Sustainability
We are devoted to sustainable building practices because it is a proven way to lessen negative effects on the built environment, with or without a certificate.
Going Beyond Green
Like our clients, Harvey | Harvey-Cleary is committed to making a positive impact where we work, live and play. We built the first LEED-certified high rise in Houston and continue to be a leader among commercial contractors for the most square footage of LEED-certified buildings built. We are devoted to sustainable building practices because it is a proven way to lessen negative effects on the built environment, with or without a certificate.
The level of project sustainability is a very big and potentially costly variable we help owners understand. Indeed, the term sustainability can no longer be assumed with a universal definition. Harvey’s role as a project partner brings substantial benefit to the whole team when determining what sustainability means for that particular project – energy efficiency, green building certification, market positioning, occupant health, or something more. Our job is to understand the goal and maximize ROI.
Green Building Certification
If a green building certification is the priority, we walk our clients through the many paths that lead to different levels of certification. This process does require more time at the project outset, but we’ve seen time and again that it makes the certification process smoother. We work side by side with the architectural team during this process to ensure the design integrity remains intact and there is full team buy-in as decisions are made. With candid and clear communication from the very beginning, we then provide regular updates to keep the team on track for each required point during construction.
Escarpment Village is the first Texas retail project to incorporate a green roof.
Our Process
Early involvement with the M/E/P team is also critical for meeting sustainability goals. We apply the same energy modeling expertise used on our research projects to paint a clear picture of what owners can expect for operations throughout the year. As performance-based standards like the WELL Building Standard gain traction, we know efficiently operating buildings will be as important as efficiently built buildings.
Our clients and partners rely on us to stay current on the latest interpretations of LEED and other sustainability programs. We’ve developed an intimate knowledge of every point by constantly evaluating the various ways to meet its intended purpose; we are active problem solvers and know that what worked on one project may not be the best solution for a different project. It is another way we constantly strive to deliver on client needs and reduce the overall risk.
One Team
Because investment varies significantly depending on the level of sustainability desired, full team commitment is a necessity to keep the project budget in check. Harvey provides clients the added measure of assurance by assigning one team to each project from inception to occupancy. The same Harvey executive and project manager attending the kickoff meeting will be the ones assisting in post-occupancy and over the life of the building to ensure it is efficient as the day it was designed.
More Photos
A Word from Our Client
“With the increased demands associated with the green building issues and significant changes to the scope of work, this project could only have been accomplished by the experience and ability your firm demonstrated.”Steve Stumpff Project Manager Enviroplan Architects & Planners