Sustainable Design

How do we minimize the impact of construction on the environment?

The solution begins with intelligent planning and design. A collaboration of the partners in a strategic discussion is the foundation for a successful project.

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has identified five areas of concentration to determine impact on the environment. The development of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program is a quantifiable measurement of environmental impact based on a consensus of professionals from varied disciplines within the building industry. LEED standards continue to adjust as technology and products improve.

The five areas addressed in LEED are:

• Site selection and preparation and proper waste management
• Water management and erosion control
• Maximize energy efficiency
• Use materials that are non-toxic and environmentally sensitive
• Maximize indoor air quality and ventilation

The standards provide a measurable guideline for progressive construction practices. The LEED process has taught us to view the building as an integrated organism, where all systems are dependent on each other for maximum efficiency. 

Better for the environment, more pleasant for people

Green buildings, in addition to being environmentally intelligent, are recognized for their elegant design and comfortable workspace. Environmental construction features like daylighting, superior heating and cooling systems, outstanding ventilation, and non-toxic materials create a beautiful, healthy and relaxing working environment.

In case studies from previous LEED projects, employee performance has increased and absenteeism decreased substantially, generating huge savings for the employer.  In schools, attendance has increased and performance has improved in LEED buildings. In healthcare facilities, improved recovery rates result in shorter stays, and families and friends of patients have found the experience to be less stressful than in traditional facilities.

The benefits are well-documented, and the tremendous increase in LEED projects supports the success of the program. Breakell Inc. is adopting these standards because we believe it is in the best interests of all concerned.

Current LEED projects:

State and City Building

One of Roanoke's flagship projects, the State and City Building is one of the first residential condo conversions in the downtown district, pioneering the redevelopment of this vibrant area. Recently awarded LEED Certification, this 107-year old, former office building is the first LEED certified building in the Roanoke and New River Valleys and the second historic renovation project in the state to be LEED certified.

The exterior of the first floor of 102 West Campbell Ave. was restored to its original appearance by the removal of the existing synthetic stucco and the installation of pre-cast stone masonry. New entrances were installed for both the retail and residential entryways.  The copper cornice on the First Street and Campbell Ave. sides was cleaned and repaired where damaged previously. 

Projects with high environmental standards:

VDOT Salem Traffic Management Center

The new Salem Traffic Management Center serves as an around-the-clock-communication hub for a 29-county region in southwest Virginia.  The center operates more than 70 information devices, such as message boards, cameras and Highway Advisory Radio transmitters.  The new, 17,000-square-foot facility has two stories, with the first floor extended into the hillside, allowing the second floor to exit at ground level. The operational center occupies the first floor with offices housed on the second floor.  Environmental features highlighted in the project include a high efficiency heating and air condtioning ventilation system, low flow plumbing fixtures, a white Bondcote roof, daylighting, exterior light pollution reduction strategies, bike racks, rain gardens and segmental retaining walls. This project is a premiere example of sustainable design and green building strategies.  Showcasing a myriad of principles and products that are intended to  minimize the building's environmental footprint, the Salem Traffic Management Center is a wonderful demonstration of the beauty and efficiency of a well designed and constructed green building.