Daniel Atilano, RA, LEED AP’s Post

#365DaysofSustainability, Day 195: Westerville School District is actively implementing a master plan that includes renovations and new construction projects. Emerald Built Environments is engaged by the district as the commissioning agent for the master plan, and one of the project includes renovations to Westerville South high school. Fun fact: When this renovation was completed in 2023, each wing of the high school reflected a different natural element: water, fire, and air. #Sustainability #Commissioning

#365DaysofSustainability, Day 195: Westerville School District is actively implementing a master plan that includes renovations and new construction projects. Emerald Built Environments is engaged by the district as the commissioning agent for the master plan, and one of the project includes renovations to Westerville South high school. Fun fact: When this renovation was completed in 2023, each wing of the high school reflected a different natural element: water, fire, and air. #Sustainability #Commissioning

The benefits of using wood as a primary building material in schools reach beyond the design and construction phase—they directly impact the students. Mass timber construction speeds up timelines by approximately 25%, while locally sourced materials help create high-performance, cost-effective learning environments. https://hubs.la/Q02NdfsW0

"It sometimes seems as though the affordable-housing sector—which is presumably watching every dollar to scrimp or scrounge—regularly achieves standards of energy performance and livability that much of the market-driven sector barely aspires to." Our projects are manifestations of our belief that high quality design should be accessible to all and that health is a matter of equity. This educational article by Architectural Record covers three important affordable-housing projects, including our project Betances Residence. Learn about how mission, policy, and ownership drive major design decisions here: https://lnkd.in/gCB5d339 #affordablehousing #nycdesign #architecturalrecord #continuingeducation

While many communities have visionary plans for their future as livable, walkable, unique communities, most are lacking the tools to implement these goals. Zoning often misaligns with the goals and policies adopted in community plans, for example. But there are tools and best practices for realigning zoning with planning. Learn more with "Right-Sizing Zoning for Better Outcomes" on Planetizen Courses. https://lnkd.in/gU9DtSdP

Selecting the right facility is one of the most important decisions for your charter school. Options include school buildings, commercial spaces, residential spaces, modular units, houses of worship, and new construction. Each choice comes with unique benefits and challenges, from cost and availability to zoning and adaptability. By aligning your decision with your school’s mission, budget, and community needs, you can create an environment that supports learning and growth. https://lnkd.in/dRDk-WeZ

If you’ve recently set out on your barn conversion journey, it can be daunting to know where to start, especially if your building is in a serious state of disrepair! We’ve put together a few key considerations we think are important for your Class Q project, take a look at our latest blog: https://lnkd.in/dgjC3xFB #classqconversion #planningregulation #classqupdates #barnconversion #agriculturalbuildings

We love it when a plan comes together! Back in 2017, we prepared a master site plan for development of Renton Park in Plum Borough. The plan was phased to provide the borough with flexibility and time to obtain necessary funds. Over the past 7 years, we have worked with the borough to implement three phases of improvements, which include: A resurfaced basketball court 3 new pickleball courts New playground structures, swings, and safety surface A bocce ball court Paved trail Pavilion rehabilitation Benches Lighting Sidewalks Parking A master site plan is a valuable tool to formalize a vision for a space. It helps you evaluate the possibilities and select a path that meets your needs and resources. Once the vision is established, you can use the plan to help you secure funding and methodically work toward your goals as budget allows. Watch the transformation from master plan to construction below.  

The Architectural Record article "𝗔𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲" explores the intersection of sustainable design and affordable housing, highlighting innovative strategies for creating energy-efficient, cost-effective housing solutions. The health impacts of the #BuiltEnvironment are especially significant in the affordable sector, “more so than for market-rate buildings because for a long time the built environment has perpetuated social inequities.” Susan Puri, #AffordableHousing director at #ILFI, referring to data that correlate low-income communities with poor air quality and other environmental hazards, The article discusses the importance of incorporating #SustainableDesign principles into affordable housing projects and showcases examples of successful projects that prioritize energy performance. It also emphasizes the role of continuing education in advancing sustainable design practices in the affordable housing sector. Read more at https://lnkd.in/gCB5d339 #EnergyEfficiency #LivingBuildingChallenge #LivingFuture

NACOM Companies Inc completes the Estelle V. Malberg Early Childhood Center project in Cherry Hill, NJ. This project significantly contributed to the overall enhancement of the Early Childhood Center’s facilities and infrastructure, greatly improving, and enhancing educational spaces. The scope of the project addressed various aspects that enhanced the overall functionality and accessibility of the center. Key highlights of the project include: > Site and Accessibility Improvements: Enhancements to the site layout for improved functionality including accessibility improvements to ensure a more inclusive environment. > ADA Ramps: The addition of ADA ramps to facilitate easy and barrier-free access while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards for individuals with disabilities. > Connection to Playground: Improved connectivity between the school and public parking areas to the new playground creating a seamless transition for students and visitors. > Sub-drainage System: Implementation of a sub-drainage system with storm water connections from existing roof drains that addressed drainage needs for efficient water management. > Playground & Fencing Replacement: Removal of dated playground and fence and installation of a new playground for children, with updated fencing and gates connecting to the existing building. #ImprovingEducationalSpaces #ConstructionEngineering #DesignEngineerBuild #NACOMProject #ImprovingSpaces