Together, we can build a future where architecture becomes a tool for healing – of the planet, of communities, and of ourselves.
Sustainability is grounded in every phase of our design by three interconnected goals:
- Decarbonization – Reduce carbon emissions to address climate instability.
- Health & Wellness – Support the physical, mental, and environmental health of people and natural systems through healthy materials.
- Placekeeping – Pursue reciprocity of identity, history, and needs of each community to regenerate vitality of place and support social justice.
Recognizing that the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation fall disproportionately on historically marginalized communities, we seek to address these inequities through inclusive, restorative design that promotes justice, access, and opportunity.
Decarbonization
We are committed to cutting carbon and have set ambitious reduction targets for both operational emissions and embodied carbon that promote human and ecological health, through our participation in the AIA 2030 Commitment, AIA Materials Pledge, and the Structural Engineering 2050 Commitment.
Our tactics include:
- Energy modeling and lifecycle analysis.
- Passive design strategies.
- Low-carbon materials and assemblies.
- Embodied carbon “hot spot” assessments.
Health & Wellness
People first, always.
Our design process begins with a people‑first philosophy, emphasizing occupant health, comfort, and productivity. Guided by our Healthy Materials Framework, we integrate biophilic and trauma‑informed design to create environments that genuinely support the individuals who use them.
Healthy Materials Framework highlights:
- Materials categories focused on health, social, ecosystem, climate, and resiliency.
- Internal tools and baselines that keep us accountable and support certifications like WELL and the Living Building Challenge.
- A holistic approach to incorporate regenerative design and materials.
Placekeeping
Inspired by where we are.
Every site has a story. We listen, learn, and design in a way that’s true to the people and places, where we’re working. We aim for regenerative design that restores ecological systems, strengthens cultural ties, and deepens community resilience.
Our approach to placekeeping:
- Respect local ecosystems, climate, and hydrology.
- Honor Indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.
- Design with a sense of stewardship and care.
- Create spaces that regenerate rather than deplete.
Here’s how we translate that into action.
Our Sustainable Design Roadmap
Sustainability isn’t just a goal – it’s inherent to our process.
Our Sustainable Design Roadmap integrates performance and purpose from the very start. Every project follows our Project Sustainable Opportunities Plan, a simple but powerful tool that aligns sustainability goals with client vision.
Sustainable Operations
Walking the talk in our own offices.
Sustainability doesn’t stop at the project site. We’re committed to reducing the operational impacts of our own practice. Supported by green workplace policies, our own footprint is measured with the same rigor we bring to client projects – because transformation starts from within.
Our approach to sustainable operations:
- Annual carbon footprint audits across all scopes.
- Remote and low-carbon commuting options for staff.
- Shared material libraries to reduce waste and improve transparency.
Education & Advocacy
We believe a sustainable future depends on collective learning and shared responsibility. This includes participation in the community of researchers and advocates who advance the transformative potential of design. That’s why we:
- Invest in staff credentials (LEED AP, WELL AP, and more).
- Advocate for policy changes that support sustainable design.
- Partner with academic institutions and industry leaders.
- Share stories that elevate climate awareness and design equity.
We believe bold action, innovation, and the pursuit of stewardship are integral to the practice of architecture and creating our best future.
