An important and often-overlooked component of green design is the design charrette.

While not a mandatory requirement for most residential green certifications (e.g. LEED-H), it is a valuable practice that can help to save money and time down the road.

The design charrette enables members of the design/construction team and other stakeholders to come together at an early stage and develop an integrated design goal and schedule.

The charrette is typically an intensive single to multi-day effort, involving all interested parties in a comprehensive overview of the project. This process enables all parties to have input into the project design.

Major benefits of conducting a charrette, even for single unit residential projects, include: the creation of momentum and enthusiasm for the project; the early definition and agreement on project goals; the cost saving benefits of design integration; and the formalized cooperation of all interested parties. In effect, it lets you put together all pieces of the puzzle at the front end, rather than by trial and error during the project implementation phase.

If you have a green building project underway and are interested in how to save money and time... consider incorporating a design charrette. The upfront costs will undoubtedly generate considerable ROI in project savings (both time and money). 

If you are purchasing a green home, or are a realtor listing a green home, ask "did this project involve a design charrette?" While it is not a necessary prerequisite to green building, projects that did involve a charrette, generally produce less waste during construction due to improved design and are therefore a "greener" option.

For more information on green building principles, practices and certifications, please contact EarthSTEPS at: info@earthsteps.org

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