Embodied Energy of Historic Buildings: Physical and Metaphysical

Inherently unlovable buildings—no matter how energy efficient—lacks the stuff of longevity. How can your EcoDistrict design for lovable buildings? It may not include tearing down the historic stock.

1 minute read

August 11, 2014, 11:00 AM PDT

By Hazel Borys


"In the early days of green technology, it was not uncommon — especially as it relates to marketing — to focus solely on post-construction or post-install performance. Over time, however, such claims have been taken to task, especially as it relates to the expenditure of energy. Bamboo flooring, for example, performs a lot differently if you factor in the cost of shipping it from Asia. It may still prove to be a decent environmental choice, but it’s not necessarily a simple calculation."

"This more nuanced reality eventually became the basis of what I’ve found to be the preservation movement’s most compelling point of advocacy to-date: the greenest home is the one already built."

Scott Doyon goes on to contemplate the embodied metaphysical energy of beloved buildings.

Monday, August 11, 2014 in PlaceShakers

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