Our Services - Overview

Our Whole-System Approach

As part of a collaborative design and construction effort, RMI's Built Environment Team analyzes and identifies solutions to interconnected issues such as site and building design, energy and water efficiency, daylighting, resource-efficient materials and construction techniques, lighting and mechanical design, and the comfort and safety of the occupants. With a well-trained eye and sophisticated tools, we study the impact of each component individually as well as it’s role within the larger web of building systems to ensure whole system optimization.

More than just adding green features to buildings, RMI’s integrated design approach considers all aspects of the physical environment, from aesthetics and function to industry-related challenges such as financing, construction scheduling, and regulatory compliance. The result is a new generation of refined architecture with optimized energy and water efficiency, sustainable materials, and superior aesthetics that enhance human health and performance.

• Speaking Engagements
  Built Environment Team members frequently speak at conferences, corporate events, and industry meetings on a range of topics including sustainable design, green building rating systems, corporate sustainability, the business case for green building, and technical analysis tools.

• Design Charrettes and Sustainable-Building Workshops
  Our client-focused charrettes generate innovative ideas that support the development of cost-effective, environmentally restorative architecture while addressing the specific needs of a project. RMI also offers comprehensive sustainable-design workshops that outline key topics, including side, water, energy, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and LEED certification. The Built Environment Team also partners with RMI’s other consulting practices to address cities, ports, and other large-scale initiatives.

• Sustainability Integration and Guideline Development
  RMI creates environmental strategies that address every aspect of the design and construction process, including guidelines for commercial, retail, and residential design. Guidelines can address new construction or existing building projects as well as owner or tenant needs.

• Daylighting and Energy Analysis
  RMI develops strategies that improve visual performance and productivity, save energy and money, and create healthy spaces. We use computer simulations and physical models to integrate daylight with architectural form, glazing and shading strategies, electric lighting design and controls, and interior details. BET’s cutting-edge analyses seek to identify energy loads that can be reduced or eliminated.

• LEED Advising
  Several members of RMI’s team of LEED-accredited professionals contributed to the founding of the U.S. Green Building Council and to the development and on-going redevelopment of its LEED rating system. RMI is also currently one of eight review teams across the nation that review LEED submittals for the USGBC. We use our expertise and experience to provide high-level strategy development and assist project teams achieve LEED certification.

• Sustainable Materials Selection
  Our knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations for environmentally preferable, cost-effective materials, as well as contractor toolkits to ensure project goals are achieved.

• Natural Ventilation and Thermal Comfort Analysis
  RMI uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to integrate effective natural ventilation strategies into building design. Detailed analysis of airflows in buildings and use of natural flow patterns can enhance thermal comfort and air quality, while reducing overall energy use.

• Ecosystem services assessment
  RMI uses GIS (geographic information systems) and CITYgreen software to assess the benefits of landscaping, open spaces, and preserves in regard to carbon sequestration and stormwater runoff reduction.

• Ecological Footprint and Capacity Analysis
  RMI can assess the lifecycle impact of a material or product with regard to greenhouse gas emissions and energy and water use to quantify savings and provide recommendations to reduce environmental impact in the future.