Sustainable architecture is a general term that describes environmentally conscious design techniques in the field of architecture. Sustainable architecture is framed by the larger discussion of sustainability and the pressing economic and political issues of our world. In the broad context, sustainable architecture seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by enhancing efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space. Most simply, the idea of sustainability, or ecological design, is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do not inhibit the opportunities of future generations. This term can be used to describe an energy and ecologically conscious approach to the design of the built environment. - Wikipedia

The firm of Jorge Olivares is experienced in all phases of planning and design for residential and commercial buildings, including historic renovation. In addition, we serve as consultants on green building applications and feasibility. We are committed to producing sustainable architecture through the innovative application of established principles of environmentally sustainable design.

Our expertise in sustainable materials, natural heating and cooling, and water conservation maximizes the environmental performance of building projects while retaining architectural aesthetic.

Sustainability services include:

We are committed to energy efficiency by implementing passive solar design to decrease reliance on traditional heating and cooling systems. Windows are designed and oriented to work in conjunction with seasonal paths of the sun so in winter the sun passively heats buildings. At the same time, in warmer months, design elements such as trellises act as a source of shade along with other landscaping to keep the building cool. We select materials that maximize the passive solar performance, harnessing thermal energy to absorb and retain the sun’s heat in winter, while keeping cool in summer. Furthermore, local environmental conditions such as prevailing breezes are considered in order to harness wind energy and naturally cool buildings in warmer months.

Our partnership with Desmex Solar gives us a leading edge on the latest in photovoltaic and thermal solar systems technologies. The products installed through Desmex come complete with a 25 year guarantee. If you are looking to lower your electric costs, we can analyze your CFE bill and give you exact cost savings projections you would reap after photovoltaic solar installation. Low temperature thermal solar collectors are flat plates/panels generally used to heat swimming pools. Medium-temperature collectors are also usually flat plates but are used for heating water or air for residential and commercial use.

In addition, we supply options of LED lighting and energy efficient lighting systems throughout your building project.

Water conservation, rainwater harvesting and grey water recycling are all considered for your building project. Water-efficient appliances, fittings, landscaping with drought-tolerant indigenous plants (which fosters biodiversity encouraging the native biosystem), are each comtemplated to complete a building's sustainable design. Plants are crucial in passive solar design as they cool the air, act as natural ventilation, and supply shading in the summer.

Everyday there are advances in sustainability options for building. Modern wind turbines have improved significantly in recent years with reliable and highly efficient models now available, including small wind turbines designed for use by individuals and businesses. We are here to discuss any and all of those innovative options with you.