As one of the only LEED qualified Green Building Architects in Suffolk County peterCARADONNArchitecture and Planning aims to provide our clients with the most efficient and cost effective strategies to obtain a safe, green and environmentally, non-destructive, approach to living.

Some Green facts:

• Excessive consumption is largely responsible for the depletion of natural resources worldwide and the acceleration of global warming.
• The construction and maintenance of buildings are responsible for 40% of U.S. energy use and 30% of wood and raw materials use.
• Buildings are a main contributor to global warming by generating 30% of U.S. CO2 emissions (the most significant climate change gas).

 Green affordable housing directly benefits individuals and families in need by lowering utility costs and creating healthier living environments. Project developers and operators gain both directly and indirectly through higher quality, more efficient, and more durable projects.

Green Building Clarified

Green building addresses a broad range of issues including community and site design, energy and water efficiency, materials selection, indoor air quality, construction management, and building maintenance. A green building approach encompasses the entire development process through design, construction, and operations. Green projects are the result of multidisciplinary teams, extensive site analysis, community outreach, and public-private partnerships.

Lower Expenses

One of the most important benefits of greening affordable housing is lower utility costs. For Long Island families and individuals, even a relatively small reduction in monthly costs is significant. Money saved on utility bills becomes available for other household needs.

Our design strategies capture the benefits of daylighting, natural ventilation, and solar warming without increasing initial costs. We accomplish this by the location of windows, skylights, and vents, solar orientation, and the placement of landscaping.

Additionally, we reduce energy and water consumption by including high-efficiency glazing, increased insulation, control systems for lights and HVAC systems, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and efficient appliances.

Community Enhancement

On-site daycare, community gardens, and education facilities greatly enhance both specific projects and the surrounding community. Landscaped areas add beauty to neighborhoods and provide space for stormwater percolation. Developments located in proximity to transit and services expand residents employment and education opportunities.

Healthier Living Environment

Green practices such as daylighting, natural ventilation, and use of natural materials typically result in more attractive living environments. Eliminating formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in countertops, paints, and adhesives improves indoor air quality and reduces health risks.

Value-Added Investment

Our green building strategies in both commercial and residential construction add value through increased ownership and tenant satisfaction, improved marketability, reduced turnover, lower operating costs, and increased longevity. For owners, cost savings raise revenue and building valuation. When capitalized, the increased revenue can be leveraged for new development projects.

Further resource information available at:

LEED : Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

Habitat for Humanity Environmental Initiative

U.S. Department of Energy

U.S. Green Building Council