LIVING SYSTEMS

LIVING SYSTEMS SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: DESIGN BUILD

LSSA is a different kind of green architectural practice; one dedicated to energy and resource efficiency and also to something called value engineering, a method that both controls and reduces costs while still delivering a beautifully designed and well-crafted green custom home. In fact, by value engineering the client generally saves enough money to cover their architectural fee.

Let's look at this method of green building in more detail. In typical custom construction, an architect draws a set of plans he or she believes will fit the client's budget.

However, because most architects are not trained in costs, nor do they normally work with their contractor during the design period, the building may well overbid. Moreover, costs generally continue to rise during the construction process. The result: construction quality goes down and the project can become unnecessarily difficult.

We, however, approach the project from a very different perspective: the architect, contractor and client work together, collaboratively, from the start. Thus, the unnatural division in such a dynamic process is eliminated and problems are addressed with a creative effort. The result: the client is assured accountability in terms of quality and cost and the project runs smoothly. Your green home will then be realized.

Another way to view value engineering is to think of it as a process of cost control from the very start. Beginning with the client's desires and input, a budgetary number is determined. From that point on, every change can be examined monetarily in terms of construction techniques, product selection, etc. Because the cumulative effect of a client's choices remains transparent throughout the design process, the client is in control of costs. Moreover, before final drawings are initiated, a "detailed costing" is executed to aid the architect, contractor and client to, once again, value engineer costs. The final FIXED bid on your new green home can then be expected to be within the client's budgetary limits and groundbreaking can begin with ease. » Download more information

» Michael can work as your architect, project manager or consultant.

Poured Earth

(referred to as "Poured Soil Cement" in the International Residential Code, 2006)

Poured earth is a new method for an age-old process. For as long as man has been around, he has used earth as a building material. Continuing the tradition through present day, modern earth builders have employed primarily the techniques of adobe block and rammed earth. Both processes, however, require large amounts of time and strenuous labor. Today, the earth-building industry is witnessing a revolution. Imagine a building with 16" wide walls being built in the comparable amount of time as standard construction. This is now the reality of architect and former builder, Michael Frerking.

Materials Testing

For those who want to use Poured Earth as a building material LSSA can provide the necessary testing and coordination for your project. The process begins with preliminary testing of poured earth mixes to establish compressive strength and shrinkage characteristics for your specific soils. Through the development of a specific materials mix, LSSA makes sure that all engineering criteria for your project are met. These mixes are designed for strength, durability, ease of mixing, and delivery and placement. They are also designed to use the most earth-friendly cements and additives available. Finally, LSSA will work with your local concrete supplier and concrete pump service to establish a team effort where everyone is "on board."

Poured Earth Seminars

LSSA will work with individuals and groups that are willing to sponsor and coordinate poured earth seminars both nationally and internationally. Throughout his career, Michael Frerking has conducted over 15 hands-on earth building workshops.

Please contact Michael Frerking about your project by calling 928 717-2566

Michael Frerking

928 717-2566