Stories Architecture Services for Offices and Commercial Spaces
Offices are continuing to evolve and progress along with the work and communities within them. Stories is uniquely situated to offer three distinct pillars for successful office and commercial design:
1.) Our unique, in-house expertise from 20 years of office design experience combined with 15 years of brand design and marketing experience.
2.) LEED-certification and cutting edge energy and sustainability implementation.
3.) Plus, 10 years of hospitality design experience with a focus on work-life amenities and community spaces.
Our Vision for Sustainability in Development with Regulatory Edge
Sustainability is a strategic investment for developers. Implementing eco-friendly elements in office-to-home conversions bolsters project attractiveness and viability in several ways:
Reduced Operating Costs: Energy-efficient upgrades translate into lower utility bills, enhancing both tenant satisfaction and property value. These improvements also align with Local Law 97 of 2019, mandating emissions reductions for large NYC buildings, potentially avoiding future financial penalties.
Enhanced Market Appeal: Eco-conscious consumers in New York City are increasingly seeking sustainable living options. Developers who prioritize green elements attract premium tenants willing to pay more. LEED certification, recognized by NYC through the Green Building Requirements, adds significant value and can qualify projects for tax breaks and incentives.
Regulatory Compliance: New York State's Energy Conservation Construction Code (ECCCNYS) sets minimum energy efficiency standards for all new construction and major renovations. Proactively adopting green solutions avoids potential retrofitting costs.
Our Strategies for Sustainable Conversions within Regulations
Transforming a concrete office block into livable, sustainable homes requires a strategic approach with an eye toward regulatory compliance. Here are some key strategies we incorporate:
Materials: Opt for recycled, locally sourced materials for construction and interior design, aligning with LEED credit EA4 and supporting local businesses while minimizing environmental impact. Explore reuse opportunities for existing office materials, potentially contributing to LEED credit MR5.
Natural Light Design: Maximize natural light through strategic window placement and skylight installations. This reduces reliance on artificial lighting, lowers energy consumption, and contributes to LEED credit SS1, potentially lowering building operating costs.
Water-Wise Design: Implement water-saving technologies like greywater systems and low-flow plumbing fixtures, aligning with LEED credit WE1 and NYC's water conservation goals. Consider rainwater harvesting, potentially contributing to LEED credit WE2.
Energy Efficiency: Invest in high-performance building envelopes, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and smart appliances. These elements minimize energy consumption, translate into cost savings for residents, and contribute to LEED credit EAc1, potentially earning tax deductions under applicable local programs.
Community Connections: Integrate green spaces, rooftop gardens, and communal courtyards into the design. These features enhance resident well-being, connect them to nature, and contribute to urban heat island mitigation and stormwater management, potentially earning LEED credits SS7 and SS9.