International Green Building is Theme for October Program

by Tom Fisher, Chairman, Programs Committee

This month's chapter networking and educational program explored innovations and inspirations in green design from around the world. The program took place October 21, 2009 at the House of Sweden in Washington, DC.

More than 60 members and guests of the NCR chapter enjoyed presentations by Fiona Cousins of ARUP and Avneet Gujral of Sustainable Design Consulting. Each presented perspectives from the leading edge of green design in Europe and Asia. Drawing on examples from ARUP's state-of-the-art work overseas, Ms. Cousins illustrated advances in sustainable design not yet seen in the U.S.

ARUP has gained international acclaim by their technical mastery of climate-responsive building systems, envelope construction and the integration of art and engineering. ARUP has a strong practice and offices in the U.S. Ms. Cousins is a leading proponent of this work.

Ms. Gujral has worked for many years as a green architect in both India and the U.S. Her deep exposure to Indian green building practices are often traditional by necessity and provide a deep appreciation of climate-responsive design in an emerging economy. Ms. Gujral's enthusiasm for the subject of sustainable design was evident throughout her presentation when demonstrating many examples of design to meet climatic conditions in India.

October's program was hosted by the gracious House of Sweden where we will be guests of the Embassy of Sweden. Our sponsor for the event was Skanska, one of the world's leading construction companied. Our MC for the event was Margaret Cederoth of Parsons Brickerhoff.

Schedule:

6:00-6:40 pm -- Networking Reception

6:40-7:15 pm -- Fiona Cousins, ARUP

7:15-7:50 pm -- Avneet Gujral, SDC

7:50-8:00 pm -- Q&A and chapter announcements