Q+A with Andre Byl

How do you describe the importance of sustainable design to those outside of the industry?

I usually explain that sustainable design is more than just environmentally friendly design. The AIA published the Framework for Design Excellence, stating that sustainable design should be influenced by ten different areas: design for integration, equitable communities, ecosystems, water, economy, energy, well-being, resources, change, and discovery. Explaining what goes into sustainable design often helps people from outside of the industry understand why it is important and how it shapes the built environment around us.

As a designer, what is your “Why” for reaching carbon neutrality on Ghafari projects?

Pursuing carbon neutrality on our projects is a great way to help create a healthier built environment that leaves a smaller footprint on our environment. Everyone, especially architects, has a hand in helping create a healthier future, and we should always question how our projects are impacting that goal.

What sustainable materials / technologies have you applied on Ghafari projects?

Most recently, we’ve been designing courtyards and similar spaces using a new paver system that improves rainwater management. In addition to that, the process of sealing the building, the products we use to do so, and the HVAC design all work together to create a more efficient building.

How would you describe Ghafari’s culture of sustainability?

The team at Ghafari is extremely well rounded, and because of that, creates efficient buildings that work towards the COTE principles as part of our workflow. Often the design process occurs, and the influence of sustainability comes naturally and is evident in the designs and projects that we do. The sustainability team that Ghafari has put together is determined and inspired to help push the industry towards a more sustainable future.

How are you supporting Ghafari’s sustainability action plan as an AIA 2030 Commitment signatory firm?

As part of the sustainability team, I’m focused on the AIA principles for design. There are some principles that are easier to incorporate than others, which is sometimes based on budget, project size, existing conditions, etc. However, most of the principles are easier to incorporate than we might think. One of my goals is to help people understand just how valuable these principles are to a project if done correctly.

What role does sustainability play in your life outside of work?

Outside of work, simple and seemingly small steps are taken as part of our daily routine. Recycling, repurposing to minimize waste, using chemical-free cleaners in our home, and using chemical-free lawn care products are some of the simple and easy things that we do. My wife and I have a two-year-old and a newborn. Creating a healthier space for them to grow up in while also showing them how to be considerate of the environment are very important to us.