GWWO Named a Top Firm in Sustainability Again

For the second consecutive year, GWWO has been recognized by Architect Magazine as one of the Top 50 Firms in Sustainability.

We are proud to rank #18 on the Architect 50 list as sustainable and responsible design is an essential part of our design ethos. Since our founding, we’ve fully embraced our role as stewards of the environment through a process that explores sustainability and resiliency from all perspectives, including site impacts, resource consumption, waste production, and embodied carbon. By evaluating the impact of design decisions on energy and water use, occupant comfort and health, and durability, our process promotes purposeful decision-making and ensures a sustainable strategy that’s in alignment with each project’s big idea.

In tabulating this year’s list, the metrics of 182 firms nationwide were reviewed and scored. GWWO’s favorable rank can be attributed to the following:

• Increased reduction of predicted energy use intensity (pEUI);
• Over 80% of projects used energy simulation modeling to determine design impacts;
• All projects achieved a 20% or higher reduction in regulated potable water-use over the standards of the US Energy Policy Act of 1992;
• All projects benefited from daylight simulation modeling to reduce energy consumption and enhance occupant health and comfort;
• Specification of building materials with low or no volatile content and free of formaldehyde and red-list chemicals;
• Participation in and continued reporting on the AIA’s 2030 Commitment;
• LEED accreditation of nearly 40% of the design staff and a WELL accredited professional; and
• Work on projects registered for LEED and Living Building Challenge Certification.

Data related to projects designed in 2018.

In addition to the achievements above, this year we developed our own sustainability guidelines that set a minimum standard equivalent to LEED Silver for every firm project. Whether pursuing formal certification or not, each of our designs abide by this standard while simultaneously aligning with our client’s mission, goals, and cost considerations.

For more about GWWO’s ranking on the 2019 Architect 50 list, including the methodology behind the rankings, please click here.