Winter 2016
It’s that time again when we’re all scurrying to complete the year’s final tasks and prepare for what’s to come in 2017. We at Green Operations would like to take a brief moment to say job well done, and we’re excited to be part of the conversation again next year.
Sustainability is constantly evolving and consistently gaining clout in the decision-making process of the commercial building arena. Green building has shifted from a “nice to have” to a requirement, and the discussions around this new “standard” are largely due to an increased environmental consciousness.
Members of the A&D community and their clients are asking different questions today. It’s not enough to know that a product can be reclaimed and recycled at the end of its life. Rather, people are interested in the entire lifecycle of that product — from the manufacturing facility’s processes to materials used to its effect on customers and employees in a built environment. It’s these conversations that take green design to the next level.
In this issue we dive into “healthy flooring.” According to Deloitte’s “2016 global healthcare sector outlook,” more than one in 10 people in the world will be over the age of 65 by 2019. Managing the impacts of an aging population is a major influence affecting the industry. It’s also one of the driving factors that have hospitals and senior living centers re-examining the effects of a built environment on patients (and staff). Throughout this issue we discuss these topics — transparency, aesthetics, comfort, safety, air and sound quality, and cleanability — and the solutions changing healthcare’s approach.
Of course, this attention to wellness permeates education, government, corporate, retail and hospitality as well. That’s why we’ve covered some areas of focus across all segments in “2017: A look ahead at sustainable design.” One theme that has resonated with us throughout 2016 — and is quite prevalent in this issue — is collaboration. For this, our hats are off to our readership, the A&D community, manufacturers and third-party organizations working together to create a healthier future. Be sure to take a look at our Designer Profile on ONE Global Design, a growing national alliance, and Mohawk Group’s Light Lab, where design as a central hub fuels product, process and culture.
Lastly, thank you for your support and insights. We’re inspired by your innovative, collaborative spirits and wish you all a happy, healthy and green new year.
– Sarah Bousquet, Editor
