The original development of our project was that of our dream home build. This ‘dream home’ was just a part of our overall master plan. This plan would be a blue print for how our property would be developed over a period of years / decades, when the need / time is right. In addition to the dream home, we would look to incorporate main entry gate, guard house, orchards, farming plot, shop, guest homes / cabins, ponds, remote renewable energy plant, etc. As we enter the winter months, it is our utmost desire to commence infrastructure work at first thaw 2009 as we route wells, locate cisterns, electrical connections, ponds, septic drain field, stake out exact foundation location, etc. On top of this, and working presently, we will complete design and finalize, and then move to construction documents. With this coming to fruition, we will look for Cultured Log Systems to deliver their product for erection around June 1, 2009. Beyond design being finalized, materials being chosen, LEED H criteria being revisited and decided upon, we have another child entering the world in January. Lots to juggle over these next five months, but with the project team in hand we expect all to be met in a timely fashion.
In the past week we have seen to the start of development of upper orchard #1 at Huckleberry Ridge. Brown Excavating removed all stumps from the approx ½ acre lot. At that point I went through and flagged exact tree layout in the orchard, with Brown Excavating coming in behind me to dig the holes. Each hole is approx. 4 cubic feet, which will allow for me to introduce a select organic soil to marry up with the native soils in place. Tomorrow I will be adding a collection of collected leaves to the holes that will act as an organic source which will break down and strengthen the holes for planting next year. Apple, Cherry, Plum, Pear, Walnut are the types of trees we will plant. In the immediate spring we will erect elk fencing and construct a small orchard shed to house tools, pump, and PV’s. Based on location it is my desire to see this plot be an annual contributor to our food needs in both fresh and canned applications.
Sincerely,
Tim
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
Charette #2 in the Books
As we progressed through the autumn months of 2007, I was expecting to be well into the physical construction of the home by mid year 2008. It is now October 2008, and last week we finished up our second charette meeting with the project team as we continue to define the inner workings in the residential ranch property build. The focus of this meeting not only dissected the individual characteristics of the home itself, but took a more indepth look at the property as a whole (master plan) and how all working parts of the property must come into one if we are too move forward successfully.
The day started at 9:30am, as 16+ members of the project team carpooled up to the home site to visit the property first hand to better envision the master plan and how it would all tie into one another. More specifically, we walked the foot print of the home, which was staked out by Don Briggs, Jim Albrecht, and myself the previous week. We entered through the front door, sat in the great room, washed dishes in the sink, and stared out the master bedroom window, all as a means to get a clearer picture for the home as it fit into the surrounding landscape and what views we could hope to capture when living day to day. Next we discussed the master plan, and how we wished to lay the infrastructure for the eventual construction / implementation of a shop, farming section, ponds, guest house, independent power center, children's play area, buried fire supression tanks, orchard, irrigation and potable water needs, etc. It is with this information coupled with the visual introduction to the property for many that lead to a most productive afternoon meeting within the conference room as we digested the master plan, made some decisions, and established a working schedule for moving the project along.
The afternoon culminated in working together to post a workable timeline (schedule) for how we can proceed through the Design Development stage. This encompassed an aggressive plan to get all working members of the project team to come forth with various aspects of the design plan. Master plan sign-off, Energy / Solar Load analysis, lighting review, mechanical / electrical review, civil development, architectural development, LEED review, and onward to Design Development sing-off.
Prior to all the various disciplines within the Project Team moving forth with these tasks, we have opted to have a sit down with Don Briggs and Jack (consultant) to better identify the projected costs of the existing design. This will help us better confirm that the existing design / cost is inline with our budgetary ideas and thereby not waste members' time / effort / fee's should our initial review of the design warrant changes based on cost estimations. We are reviewing each room to identify finishing ideas. Coupled with the existing envelop characteristics, we are hopeful that next week Jack can move forward with obtaining detailed projected build-out estimates for the home. This will allow us to put to rest any further uncertainty as to the bottom line for overall build-out, and as a result enable us to approve the schedule for moving through the Design Development stage... one more step towards construction documents and physical build-out starting in 2009.
Stay tuned for more as it unfolds.
Tim
The day started at 9:30am, as 16+ members of the project team carpooled up to the home site to visit the property first hand to better envision the master plan and how it would all tie into one another. More specifically, we walked the foot print of the home, which was staked out by Don Briggs, Jim Albrecht, and myself the previous week. We entered through the front door, sat in the great room, washed dishes in the sink, and stared out the master bedroom window, all as a means to get a clearer picture for the home as it fit into the surrounding landscape and what views we could hope to capture when living day to day. Next we discussed the master plan, and how we wished to lay the infrastructure for the eventual construction / implementation of a shop, farming section, ponds, guest house, independent power center, children's play area, buried fire supression tanks, orchard, irrigation and potable water needs, etc. It is with this information coupled with the visual introduction to the property for many that lead to a most productive afternoon meeting within the conference room as we digested the master plan, made some decisions, and established a working schedule for moving the project along.
The afternoon culminated in working together to post a workable timeline (schedule) for how we can proceed through the Design Development stage. This encompassed an aggressive plan to get all working members of the project team to come forth with various aspects of the design plan. Master plan sign-off, Energy / Solar Load analysis, lighting review, mechanical / electrical review, civil development, architectural development, LEED review, and onward to Design Development sing-off.
Prior to all the various disciplines within the Project Team moving forth with these tasks, we have opted to have a sit down with Don Briggs and Jack (consultant) to better identify the projected costs of the existing design. This will help us better confirm that the existing design / cost is inline with our budgetary ideas and thereby not waste members' time / effort / fee's should our initial review of the design warrant changes based on cost estimations. We are reviewing each room to identify finishing ideas. Coupled with the existing envelop characteristics, we are hopeful that next week Jack can move forward with obtaining detailed projected build-out estimates for the home. This will allow us to put to rest any further uncertainty as to the bottom line for overall build-out, and as a result enable us to approve the schedule for moving through the Design Development stage... one more step towards construction documents and physical build-out starting in 2009.
Stay tuned for more as it unfolds.
Tim
Friday, August 8, 2008
A Summer Worth of Progress
Has it really been over two months since I last submitted an entry? Beyond individual vacations by the Project Team, a terrific Independence Day celebration, and life unfolding as usual, we really have accomplished a lot in the past two months. We have done further studies on the homesite, started to collect budgetary construction costs for the proposed building envelop, interviewed a number of professional construction firms, and continued our own independent education into operating systems and products we wish to incorporate into our future build.
In early August, I attended a geothermal workshop in Oklahoma (http://www.igshpa.okstate.edu/). We don’t want to rule out our options but at this time we are considering a closed loop geothermal system, for climate control, powered electrically through grid-tied design with solar PVs supplementation. We are in the process of monitoring the wind velocity throughout the year to determine if wind generated electricity is an option in order to supplement the solar. Morrison–Maierle’s mechanical group has developed an energy model based on the preliminary design. This model is providing quantitative data illustrating the efficiency of the building envelope and the performance of various mechanical equipment options. We will be able to compare alternative construction assemblies with respect to energy efficiency, costs and sustainability.
We have made some head way concerning the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Among the candidates, some have specific experience and qualifications that we’re looking for. With our design team in place we’ve decided that the traditional design- bid-build model is not the best approach for this project. We have contracted with a project management consultant to provide construction management services. They will provide cost analysis and critical path scheduling. We plan to contract with a number of the G.C. candidates to provide portions of the work and sub-contract other areas of the work through the design team.
On August 18th we held a small meeting to evaluate the information provided by the energy model. We still have a lot of decisions to make and we will discuss these during the upcoming charette. By that time we plan to have more information available to present to the team with the intent to make some concrete decisions and move forward with the design. It is our plan to work out the details and engineering this fall and winter with the expectation of a spring ground breaking.
I promise not to delay in further developments, as the projects is now really heating up with new developments sure to unfold at regular intervals.
All the best,
Tim
In May, an extensive topographic survey was produced by the civil group of Morrison-Maierle. This survey will aid in designing our master plan and the infrastructure to support it. This master plan will include the main home, guest home, shop, orchards, ponds and solar array field. The master plan will be a major topic of discussion during our next charette. Lee Tavenner, of Solar Plexus, performed a solar path analysis in order to evaluate the sites solar exposure throughout the year.
June was spent working alongside the folks of Strata out of Missoula, MT (http://www.stratageotech.com/). Strata provides professional environmental, geotechnical, construction inspection, and construction material testing services for industrial, transportation, commercial, public works, and residential clients throughout the northwest. As we continued to work with MM engineering, it was our goal to have Strata inform us as to the geologic makeup of the homesite, the earth & rock we would encounter upon excavating, and more importantly how we could start to plan for excavating / foundation efforts as well as identifying structural engineering design requirments to insure the stability of our home well into the next century. Among various tasks, several holes were dug by a hired backhoe operator in aiding to identify the fractured bedrock, decomposed granite, and other rock make-up of the substructure below. Samples were identified to define the physical and engineering properties of the site. Through the comprehensive field work, Strata was able to evaluate and make recommendations concerning site prep & earthwork, excavation characteristics, site surface drainage, estimated foundation settlement, structural fill requirements, and other pertinent operations. With securing their services, we now have the information necessary to better prepare / design the infrastructure of the future build.In early August, I attended a geothermal workshop in Oklahoma (http://www.igshpa.okstate.edu/). We don’t want to rule out our options but at this time we are considering a closed loop geothermal system, for climate control, powered electrically through grid-tied design with solar PVs supplementation. We are in the process of monitoring the wind velocity throughout the year to determine if wind generated electricity is an option in order to supplement the solar. Morrison–Maierle’s mechanical group has developed an energy model based on the preliminary design. This model is providing quantitative data illustrating the efficiency of the building envelope and the performance of various mechanical equipment options. We will be able to compare alternative construction assemblies with respect to energy efficiency, costs and sustainability.
We have made some head way concerning the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Among the candidates, some have specific experience and qualifications that we’re looking for. With our design team in place we’ve decided that the traditional design- bid-build model is not the best approach for this project. We have contracted with a project management consultant to provide construction management services. They will provide cost analysis and critical path scheduling. We plan to contract with a number of the G.C. candidates to provide portions of the work and sub-contract other areas of the work through the design team.
On August 18th we held a small meeting to evaluate the information provided by the energy model. We still have a lot of decisions to make and we will discuss these during the upcoming charette. By that time we plan to have more information available to present to the team with the intent to make some concrete decisions and move forward with the design. It is our plan to work out the details and engineering this fall and winter with the expectation of a spring ground breaking.
I promise not to delay in further developments, as the projects is now really heating up with new developments sure to unfold at regular intervals.
All the best,
Tim
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
RFQ Update
The past month has seen Sarah and I, working with Don Briggs, reviewing the various Request for Qualification submittals supplied by a number of highly regarded General Contractor / Construction Management firms. With careful scrutiny we were able to pick a small number of firms that seemed to fit our mold, and we moved them into a class of their own... known as the 'short list'. In the past few weeks, we have gone about scheduling follow-up interviews with each firm to discuss their submittal, touch on the nuances of the project, see what strengths they bring to the overall Project Team, and see if their personality can meld with the others that already make up our project team. The interviews have been a wonderful learning tool, and we thank each individual firm for taking the time to submit their RFQ response. We have interviewed individual GC's to full blown GC/CM firms; some with vast luxury residential experience to those just exuding desire and passion for a job well done. Those that we felt we required more information from, have been contacted to submit follow-up answers. This is so we leave no stone unturned and feel confident in the decision in hiring a GC/CM for the job to lead this project. Basis current travel commitments, and wanting to wrap this up in a timely manner so as to not drag our feet, we are hopeful to have a decision on awarding the GC/CM position by end June. It is my desire to post the selected GC/CM's submittal on our site at such a time, and invite you to visit his/her website for a closer look into their particular construction outfit.
Until then, keep your comments coming and if in the B'root stay out of the rain / snow!
All the best,
Tim
Until then, keep your comments coming and if in the B'root stay out of the rain / snow!
All the best,
Tim
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Getting Insight into the Site
Over the past week we have seen an increase in activity on the project site. Lee, from SolarPlexus, toured the proposed Renewable Energy Site to gain better understnading of existing orientation for maximum solar gain as well as potential wind generation. Concerning the latter, Lee has selected a location as a testing ground to mount a barometer to research average wind speed over a certain time allotment. In doing so, we can better determine the feasability of investing in wind energy as a sourse of our overall renewable energy package.
Morrison Maierle had their surveying division in and around the homesite to shoot various lines for a comprehensive property survey to map all facets of the existing terrain (ie. contours, well & electrical locations, as well as roads and the suspected renewable energy power site). Upon receipt of the survey, it is the idea to work off of the information to create a Master Plan for the present and future development of the property. beyond just house... we must look at potential desires such as shop, garden & orchard, pond, guest house, etc. When these will be constructed on the property is hard to say, but it makes perfect sense to identify these possibilities now, so that infrastructure can be laid down once, with little reason for disruption and rework in the future.
Most recently, we hired the services of Strata (http://www.stratageotech.com/) as a means to offer a geotechnical engineering evaluation of the homesites characteristics. This includes a comprehensive exploration and evaluation of subsurface conditions at the homesite, and to develop geotechnical engineering opinions and recommendations to assist project planning, design, and construction. Starta is set to commence testing on the 21st, so I hope to have photos and a recap of initial findings.
Finally, we recently met our deadline for the initial round of RFQ submittals (5/19). We are presently reviewing the seven candidates with purpose to create a 'short list' of three or four for follow-up interviews, as we move closer to selecting a Construction Manager / General Contractor. We are hopeful that such a key component will be in place by mid June, when our second round of project team meetings are tentatively scheduled.
Thanks to all those that voted in the recent poll on the most important aspect to a sustainable / green build. Energy Efficiency won hands-down with 78% of the vote. Not suprising with crude trading at over $120 a barrell. This is why I am personally a huge believer in putting time, effort, and upfront cost into a sound building envelop, there by increasing indoor comfort and reducing monthly utility bills for the life of the structure. Just wait until crude is trading at over $200 a barrell, you will be glad you did the same!
Wishing you all the best,
Tim
Morrison Maierle had their surveying division in and around the homesite to shoot various lines for a comprehensive property survey to map all facets of the existing terrain (ie. contours, well & electrical locations, as well as roads and the suspected renewable energy power site). Upon receipt of the survey, it is the idea to work off of the information to create a Master Plan for the present and future development of the property. beyond just house... we must look at potential desires such as shop, garden & orchard, pond, guest house, etc. When these will be constructed on the property is hard to say, but it makes perfect sense to identify these possibilities now, so that infrastructure can be laid down once, with little reason for disruption and rework in the future.
Most recently, we hired the services of Strata (http://www.stratageotech.com/) as a means to offer a geotechnical engineering evaluation of the homesites characteristics. This includes a comprehensive exploration and evaluation of subsurface conditions at the homesite, and to develop geotechnical engineering opinions and recommendations to assist project planning, design, and construction. Starta is set to commence testing on the 21st, so I hope to have photos and a recap of initial findings.
Finally, we recently met our deadline for the initial round of RFQ submittals (5/19). We are presently reviewing the seven candidates with purpose to create a 'short list' of three or four for follow-up interviews, as we move closer to selecting a Construction Manager / General Contractor. We are hopeful that such a key component will be in place by mid June, when our second round of project team meetings are tentatively scheduled.
Thanks to all those that voted in the recent poll on the most important aspect to a sustainable / green build. Energy Efficiency won hands-down with 78% of the vote. Not suprising with crude trading at over $120 a barrell. This is why I am personally a huge believer in putting time, effort, and upfront cost into a sound building envelop, there by increasing indoor comfort and reducing monthly utility bills for the life of the structure. Just wait until crude is trading at over $200 a barrell, you will be glad you did the same!
Wishing you all the best,
Tim
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Charrette Meeting #1, In The Books
Just yesterday, we took the project to the next level. From what was just an idea... an idea which has been worked and reworked in our minds for almost an decade... and then put into Program form via our architects request, we have now put the project into full swing. With schematic design in hand, and a commitment to sustainable design concepts via the LEED for Home rating system, we entered an eight hour day working alongside some of the most educated people in their respective fields. Architecture, engineering (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil), renewable energies, designers / CAD, energy efficiency, construction, green consultanting, etc., were represented and look to for comment. 15 people along with Sarah and I, shared ideas for the home, concepts for operation, and synergies, trade-offs, and exploration for how this present form design will methodically morph into a living, breathing, smart home. Thanks to Jackie, detailed minutes of the meeting were collected which will be posted next week. In the meantime, please take note of the agenda we followed for Day 1.
Southwell Residential Project
Design Charette
April 30, 2008
Conference Room ~ ‘EXIT’ Realty
AGENDA
9:00 a.m.
Design Charette
April 30, 2008
Conference Room ~ ‘EXIT’ Realty
AGENDA
9:00 a.m.
Welcome Don Briggs, Architect
Introductions of owners – Tim and Sarah Southwell
Review of agenda protocol
9:10 a.m.
Introductions of owners – Tim and Sarah Southwell
Review of agenda protocol
9:10 a.m.
Self Introductions All Participants
Each team member will introduce themselvesand briefly describe their discipline,
the services they provide andwhat they bring to this project
9:40 a.m.
Each team member will introduce themselvesand briefly describe their discipline,
the services they provide andwhat they bring to this project
9:40 a.m.
Project Goals and Objectives Tim and Sarah Southwell, Owners
An overview of: the LEED process;
the LEED for Homes Rating System;
the integration of the LEED process and rating system
with the owners’ desires for their “dream home”
A Review of: The "Innovation & Design Process" (ID) and the Home Size Adjustment issue
An overview of: the LEED process;
the LEED for Homes Rating System;
the integration of the LEED process and rating system
with the owners’ desires for their “dream home”
A Review of: The "Innovation & Design Process" (ID) and the Home Size Adjustment issue
10:00 a.m.
Design Overview Don Briggs, Tim Southwell
The Site : A review of the site characteristics
The Building: A review of the characteristics and conceptual
design of the house Briefly address "Sustainable Sites" (SS) category
Feedback, Question and Answer Session
10:30 a.m.
The Site : A review of the site characteristics
The Building: A review of the characteristics and conceptual
design of the house Briefly address "Sustainable Sites" (SS) category
Feedback, Question and Answer Session
10:30 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m.
10:45 a.m.
Energy and Environmental Design- HVAC Selected Participants
Kristen Shewfelt, Russ Hellem, Brian Solan, Lee Tavenner
Explore: a) An initial goal of reduced fossil fuel dependency leading to ultimate fossil fuel independence;
b) Alternatives and methods necessary to create
an energy efficient home;
c) Utilization of passive orientation strategies;
d) Active power generation alternatives;
e) Water stewardship practices with minimal impact on the site
and the environment
Kristen Shewfelt, Russ Hellem, Brian Solan, Lee Tavenner
Explore: a) An initial goal of reduced fossil fuel dependency leading to ultimate fossil fuel independence;
b) Alternatives and methods necessary to create
an energy efficient home;
c) Utilization of passive orientation strategies;
d) Active power generation alternatives;
e) Water stewardship practices with minimal impact on the site
and the environment
Review LEED categories:
"Water Efficiency" (WE);
"Energy & Atmosphere" (EA )and"Indoor Environmental Quality" (EQ)
12:00 p.m.
"Water Efficiency" (WE);
"Energy & Atmosphere" (EA )and"Indoor Environmental Quality" (EQ)
12:00 p.m.
Lunch Break
1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m.
Building Envelope and Construction Selected Participants
Jim Albrecht, Rick Shaw, Dick Morgenstern, Eldon Patterson, Russ Hellem, Brian Solan
Exploration of alternatives in: Construction methods, systems and materials for foundation, floors, walls, windows, doors and roofs.
Each alternative, for the envelope of the building and its’ interior, should be considered with respect to: Local supplies, R-values, air tightness, environmental impact, toxicity (low VOC), maintenance, and sustainability
LEED categories, Materials & Resources (MR), and the implementation of the administrative functions from all the other categories will be reviewed.
2:30 p.m.
Jim Albrecht, Rick Shaw, Dick Morgenstern, Eldon Patterson, Russ Hellem, Brian Solan
Exploration of alternatives in: Construction methods, systems and materials for foundation, floors, walls, windows, doors and roofs.
Each alternative, for the envelope of the building and its’ interior, should be considered with respect to: Local supplies, R-values, air tightness, environmental impact, toxicity (low VOC), maintenance, and sustainability
LEED categories, Materials & Resources (MR), and the implementation of the administrative functions from all the other categories will be reviewed.
2:30 p.m.
Break
2:45 p.m.
2:45 p.m.
Design Integration ~ ‘Pulling It All Together’ All Participants
Discussion on how to integrate the various systems into the conceptual design; what areas need to be studied further, what design elements can remain, what needto go, etc. This is the time for the team to identify what areas needmore research and assign tasks to the specific team members.
5:00p.m.
Discussion on how to integrate the various systems into the conceptual design; what areas need to be studied further, what design elements can remain, what needto go, etc. This is the time for the team to identify what areas needmore research and assign tasks to the specific team members.
5:00p.m.
Summary and Conclusion Don Briggs
Stay tuned, as in the coming week we will post minutes of the meeting, detail immediate research assignments for Project Team members, and get you out to the site for first hand accounts of all activities pertaining to our Dream Home project.
Happy Thoughts,
Tim
Monday, April 28, 2008
Choosing the Right Contractor
So you want to build your Dream Home. You and your spouse have talked about this home for years, and the time is finally right to move forward on this most exciting project. The home will have everything you've ever dreamed of, it is located on that picture perfect property, it will incorporate the many aspects of energy & water efficiency, as well as sustainable / green implementations throughout. You have gone as far as to register the project under the USGBC's LEED for Home rating system to insure your project incoporates all that you inspire it to have, as well as have the assistance of Architect, LEED Provider, and Green Rater at your disposal, but who is going to build it? Who, in this new Green Building industry has the capacity / knowledge to put the time, quality, and dedication forward to insure the home you move into on day 1 is indeed your Dream Home... and not Tom Hanks' money pit?
Before you run down the street to talk to your best friend's contractor buddy, we would suggest a more professional track. We all have friends of friends who know someone in the construction industry, or we all have heard this and that about 'Such & Such Construction', but how do you decide between fact and fiction and select a contractor worthy of your dream? Playing no favorites, and insuring all contracting firms have a realistic shot at bidding for your project, we would recommend you put forth an RFQ.
With the assistance of Briggs Architecture & Design, we sat down with Don and created a 'Request for Qualification' that was sent out to a list of eleven potential General Contractor / Construction Manager candidates. Through a series of project specific questions, it is our desire to review first hand how these candidates would handle our individual Dream Home build. Upon receipt of the RFQ packets from the candidates, we will sit down with Don and formulate a point system that ranks what questions we feel tip the scales one way or another for that individual candidate, and ultimately propels them to the 'Short List' for follow-up interviews.
The RFQ letter went out to our list of potential candidates on the 24th, and for your review, we have an example of the letter as follows...
April 23, 2008
Mr. John Smith
Smith Construction
Anytown, USA 12345
Re: Request for Qualification
Southwell Residential Project
Ravalli County, Darby, MT
Dear John,
Your firm is invited to submit a Qualification Statement in response to this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Construction Manager and/or General Contracting Services. The Qualification Statement is due May 19th at 5pm MST, we require two (2) copies of your Qualification Statement and two copies of the notary page delivered to our office, Briggs Architecture & Design. A partial set of preliminary drawings are attached for your review.
Project Introduction
Statement of Work:
The Project is a residential build of approximately 12,000 square feet focusing on the highest level of energy efficiency while incorporating a gamut of Green / Sustainable Building practices. The home will include various facets such as gourmet kitchen, main gathering room, library, separate master suite, additional five dedicated bedrooms, exercise room, theatre room, wine cellar, third floor observation room, and large accommodating mechanical rooms. The structure itself is being research for insulated concrete forms (basement), Cultured Log System (main body), and structural insulated panels (roof). The Project will be moving forward under the auspice of the USGBC’s LEED for Home Rating System with full anticipation to earn high ranks towards eventual certification.
Owner’s Representative (Qualification Statement sent to this address):
Briggs Architecture & Design
Attn: Don Briggs
120 S. 5th Street
Suite 101
Hamilton, MT 59840
Ph. 406-375-1111
don@briggsarch.com
Location:
Project is located in Darby, MT in the southern part of Ravalli County. At the intersection of Bunkhouse Road & Highway 93, head due west two miles to end of the road.
Contract Method:
To be discussed and determined at a later date.
Schedule:
Activity - Date
Issue RFQ - April 23,2008
Commence Charette / Design Meeting - April 30, 2008
Qualification Statement Due - May 19, 2008
Announce G.C. Short List - May 26, 2008
Follow-up Interview with Short List - May 27- June 5, 2008
Announce Selected G.C. - June 11, 2008
Start Construction - Fall 2008
Complete Construction - Fall 2010
Qualification Statement Format
Tab your Qualification Statement as outlined below:
1. General Information: At a minimum include the following:
(All requested information applies to the last 5 years).
Legal name, physical mailing address, and other contact information
· Describe your business organization (Corporation, sole-proprietorship, partnership, etc.);
How long has this firm been in business, and list all the names of owners, partners, officers,
etc.
· Identify who will lead the project (hold the prime contract with the Owner).
· Include a description of the firm’s services (identify in-house/self performed capabilities).
· Provide the average number of employees including office and field.
· Outline the average volume (separate the major categories into residential and
commercial) including any volume of work outside Ravalli County, Montana.
· Identify any close sub-contractor relationships that you have worked with on an ongoing
basis, outlining their discipline / trade.
2. Similar Experience: Describe a minimum of three (3) similar projects completed within the last 5 years. Include current names and contact information for the Owner per project. Identify square footage, original estimated amount, final contract amount and reasons for any differences. Also include the original scheduled start and finish date and the actual start and finish date. Describe reasons for any differences.
3. Project Team: Provide a general construction / construction management organizational chart, inclusive of GC/CM, foremen’s, laborers, subs, etc. Identify the GC, Superintendent and / or CM and what that person’s involvement is during construction (As a minimum include resumes of these key personnel).
4). Team Experience: Please identify if you or your firm have worked with design professionals in previous projects (ie. architects, engineers, consultants, etc.). Provide names and contact information for any design professionals you have worked with in the previous five years.
5. Experience in Ravalli County: Describe your experience working in Ravalli County.
6. Approach to MEP: Describe your approach to Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing procurement. Do you use Subcontractors for MEP or are you accustomed to working under independent MEP consultants in using their designs for bidding purposes?
7. Unique Qualifications: Provide detailed information regarding services as well as your approach to construction and management that differentiate you from your competition. Identify your firm’s individual strengths and possible short falls for executing a project of this scope, while also touching on your approach to cost estimating and project scheduling.
8. Bonding/Insurance Coverage: Provide a letter from your bonding company stating your ability to provide a 100% performance and 100% payment bond if required. Also include a sample insurance certificate stating available insurance coverage with the name and contact information of your insurance broker.
9. Claim / Suits: In the past 5 years, have you, your organization, or any individual from your organization been involved as either a plaintiff or defendant in any judgments, claims, arbitration proceedings, or suits pending or outstanding, involving construction contracts, or the work performed? If the answer is ‘yes’ to all or part of the above questions please describe.
10. References: Provide three trade references, your bank reference and their contact information.
We look forward to your participation in the Southwell Residential Project and thank you in advance for the time and effort spent preparing your response. Please contact me directly with any questions, clarifications, or concerns at (406)375-1111.
Respectfully,
Upon receipt of the RFQ on the 19th of May, we will formulate a Short List and secure follow-up interviews of each. In the meantime, we start our Charrette Meeting #1 on April 30th, which will break the ice on this project. In the coming week, I will post meeting agenda, Charrette meeting recap, and projected LEED H rating.
Until then, wishing you all an Abundant Tomorrow!
Tim
Before you run down the street to talk to your best friend's contractor buddy, we would suggest a more professional track. We all have friends of friends who know someone in the construction industry, or we all have heard this and that about 'Such & Such Construction', but how do you decide between fact and fiction and select a contractor worthy of your dream? Playing no favorites, and insuring all contracting firms have a realistic shot at bidding for your project, we would recommend you put forth an RFQ.
With the assistance of Briggs Architecture & Design, we sat down with Don and created a 'Request for Qualification' that was sent out to a list of eleven potential General Contractor / Construction Manager candidates. Through a series of project specific questions, it is our desire to review first hand how these candidates would handle our individual Dream Home build. Upon receipt of the RFQ packets from the candidates, we will sit down with Don and formulate a point system that ranks what questions we feel tip the scales one way or another for that individual candidate, and ultimately propels them to the 'Short List' for follow-up interviews.
The RFQ letter went out to our list of potential candidates on the 24th, and for your review, we have an example of the letter as follows...
April 23, 2008
Mr. John Smith
Smith Construction
Anytown, USA 12345
Re: Request for Qualification
Southwell Residential Project
Ravalli County, Darby, MT
Dear John,
Your firm is invited to submit a Qualification Statement in response to this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Construction Manager and/or General Contracting Services. The Qualification Statement is due May 19th at 5pm MST, we require two (2) copies of your Qualification Statement and two copies of the notary page delivered to our office, Briggs Architecture & Design. A partial set of preliminary drawings are attached for your review.
Project Introduction
Statement of Work:
The Project is a residential build of approximately 12,000 square feet focusing on the highest level of energy efficiency while incorporating a gamut of Green / Sustainable Building practices. The home will include various facets such as gourmet kitchen, main gathering room, library, separate master suite, additional five dedicated bedrooms, exercise room, theatre room, wine cellar, third floor observation room, and large accommodating mechanical rooms. The structure itself is being research for insulated concrete forms (basement), Cultured Log System (main body), and structural insulated panels (roof). The Project will be moving forward under the auspice of the USGBC’s LEED for Home Rating System with full anticipation to earn high ranks towards eventual certification.
Owner’s Representative (Qualification Statement sent to this address):
Briggs Architecture & Design
Attn: Don Briggs
120 S. 5th Street
Suite 101
Hamilton, MT 59840
Ph. 406-375-1111
don@briggsarch.com
Location:
Project is located in Darby, MT in the southern part of Ravalli County. At the intersection of Bunkhouse Road & Highway 93, head due west two miles to end of the road.
Contract Method:
To be discussed and determined at a later date.
Schedule:
Activity - Date
Issue RFQ - April 23,2008
Commence Charette / Design Meeting - April 30, 2008
Qualification Statement Due - May 19, 2008
Announce G.C. Short List - May 26, 2008
Follow-up Interview with Short List - May 27- June 5, 2008
Announce Selected G.C. - June 11, 2008
Start Construction - Fall 2008
Complete Construction - Fall 2010
Qualification Statement Format
Tab your Qualification Statement as outlined below:
1. General Information: At a minimum include the following:
(All requested information applies to the last 5 years).
Legal name, physical mailing address, and other contact information
· Describe your business organization (Corporation, sole-proprietorship, partnership, etc.);
How long has this firm been in business, and list all the names of owners, partners, officers,
etc.
· Identify who will lead the project (hold the prime contract with the Owner).
· Include a description of the firm’s services (identify in-house/self performed capabilities).
· Provide the average number of employees including office and field.
· Outline the average volume (separate the major categories into residential and
commercial) including any volume of work outside Ravalli County, Montana.
· Identify any close sub-contractor relationships that you have worked with on an ongoing
basis, outlining their discipline / trade.
2. Similar Experience: Describe a minimum of three (3) similar projects completed within the last 5 years. Include current names and contact information for the Owner per project. Identify square footage, original estimated amount, final contract amount and reasons for any differences. Also include the original scheduled start and finish date and the actual start and finish date. Describe reasons for any differences.
3. Project Team: Provide a general construction / construction management organizational chart, inclusive of GC/CM, foremen’s, laborers, subs, etc. Identify the GC, Superintendent and / or CM and what that person’s involvement is during construction (As a minimum include resumes of these key personnel).
4). Team Experience: Please identify if you or your firm have worked with design professionals in previous projects (ie. architects, engineers, consultants, etc.). Provide names and contact information for any design professionals you have worked with in the previous five years.
5. Experience in Ravalli County: Describe your experience working in Ravalli County.
6. Approach to MEP: Describe your approach to Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing procurement. Do you use Subcontractors for MEP or are you accustomed to working under independent MEP consultants in using their designs for bidding purposes?
7. Unique Qualifications: Provide detailed information regarding services as well as your approach to construction and management that differentiate you from your competition. Identify your firm’s individual strengths and possible short falls for executing a project of this scope, while also touching on your approach to cost estimating and project scheduling.
8. Bonding/Insurance Coverage: Provide a letter from your bonding company stating your ability to provide a 100% performance and 100% payment bond if required. Also include a sample insurance certificate stating available insurance coverage with the name and contact information of your insurance broker.
9. Claim / Suits: In the past 5 years, have you, your organization, or any individual from your organization been involved as either a plaintiff or defendant in any judgments, claims, arbitration proceedings, or suits pending or outstanding, involving construction contracts, or the work performed? If the answer is ‘yes’ to all or part of the above questions please describe.
10. References: Provide three trade references, your bank reference and their contact information.
We look forward to your participation in the Southwell Residential Project and thank you in advance for the time and effort spent preparing your response. Please contact me directly with any questions, clarifications, or concerns at (406)375-1111.
Respectfully,
Upon receipt of the RFQ on the 19th of May, we will formulate a Short List and secure follow-up interviews of each. In the meantime, we start our Charrette Meeting #1 on April 30th, which will break the ice on this project. In the coming week, I will post meeting agenda, Charrette meeting recap, and projected LEED H rating.
Until then, wishing you all an Abundant Tomorrow!
Tim
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Please Meet Ghost Fighters
GHOST FIGHTERS, INC
“HOME TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS”
3972 Highway 93N
Stevensville, MT 59870
406-777-5559- office phone
406-777-5550- office fax
406-239-8648- Rick’s cell
rick@ghostfighters.com
www.ghostfighters.com
Ghost Fighters, Inc. was established 32 years ago in 1976. We are a home technology solutions business that first offered a service to improve terrestrial television reception in Western Montana, by eliminating snowy and ghosty pictures thru proper positioning and signal amplification. In 1982, we designed and developed a C-Band satellite dish that we offered world wide. This “dish” was unique in that it could be built from locally available materials and do- it- yourselfers could purchase plans or kits. Our “dish design” was published in the August, 1983 publication of Mechanix Illustrated along with our “Consumer Guide to Satellite TV”. Our P-611 satellite dish was the entire cover of the magazine, and it was there largest selling issue of all time.
By 1990, home electronics were on the rise and we began offering satellite TV as well as audio and video throughout the house. We progressed in our product lines and abilities and began including home automation and control by the late 90s. Ghost Fighters was the first Crestron (home automation) and Lutron (lighting control) dealer in Montana (1998), and made the cover of CE Pro for the Craig Barrett Project at Triple Creek Ranch. We not only control audio and video, but also lighting, automated shades, motorized skylights, HVAC, security systems, cameras, sprinkler systems, etc. The essence of our work is to make the client’s interface with there home’s operating systems simple and reliable. Properly designed and installed control systems also help reduce energy consumption. Our staff has over 50 years combined experience in system integration.
The Ghost Fighters team members are:
Pam Brigham- Office Manager
Brian Brigham- Senior Technician & Project Manager
Matt Knutson- Programmer & Installer
Rick Trauth- Design, Sales, and Management
“HOME TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS”
3972 Highway 93N
Stevensville, MT 59870
406-777-5559- office phone
406-777-5550- office fax
406-239-8648- Rick’s cell
rick@ghostfighters.com
www.ghostfighters.com
Ghost Fighters, Inc. was established 32 years ago in 1976. We are a home technology solutions business that first offered a service to improve terrestrial television reception in Western Montana, by eliminating snowy and ghosty pictures thru proper positioning and signal amplification. In 1982, we designed and developed a C-Band satellite dish that we offered world wide. This “dish” was unique in that it could be built from locally available materials and do- it- yourselfers could purchase plans or kits. Our “dish design” was published in the August, 1983 publication of Mechanix Illustrated along with our “Consumer Guide to Satellite TV”. Our P-611 satellite dish was the entire cover of the magazine, and it was there largest selling issue of all time.
By 1990, home electronics were on the rise and we began offering satellite TV as well as audio and video throughout the house. We progressed in our product lines and abilities and began including home automation and control by the late 90s. Ghost Fighters was the first Crestron (home automation) and Lutron (lighting control) dealer in Montana (1998), and made the cover of CE Pro for the Craig Barrett Project at Triple Creek Ranch. We not only control audio and video, but also lighting, automated shades, motorized skylights, HVAC, security systems, cameras, sprinkler systems, etc. The essence of our work is to make the client’s interface with there home’s operating systems simple and reliable. Properly designed and installed control systems also help reduce energy consumption. Our staff has over 50 years combined experience in system integration.
The Ghost Fighters team members are:
Pam Brigham- Office Manager
Brian Brigham- Senior Technician & Project Manager
Matt Knutson- Programmer & Installer
Rick Trauth- Design, Sales, and Management
Monday, April 21, 2008
Please Meet Solar Plexus
Solar Plexus, LLC “Your Natural Solution for Power” www.solarplexus1.com
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Solar Plexus, LLC
406-721-1130
1605 Stephens Suite B, Missoula MT 59801 April 1, 2008
Solar Plexus Overview
Solar Plexus was started in 1994 by Lee Tavenner, and Mary Hamilton. Solar Plexus
mission is to design, install and maintain renewable energy systems that work. Lee and
Mary located their store in a retail space in Missoula, Montana, and did on-site
installation of solar and hydroelectric projects. At that time most solar projects were
stand-alone systems, or water pumping.
Earlier, Lee Tavenner had developed his own hydroelectric project between Drummond
and Butte, Montana. Lee had been active in opposing and then influencing siting of a
high-power transmission line from the Colstrip coal plants to the coast, and as a result of
that involvement sought to develop local renewable resources in Montana. His 500KW
Little Gold project was the result. This run–of-the-river project has been on-line since
1988, delivering clean renewable energy into the grid.
In 2000 Rip Hamilton joined the firm. Both Rip and Lee are now PV certified by the
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). In 2004 Solar
Plexus purchased a building in Missoula. In 2005 we installed our own grid-intertie solar
system on the store, an 11-panel system that offsets about half of the store’s energy use.
Since the company’s inception in 1994, Solar Plexus has installed numerous stand-alone
and grid-tie solar systems in Montana and surrounding states. In addition to standard
solar panels, Solar Plexus has also specialized in Atlantis Sunslates, and has completed
solar shingle installations on several houses in Montana, Wyoming and Colorado.
Solar Plexus also does solar hot water, and has completed several multiple-panel
commercial projects in western Montana, as well as some standard domestic hot water
systems.
Over the years, Solar Plexus has installed numerous hydro projects, ranging from 50KW
down to 200 watts. In 2006, we installed 90 solar panels and 8 hot water collectors on a low-income housing project in Missoula at Orchard Gardens, the largest solar installation in Montana to date. This was our second project with WORD, as WORD had also sponsored an 88 panel
grid-tie solar project at their Gold Dust apartments two years earlier.
We are pleased with the increased interest in solar that has developed in the last year or
so, and we look forward to solar becoming fully integrated into building design and
function.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Please Meet Briggs Architecture & Design
Briggs Architecture & Design creates homes, lodges and resort projects that are as individual and diverse as its clientele. Often, the firm is challenged to design unique details and accessories to complement existing architecture, bringing the spaces to life and defining the character of the home. Led by principal Donald G. Briggs, AIA. Briggs Architecure & Design believes that a successful project begins with the art of listening. This ensures that the home is a true reflection of the owner, not the architect. Briggs often tells his clients that he intends to design their home the way they would if they were architects themselves. The firm is committed to harmonizing a building with its natural environment. This ethic is motivated by a deep respect for nature and a desire to create homes with sustainable style. These homes are designed to make efficient and elegant use of indigenous resources and built with healthy materials to create an environment that nurtures the body, as well as the spirit. These timeless designs continue to bring comfort, security and serenity to their inhabitants as the years unfold. For more information on Briggs Architecture & Design, visit www.briggsarch.com or clink on the link under Project Team.
Charette Meeting planned for April 30th. Stay tuned.
Tim
Charette Meeting planned for April 30th. Stay tuned.
Tim
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Charette Meeting Preview
As I type, Don Briggs is sending forth a project introductory packet to all members of our recently formed Project Team (see last entry) so that they are brought up to date on past months' correspondence between Don and Sarah & me. Included in the packet are the most recent CAD drawings depicting the initial design of the home from basement up, including front and back elevations, as well as an intriductory letter and LEED for Home overview put forth by Sarah and me. For review, I am including the two articles we included plus an elevation of the concept home.
Our introductory letter was an opportunity for us to introduce ourselves to the team members, and get them comfortable with what we were looking to incoporate into the home both inside and out. Please find this letter as follows:
April 3rd, 2008
To: Project Team Members
Fm: Tim & Sarah Southwell
Re: Bunkhouse Project Overview
Over the past ten years, we have designed, redesigned, and designed again our Dream Home. We are pleased to say we feel confident in the direction this project is headed knowing we will reside in a wonderful home in the near future. This confidence is mainly due to the time we have spent refining what we see going into our Dream Home, the professional relationship we have built with Don Briggs, and the recent relationships we have made with each of you. It is only with proper planning, input from us, and working with industry professionals that we can propel this project to the level of expectation we have. In an effort to better acquaint you to our final desired product, we are taking a few minutes to briefly go over a little about us and what we look to in our future home.
We always keep a conscious eye on living a healthy, clean life. Organic food, clean water, exercise, and fresh air are aspects of our day to day we strive for. So much so that until recently we both owned / operated businesses focusing on the same; Sarah, a natural mind, body, and soul nurturing store; and Tim, an exercise facility. It is with this commitment to such a lifestyle, that we want to incorporate an equivalent of the same into our Dream Home. The following is a list of design aspects we are interested in incorporating into the home. This is not the be all, end all, but rather just a starting place so that it can be discussed, molded, and ultimately implemented by project’s end.
- Minimal disturbance to surrounding land. Working within the confines of the disturbed footprint.
- Iron-clad envelop / skin, with ultimate energy efficiency in mind. Investigate ICF’s for basement, SIP’s roof, and Cultured Log in between for high r-value.
- Climate customized window detail for various orientations.
- Non-toxic materials throughout, inclusive of furnishings upon move-in
- Locally acquired materials
- Ultimate water efficiency indoors and out
- Xeriscape landscaping (onsite forested plants, grasses, and trees) with minimal select beds / plantings.
- Greywater re-use system for toilets, irrigating, other?
- Rainwater catchment system for irrigation or other?
- Geothermal Heating / Cooling system with Duct / Radiant flooring combination
- Whole house air-exchanger.
- Select in-ground heating for patios, decks, walks, drive.
- Photovoltaic / Wind Power Station for grid-tied battery back-up system, tied into specific electrical needs in the event of grid failure.
- Solar Thermal applications
- Potential for fossil fuel independence in time
- Permeable walks and driveway for water collection / erosion control
- Smart controls / sensors for lighting, venting, other.
- Smart material estimating with minimal construction waste and recycling plan
- Perimeter forest fire sprinkler system used only in case need.
- Seasonal pond
- Conceptual plan for future work shop / shed and guest house build-out
We understand that the building industry and that of the Green movement are changing everyday. We are hopeful that the project team can bring forth new and exciting ideas above and beyond what we have listed here. Case studies of new buildings (both residential and comm’l) coming on line each week might be a place to start.
It looks to be an exciting and educational ride.
Sincerely,
Tim & Sarah Southwell
Note: for more detail on the home, please see the 'program' in the October entry last year.
We also took the time to review the LEED for Home criteria set forth by the USGBC and mark out in letter form what aspects / categories we wished to pursue / investigate for our future LEED for Home residential build. The following is a copy of this letter:
April 3rd, 2008
To: Project Team Members
Re: Bunkhouse Project
LEED for Home Criteria Review
The following booklet is the latest edition of the USGBC’s LEED for Home rating system. It is this system that we will use as a tool to direct our residential project in the direction of green building and sustainable design. I stress the word ‘tool’, as our main focus is not to simply regurgitate what is written in the following pages, but rather meld our vision of our Dream Home with the principals set forth in the following criteria.
We have taken the time to review the booklet in its entirety, while making note of particular criteria we feel confident in pursuing / discussing for implementation into our build (see below). We understand that there will be both give and take in what we are to implement from the standpoint of the LEED for Home criteria, knowing the vision of our Dream Home will not be sacrificed.
Prior to the gathering of our first charette meeting, we require each of you to read the booklet while referencing the below list of potential credits worth pursuing on the project. We will expect each of you to take special interest in the individual credits mentioned that might pertain to your individual industry knowledge and start to digest ideas for addressing such criteria at the time of the meeting.
Specific category and corresponding criteria looking to pursue on this project listed as follows:
Innovation & Design Process
ID1: Integrated Project Planning
ID2: Durability Management Process
ID3: Innovative or Regional Design
Location & Linkages
LL2: Site Selection
LL3: Preferred Locations (3.3)
LL6: Access to Open Space
Sustainable Sites
SS1: Site Stewardship
SS2: Landscaping
SS3: Local Heat Island Effects
SS4: Surface Water Management
SS5: Nontoxic Pest Control
Water Efficiency
WE1: Water Reuse
WE2: Irrigation System
WE3: Indoor Water Use
Energy & Atmosphere
EA1: Optimize Energy Performance
And/or
EA2: Insulation
EA3: Air Infiltration
EA4: Windows
EA5: Heating & Cooling Distribution System
EA6: Space Heating & Cooling Equipment
EA7: Water Heating
EA8: Lighting
EA9: Appliances
EA10: Renewable Energy
EA11: Residential Refrigerant Management
Materials & Resources
MR1: Material Efficient Framing
MR2: Environmentally Preferable Products
MR3: Waste Management
Indoor Environmental Quality
EQ1: Energy Star with Indoor Air Package
EQ2: Combustion Venting
EQ3: Moisture Control
EQ4: Outdoor Air Ventilation
EQ5: Local Exhaust
EQ6: Distribution of Space Heating and Cooling
EQ7: Air Filtering
EQ8: Contaminant Control
EQ9: Radon Protection
EQ10: Garage Pollution Protection
Awareness & Education
AE1: Education of the Homeowner
All project team members will look to Kristin Shewfelt, our contracted LEED Provider, for any updates / amendments in the LEED for Home criteria over the course of the project which may impact a particular category we are working towards.
Thank you for your attention to this LEED criteria overview. Any immediate comments can be directed to Don Briggs.
We will look forward to seeing / speaking with you all in the very near future.
Sincerely,
Tim & Sarah Southwell
To get a complete overview of the USGBC's LEED for Home criteria, please follow the link in the column on the right side of the screen. We have yet to set forth a level of desired LEED H rating for the build, but we are certainly going to entertain incorporating the highest level of sustainable / green design for a happy and healthy home.
For your visual delight, please take note of the following Southwest elevation looking at the back of the home. Design concepts are certainly open to modifications over the soon to commence Charette process (late April), but this still gets the point across about the magnitude of the project and the expertise we are counting on for a first class Dream Home build.
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Our introductory letter was an opportunity for us to introduce ourselves to the team members, and get them comfortable with what we were looking to incoporate into the home both inside and out. Please find this letter as follows:
April 3rd, 2008
To: Project Team Members
Fm: Tim & Sarah Southwell
Re: Bunkhouse Project Overview
Over the past ten years, we have designed, redesigned, and designed again our Dream Home. We are pleased to say we feel confident in the direction this project is headed knowing we will reside in a wonderful home in the near future. This confidence is mainly due to the time we have spent refining what we see going into our Dream Home, the professional relationship we have built with Don Briggs, and the recent relationships we have made with each of you. It is only with proper planning, input from us, and working with industry professionals that we can propel this project to the level of expectation we have. In an effort to better acquaint you to our final desired product, we are taking a few minutes to briefly go over a little about us and what we look to in our future home.
We always keep a conscious eye on living a healthy, clean life. Organic food, clean water, exercise, and fresh air are aspects of our day to day we strive for. So much so that until recently we both owned / operated businesses focusing on the same; Sarah, a natural mind, body, and soul nurturing store; and Tim, an exercise facility. It is with this commitment to such a lifestyle, that we want to incorporate an equivalent of the same into our Dream Home. The following is a list of design aspects we are interested in incorporating into the home. This is not the be all, end all, but rather just a starting place so that it can be discussed, molded, and ultimately implemented by project’s end.
- Minimal disturbance to surrounding land. Working within the confines of the disturbed footprint.
- Iron-clad envelop / skin, with ultimate energy efficiency in mind. Investigate ICF’s for basement, SIP’s roof, and Cultured Log in between for high r-value.
- Climate customized window detail for various orientations.
- Non-toxic materials throughout, inclusive of furnishings upon move-in
- Locally acquired materials
- Ultimate water efficiency indoors and out
- Xeriscape landscaping (onsite forested plants, grasses, and trees) with minimal select beds / plantings.
- Greywater re-use system for toilets, irrigating, other?
- Rainwater catchment system for irrigation or other?
- Geothermal Heating / Cooling system with Duct / Radiant flooring combination
- Whole house air-exchanger.
- Select in-ground heating for patios, decks, walks, drive.
- Photovoltaic / Wind Power Station for grid-tied battery back-up system, tied into specific electrical needs in the event of grid failure.
- Solar Thermal applications
- Potential for fossil fuel independence in time
- Permeable walks and driveway for water collection / erosion control
- Smart controls / sensors for lighting, venting, other.
- Smart material estimating with minimal construction waste and recycling plan
- Perimeter forest fire sprinkler system used only in case need.
- Seasonal pond
- Conceptual plan for future work shop / shed and guest house build-out
We understand that the building industry and that of the Green movement are changing everyday. We are hopeful that the project team can bring forth new and exciting ideas above and beyond what we have listed here. Case studies of new buildings (both residential and comm’l) coming on line each week might be a place to start.
It looks to be an exciting and educational ride.
Sincerely,
Tim & Sarah Southwell
Note: for more detail on the home, please see the 'program' in the October entry last year.
We also took the time to review the LEED for Home criteria set forth by the USGBC and mark out in letter form what aspects / categories we wished to pursue / investigate for our future LEED for Home residential build. The following is a copy of this letter:
April 3rd, 2008
To: Project Team Members
Re: Bunkhouse Project
LEED for Home Criteria Review
The following booklet is the latest edition of the USGBC’s LEED for Home rating system. It is this system that we will use as a tool to direct our residential project in the direction of green building and sustainable design. I stress the word ‘tool’, as our main focus is not to simply regurgitate what is written in the following pages, but rather meld our vision of our Dream Home with the principals set forth in the following criteria.
We have taken the time to review the booklet in its entirety, while making note of particular criteria we feel confident in pursuing / discussing for implementation into our build (see below). We understand that there will be both give and take in what we are to implement from the standpoint of the LEED for Home criteria, knowing the vision of our Dream Home will not be sacrificed.
Prior to the gathering of our first charette meeting, we require each of you to read the booklet while referencing the below list of potential credits worth pursuing on the project. We will expect each of you to take special interest in the individual credits mentioned that might pertain to your individual industry knowledge and start to digest ideas for addressing such criteria at the time of the meeting.
Specific category and corresponding criteria looking to pursue on this project listed as follows:
Innovation & Design Process
ID1: Integrated Project Planning
ID2: Durability Management Process
ID3: Innovative or Regional Design
Location & Linkages
LL2: Site Selection
LL3: Preferred Locations (3.3)
LL6: Access to Open Space
Sustainable Sites
SS1: Site Stewardship
SS2: Landscaping
SS3: Local Heat Island Effects
SS4: Surface Water Management
SS5: Nontoxic Pest Control
Water Efficiency
WE1: Water Reuse
WE2: Irrigation System
WE3: Indoor Water Use
Energy & Atmosphere
EA1: Optimize Energy Performance
And/or
EA2: Insulation
EA3: Air Infiltration
EA4: Windows
EA5: Heating & Cooling Distribution System
EA6: Space Heating & Cooling Equipment
EA7: Water Heating
EA8: Lighting
EA9: Appliances
EA10: Renewable Energy
EA11: Residential Refrigerant Management
Materials & Resources
MR1: Material Efficient Framing
MR2: Environmentally Preferable Products
MR3: Waste Management
Indoor Environmental Quality
EQ1: Energy Star with Indoor Air Package
EQ2: Combustion Venting
EQ3: Moisture Control
EQ4: Outdoor Air Ventilation
EQ5: Local Exhaust
EQ6: Distribution of Space Heating and Cooling
EQ7: Air Filtering
EQ8: Contaminant Control
EQ9: Radon Protection
EQ10: Garage Pollution Protection
Awareness & Education
AE1: Education of the Homeowner
All project team members will look to Kristin Shewfelt, our contracted LEED Provider, for any updates / amendments in the LEED for Home criteria over the course of the project which may impact a particular category we are working towards.
Thank you for your attention to this LEED criteria overview. Any immediate comments can be directed to Don Briggs.
We will look forward to seeing / speaking with you all in the very near future.
Sincerely,
Tim & Sarah Southwell
To get a complete overview of the USGBC's LEED for Home criteria, please follow the link in the column on the right side of the screen. We have yet to set forth a level of desired LEED H rating for the build, but we are certainly going to entertain incorporating the highest level of sustainable / green design for a happy and healthy home.
For your visual delight, please take note of the following Southwest elevation looking at the back of the home. Design concepts are certainly open to modifications over the soon to commence Charette process (late April), but this still gets the point across about the magnitude of the project and the expertise we are counting on for a first class Dream Home build.
Be sure to check back regularly, as I will be putting forward Project Team introductions over the next two weeks, with a comprehensive follow-up to Charette Meeting #1 at the end fo April.
Until then, an Abundant Tomorrow to all.
Tim
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Project Team Unveiled
After months of working with our architect, we have reached a point in the project to move to the next stage. Incorporating input from industry professionals in an effort to mold our Dream Home into a state of the art residence, we are proud to introduce the following members of our Project Team:
Home Owners / LEED AP: Tim & Sarah Southwell
Architect: Don Briggs (www.briggsarch.com)
CAD Professional: Jeff Stahlecker
LEED Provider: Kristin Shewfelt (www.archenergy.com)
Energy Rater: Russ Hellem (www.energetechsinc.com)
Engineering Firm: Brian Solan (www.m-m.net)
Log Home Supplier: Rick Shaw (www.culturedlogs.com)
Alternative Energy: Lee Tavenner (www.solarplexus1.com)
Home Systems Integrator: Rick Trauth (www.ghostfighters.com)
Experienced Contractor: Jim Albrecht
You will note the LEED Provider, Architectural Energy Corporation, on the list. In the past week, and becoming comfortable with their individual services, we are pleased to move forward under their direction for eventual pre-certification / certification of the project under the USGBC’s LEED for Home Rating System criteria.
In the coming month, I will post individual introductions from each team member, as you get a better glimpse into their industry focus and coupled experience with residential projects and Green / Sustainable Design.
We are also presently putting together a list of potential contractors / project managers that we will interview for the job. Via phone conversations, face to face meeting, and a strict qualification process, we are hopeful to have this individual identified soon and added to the Project Team accordingly.
Our first charrette meeting is now being scheduled for latter part April where we will dissect the current design detail and introduce many aspects of operating systems / materials which will find their way into the final project. I will do my best to recap these meetings as a way to educate viewers into understanding how our project unfolds, subject matters being discussed, the LEED for Homes process, and latest technology / green aspects being entertained for implementation. From here we will go to eventual implementation, construction, and move-in. Keep checking in, for it proves to be a most exciting ride.
Good Health and an Abundant Tomorrow to all.
Tim
Home Owners / LEED AP: Tim & Sarah Southwell
Architect: Don Briggs (www.briggsarch.com)
CAD Professional: Jeff Stahlecker
LEED Provider: Kristin Shewfelt (www.archenergy.com)
Energy Rater: Russ Hellem (www.energetechsinc.com)
Engineering Firm: Brian Solan (www.m-m.net)
Log Home Supplier: Rick Shaw (www.culturedlogs.com)
Alternative Energy: Lee Tavenner (www.solarplexus1.com)
Home Systems Integrator: Rick Trauth (www.ghostfighters.com)
Experienced Contractor: Jim Albrecht
You will note the LEED Provider, Architectural Energy Corporation, on the list. In the past week, and becoming comfortable with their individual services, we are pleased to move forward under their direction for eventual pre-certification / certification of the project under the USGBC’s LEED for Home Rating System criteria.
In the coming month, I will post individual introductions from each team member, as you get a better glimpse into their industry focus and coupled experience with residential projects and Green / Sustainable Design.
We are also presently putting together a list of potential contractors / project managers that we will interview for the job. Via phone conversations, face to face meeting, and a strict qualification process, we are hopeful to have this individual identified soon and added to the Project Team accordingly.
Our first charrette meeting is now being scheduled for latter part April where we will dissect the current design detail and introduce many aspects of operating systems / materials which will find their way into the final project. I will do my best to recap these meetings as a way to educate viewers into understanding how our project unfolds, subject matters being discussed, the LEED for Homes process, and latest technology / green aspects being entertained for implementation. From here we will go to eventual implementation, construction, and move-in. Keep checking in, for it proves to be a most exciting ride.
Good Health and an Abundant Tomorrow to all.
Tim
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
LEED the Way
The project is moving forward despite the lack of details over the past few weeks. We recently met with an engineering firm in Missoula, which all but solidified the project team which will be unveiled next week. The remaining part of the puzzle, and a big part at that, is to finalize a working relationship with a LEED Provider to register, administer, and ultimately certify the project under the auspice of the LEED for Homes rating system created by the USGBC.
As Montana does not have a nominated Provider, I am contacting adjacent states to try and create a working relationship for moving this project forward. As a LEED AP, my knowledge is geared towards commercial structures through the LEED NC, CI, and EB programs. Even though I feel confident I could work inline with the LEED H criteria, I am busy communicating with various LEED Provider entities. To that note, I have presently made contact with Earth Advantage (www.earthadvantage.com) out of Oregon and Arch Energy (www.archenergy.com) out of Colorado. I am hopeful one of these outfits will show interest in the project and put forth a comprehensive overview of services customized for our project from A to Z. With our now scheduled first Charrette for the first week of April, I am pressing to solidify this relationship sooner than later. I am a firm believer in the LEED system, but must admit that establishing a working relationship within the LEED structure has been most difficult. I believe this will change as the USGBC and the LEED system grow and as more and more LEED professionals come online to offer such services nationwide.
As a result of this, I am now pursuing additional avenues to bolster my abilities to act, consult, and work on all aspects of LEED projects. In reading previous entries, you will note that under the LEED Home rating system, it is the requirement of the rating system that a LEED accredited Energy Rater work directly on the project. The Energy Rater is hired and managed by the Provider to handle site visits, collection of information on the project pursuant to criteria attainment, and culminate all materials for presentation to the Provider for review and submittal to the USGBC panel for final certification. I will be flying to Colorado where I will take place in a weeklong workshop put on by an Energy Rater firm, Energy Logic (www.nrglogic.com). The weeklong workshop will culminate with the national exam and two months of required energy rater practice to obtain the official HERS (Home Energy Rating Standard) Energy Rater status. With this knowledge I will be both educated to the intricacies of our own personal residential build, but more so will cultivate the LEED AP and Energy Rater accolades into a working Green / Energy consulting business which I will debut later this year. Fittingly enough, the name of my business is Abundant Tomorrrow.
In the next week, I will plan on unveiling the nominated project team, introducing the LEED Provider, and sharing some personal comments on our Dream Home and how I feel its design ties into the framework of the Green Building movement.
Until then, keep your dreams alive, and move forward with the Power of Intention.
Wishing you all an Abundant Tomorrow!
Tim
As Montana does not have a nominated Provider, I am contacting adjacent states to try and create a working relationship for moving this project forward. As a LEED AP, my knowledge is geared towards commercial structures through the LEED NC, CI, and EB programs. Even though I feel confident I could work inline with the LEED H criteria, I am busy communicating with various LEED Provider entities. To that note, I have presently made contact with Earth Advantage (www.earthadvantage.com) out of Oregon and Arch Energy (www.archenergy.com) out of Colorado. I am hopeful one of these outfits will show interest in the project and put forth a comprehensive overview of services customized for our project from A to Z. With our now scheduled first Charrette for the first week of April, I am pressing to solidify this relationship sooner than later. I am a firm believer in the LEED system, but must admit that establishing a working relationship within the LEED structure has been most difficult. I believe this will change as the USGBC and the LEED system grow and as more and more LEED professionals come online to offer such services nationwide.
As a result of this, I am now pursuing additional avenues to bolster my abilities to act, consult, and work on all aspects of LEED projects. In reading previous entries, you will note that under the LEED Home rating system, it is the requirement of the rating system that a LEED accredited Energy Rater work directly on the project. The Energy Rater is hired and managed by the Provider to handle site visits, collection of information on the project pursuant to criteria attainment, and culminate all materials for presentation to the Provider for review and submittal to the USGBC panel for final certification. I will be flying to Colorado where I will take place in a weeklong workshop put on by an Energy Rater firm, Energy Logic (www.nrglogic.com). The weeklong workshop will culminate with the national exam and two months of required energy rater practice to obtain the official HERS (Home Energy Rating Standard) Energy Rater status. With this knowledge I will be both educated to the intricacies of our own personal residential build, but more so will cultivate the LEED AP and Energy Rater accolades into a working Green / Energy consulting business which I will debut later this year. Fittingly enough, the name of my business is Abundant Tomorrrow.
In the next week, I will plan on unveiling the nominated project team, introducing the LEED Provider, and sharing some personal comments on our Dream Home and how I feel its design ties into the framework of the Green Building movement.
Until then, keep your dreams alive, and move forward with the Power of Intention.
Wishing you all an Abundant Tomorrow!
Tim
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Research Continues
We have yet to commence the Charette process, as we have not solidified the project team in its entirety. That being said, we know what components we wish to invite on the team, it is just finding a comfortable fitting that suits our particular project.
Coming into last week, we had identified area professionals in the engineering fields that we felt comfortable with, but they were not all with the same firm. Could this propose a problem with communication, ego’s, and set timeline as the custom build rolled out? Would continuing our search for an all-in-one engineering firm be the better path for us, as the various departments (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.) could easily communicate with one another as they are just down the hall from each other rather than across the city / state? This is a question we are determined to feel out prior to committing to a course of action. Next week, the 24th, Don Briggs and I will travel north to Missoula (~40 miles) to meet with one such engineering firm experienced in residential builds, while employing a number of LEED Accredited Professionals. The meeting will give us a better feel for the path we are to take, while having the opportunity to gage their mindset on luxury builds and sustainable design concepts.
On another note, I am communicating with a few LEED Providers to determine which outfit I would hire to oversee the registration and eventual certification of our future LEED Home. It has certainly been an education to date, and anyone interested in pursuing the same is advised to start researching this working relationship at this time… not months into the design process, or heaven forbid construction phase.
In closing, we modified our ‘program’ last week as it pertained to the observation deck on the 3rd floor (see article in October of last year). We have decided to downsize the space, and change its feel. We have removed the wet bar, large seating area, and billiard table, and are making plans to incorporate them into a future space in the gathering room on the first floor. The observation room will now exude an atmosphere of spirituality and meditation, as we open up the floor for meditation, yoga, pilates, reading, art work (draftsman table and easel) and just a place for rest, relaxation, and inner peace. Can’t wait to see the final design take shape; In the meantime, here is a glimpse of the front elevation still in the works.
All the best, and an Abundant Tomorrow to all.
Tim
Coming into last week, we had identified area professionals in the engineering fields that we felt comfortable with, but they were not all with the same firm. Could this propose a problem with communication, ego’s, and set timeline as the custom build rolled out? Would continuing our search for an all-in-one engineering firm be the better path for us, as the various departments (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.) could easily communicate with one another as they are just down the hall from each other rather than across the city / state? This is a question we are determined to feel out prior to committing to a course of action. Next week, the 24th, Don Briggs and I will travel north to Missoula (~40 miles) to meet with one such engineering firm experienced in residential builds, while employing a number of LEED Accredited Professionals. The meeting will give us a better feel for the path we are to take, while having the opportunity to gage their mindset on luxury builds and sustainable design concepts.
On another note, I am communicating with a few LEED Providers to determine which outfit I would hire to oversee the registration and eventual certification of our future LEED Home. It has certainly been an education to date, and anyone interested in pursuing the same is advised to start researching this working relationship at this time… not months into the design process, or heaven forbid construction phase.
In closing, we modified our ‘program’ last week as it pertained to the observation deck on the 3rd floor (see article in October of last year). We have decided to downsize the space, and change its feel. We have removed the wet bar, large seating area, and billiard table, and are making plans to incorporate them into a future space in the gathering room on the first floor. The observation room will now exude an atmosphere of spirituality and meditation, as we open up the floor for meditation, yoga, pilates, reading, art work (draftsman table and easel) and just a place for rest, relaxation, and inner peace. Can’t wait to see the final design take shape; In the meantime, here is a glimpse of the front elevation still in the works.
All the best, and an Abundant Tomorrow to all.
Tim
Saturday, January 26, 2008
LEED, NAHB, Raters, & Providers... which way do we go?
Another month almost behind us, and I am left wondering where it all goes. The past month has been beneficial, as I have taken the initiative to meet with and interview possible working relationships with a USGBC LEED Provider and Energy Star Rater… both professions that will be required as part of the project if we are to seek LEED for Home certification.
As I mentioned there is yet to be a nominated LEED Provider for my state, Montana, so I spent some time with Kristin Shewfelt of AEC in Boulder, Colorado this past week (www.archenergy.com). As the state’s nominated LEED Provider, Kristin shed some light on the subject of a possible working relationship. To recap, if we are to pursue a LEED H certification, we will have to work with a designated LEED Provider. As a LEED Provider, AEC offers four phases of services towards the LEED Certification;
* Energy Modeling, Review, and Analysis
* Field Testing and Performance Rating of Operating Systems
* Documentation, Calculations, Verification c/o Energy Rater
* Wrapping up all services performed c/o contractor, subs, energy rater, etc., with full submittal of same to USGBC for review / sign-off.
It is important to note that out of these four phases of service, AEC and any other LEED Provider is only obligated to offer phase #4 to move on LEED Certification. The first three phases mentioned above are simply other expertise services AEC puts forth to fine tune the green build project for the owner. It is understood that other companies (LEED AP’s, Design Consultant, Energy Modeling Firms, Engineering Firms, Architects, etc.) could play the role of offering such services short of the LEED submittal phase. For the time being, I have been instructed to supply Kristin with up to the minute design plans / specs for the build, idea of HVAC operating system, along with material ideas as they pertain to building structure, insulation, window selections, etc., so AEC can draw up an initial proposal for services to be rendered. Working with our architect this next week, I intend to do just that.
In a typical case of projects out of the area, AEC would subcontract out the role of the Energy Rater. These services would fall in line with phases #2 & #3. I had the opportunity to meet with Russ Hellem of Energytech (www.energytech.com) this past week in Montana. Russ heads up an Energy Rater firm situated in Missoula, MT and is recognized as a certified Energy Star Rater. We spent the time discussing his services, and how he could offer Energy Modeling Analysis of particular operating systems, prescribe certain energy packages to reduce cooling / heating loads per the designs, and work alongside the owner as a Commissioning Agent to see that decided upon operating systems (HVAC) were sized, calibrated, and operating per specs / ratings determined within the design scope of the project. On a personal note, I could immediately see the passion Russ brought to the table for green / sustainable design. Even though our home will be large in the context of space allocation under Green Design, he made a point of asserting that whatever the size, he would work diligently to insure the highest level of energy efficiency throughout. He also brought much attention to the National Association of Home Builders Green Program (www.nahb.org). This program is in line with the LEED program, but goes a step further to take into account local / regional conditions when considering various design aspects of building. As a result, I am now spending the next week to digest both options and decide which rating system we will target for our Dream Home build.
In the next week, we will be meeting with Don Briggs to finalize design plans so to have a working set of drawings once we enter the Charette process; we will also discuss, finalize, and invite individual members to join the project team; decide on the green rating system we wish to pursue; and solidify a date of commencing the Charette process.
Stay tuned, for the ball is rolling faster and faster each day!
All the best, and an Abundant Tomorrow to you all.
Tim
As I mentioned there is yet to be a nominated LEED Provider for my state, Montana, so I spent some time with Kristin Shewfelt of AEC in Boulder, Colorado this past week (www.archenergy.com). As the state’s nominated LEED Provider, Kristin shed some light on the subject of a possible working relationship. To recap, if we are to pursue a LEED H certification, we will have to work with a designated LEED Provider. As a LEED Provider, AEC offers four phases of services towards the LEED Certification;
* Energy Modeling, Review, and Analysis
* Field Testing and Performance Rating of Operating Systems
* Documentation, Calculations, Verification c/o Energy Rater
* Wrapping up all services performed c/o contractor, subs, energy rater, etc., with full submittal of same to USGBC for review / sign-off.
It is important to note that out of these four phases of service, AEC and any other LEED Provider is only obligated to offer phase #4 to move on LEED Certification. The first three phases mentioned above are simply other expertise services AEC puts forth to fine tune the green build project for the owner. It is understood that other companies (LEED AP’s, Design Consultant, Energy Modeling Firms, Engineering Firms, Architects, etc.) could play the role of offering such services short of the LEED submittal phase. For the time being, I have been instructed to supply Kristin with up to the minute design plans / specs for the build, idea of HVAC operating system, along with material ideas as they pertain to building structure, insulation, window selections, etc., so AEC can draw up an initial proposal for services to be rendered. Working with our architect this next week, I intend to do just that.
In a typical case of projects out of the area, AEC would subcontract out the role of the Energy Rater. These services would fall in line with phases #2 & #3. I had the opportunity to meet with Russ Hellem of Energytech (www.energytech.com) this past week in Montana. Russ heads up an Energy Rater firm situated in Missoula, MT and is recognized as a certified Energy Star Rater. We spent the time discussing his services, and how he could offer Energy Modeling Analysis of particular operating systems, prescribe certain energy packages to reduce cooling / heating loads per the designs, and work alongside the owner as a Commissioning Agent to see that decided upon operating systems (HVAC) were sized, calibrated, and operating per specs / ratings determined within the design scope of the project. On a personal note, I could immediately see the passion Russ brought to the table for green / sustainable design. Even though our home will be large in the context of space allocation under Green Design, he made a point of asserting that whatever the size, he would work diligently to insure the highest level of energy efficiency throughout. He also brought much attention to the National Association of Home Builders Green Program (www.nahb.org). This program is in line with the LEED program, but goes a step further to take into account local / regional conditions when considering various design aspects of building. As a result, I am now spending the next week to digest both options and decide which rating system we will target for our Dream Home build.
In the next week, we will be meeting with Don Briggs to finalize design plans so to have a working set of drawings once we enter the Charette process; we will also discuss, finalize, and invite individual members to join the project team; decide on the green rating system we wish to pursue; and solidify a date of commencing the Charette process.
Stay tuned, for the ball is rolling faster and faster each day!
All the best, and an Abundant Tomorrow to you all.
Tim
Friday, January 4, 2008
2008... Full Steam Ahead
As we enter the New Year, Sarah and I are working closely with Don Briggs, Briggs Architecture & Design, to mold our program for the dream home build, to take place this summer, so as to have a concrete starting place once we enter into the much anticipated Charrette process. Over the course of the last four weeks, we have reviewed, debated, altered, and refined how the envisioned floor plan will play out, how best to use the space allocated for each of the rooms we desire, and ultimately how such a layout works with the concepts of passive solar design; high efficiency building envelope; alternative operating systems; renewable / non-toxic materials; etc. The process has not been easy, as we are finding that there is much give and take as to what you want in a dream home, what you need in a home, how all such development impacts the land around you, and ultimately how the final design can work into the overall concept of green / sustainable architecture and design.
The following image is just a glimpse of the latest rendition of the residential plan. You are looking at an overhead view of the anticipated footprint of the home. It indicates the orientation of the home for maximum passive solar gain, while also taking into account the mountain views to the southwest. Furthermore, you get a clear picture about the sun path from January through December, and how to best plan for glazing requirements in accordance with the anticipated solar heat gain throughout the year. It is important to note that this image is only part of the latest rendition to date, knowing full well that aspects of the design will morph as we continue to fine tune the design with Don Briggs and culminating at the close of the Charette process.
The following image is just a glimpse of the latest rendition of the residential plan. You are looking at an overhead view of the anticipated footprint of the home. It indicates the orientation of the home for maximum passive solar gain, while also taking into account the mountain views to the southwest. Furthermore, you get a clear picture about the sun path from January through December, and how to best plan for glazing requirements in accordance with the anticipated solar heat gain throughout the year. It is important to note that this image is only part of the latest rendition to date, knowing full well that aspects of the design will morph as we continue to fine tune the design with Don Briggs and culminating at the close of the Charette process.
The month of December was also productive as it pertained to my own personal growth in the green building industry. I completed a four month course, Green Building Certification, at Colorado State University which culminated with taking and successfully passing the USGBC’s nationally recognized Professional LEED Accreditation exam. Now as a LEED AP it is my goal to have an active role in the design of the home, development of potential HVAC and other operating systems, as well as implementation of green aspects both inside and outside the residence. As a result, I am working presently to register the home under the auspice of the USGBC’s LEED for Home rating. This procedure, as I am learning, is more involved than your typical LEED NC project. In the instance of LEED H, you have to work through a USGBC nominated LEED Provider, which in our case has yet to be designated in the state of Montana. The course of action will eventually see me have to utilize the professional services of a nominated Energy Rater and LEED Verifier as well. I am currently communicating with CSU LEED professors, LEED Providers from nearby states, and in-state LEED AP’s on the course of action recommended to move the project forward while still insuring that I, as a LEED AP, can have an active and recognized part in my project beyond paying the bills.
In the remaining month of January, it is our plan to finalize a design rendition to move forward with in the Charrette process scheduled for first part February, verify the project is registered under the LEED rating system, and continue to research the latest green industry technologies to implement on the upcoming project. Stay tuned as I continue to bring you updates from our project as they happen, as well as any learned information on the procedures directly pertaining to the LEED for Homes rating system.
Wishing you a Happy New Year and an Abundant Tomorrow for all!
Tim Southwell, LEED AP
In the remaining month of January, it is our plan to finalize a design rendition to move forward with in the Charrette process scheduled for first part February, verify the project is registered under the LEED rating system, and continue to research the latest green industry technologies to implement on the upcoming project. Stay tuned as I continue to bring you updates from our project as they happen, as well as any learned information on the procedures directly pertaining to the LEED for Homes rating system.
Wishing you a Happy New Year and an Abundant Tomorrow for all!
Tim Southwell, LEED AP
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