KVLA advocates a careful site-sensitive approach. 'Green'
design is an inherent element of our practice, but the methods of
environmental stewardship are getting new recognition and support from
the business community. Our aim is to endow a project with style, ecological sensitivity and enduring character. The outcome should reflect in the bottom line of the project.
'Green' based initiatives aren't just a marketing scheme, but they are our social and environmental responsibility. Sustainable design is about making business decisions that reduce the long term costs of living with the built environment. We provide the means to look beyond the implications of the construction budget to propose ideas that help manage long term costs. Simply put, its about 'paying it forward'.
Design and quality controls are the best investment in the development process.KVLA can assist the Owner to help establish and implement proper controls of site features, environmental protection, construction and site development practices, building/ utility placement. All to often, precious character is lost when plant material is bulldozed before we get the phone call. Early involvement allows us to identify opportunities before they are lost. We'll work with your design team of architects, engineers, and planners to avoid common mistakes and to realize the vision.
Florida Green Lodging Program
KVLA Design can assist owners and operators of hotels with their application to the Florida Green Lodging Program. Sponsored by the Florida Dept of Environmental Protection (DEP), the program guides hotels to adopt Best Management Practices (BMP) to realize savings and foster environmental stewardship.
Feel free to download the attached application or visit the program website at www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging/
'Green' Design Principles The foundation of any sound site development begins with the following:
Identify and protect significant trees and native areas.
Identify and prepare trees to be relocated.Establish plant holding and preserve areas.
Discretionary, selective clearing to open up views and enhance the presentation of the existing flora.
Plan site access and utilities to minimize disturbance by heavy equipment and construction.
Careful storage and re-use of good soils.
Managing stormwater run-off and grey water for re-use in the landscape.
Establish programs for the control and management of fertilizers and chemicals.
Select hardscape materials from sustainable sources.
Use locally available materials, plantation grown woods and recycled products.
Select site appropriate, water conserving plant materials from green ceritfied nurseries.
Use appropriate native species wherever possible.
Provide water efficient irrigation systems.
Use energy efficient lighting with discretion.
Educate your client and the public of responsible practices.
Case Study - Abaco Island Development
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Nowhere else but on an island,does an eco-design process manifest return on investment. The logistics and costs of island work are substantial, while resources are limited. KVLA advocates a specialized program to minimize disruption and maximize use of available resources. The first tenet of low-impact development is not to destroy your assets. Recognizing and understanding the island eco-system and conditions provides the basis for making decisions about development potential, sustainability issues, reconstruction costs....all ultimately defining the landscaping program.
Every Island has its own character and distinct plant communities- very few are the same, but there are commonalities that deserve respect. Our experience on a wide variety of islands allows us to recognize issues and recommend solutions to respond to the conditions. When it becomes time to repair the scars and put the landscape back together, KVLA provides knowledge and the support of a network of quality growers, installers and exporters.
