High-Performance Building Design
We define what your building's systems need to do — before the MEP engineer is hired. Early-design analysis that's constructible, not theoretical.
We help project teams across all delivery methods define performance goals and shape early mechanical system concepts — reflecting the needs of occupants, owners, designers, and builders alike. Our role isn't just analysis. We provide clear, constructible Basis-of-Design guidance that keeps good ideas viable all the way to occupancy.
Three areas of focus.
- Rapid design comparison and feedback
- Envelope + systems integration and tradeoffs
- Thermal comfort, zoning, and layout feedback
- Daylight and glare optimization for usability
- Title 24 (CA), IECC, ASHRAE 90.1, and LEED
- Performance pathway strategy
- Utility incentive navigation and documentation
- Custom modeling support for stretch goals
- Evaluation of DOAS, VRF, hydronic, and heat pump systems
- Sizing logic and system configuration recommendations
- Controls strategy and sequencing concepts
- Integration guidance with envelope and daylighting
- High-level BOD documentation for engineers and contractors
Integrated with your design team.
We engage early — defining performance goals, evaluating system types, and aligning mechanical strategy with architectural intent before details lock in.
We model envelope options, shading, and daylighting to find the tradeoffs that reduce mechanical loads without adding cost or complexity.
We document system logic, sizing criteria, and controls strategy in a format engineers and contractors can build from — no guesswork in the field.
We navigate Title 24, ASHRAE 90.1, LEED, and utility programs — identifying the compliance path and incentive stack that best fits the project.
We combine energy and daylight modeling to optimize facades, shading strategies, and lighting controls — aligning performance goals with architectural intent. Our analysis supports LEED daylight credits, visual comfort targets, and daylight harvesting strategies.
Why teams work with us.
We understand how architecture, envelope, and mechanical systems interact — not just how they're modeled. Our analysis informs decisions, not just documents them.
From early concept and Basis of Design through coordination and commissioning, we deliver insight that sticks — and recommendations that survive value engineering.
We know when a design idea is brilliant — and when it's too brittle for field conditions. Our sprint-based process brings agility and foresight to avoid late-stage rework.
Our code development and research work means we know which technologies California's next cycle is moving toward — and which utility programs are about to incentivize what.
Projects
Working on a project that needs
early-design performance guidance?
We engage at concept, schematic, or design development — wherever the decisions are still being made.