Now that renovations at Whole Foods Market on Cambie Street in Vancouver are complete, SmartDesign Group has been working as Design Consultant on a new store location in Bellevue, Washington. In keeping with the Whole Foods brand, Project Designer Carol Kelley has been putting her design experience to work on sourcing sustainable materials and finishes for the new store design. I asked her about some of the things she considers when selecting products. Here’s what she had to say.
LG: What do you look for when sourcing sustainable materials?
CK: I think it’s important to understand each manufacturer’s vision of sustainability. What are their long-term goals and processes? Knowing where a product is manufactured as well as how it’s manufactured is also important. Sourcing local materials cuts down on transportation costs and resulting emissions while also supporting local economies. Sustainability alone however isn’t enough. In commercial design applications, life-space and durability is so important. A material that has to be replaced every five years due to wear and tear isn’t very sustainable. You have to source the right product for the right application.
LG: Sustainable design has a reputation for being expensive design. Do you think this perception is accurate?
CK: Yes and no. Initial costs are definitely higher but over the long-term, choosing a more sustainable design solution or installation will actually save you money. Products like low voltage lighting, energy efficient windows and HVAC systems and dual flush toilets, will garner a solid return on your design investment. As we become more aware of these benefits we can hold new development more accountable by demanding more sustainable builds. This will ultimately create a future where sustainable design is no longer thought as expensive. It will be the only option.
LG: What companies/designers are leading the way in sustainable design?
CK: Herman Miller, Interface Flooring (Ray Anderson as provided a benchmark for companies to strive towards), Patagonia, New Belgium Brewing Company, which is this amazing little micro brewery in Colorado that proves the little guy can do a lot, Lululemon, Brent Comber Originals, and Schramm Vodka, a certified local organic Pemberton distillery.
In terms of building design, Vancouver has experienced a surge of sustainable development recently. Buildings leading the charge include the new Convention Centre Expansion, the Olympic Venues and the North Vancouver City Library.
LG: What are your favourite sustainable materials right now?
CK: There are too many to mention here so I’ll stick to my local favourites.
River Crystals, available at Interstyle Ceramic & Glass, are recycled glass tiles that are locally manufactured by a family-run business that uses a grey water system that is filtered before disposal and a recycled heat exhaust from drying kiln.
Second Wind Timber uses salvaged wood from Pine Beetle devastated forests and old gymnasiums, barns, and timber frame building to manufacture their products
G-Roc Concrete available at Szolyds Concrete Design is a recycled glass solid surface material that is locally manufactured and non-toxic. The company participates in the Climate Smart Program and continually researches and re-invents their process to ensure sustainability is their number one priority.
