that (so far) haven't ever played with fire, or knives, or consumed dangerous cleaning supplies, or anything like that. It didn't take burning down the house, stitches, or stomach pumping to teach each of them the danger inherent with certain things—a quick touch to … Continue reading Do energy efficient building practices result in better feedback loops and better workmanship? →

What is an Environmental Product Declaration and how does it impact standard of care in the built environment?

As many people know, LEED v4 took a lot longer to be finalized than originally anticipated—largely due to political struggles involving key stakeholders and certain large enterprises. As many of my friends and colleagues know, I despise politics. Therefore, rather than get into all the muck, let's dig into one of the more controversial subjects … Continue reading What is an Environmental Product Declaration and how does it impact standard of care in the built environment? →

Repeat after me: Sustainable design and construction is no guarantee for quality

I am an outsider. Among construction defect and quality management professionals, my involvement with green building makes me stick out like a sore thumb. Among green building professionals, advocates and activists, my responses to claims that green buildings are better quality leads to some very awkward moments. Without adopting more sustainable practices, existing design and … Continue reading Repeat after me: Sustainable design and construction is no guarantee for quality →