Resources & Case Study Database

Despite the rigor encapsulated in the Living Building Challenge, project teams are confident that the theoretical requirements are solvable. However, there are two primary perceived limitations to success: code restrictions and first costs. In response to this impression, Cascadia has initiated several studies to shed some light on these influencing factors. Findings will be posted as available to this section of the Living Building Challenge website.

Code Studies
In early 2008, Cascadia teamed with David Eisenberg, Director of the Development Center for Appropriate Technology (DCAT) and King County, Washington, to evaluate codes and standards across North America using the Living Building Challenge requirements as a guide. To augment this effort, more than a dozen case studies were selected and contributing team members shared their experiences designing buildings to meet the Challenge or tackling aspects of the program in projects completed prior to the release of the standard. In this context, the resulting White Paper discusses at a conceptual level the various barriers to creating Living Buildings. It also identifies creative solutions by municipalities and opportunities for modification of and incentives for the adoption of new ‘greener’ standards. This initial effort to analyze
codes and standards is complete and available to download from the Cascadia website.

The City of Vancouver and Clark County, Washington, have also embarked on a study with Cascadia to simulate the code review process using six prototypical affordable housing projects with Living Building characteristics. The goal of this mock-review is to identify specific City, County and State constraints as a way to expand the implementation of sustainable design strategies. Due to the partnership with these agencies, this research project is not merely an academic exercise, but a template for broad institutional change. The completion of this study is anticipated for Spring 2009.

Financial Study
A subsequent endeavor to the widely distributed ‘Packard Sustainability Matrix’, published by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation in 1999, the purpose of Cascadia’s Financial Study is to investigate the economic obstacles to creating Living Buildings, and determine how these vary based on building type and location. Using an RFP process, Cascadia contracted with a multi-disciplinary team, including SERA Architects, Gerding/Edlen Development, Skanska Construction, Interface Engineering, and New Buildings Institute. Nine building types, ranging from residential to commercial and institutional, will be evaluated in five different climate zones: cold; mixed; temperate; hot humid; and hot arid. Ultimately, the research will be compiled into a matrix that includes a cost estimate and payback calculation, savings, and net present value of the buildings through time accounting for energy and water costs, maintenance and repairs. The completion of this study is anticipated for late 2008.

Coming Soon! Living Building Challenge Code and Financial Studies!