The Green Design Process & Associated Costs
Summary
The procurement of architectural and engineering services is the best place to leverage the resources of an entire project toward increased resource efficiency. Designers respond to what the customer asks for, and careful specification of Statements of Work and deliverables for AE teams is where owners tell the design community that they want green buildings. Requests for proposals that require and provide budgets for green design services will enhance interest and capability in green building among design firms. Owners sometimes say they want a green building, but then do not include the additional tasks or budget to allow the design team to truly pursue that goal. The Statement of Work, and its accompanying budget estimate, is necessary precursors to a successful green building project.