Process Our goal is to demystify the design process by not emphasizing conceptual ideas but rather function and how a building is constructed. We strive to create very clear drawings that do their job of organizing and conveying information, focusing on simple solutions to the problems at hand. We are interested in the physical world, how things are built and designing based on what is realistic and build-able. We believe functionality and green materials are keys to developing our designs. We seek problems and enjoy the process of solving them.
Living a More Green Life Humans are adaptable. Remember when it was extra work to separate garbage from recycling? It is second nature now. Although being green is relevant right now, it is standard procedure to be green for architects when designing new buildings. We have been trained in school to know about solar orientation and site sensitivity. Not only do we have this in our training, but we apply this knowledge in every project: we try to live what we think and we have been experimenting with ways to test green buildings. In our approach to your next project, we will assess all factors that affect how green a building it is. For example, we look at how the building is sited and where the sun is in relation to it, in order to utilize the sun's energy. If it is a remodel, we look at how much of the existing building's materials can be re-used and, how much of the materials can be recycled.
We study and look at ways to improve energy efficiency. Energy efficiency starts with wall and roof construction, then window placement. Active solar energy systems, such as PV, also offset energy consumption. We use earth-friendly materials, as much as possible, and we are conscious of water usage and preservation.
Climate and Building Science HWA is interested in the core of building design; shelter. There are many microclimates in the Bay Area and Los Angeles; many more just in California. Each building should be individually suited to its microclimate. Buildings are complex structures, not only do they respond to seismic and wind conditions, soil conditions, site constraints, and solar orientation, but also rain, humidity and temperature variations. Windows, insulation and structure make up walls and roofs. It is how we design these things, what is referred to as the building envelope that is the key to addressing a building's energy use. We can design a wall or a roof to keep moisture out and heat in. For example, insulation in a wall is used to keep the cold out and it is required by energy codes because its saves energy. However, insulation can cause moisture build up in walls depending on how it is used. HWA has studied this and can design the envelope based on the climate of the site.