The “Power Haus” takes home the 4th Annual Award at 2011 GREENBUILD Toronto: USGBC 2011 LEED for Homes Awards | Outstanding Single Family Project
Summary: The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has named the recipients of its 2011 LEED for Homes Awards, recognizing projects, developers and homebuilders who have demonstrated leadership in the residential building marketplace. The awards were presented during the Residential Summit on Thursday, October 6, during the 2011 GreenBuild International Conference & Expo held in Toronto, Canada.
Summary: The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has named the recipients of its 2011 LEED for Homes Awards, recognizing projects, developers and homebuilders who have demonstrated leadership in the residential building marketplace. The awards were presented during the Residential Summit on Thursday, October 6, during the 2011 GreenBuild International Conference & Expo held in Toronto, Canada. The 2011 award categories recognize innovative multi and single-family projects, production builders, affordable housing projects and developers, an overall commitment to LEED for Homes, and Project of the Year. At the annual 2011 USGBC GreenBuild conference held in Toronto, Canada the “Power Haus” by Josh Wynne Construction, a Sarasota based custom homebuilder, was awarded Outstanding Single Family Project. Two Trails Inc- Green Building Consulting Firm was the LEED consulting firm chosen to work with Josh Wynne Construction in achieving this remarkable project. The high-design, high-performing home actually produces more energy than it consumes. The “Power Haus” is an amazing accomplishment by scoring the lowest score conceivable on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) as an index of (-) 22 in comparison to an excellent score being a (+) 40 on a scale of 0 to 100. As for the rating for the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has scored 118 for the “Power Haus” with points awarded in a variety of green features including but not limited to energy producing PV panels, recycled building materials contents, and water efficiency materials. To place this score in perspective, a score of 95 is a good enough for a LEED Platinum certification.
Drew Smith from Two Trails Inc. was at GreenBuild Toronto to accept the award on behalf of Josh Wynne Construction. “We are extremely proud to be a part of such a great project. The “Power Haus” has received great acclamation that it justly deserves. As a company we are always looking to push the limits of green building and having Josh Wynne Construction putting their trust in our firm and our guidance shows what can be accomplished with a little hard work and experience.” Drew Smith, President of Two Trails Inc.
A few amazing green features of the “Sarasota Power Haus” include passive ventilation, cooling and lightning, concrete blocks filled with foam insulation, kitchen cabinets constructed with recyclable material, using programmable LEDs (light emitting diodes), flooring from polished concrete, and interior walls from troweled clay. A garage is not used in order to not waste material to house a car and instead use an overhanging roof for the owners to park their cars in the shade. The “Power Haus” also took home 13 Aurora Awards held during the Southeast Builders Conference (SEBC).
About Two Trails, Inc | Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
About Josh Wynne Construction | joshwynneconstruction.com
Josh Wynne Construction is a Sarasota based custom homebuilder, awarded The Outstanding Single Family Home of the Year for its Power Haus project. Power Haus, designed and built by Josh Wynne, is recognized as having the highest overall LEED score ever (118) in a new home as well as the lowest HERS index ever recorded (minus 22). The Power Haus is a high performance home designed with full consideration of its local environment.
Two Trails Reaches for the Top of the LEED Platinum Point Scale with the “Sarasota Power Haus.”
Drew Smith from Two Trails has done it again. He has contributed his expertise in assisting in completing a home rated the greenest new house in the country in the Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch. Drew Smith and Josh Wynne collaborated in building this ultra green house. Drew has stated, “Josh has raised the bar on this one.” In a nutshell, the “Power Haus” is an amazing accomplishment by scoring the lowest score conceivable on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) as an index of (-) 22 in comparison to an excellent score being a (+) 40 on a scale of 0 to 100.
Drew Smith from Two Trails has done it again. He has contributed his expertise in assisting in completing a home rated the greenest new house in the country in the Polo Club at Lakewood Ranch. Drew Smith and Josh Wynne collaborated in building this ultra green house. Drew has stated, “Josh has raised the bar on this one.” In a nutshell, the “Power Haus” is an amazing accomplishment by scoring the lowest score conceivable on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) as an index of (-) 22 in comparison to an excellent score being a (+) 40 on a scale of 0 to 100. As for the rating for the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has scored 118 for the “Power Haus” with points awarded in a variety of green features including but not limited to energy producing PV panels, recycled building materials contents, and water efficiency materials. To place this score in perspective, a score of 95 is a good enough for a LEED Platinum certification. A person with no background in green building can see the magnitude of the scores for the “Power Haus” and why Drew Smith is the leader in green building consulting. He is a true genius and has already been recognized for various green building awards including NAHB CGP (Certified Green Professional) of 2010 & FGBC 2010 certifying agent of the year.
As if the LEED and HERS scores are not impressive enough, the “Power Haus” is at the top of the rating systems used by the Florida Green Building Coalition and Energy Star. With the installation of the PV system, Drew Smith has been reported as saying, “The owners should never have to pay an electric bill. Unless they significantly increase their consumption, they should get a credit each month.” An electric bill is something that anyone would love to eliminate as a monthly debt. The possibility of a credit seen as a negative consumption of electricity seen on an electric bill will be from the highly proficient PV system.
Some of the other amazing green features of the “Sarasota Power Haus” include concrete blocks filled with foam insulation, kitchen cabinets constructed with recyclable material, using programmable LEDs (light emitting diodes), flooring from polished concrete, and interior walls from troweled clay. A garage is not used in order to not waste material to house a car and instead use an overhanging roof for the owners to park their cars in the shade. Drew Smith is the leader in green building and has stated, “We are working to find ways to get more points in the future.” When going for such high point values it is important to look as far as possible into the future for your point decisions. One decision may affect another and cast points rather than gain them. Points or no points, either way everyone wins with a spectacular built home!
The “Power Haus” has been recognized for a long list of accomplishments. It is currently the highest scoring LEED Platinum home in the world and has a HERS index of a negative (-22). The “Power Haus” also took home 13 Aurora Awards held during the Southeast Builders Conference (SEBC). The awards are:
Project: Power Haus, Sarasota, FL Energy Efficient Home Best Energy Efficient Home-Grand Aurora Award
Residential Construction/Custom Home (One of a Kind)-$1,000,001-$1,500,000-Grand Aurora Award
Solar Energy House Best Solar Energy Efficient House-Grand Aurora Award
Green Construction New Construction- $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Grand Aurora Award
Environmental Design/Water-Wise Home Best Water-Wise Home-Grand Aurora Award
Residential Construction Custom Home (One of a Kind) $1,000,001- $1,500,000-Auroa Award
Interior Merchandising/Design Kitchen $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
Interior Merchandising/Design Bath $1,000,001- $2,00,000-Aurora Award
Interior Merchandising/Design Interior $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
Environmental Design Energy Efficient Home Best Energy Efficient Home-Aurora Award
Environmental Design Solar Energy House Best Solar Energy Efficient House-Aurora Award
Environmental Design Green Construction New Construction- $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
Environmental Design Water-Wise Home Best Water- Wise Home-Aurora Award
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
Source | PRWeb
2011 Aurora Awards: Two Trails Clients Received a Combined Total of 35 Awards
The Aurora Awards is a competitive award competition held during SEBC (Southeast Builders Conference). Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) sponsors the Award competition; one of the largest associations of it’s kind. The Aurora Award design competition is presented to outstanding builders, planners, architects, developers, designers, and interior merchandisers within a twelve state southeastern and eastern Caribbean region. The design competition since it’s inception thirty-one years ago, continues to grow and honor residential and commercial designers and builders in over 85 categories. Categories consist of Commercial, Residential, Price Point, Energy Efficiency, Green Building and many more. The builders in the categories also recognize major Team members on the project. Two Trails Inc.-Green Building Consulting is proud to be a part of Thirty-five (35) 2011 Aurora Awards this year.
The Aurora Awards is a competitive award competition held during SEBC (Southeast Builders Conference). Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) sponsors the Award competition; one of the largest associations of it’s kind. The Aurora Award design competition is presented to outstanding builders, planners, architects, developers, designers, and interior merchandisers within a twelve state southeastern and eastern Caribbean region. The design competition since it’s inception thirty-one years ago, continues to grow and honor residential and commercial designers and builders in over 85 categories. Categories consist of Commercial, Residential, Price Point, Energy Efficiency, Green Building and many more. The builders in the categories also recognize major Team members on the project. Two Trails Inc.-Green Building Consulting is proud to be a part of Thirty-five (35) 2011 Aurora Awards this year.
“We are elated to be a part of our client’s success this year. Two Trails Inc. was a chosen team member in client projects that received a combined total of thirty-five Aurora Awards.” stated Drew Smith, President of Two Trails Inc.
Award Categories won by Clients with Two Trails as a Team member:
Classic Homes By Clayton, Inc. Project: Duval, Kenilworth Estates, Sarasota, FL ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION Demonstration Model- $500,001- $1,000,000-Aurora Award
Continental Homes and Interiors Project: The New American Home- 2011, Orlando, FL CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $2,000,001- $3,000,000-Grand Aurora Award
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $2,000,001- $3,000,000-Aurora Award
DCI Homes Inc. Project: Pickard, Graham, NC ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION Affordable Housing-Aurora Award
Gregory K. Wall AIAProject: Milos Residence ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN/GREEN CONSTRUCTION, REMODELING, REHABILITATION OR HISTORICAL RESTORATION Over $100,000-Aurora Award
Habitat for Humanity-South Sarasota County Inc.Project: Garden Park Townhomes, Nokomis, FL ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN/GREEN HOUSING Affordable Housing-Aurora Award
Jonathan Parks Architect Project: Origami- Loft House, Venice, FL CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $500,001- $750,000-Grand Aurora Award
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $500,001- $750,000-Aurora Award
INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN KITCHEN $500,001- $1,000,000-Aurora Award
Josh Wynne Construction Project: Power Haus, Sarasota, FL ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME Best Energy Efficient Home-Grand Aurora Award
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION/CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind)-$1,000,001-$1,500,000-Grand Aurora Award
SOLAR ENERGY HOUSE Best Solar Energy Efficient House-Grand Aurora Award
GREEN CONSTRUCTION New Construction- $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Grand Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN/WATER-WISE HOME Best Water-Wise Home-Grand Aurora Award
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $1,000,001- $1,500,000-Auroa Award
INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN KITCHEN $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN BATH $1,000,001- $2,00,000-Aurora Award
INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN INTERIOR DETAILING $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME Best Energy Efficient Home-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN SOLAR ENERGY HOUSE Best Solar Energy Efficient House-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION New Construction- $1,000,001- $2,000,000-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN WATER- WISE HOME Best Water- Wise Home-Aurora Award
Project: Trade Winds, Sarasota, FL NATURAL GAS HOME Best Natural Gas Single Family Home-Grand Aurora Award
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM HOME (One of a Kind) $500,001- $750,000-Aurora Award
INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN INTERIOR DETAILING $500,001- $1,000,000-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME Best Energy Efficient Home-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION New Construction- $500,001- $1,000,000-Aurora Award
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN NATURAL GAS HOME Best Natural Gas Single Family Home-Aurora Award
MyGreenBuildings Project: Platinum Beach Habah, Sarasota, FL ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION New Construction- Over $2,000,000-Aurora Award
Neal Communities Project: Central Park at Lakewood Ranch, Lakewood Ranch, FL RESIDENTIAL/MIXED USE LAND DEVELOPMENT Mixed Use and Residential Only Developments 101- 500 Acres-Grand Aurora Award
Project: Westover II, Greystone at the Country Club, Lakewood Ranch, FL RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION Detached Single- Family Home $500,001- $750,000-Aurora Award
Project: Sarantino, Secret Harbor at Country Club East, Lakewood Ranch, FL INTERIOR MERCHANDISING/DESIGN INTERIOR MERCHANDISING $500,001-$750,000-Aurora Award
Project: Central Park at Lakewood Ranch, Lakewood Ranch, FL COMMERCIAL/GENERAL CONSTRUCTION/DEVELOPMENT RESIDENTIAL/MIXED USE LAND DEVELOPMENT Mixed Use and Residential Only Developments 101-500 Acres-Aurora Award
Hennessey Construction Project: Pinellas Country Public Works Emergency Responders Building, Clearwater, FL ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION Commercial Construction- Office/Retail/Mixed Use-Aurora Award
Wytek ConstructionProject: Kizla Residence, Tampa, FL ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN GREEN CONSTRUCTION New Construction- Under $500,000-Aurora Award
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
Source: PRWEB
Tom Rupp
Marketing & Communications Manager
tom at twotrails.com
941-776-8680
www.twotrails.com
@TwoTrails
Drew Smith of Two Trails Inc. Named 2010 FGBC Certifying Agent of the Year and Certified the Highest Scoring FGBC Certified Home in Florida.
2010 has been a great year for Drew Smith of Two Trails. Earlier this year Drew was named the 2010 Certified Green Professional by NAHB (National Association of Home Builders). More recently Drew was just named FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifying agent of the year.
2010 has been a great year for Drew Smith of Two Trails. Earlier this year Drew was named the 2010 Certified Green Professional by NAHB (National Association of Home Builders). More recently Drew was just named FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifying agent of the year. Two Trails was also recognized by the FGBC for certifying the highest scoring FGBC home in the state of Florida. Drew worked on the home known as the “Coffee Pot” house. Builder Design Works and principal Jimmy Brattin hired Drew Smith to consult and help this custom home achieve high efficiency. “The home has achieved other awards from LEED, but being the highest scoring home for FGBC in the state of Florida is another great title to be bestowed upon this home. It is truly an honor to be recognized for building a home the way it should be built. These design practices can easily be incorporated into all new homes. It is great to have organizations like FGBC to provide a consistent standard to rank all homes and see their true efficiency.” Stated Drew Smith.
Drew Smith has been promoting building green for many years. Two Trails, Inc. is currently one of the leading Green Building Certification companies in United Sates. Drew has been involved in Green Building for over 12 years. He formed the company out of a desire to help builders, developers and homeowners to understand the process of Green Building and providing them with the knowledge to easily bring their green projects to life.
Drew Smith has provided leadership for sustainability for over a decade, volunteering his time and knowledge to help further the understanding of sustainability/green building throughout the state of Florida. Education is the key component to all of Drew’s commitments. Through education comes understanding and through understanding comes sustainable actions. Being involved in the building community along with the local community is very important in spreading the word about building green. Drew has been recently appointed by Gov. Crist as the Green Building representative on the Florida Building Commission, as well appointed as a National Director for the National Association of Homebuilders and a State Director for the Florida Homebuilders Association. He is also the Founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition. Drew is the Past Chairman of the Green Building Committee for Florida Home Builders Association. Drew is a Trustee on the Future Builders of America Foundation, Past Chairman of the Green Building Council of the Manatee-Sarasota Home Builders Association, Chairman of the Myakka River Branch of the LEED for Homes Committee, member of Sustainable Sarasota, the FYN (Florida Yards & Neighborhoods) Builders and Developers Advisory Committee, and the U.S. Green Building Council. Drew frequently speaks at local community gatherings and homeowners association to spread his knowledge and show people how to be sustainable, save money, and save the environment. Drew believes his “hands-on” consultant style really helps not only the client but also makes the entire sub-contractor base more knowledgeable, thus fulfilling the need to educate all levels in a Green Building project. He has been instrumental in the inception of FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) as well as the founding President currently serving as a Board member and Chairman of the High Rise Residential Committee. Drew has been in the building industry as a state certified General Contractor since 1983. He has a B.A. in Architectural Design as well as a M.B.A. He is also a Certified HVAC & Indoor Environmental Air Quality Professional, an assessor for Florida’s Green Lodging Certification Program, GBTP (Green Building Technical Professional), a LEED AP (Accredited Professional) and a Certified Class 3 Energy Rater.
Drew is part of many organizations helping to lead them to the best practices for their particular industry. It always comes back to education as the key to developing long-term relationships that foster an understanding of what sustainability means to an individual, a company and an industry. Understanding the need for green building education, Drew Smith has developed Green Building University as a place for novice and experts to further their understanding of green building. In furthering his efforts to bring community awareness to building green he was instrumental in the completion of the Lakewood Ranch Green Gallery located in the information center at Lakewood Ranch. Drew has been locally and nationally recognized for his efforts to promote Green Building not only in Florida but across the United States. Being a leader in the Green Building movement has given Drew many unique projects to consult on over the years. Being able to implement those projects helps to define what Green Building will be in the future. His passion for Green Building has opened new horizons and broadened his knowledge of technological advancements in the construction industry. “The journey to a greener future begins today.”
As President of Two Trails Drew has achieved many firsts in his 12 years in Green Building. Below are a few we are proud of achieving.
Green Consultants for the 1st LEED Platinum Public School in the country Green Consultants for the 1st LEED Platinum Municipal building in Florida. Green Consultants for the Highest Scoring LEED Platinum Home in the country Green Consultants for the Highest Scoring FGBC Home in Florida Green Consultants for the 1st NAHB Emerald Certified Home in Florida Green Consultants for the 1st NAHB Gold Certified Home in Florida Congratulations to Drew Smith on his well deserved award!
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
Source Link | PRWeb
Contact Information: Tom Rupp Two Trails, Inc. Communications and Marketing Manager tom at twotrails.com 941-776-8680 http://www.twotrails.com
Two Trails Inc. Completes Two More LEED Certifications Including the FIRST Municipal LEED Platinum Building in Florida
The City of Seminole, FL Public Works & Operations building is the first municipal building in Florida to be awarded the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED platinum certification, the highest sustainability rating possible. The City of Seminole also built the Public Works Administration & EOC building and was awarded the U.S Green Building Council’s LEED Gold certification. On April 12, 2011 the city was presented the USGBC LEED plaques and certificates by Drew Smith-President of Two Trails Inc. Both projects tasked Two Trails Inc. Green Building Consultants to assist them in achieving each respected LEED certification.
The City of Seminole, FL Public Works & Operations building is the first municipal building in Florida to be awarded the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED platinum certification, the highest sustainability rating possible. The City of Seminole also built the Public Works Administration & EOC building and was awarded the U.S Green Building Council’s LEED Gold certification. On April 12, 2011 the city was presented the USGBC LEED plaques and certificates by Drew Smith-President of Two Trails Inc. Both projects tasked Two Trails Inc. Green Building Consultants to assist them in achieving each respected LEED certification.
Currently The LEED Platinum Public Works and Operations building & The LEED Gold Public Works Administration EOC building are so efficient that they receive credits from the electric company. This power efficiency helps them be financially responsible for current and future facility costs. “Aside from the LEED certification from the US Green Building Council, our focus on sustainability is good for local government saving resources and funds that may be needed for other municipal purposes. Local governments have an opportunity to demonstrate behaviors that will conserve valuable resources and at the same time provide the services expected by our citizens.” Frank Edmunds- Seminole City Manager
"I am very proud of the project team for achieving LEED Platinum for the City of Seminole Public Works building. This is a great achievement! It is not only the first platinum certified building in all of Pinellas County, but it is the first platinum municipal project in the state of Florida. The City of Seminole was committed to having an efficient building. Without their dedication, this project would not have achieved platinum and have this exceptional sustainable design." Mike Mason-President of Mason Blau and Associates, Inc.
LEED was established to promote sustainable building design and construction that protect and preserve resources while also making good economic sense. The green building process offers an opportunity to respond to the most-important challenges of our time, including global climate change, dependence on non-sustainable and expensive sources of energy, and threats to human health. “It is exciting to see the first of many municipal buildings to embrace the green building practice. They are leading the way for reduced long-term maintenance and lowering utility costs on these buildings. In a time of gas price increases, it is important to that building saves more money than it cost to build. Their commitment to achieving a green certification is commendable, as the project progressed I knew Platinum and Gold were in our reach, I am so happy to see them meet their goal and the excel beyond. It really was just looking at the building in the correct manner that helped ensure the elevated certifications.” Drew Smith-President of Two Trails Inc.
LEED certifications of the buildings were based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. The 17,299-square-foot Seminole Public Works & Operations government building and the 6,222-square-foot Seminole Public Works Administration & EOC government building feature the latest in green building science. A few of the feature’s included:
- Reduced grid supplied electricity:
- High efficiency air conditioning systems
- Utilization of primarily fluorescent and LED lighting controlled with occupancy sensors
- Highly reflective roof coating to minimize solar heat gain
- LED Solar Powered parking lot lighting
- A total of 42.39Kw of Photovoltaic (Solar) power generating panels were installed on the buildings that will annually produce 86,732Kw of free electricity
- Reduced water consumption by over 50% with the installation:
- Motion activated low flow faucets
- Ultra Low Flow toilets and urinals
- Utilized Florida Friendly Landscaping to minimize water requirements
- Irrigation of landscaping was limited to no permanent irrigation on one building and irrigation well on the second building
- Diverting over 75% of the construction waste from landfill to recycling including the recycling of both of the existing buildings on the sites that were demolished
- Buildings utilized at least 10% recycled content materials in their construction
- Buildings utilized at least 10% materials mined, milled and manufactured within 500 miles of the jobsite
- Indoor Environmental Quality is also an area that was very important to the projects. The following areas were addressed throughout both buildings:
- All interior finishes will utilize Low VOC materials (Volatile Organic Compounds or off-gassing) including paints, furnishings, floor coverings
- High efficiency HVAC air filtration systems with HEPA filtration quality
- Lighting control systems were installed to automatically turn off lights in a room that is unoccupied
- Temperature controls to allow for maximum efficiency of the HVAC systems
LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the council’s leading rating system for designing and constructing the world’s greenest, most energy efficient and high-performing buildings.
The two buildings for the City of Seminole project team consisted of. Two Trails, Inc (CGP).; Mason Blau & Associates, Inc. (Arch.); TBE Group (Civil Eng. & Landscape Arch.); M.P. Spychala & Assoc., Inc. (Elect. Eng.); Griner Engineering (Plumb. & HVAC Eng.); and Biltmore Construction (G.C.)
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
About Mason Blau & Associates, Inc (MBA is a full-service architectural firm. Established in 1994, MBA was founded by seasoned architects Michael R. Mason, AIA and Robert H. Blau, AIA. MBA specializes in the planning and design of education, government, healthcare and commercial projects.
Source | PRWEB
Cars are Going Green and so are the Dealerships That Sell Them
Car manufactures are hitting the alternative energy car wave hard with hybrid mixed energy sources, and now all electric cars. Automotive manufactures are showing their commitment to alternative fuels and being environmentally conscious, now automotive dealers are joining them! Three dealerships in Florida, AutoNation in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch Toyota in Bradenton and Dew Euro Car in St. Petersburg, have all chosen Two Trails as their green consulting firm on their individual projects.
Car manufactures are hitting the alternative energy car wave hard with hybrid mixed energy sources, and now all electric cars. Automotive manufactures are showing their commitment to alternative fuels and being environmentally conscious, now automotive dealers are joining them! Three dealerships in Florida, AutoNation in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch Toyota in Bradenton and Dew Euro Car in St. Petersburg, have all chosen Two Trails as their green consulting firm on their individual projects. “We are elated to see these dealers step up in their respective communities and not only sell and promote a greener mode of transportation, but build their dealerships to the current green building standards.”, stated Drew Smith, President of Two Trails. Common reasons a consumer would by a hybrid car is to save money on fuel, conscious of their environmental impact (carbon footprint), sustainability over longer periods of time, and to be at the forefront of new technology. All these reasons are great reasons to buy a hybrid vehicle. AutoNation, Lakewood Ranch Toyota and Dew Euro Car were perceptive in seeing these practices benefiting their customers in the car industry and had the foresight to apply green practices into their next dealerships.
The new dealerships will have a controlled impact on the environment during the building stage. They are designed to save energy on the buildings utilities and operating costs, provide a healthy work environment for their employees and customers using proper insulation, ventilation, and non or low VOC material. For years to come these buildings, will require less maintenance, and be at the forefront of green building technologies helping to sustain their properties for future generations.
They realize that there is a difference in saying your green and being green. AutoNation, Lakewood Ranch Toyota and Dew Euro Car realize having green consultants and third party verifiers on their respective projects will get them to the certifications they want to achieve and have the peace of mind that their buildings are performing to the green standards that they implement. AutoNation, Lakewood Ranch Toyota and Dew Euro Car are prime examples that being green is not just an isolated choices like: recycling, purchasing a hybrid vehicle, or constructing a green building, but a lifestyle that individuals and business can choose to participate in. The impacts their decisions make affect not only their perspective communities, but are lessons for all businesses not just the automotive industry.
A green lifestyle is about considering all aspects of what you purchase and how you choose to live your life. Today we have certified green homes so that we can have a healthy environment to raise our children. As awareness expands for not only the healthy indoor environment that green buildings have but also the understanding that being built to a green standard really cuts down on operational costs of commercial buildings is the new driving force to achieving green certification. The added benefit is less environmental impact and increased productivity.
“It’s not often choosing a building option is actually a win-win for all parties involved! Because, that is exactly what making a commitment to obtaining a green certification is an option. These dealerships had to make a decision to do what they felt is beneficial not only for their company, but for their employees and customers. It sets them apart from their competition,” stated Debbie Smith, Vice President of Two Trails.
About Two Trails, Inc.
Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
About AutoNation, Inc.
AutoNation, Inc.(NYSE: AN) is America's largest Automotive Retailer. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., AutoNation employs approximately 19,000 people at 206 dealership locations representing 244 franchises today and was named America's Most Admired Automotive Retailer by FORTUNE MAGAZINE for 6 of the last 8 years. AutoNation is a member of the S&P 500. AutoNation has sold over 7 million vehicles, the only auto retailer to achieve this milestone.
About Dew Euro Car
Dew Luxury Motor Cars has served the West Coast of Florida for over 95 years. Originally known as the St. Petersburg Garage, the dealership sold Cadillac, Essex and Hudson automobiles in the early 1900's. In 1915, founder and automotive pioneer, Mr. Roy E. Dew relocated the dealership to its previous location on Third Avenue and Third Street in beautiful downtown St. Petersburg. It was at this time; Mr. Dew recognized Cadillac as the "Standard of the World" and concentrated his efforts accordingly. Many of America's famous have visited Dew Cadillac throughout the decades. These include such recognized celebrities as Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Marilyn Monroe, and yes, even Cadillac Connoisseur, Elvis Presley.
Source: PRWeb
Contact Information:
Tom Rupp
Two Trails, Inc.
Communications and Marketing Manager
tom at twotrails.com
941-776-8680
www.twotrails.com
Drew Smith of Two Trails Wins the NAHB Certified Green Professional of the Year Award
Drew Smith continues to be a leader in the Green building community as the Certified Green Professional for 2010 awarded by NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) show in Orlando, FL.Two Trails is proud of our President Drew Smith for receiving the 2010 NAHB Certified Green Professional of the year award. As President of Two Trails Drew has strived to be the best in his field.
Drew Smith continues to be a leader in the Green building community as the Certified Green Professional for 2010 awarded by NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) show in Orlando, FL.Two Trails is proud of our President Drew Smith for receiving the 2010 NAHB Certified Green Professional of the year award. As President of Two Trails Drew has strived to be the best in his field. Two Trails is a Green Building Consulting Firm that provides residential and commercial Green building certification, Commercial commissioning, speaking events, and continuing education credits via greenbuildinguniversity.com. Two Trails, Inc. is currently one of the leading Green Building Certification companies in Florida. Drew has been involved in Green Building for over 12 years. He formed the company out of a desire to help builders, developers and home owners to understand the process of Green Building and providing them with the knowledge to easily bring their green projects to life.
Drew Smith has provided leadership for sustainability for over a decade, volunteering his time and knowledge to help further the understanding of sustainability/green building throughout the state of Florida. Education is the key component to all of Drew's commitments. Through education comes understanding and through understanding comes sustainable actions. Being involved in the building community along with the local community is very important in spreading the word about building green. Drew has been recently appointed by Gov. Crist as the Green Building representative on the Florida Building Commission, as well appointed as a National Director for the National Association of Homebuilders and a State Director for the Florida Homebuilders Association. He is also the Founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition. Drew is the Past Chairman of the Green Building Committee for Florida Home Builders Association. Drew is a Trustee on the Future Builders of America Foundation, Past Chairman of the Green Building Council of the Manatee-Sarasota Home Builders Association, Chairman of the Myakka River Branch of the LEED for Homes Committee, member of Sustainable Sarasota, the FYN (Florida Yards & Neighborhoods) Builders and Developers Advisory Committee, and the U.S. Green Building Council. Drew frequently speaks at local community gatherings and home owners association to spread his knowledge and show people how to be sustainable, save money, and save the environment.
Drew believes his "hands-on" consultant style really helps not only the client but also makes the entire sub-contractor base more knowledgeable, thus fulfilling the need to educate all levels in a Green Building project. He has been instrumental in the inception of FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) as well as the founding President currently serving as a Board member and Chairman of the High Rise Residential Committee. Drew has been in the building industry as a state certified General Contractor since 1983. He has a B.A. in Architectural Design as well as a M.B.A. He is also a Certified HVAC & Indoor Environmental Air Quality Professional, an assessor for Florida's Green Lodging Certification Program, GBTP (Green Building Technical Professional), a LEED AP (Accredited Professional) and a Certified Class 3 Energy Rater.
Drew is part of many organizations helping to lead them to the best practices for their particular industry. It always comes back to education as the key to developing long term relationships that foster an understanding of what sustainability means to an individual, a company and an industry. Understanding the need for green building education, Drew Smith has developed Green Building University as a place for novice and experts to further their understanding of green building. In furthering his efforts to bring community awareness to building green he was instrumental in the completion of the Lakewood Ranch Green Gallery located in the information center at Lakewood Ranch. Drew has been locally and nationally recognized for his efforts to promote Green Building not only in Florida but across the United States. Being a leader in the Green Building movement has given Drew many unique projects to consult on over the years. Being able to implement those projects helps to define what Green Building will be in the future. His passion for Green Building has opened new horizons and broadened his knowledge of technological advancements in the construction industry. "The journey to a greener future begins today."
As President of Two Trails Drew has achieved many firsts in his 12 years in Green Building. Below are a few we are proud of achieving.
Green Consultants for the 1st LEED Platinum Public School in the country Green Consultants for the 2011 NAHB New American Home Green Consultants for the Highest Scoring LEED Platinum Home in the country Green Consultants for the Highest Scoring FGBC Home in Florida Green Consultants for the 1st NAHB Emerald Certified Home in Florida Green Consultants for the 1st NAHB Gold Certified Home in Florida
Congratulations to Drew Smith on his well deserved award!
Source: PRWeb
Contact Information: Tom Rupp Two Trails, Inc. Communications and Marketing Manager contact(at)twotrails(dot)com 941-776-8680 http://www.twotrails.com
The Road to the Emerald home: The New American Home Achieved NAHB Emerald with Two Trails, Inc as Their Green Consultant
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) January 12, 2011 Two Trails is proud to be a part of The New American Home (TNAH) featured in the International Builders' Show (IBS). IBS is used to show case innovative building technologies and the latest building products. The New American Home displays design trends, construction techniques and materials that the building industry can use in any new or remodeled home. TNAH unlike any other in the past is a custom residence constructed for specific buyers.
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) January 12, 2011 Two Trails is proud to be a part of The New American Home (TNAH) featured in the International Builders' Show (IBS). IBS is used to show case innovative building technologies and the latest building products. The New American Home displays design trends, construction techniques and materials that the building industry can use in any new or remodeled home. TNAH unlike any other in the past is a custom residence constructed for specific buyers.
TNAH was built by Orlando Builder Continental Homes with Two Trails as the green consultant on the home. TNAH 2011 has been built in accordance to the NAHB (National Association of Homebuilders) Green Building Standard and has achieved an Emerald rating. "Emerald" recognizes resource conservation, energy efficiency and sustainability for the life cycle of the home; emerald is the highest of the four levels of achievement.
"The really story is that they were able to achieve Emerald without the use of solar power on the roof. It is all about what is behind the walls that makes the difference," stated Drew Smith, President of Two Trails, Inc. By designing building systems to work in complete harmony with each other the goal was to make the home perform for the homeowners, reducing their energy consumption!
The New American Home has hundreds of Green Features built into the design and construction of the home. Two Trails is proud to have assisted in implementing these green building features. Features for TNAH include a solar-assisted HVAC system, hydronic air handlers and "intelligent" fire places, solar hot water heater with gas backup, tankless hot water heaters, open and closed spray foam insulation for different parts of the house and a rainwater cistern for irrigation. Some other features include native drought-tolerant plants, low-flow showerhead and faucets, whole-house automation system and lighting control system, LED (Light-Emitting Diodes) & CFL Bulbs, Ductwork joint sealed with Mastic, Braided Supply hoses to all plumbing fixtures, CPVC plumbing throughout, Low/zero VOC Paints, All Slab penetrations sealed, Healthy flooring, and Insulated low E Tinted Windows throughout the home.
Some other highlighted certifications Two Trails assisted in receiving for TNAH includes the highest designation for FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) Platinum, Energy Star certification, Florida Yards and Neighborhoods designation, Florida Water Star Gold designation, Builders Challenge, and Building America.
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments seeking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. He has been named NAHB Certifying Green Professional of the year for 2010. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
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Source: PRWeb
Contact Information: Tom Rupp Two Trails, Inc. Communications and Marketing Manager tom(at)twotrails(dot)com 941-776-8680 http://www.twotrails.com
First Carbon Neutral Offshore Power Boat is World Champion!
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) November 17, 2010 Two Trails, Inc.- Green Building Consulting sponsoring the J&S racing team wins 1st place at the Super Boat International event held in Key West, FL. on Nov.12-15, 2010. Congratulations to Scott Brown (Driver) and Eddie Tamberino (Throtteman), on their first place victory.
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) November 17, 2010 Two Trails, Inc.- Green Building Consulting sponsoring the J&S racing team wins 1st place at the Super Boat International event held in Key West, FL. on Nov.12-15, 2010. Congratulations to Scott Brown (Driver) and Eddie Tamberino (Throtteman), on their first place victory.
This season Two Trails felt that being environmentally responsible was just as important as being sponsors for the boat. We decided to buy carbon offsets for the race season. Being "carbon neutral" means removing as much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as we put in. How can we remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere? One way is to buy "carbon offsets." This supports projects like wind farms or solar parks. It helps make clean energy more affordable. It reduces future greenhouse gas emissions to make up for out travel and electricity used today.
The average race boat uses about 450 gallons of fuel during the race season. The impact of Two Trails' action helps avoid up to 6,614 pounds (3 metric tons) of carbon dioxide emissions from being emitted into the atmosphere. This commitment has a similar impact as: 36 fully mature trees planted, or one passenger car off the road for a year. In our scenario, it is one race season.
It was an exciting race with speeds from 75 to 79 and choppy conditions. It was a race to remember. With one boat ejecting its driver and throttleman and another flipping over while everyone in the stands was holding their breath.
It isn't until the race is over that you get to hear what really happens out on the course. With Scott Brown and Eddie "T" the course tested their ability. The years they have spent together and the trust that they have in each other allows for a special communication of souls while driving. "At one point we took the turn, the boat dove under the water all we saw was a wall of water, I looked at Eddie he had the throttle down. Grabbed my regulator and held on to the wheel. It was all Eddie. He had the skill and presence to know how to handle that situation," stated Scott Brown.
On the flip side, "You know all I could do was look at Scott and know he knew what to do. I've never had that happen before we shot up out of the water, did a little vertical dance and slammed back into racing. Yeah, it was fun. You know you are alive. It is what this is all about." stated Eddie "T".
"These guys are special. They are still in shock at what they have accomplished. This is why we sponsor them. It is more than a team, it's a family. Not just our race team but all of the teams help each other out. We owe a special thanks to Warpaint. You know they all just want to win, but not by default, they want to do it racing," stated Debbie Smith, Vice President of Two Trails, Inc.
As the teams began to leave after the awards presentation, there was a lot of backslapping, hugging and tears of joy. It was a good race, no serious injuries and memories for a team that work an entire season hoping for victory. The reality of winning will probably not set in until sometime next week; as the adrenaline fades an images of a successful race season emerge.
"Hey, World Champions" was shouted from a passerby with his fist in the air on Duval Street. Scott looked at his wife and smiled, that said it all.
Super Boat International races took place in nine markets across the country in 2010. Super Boat International is the only official national and international sanctioning body for offshore powerboat racing in the world. The rectangular racecourses average six miles in length, and the aptly named offshore boats power through the waves at speeds up to 200 mph.
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.
Two Trails Sponsors Carbon Offset for Offshore Power Boat Racing
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) November 10, 2010 Two Trails, Inc.- Green Building Consulting has partnered with J&S Motorsports and AquaNew, L.L.C. as sponsors of an offshore powerboat race team, that drives in the Superboat International racing circuit. Scott Brown, Driver/Owner and Eddie Tamberino, Throttleman/Owner are currently in 2nd place in the National standings, in the Production 4 division, going into the Key West World Championships.
Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) November 10, 2010 Two Trails, Inc.- Green Building Consulting has partnered with J&S Motorsports and AquaNew, L.L.C. as sponsors of an offshore powerboat race team, that drives in the Superboat International racing circuit. Scott Brown, Driver/Owner and Eddie Tamberino, Throttleman/Owner are currently in 2nd place in the National standings, in the Production 4 division, going into the Key West World Championships.
As a green building consulting firm, we felt the best thing we could do with sponsoring the offshore powerboat was to make the boat carbon neutral. Being “carbon neutral” means removing as much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as we put in. How can we remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere? One way is to buy “carbon offsets.” This supports projects like wind farms or solar parks. It helps make clean energy more affordable. It reduces future greenhouse gas emissions to make up for out travel and electricity used today.
The average race boat uses about 450 gallons of fuel during the race season. The impact of Two Trails’ action helps avoid up to 6,614 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions from being emitted into the atmosphere. This commitment has a similar impact as: 36 fully mature trees planted, or one passenger car off the road for a year. In our scenario it is one race season.
“Just like racing, the goal is to be the leader. It is also our goal to lead by example in being responsible to our environment in off setting our carbon impact,” said Drew Smith, President of Two Trails Inc. Living a sustainable lifestyle means making choices. Today the technology is not practical or available to have an environmentally friendly offshore powerboat. We have chosen to offset our impact on the environment through “carbon offsets” for the entire year of racing. We hope that the future will bring new technologies; it is through support that this will happen.
“Our concern is always for the environment. We see Superboat International working to ensure the safety of the animals, environment and the drivers. We believe in first steps, it is how green building started. It’s like playing chess, you can’t win if you never move the first piece,” stated Debbie Smith, Vice President of Two Trails,Inc.
About Two Trails, Inc. Two Trails, Inc. is a Green Building Consulting firm established in 2001. We provide green consulting services nationwide for commercial, residential, remodeling, and developments looking to obtain LEED (US Green Building Council) NAHB Green Home Standard, Energy Star, FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) certifications.
Our President, Drew M. Smith, LEED AP, was the founding President of the Florida Green Building Coalition and is the first Governor appointed Green Building Commissioner for the State of Florida. Two Trails, Inc. provides hands-on consulting making it easy to achieve certification.