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Colorado Design Firm Boulder Associates Turns Earth-Friendly Theory into Practice
Colorado Design Firm Boulder Associates Turns Earth-Friendly Theory into Practice
Published 06-15-04
Submitted by Boulder Associates
Boulder Associates, Inc., a 50-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(R) 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, 2004 BAI named Kristi Ennis its first Sustainable Design Director. Kristi's role is to champion design integration ensuring sustainability is a key component of BAI'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 will address 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(R) healthcare project, Boulder Community Foothills Hospital, which achieved LEED(R) v2 Silver certification. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System(R) 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 day lighting and numerous energy efficient systems.
Finally, BAI is dedicated to sustainable business practices as well. The two offices have purchased green power from solar and wind sources, supporting the development of clean, renewable energy. BAI recycles everything possible, and is dedicated to environmentally preferable purchasing. Teleconferencing and videoconferencing are used rather than travel when practical. Each member of its Boulder staff receives a public transportation pass valid across the Boulder and Denver metro area. Six BAI staffers are certified trough the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED(R) Accredited program which indicates their dedication to sustainable design. Finally, Boulder Associates' active volunteer committee identifies and facilitates BAI's efforts to be a good corporate citizen.
Boulder Associates is based at 4747 Table Mesa Drive, Suite 202, in Boulder, Colo. and 2015 J Street, Suite 205, in Sacramento, Calif. The firm's Web site is located at www.boulderassociates.com.
