2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Jun 01, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

GPS 0322 - Green Building


Green Building refers to a broad range of design and construction strategies for reducing the site impacts and ecological footprint of buildings and increasing their energy efficiency and environmental qualities. Green building takes place in a variety of contexts and at a variety of scales from natural built residences made of wood, stone and earth, to skyscrapers or public housing projects occupying entire city blocks. Planners, architects, builders, urban designers and community members may play a role in the green design/build process. This studio course involves a survey of green building approaches and requires students to participate in the design of a green building. Students explore the specifics of the site and program, selection of materials, energy and water systems, building styles and aesthetics, indoor environments and landscaping, carbon accounting and certification. Special emphasis is placed on understanding building codes and green building certification programs, especially LEED, Passive House, and Living Building Challenge.