HIGH-PERFORMANCE DESIGN
High-performance design embodies a holistic approach, emphasizing resilience to shocks, long-term operational efficiency, resource conservation and the well-being of building occupants.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE DESIGN PILLARS
Sustainability
Communities are subject to acute shocks (sudden, intense events such as severe storms) and chronic stresses (daily or cyclical forces that weaken a community, such as climate change) that impact the livelihoods of the people who live, work, study and play there. Looking at each project through the lens of resiliency offers a holistic perspective, one that benefits both the building and the site. Embedding this approach ensures that critical challenges and opportunities are identified, potential responses are considered, and successful solutions are implemented.
In Practice: Conduct a Resilient Design Workshop to surface potential hazards and vulnerabilities, and to align goals and expectations.
Wellness
Wellness focuses on health, well-being, and quality of life. Best practices combined with the client’s vision and goals informs the design, promotes belonging, and ultimately strengthens the human experience.
Resilience
Our design process considers the local, regional, and global community while balancing ecological, economic, and social needs of the project. Our design response balances these considerations with the project budget and overall goals. Incorporating an effective and well-considered level of sustainable design in a project is a means to energy savings and reduced operating costs, increased occupant comfort, and stewardship of our natural resources.
In Practice: Conduct a Sustainable Design Alignment Workshop to develop project priorities, goals, and expectations related to rating systems, energy and water efficiency, as well as building and occupant health.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design is the practice of connecting nature, human biology, and the built environment. It can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve mood and performance. We can integrate natural materials such as wood, stone, vegetation, along with daylight and colors inspired by nature. Incorporating biophilic design is proven to have the same effect as being outside.
Learn more about FGMA's approach to high-performance design.
Libraries must be designed to provide a welcoming space for everyone and adapt to the ever-changing needs of the community. FGMA brings inclusive, supportive, flexible spaces to support the library and community at large.
Design values for libraries
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Design with empathy
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Position the library as the service center of the community
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Create spaces that empower individual growth
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Design for everyone, not the majority
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Enhance the unique community culture
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Bridge the inequity gaps within the community
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Design for today and future needs