It's been over a year since my last
blog post. Yes, it has been busy at MK Architect.
I am gradually settling into a new office in the heart of Greenport Village. I have been working on some small, fun projects (that I will be featuring in upcoming blog posts) and I have been focusing my continuing education on the latest building science skills and applying that knowledge to my projects.
Recently, I attended a full-day workshop presented by Gord Cooke of EEBA (Energy & Environmental Building Alliance) called "Houses that Work for Existing Homes – Remodeling for Energy Efficiency Workshop." Architects, builders and energy consultants attended and the experience reaffirmed my commitment to sustainable architecture. It also gave me further scientific background to justify the methods I have been implementing in my practice.
The workshop applied the latest building science to common components of remodeling projects such as re-roofing, re-siding, new windows, kitchen and bathroom renovations, as well as foundation, basement and HVAC upgrades. Without a thorough understanding of these principles and protocols, retrofits and renovations have the potential to negatively affect the house as a whole.
We reviewed what is required to
make homes more efficient, safe, healthy, durable and comfortable. We discussed
the latest changes in the materials and systems we use, how they impact
remodeling decisions, and how they affect risks and opportunities presented in
the projects. We reviewed the fundamentals of air, heat and moisture flow and
how new materials and systems can be applied to these principles. Mold, indoor
air quality, water and moisture damage were just a few of the issues we learned
to manage more effectively.
We also talked about how
homeowner's expectations have increased over the years. Most people spend 90%
of their time indoors. Because of this,
we have lower tolerance for temperature fluctuations. We also want to feel more connected to the
outdoors with larger expanses of glazing.
I have been integrating many of these
ideas in my work for the past few years and have been sharing my knowledge with
homeowners and contractors. Together, we have been able to cost-effectively add
energy efficiency into renovation and new construction projects. I look
forward to featuring some of these projects here soon.
