Recent studies are showing that the use of an integrated process is key to creating a building that makes the most of your sustainable elements.  

An integrated development approach typically begins with a design session, the outcomes of which are subsequently reviewed throughout the course of the project. This problem-solving process, a design charrette, allows everyone to share input on strategies to achieve a common goal. A focused and collaborative brainstorming session is held at the beginning of a project encourages an exchange of ideas and information. Team members and all project stakeholders are encouraged to discuss project issues and address problems beyond their field of expertise. A charrette is particularly helpful in situations where many people represent the interests of the client and conflicting needs and constituencies. Participants are educated about the issues, and resolution enables them to “buy into” the schematic solutions. A final solution is not necessarily produced at the charrette, but many important and often interdependent issues are explored. Although traditional charrettes are generally more appropriate for larger development projects where many stakeholders are involved, the principles of communication between project team members and the importance of integrated design that underlie the charrette remain true for projects of any size.

The following is an example of an integrated design solution to arise from a charrette:

The mechanical engineer on a project is thinking about how to size the heating and cooling system for the building and is in the process of considering all of the design and environmental factors that affect this decision. She also would like the project to use some renewable energy systems, such as solar thermal hot water heating equipment, but knows the client is trying to keep capital costs down. She brings this up at the design charrette with the entire team and a future resident who has joined them. As the architect and resident begin discussing paint selection, the engineer realizes that if they go with a light color of paint throughout, the space will reflect more light and absorb less heat, making it possible to reduce the capacity of the air-conditioning system. Because the team has a platform for discussing this issue, the engineer is able to reduce the size of the equipment and free up some funds for the more expensive renewable energy system.

By using the charrette platform to perform an analysis of these interdependent building strategies, the team can achieve multiple benefits and produce a much more efficient and cost-effective building.