Sustainability Programs Coordinator, RIM Architects (Hawaii)

Life is about the choices we make. Many are mundane and some are profound, but most fall somewhere in between. All of our choices have consequences and are not always easy.

One choice everyone can make is to become more environmentally aware. At RIM Architects (Hawaii) we recognize that our clients always have a choice about how to build their projects. We make sure to offer all of the energy savings and environmentally sustainable options. We understand there are financial limitations on all projects and we work with our clients to help them recognize how building green can help the bottom line, not hurt it. We present them with the facts so they can comfortably choose to make a difference. One of the most important functions we perform for our clients is to point out the myths and misconceptions that exist in the marketplace. Several of those myths and misconceptions surround green building.

A common misconception amongst the general public is that it is more expensive to use green building practices. There are many areas where this is just not the case. One example is that for no real additional cost, you can specify paints, sealants and adhesives that have low or no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). VOCs are more recognizable as the fumes or pollutants given off by these materials under normal circumstances. By mitigating or eliminating these VOCs, you can meet or exceed the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards and provide a healthier indoor air quality. All of that is possible without having to sacrifice color choice or price. The same is true with many carpets and padding brands that are made from recycled material. Some of the major manufacturers have started a green marketing campaign where they will recycle your old carpet and guarantee to collect and recycle the new carpet when it is next going to be replaced.

When it comes to our projects, we will incorporate green designs whether it is using Photovoltaic lighting or floor materials made from recycled products. For example, we designed the Honolulu Design Center to be a contemporary landmark building with a front façade using glass with reduced reflection and high light transmittance. This creates a light daytime space with overall low energy consumption. We used aluminum panels, Alucobond, in a custom “Honolulu Red” color for its low reflectivity and recyclable properties. It is inherent in good architecture to believe and act upon the value of designing sustainably.

We also believe that being an environmentally responsible design firm is much more than just systems and awards. It isn’t real if we don’t believe it in our core. As our managing principal Matt Gilbertson, AIA, says: “We aim to inspire our employees to ‘walk the talk’ by living, working and acting responsibly. We are committed to the employees and the impact they create on the local landscape.” This means making the choice to recycle all of our cans, bottles, newspaper and cardboard by organizing voluntary team members to make the recycle run. It means using biodegradable kitchen supplies made from plant fibers from sugar cane waste pulp and cornstarch. Although simple in design, the products have generated great interest amongst our clients resulting in the ability to positively promote the product for more corporate and individual uses. It means making the choice to provide canvas bags to our team and clients to help them reduce the amount of plastic bags making their way into the waste stream. It also means recycling 100% of our office paper. And it means providing free bus passes to any team member that agrees not to drive to work.

Our team at RIM takes to heart our adopted Hawaiian motto, “so the people and the earth will be cared for.” As much as it is a community and social responsibility for us to care for our `aina (lands), architects and design professionals must also respect the impact we have on the landscape of Hawai`i. Through thoughtful, respectful designs, we can ensure beautiful and functional projects that are also environmentally conscious. This is our biggest challenge but it is always worth the effort.

Given the environmental challenges we face, do we really have a choice?