Small Firms Ideas Exchange

When Apple Inc. announced its enterprise upgrades to the iPhone and the accompanying software development kit, the company also announced a $100-million venture capital fund for software development. What would this look like in architecture for small firms? Imagine if a consortium of energy firms and construction materials suppliers announced the establishment of a $500-million venture capital development fund to specifically fund sustainable community projects being managed and developed by innovative small architecture firms. The fund requires the firm size be under 15 people and that the project size be under $20 million. What innovative project would you propose that would profitably change the nature of sustainable community development? How would this change the way your firm operates? How would it change your goals and methods? Please do not reveal any actual projects or project locations as they may preclude actually carrying out your vision if such a fund should ever be developed.

—Louis B. Smith Jr., AIA, NOMA

According to AIA Small Project Practitioners’ National Issues Convocation, which took place at the 2007 AIA national convention, affordable green design ranks as one of the top issues confronting small firms. What are some strategies or methodologies that you use to incorporate sustainability at a low cost?  How can the AIA better serve your needs in this area?