he design-build project delivery method is gaining momentum as the most popular construction method in the U.S. because the integrated process saves time and money, allows for more innovation and fosters collaboration. Design-build firms have a reputation for outperforming traditional delivery methods, and the same opportunities exist for better implementation of building performance strategies.
Strategies that reduce carbon emissions
When an owner only has one contract with a single point of responsibility through use of the design-build method, it can be easier to align ESG goals and project performance. Having the designer, consultants and contractor working together from the onset of a project provides consistent and aligned total building optimizations and decarbonization recommendations that are within the project budget and schedule.
For example, emphasizing sustainable design strategies and building performance in conceptual design leads to greater reductions in carbon emissions. Early energy modeling helps determine building massing, orientation, window-wall ratios, envelope performance, shading devices and potential for on-site renewable energy generation.
The mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers and the energy modeler can collaborate on building electrification, right-sizing equipment and life cycle cost assessments of proposed MEP systems while the architect is tackling building programming and structural engineers are determining the efficiency of the structural system.
