by Worldchanging local editor, Matt Waxman: How might energy-efficiency be integrated into architectural design concerned with intriguing human experience? What opportunities and challenges do alternative materials such as straw bale provide the architect? Is straw bale construction appropriate for the earthquake-prone Bay Area? Daniel Smith & Associates is a green architecture firm in Berkeley, California. A leader in experimental, sustainable design research and development, DSA Architects explores a range of energy-efficient, ecologically-focused building systems and natural materials, most prominently straw bale. With many projects in the Bay Area, DSA’s experience includes homes, churches, monasteries, camps, and business complexes. I met Daniel Smith, principal of Daniel Smith & Associates, at the recent Moraga Energy Faire in Moraga, California, a community event that showcased energy-efficient solutions for homeowners. Smith came to share his experience with energy-efficient, green architecture with the small, east bay town’s residents. In our conversation, Smith delved into his expertise in straw bale construction, his philosophy and approach to design, and discussed how green architectural systems can solve problems connected to different global contexts. Smith also described the fascinating energy-efficient architectural elements of his recently completed Presentation Retreat Center, a LEED Gold-rated straw bale building in Los Gatos… (more)
(Posted by WorldChanging Team in Green Building at 2:29 PM)