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LEED Certification

What is LEED Certification?

LEED is a green building rating system developed by the U.S.Green Building Council (USGBC) that provides a set of standards for sustainable construction.  A building's sustainability is determined by a point system along with certain prerequisites that must be met in six categories.  The categories are as follows:

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  • Sustainable Sites 

  • Water Efficiency 

  • Energy and Atmosphere 

  • Materials and Resources 

  • Indoor Environmental Quality 

  • Innovation and Design Process

 

Based on the number of points your building qualifies for, you will fall into one of four different levels of certification, which are:

 

  • Platinum

  • Gold

  • Silver

  • Certified

 

LEED Certification is not just for new construction.  Different versions have been developed for neighborhood development, existing buildings, tenant build-outs, white-box construction, retail, schools and homes.  (Refer to button below at bottom of page for more information regarding LEED for Existing Buildings)

What are the advantages of LEED Certification?

 

LEED Certified buildings provide healthier environments to live and work.  The elimination of toxic chemicals from building products and ample use of natural light boosts productivity, health and well-being.  Also, due to the use of  sustainable building materials and efficient use of resources, there is less stress to the environment locally and globally.

 

LEED Certified buildings are a good financial investment as well.  They tend to be more energy efficient and over time allow the owner to save significant amounts of money on energy costs.   These buildings may  appreciate in value at a faster pace than traditionally constructed buildings as potential buyers become more aware of the benefits of green building. 

 

LEED Certified buildings are good for the local community.  Local utility companies benefit through reduced loads on power, water and sanitary sewer systems.  The use of innovative building products and green design elements such as ample windows and greenery contributes to pleasant looking structures that enhance property values and may stimulate revitalization of entire neighborhoods.  Our LEED certified architect has the experience needed to maximize your investment potential.

 

Any disadvantages?

The initial costs to design and build a LEED certified building are higher than with traditional buildings.  Also, design and construction time may take a little longer.  However, these costs tend to be mitigated by savings on energy costs and a boost in worker productivity.

Not sure if LEED Certification is right for you?

 

Green building is more than just a fad, it is an established building practice that provides better use of available resources and promotes healthier working and living environments.  The construction industry tends to be progressive and green design techniques today will be industry standard tomorrow.  If you're still unsure, why not schedule a consultation with David Mayville, our LEED Certified professional.  He can walk you through your options and help you determine what is right for your particular project.

Inexpensive Sustainable Practices:

 

  • In lieu of bottled water, install a water filtration system.

  • Replace traditional light bulbs with high efficiency compact fluorescents or LED's.

  • Install motion sensitive light switches so lights turns off when rooms are unoccupied.

  • Reduce by one degree the temperature at which the heating system is activated; increase by one degree temperature at which the air conditioning system is activated.

  • Landscape with native plants to reduce water usage.

  • Install a rain off-switch on the sprinkler system.

  • Evaluate the air conditioning and heating system to determine if they are the most efficient, given recent advances in technology. Annual operating costs may be dramatically reduced when components or entire systems are upgraded.

Additional Resources

 

 

Muskegon Community College Science Center Addition

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The Muskegon Community College Science Center Addition, a project BMA Architects, P. C., completed in 2015, was recognized LEED Certified Gold, in April 2016.  LEED Certified Gold is a prestigious rating based on a high standard of how a building is designed, constructed and used that promotes a healthy way of operating within the environment in a socially responsible way.

LEED  Gold Certificate for  Muskegon Community College Science Center

LEED Certified Project
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