By Daily Press staff
David Hertz, principal of David Hertz AIA Architects in Santa Monica,is looking to push the limits of green design in building a new office to house his Studio of Environmental Architecture (Studio EA). Features such as high-tech lighting systems, two types of solar electric systems, natural ventilation strategies, permeable paving and a demonstration living roof are expected to earn the structure a platinum LEED certification — the highest level possible — as well as a $35,000 a grant from the city of Santa Monica.
LEED is the acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the green building rating system created by the US Green Building Council “The city’s grant really made a difference in allowing me to go farther with green design on this building,” Hertz said.
Studio EA’s is the first of 10 grants the city will issue to LEED NC-certified private sector projects. Grant awards range from $20,000 for a basic LEED certification to $35,000 for LEED Platinum. In addition to grants, the city will expedite new construction projects that are certified under any of the LEED certification programs, including LEED for Homes.
Those interested in learning more about green building are invited to attend the city’s fourth annual AltBuild Expo, May 18-19, at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. A green building tour will follow on May 20.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 1, 2007. Read the original PDF.