Sustainable Materials

Sustainability remains at the forefront of our construction principles, advocating for the use of eco-conscious and renewable materials to shape our buildings.

Wood serves as a cornerstone of our design practice, offering a renewable resource for building structures. From dimensional lumber to engineered products like plywood web joists, glue-laminated beams, and parallel strand lumber, we harness wood's versatility while minimizing environmental impact. To further minimize embodied energy, we strategically employ steel for secondary floor support and decorative structural elements, valuing its durability and aesthetic allure.

Innovative design extends to our structural solutions; an augmented concrete second-floor slab reduces noise transmission between levels and enables extended spans between support members. This approach not only optimizes structural support but also streamlines construction, enhancing cost-efficiency and flexibility for HVAC, sprinklers, and electrical distribution.

Our framing strategy seamlessly amalgamates wood and metal studs, leveraging the transmission of shear through wood framing and infill of metal deck areas with metal studs, optimizing construction efficiency on-site. Moreover, our meticulous design includes exposed steel-to-wood connectors, enhancing both structural integrity and visual appeal.

In our pursuit of sustainability, we integrate various eco-friendly materials and products to foster healthier buildings with enhanced durability and reduced VOCs (volatile organic compounds). From MDF and plastic laminate for gymnasium elements to bamboo and recycled content ceramic tile for wainscoting and flooring, each material is thoughtfully selected to uphold environmental consciousness without compromising quality or aesthetics.

Lighting and building equipment selection align with our sustainability ethos, prioritizing fixtures with recycled content and ease of maintenance. Ventilated and easily serviceable fixtures not only reduce environmental impact but also ensure long-term functionality and efficiency.

Sunny Hills Elementary School. Sammamish, Washington.
Image license: Cornerstone Architetural Group, Cornerstone Construction and Issaquah School District.
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