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Sustainable Design

Since LPA|A’s inception, innovative sustainable design has been a cornerstone of our projects. Seeking input from the owners and users of the building, and drawing on the expertise of our four LEED accredited staff members as well as our sustainable design consultants, we arrive at the best, most cost effective ways to conserve resources, incorporate renewable energy, and minimize waste. Each project has different goals, objectives, and budgets, so the sustainable design strategies that are implemented are unique to each project.

Key Contacts

Peter A. Caruso, Jr.

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Associate Principal

Christopher M. Lee

CSL, LEED AP

Associate Principal

Christina S. Bazelmans

AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Associate Principal

Kathryn Crockett

AIA, LEED AP

President

“The school’s sustainably built structure features proven green techniques and products, each of which has been researched, discussed and shared by several students on our Student Voice’s Green Squad, consisting of students who are interested in learning about and raising awareness of ecological issues. This transition provided students and educators with an opportunity to research, report and advocate on LED lighting, Marmoleum flooring, the use of night-sky lighting and the solar energy collection system.”

– Jane O. Lizotte, Principal, Sherwood Middle School, Shrewsbury

Hitting the Target in the City of Worcester

The City of Worcester made a commitment to environmental sustainability, mandating net zero energy, or as close as could be accomplished within the budget, for their new Nelson Place Elementary School. At the start of the project, LPA|A and a team of school and city administrators, engineers, architects and others met to identify energy efficiency goals and discuss cost and other implications to the project. Multiple sustainable features were identified and implemented, and the building has been designated a Zero Net Energy Building by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources.

Sustainable Design on Clark’s Campus

LPA|A was challenged to design a new Admissions Center for Clark University that would connect to the existing admissions office and serve as the primary gateway for visitors to the campus. The well-received contemporary building features a Trombe wall with passive solar technology that reflects Clark’s leadership in environmental sustainability.

Clark’s Dean of Admissions said of the building, “This state-of-the-art facility allows Clark to showcase the University’s strengths and leave a lasting and positive impression of our campus.”

In Service to Our Community

Project Architect Christina Bazelmans, LEED AP BD+C has been volunteering for the Central Massachusetts Chapter of the USGBC (U.S. Green Building Council) for several years, helping to coordinate and promote a number of learning opportunities for colleagues throughout the state. A tour of the Nelson Place Elementary School helped illustrate some strategies and processes that worked in the City of Worcester. Christina is one of four LEED Accredited Professionals on staff, working to ensure better buildings and practices for the future of our communities.