East Coast Green Virtual Conference

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Join the AIA-NJ Committee on the Environment at the AIA NJ East Coast Green Virtual Conference to shape the future of architecture and sustainability. This premier event gathers industry leaders, architects, and innovators to explore cutting-edge solutions and sustainable practices. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. Register now to engage with key experts and gain insights into the latest advancements in sustainable design.

Don’t miss out on driving the change towards a greener tomorrow!

Register Today! 

Up to 13 credits available. 

10AM EST: Adaptive Lighting Solutions: Hitting the Mark and Miss the Point?
1 LU/HSW

Dr. Shelley James
WELL Advisory, Faculty and AP
Age of Light Innovations
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Energy-efficient LEDs promise a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of the built environment, but the current focus on the ‘lumens per watt’ benchmark overlooks the subtle spectral qualities of light and promotes a technology-led specification culture. This presentation will review the latest evidence on the health and environmental benefits of an integrated ‘less is more’ approach to dynamic lighting solutions across various settings, including neonatal wards, schools, offices, and residential care for people living with dementia. Dr. James will discuss adaptive controls that integrate climate conditions, occupant behaviors, and both natural and artificial light to optimize physical and mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion while reducing light pollution and meeting energy codes. Attendees will gain insights into AI-driven innovations, exploring how these strategies can reduce embodied carbon and life-cycle costs, and will leave with the confidence to develop integrated adaptive lighting solutions that support both people and the planet.

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11AM EST: Parallel Paths to Excellence: Two Firms’ Journey in Embracing the AIA Framework for Design Excellence
1 LU/HSW 

Darguin Fortuna, AIA, NCARB 
Flow Design Architects

Karin Patriquin , AIA, LEED AP, CPHC®, Fitwel
Patriquin Architects

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This joint presentation by the principals of two architectural firms from Salem, MA and New Haven, CT explores their transformative journeys in integrating the AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence into their core operations and design processes. The session will provide a comparative analysis of how each firm has adapted to and implemented the Framework’s principles, covering areas such as climate-responsive architecture, net-zero energy buildings, resilient design, environmental equity, and the intersection of technology and sustainability. Attendees will gain practical insights from both firms’ experiences and learn how to tailor their own sustainability efforts to achieve comprehensive and impactful results. 

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1PM EST: Breathing New Life into Existing Buildings: Essential Steps to Designing Your First Passive House
1 LU/HSW 

Michael Ingui
Ingui Architecture
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This session will explore the Passive House principles, including the basics of Passive House, an approach to achieving success, and strategies for renovating existing buildings to meet energy goals without full overhauls. Attendees will learn about the benefits of Passive House construction, such as constant filtered fresh air, reduced heating and cooling loads, and how aesthetic and sustainability goals can align. The session will feature case studies on mechanical systems, electrification, indoor air quality, and envelope details essential for Passive House certification, along with embodied and operational carbon strategies. Additionally, advanced features like superior air and water filtering systems, low-VOC materials, and achieving net-zero will be discussed. 

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2PM EST: Practice Transformation: A Path for Achieving High Performance on Every Project
1 LU/HSW 

Corey Squire, AIABora Architecture & Interiors
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Why do some firms consistently create high-performing buildings, while for others sustainability remains a struggle? Do they have the right clients? The ones with big budgets and ambitions? Or have they just figured out how to prioritize what’s important? This session will explore how a practice can meaningfully address climate, health, and equity on every project. Pulling lessons, case studies, and stories from his new book, People, Planet, Design: A Practical Guide to Realizing Architect’s Potential, author, architect, and recognized sustainable design expert Corey Squire will share a roadmap to achieving every project’s potential

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3PM EST: Energy Negative + Community Positive: How a new home in an established neighborhood is giving back
1 LU/HSW 

Kirk Gastinger, FAIA Emeritus

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Explore the design and construction of a 1,130 square-foot, energy-efficient home for retirees located in a walkable neighborhood. This session will cover the site’s strategic selection based on solar access and proximity to community amenities, as well as the innovative design elements that achieve net-zero energy consumption. Learn about the integration of active solar energy systems, a battery backup solution, and advanced mechanical systems like air source heat pumps and Environmental Recovery Ventilation (ERV). Discover sustainable site development practices including stormwater management and native plantings, supported by visual aids that illustrate the project’s design and performance.

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4PM EST: Preserving Brooklyn Roots in Bedford Stuyvesant
1 LU/HSW 

Michelle ToddM. Todd Architects

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