Building Green
Tipping Mar is a recognized leader in sustainable design, sought after by architects and building owners who share our commitment to reducing the short- and long-term impact of building construction on the environment. Our integrated approach means that sustainable design is inherent in our analysis of every design problem and an essential measure of every solution.
Our strategy is simple. We design to reduce the carbon footprint of every structure by coupling the thermal properties of structure with passive solar design; detailing for longevity and adaptability; protecting the building through enhanced seismic performance; and ultimately, avoiding construction waste and reducing costs.
Our credentials include many projects that have achieved LEED certification, including LEED Platinum and Gold levels. These achievements reflect Tipping Mar's ongoing research analyzing alternative, resource-efficient materials just entering the marketplace including structural insulated panels (SIPs), straw bale, rammed earth, bamboo, resource-efficient wood framing, timber frame, and low-cement concrete as well as our skill in working with suppliers and contractors to implement new approaches.
For example, at the Chartwell School, thanks to a Kresge Foundation grant, we worked with the concrete supplier to develop a low-cement mix comprised of 30% cement and 70% slag (waste from steel making). This approach achieved a net CO2 reduction of 45% without any added cost, a significant improvement over the 18% net reduction typically achieved with fly ash mixes, which come with a 10-15% cost premium as well as constructability problems.