Jun 15 2004
Environmental sensitivity ranks high among the hip trends in culture and design. But one Boulder design firm reaches beyond the hype, to innovate and lead within the sustainable design movement. Sustainability takes architectural design to the next level, combining environmental responsibility with profitability, social proactivity and innovation.
Boulder Associates, Inc., a 56-person architecture and interior design firm specializing in healthcare and senior living, is setting a new standard for sustainability in its staffing, designs and corporate policies. With a new Sustainable Design Director, the nation’s first LEED® Certified hospital, a benchmark of sustainability, and a company culture dedicated to sustainable business practices, BAI is moving the “green design” trend from theory to practice.
In February, BAI named Kristi Ennis its first Sustainable Design Director. Kristi’s role is to champion design integration ensuring sustainability is a key component of BA’s work. She has been with Boulder Associates for eight years and recently completed a semester immersion program in “green” design at the Ecosa Institute, exposing her to the latest trends.
She will be responsible for ensuring that project teams have timely and accurate information regarding opportunities for energy and resource efficiency and healthy building practices.
In addition to her work within BAI, Kristi is speaking with clients, design professionals and the general public regarding the benefits of sustainable design. With an eye toward education, Kristi addresses the process of integrating environmentally-responsible and cost-effective solutions into healthcare projects. Kristi is also a member of The U.S. Green Building Council’s Colorado Chapter Steering Committee, and Chair of their Collaboration Committee.
Along with staff dedication to sustainability, Boulder Associates also recently completed the country’s first LEED® healthcare project, Boulder Community Foothills Hospital, which achieved LEED® v2 Silver certification. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System® is a national consensus-based standard for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. This Women’s and Children’s Hospital provides a nurturing environment for giving birth and recovering from illness. Sustainable elements within the building include recycled, low-emitting and locally harvested materials, as well as ample natural lighting and energy-efficient systems.
Source: Boulder Associates