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| Jeffrey L.
Zucker,
LEED-AP
AIA |
| Matthew B.
Ackerman,
LEED-AP AIA |
|
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The 'Nature' of Collaboration
Welcome to the Vernal
Equinox Edition of the Sketch_Pad. As announced
in our previous newsletter, we have shifted to a
seasonal format for the Sketch_Pad, now publishing on the solstices and
equinoxes.
Given our long term commitment to designing with the
environment in mind, it seems only fitting to call attention to the
four seasons in this way. The changing arc of the sun has a tremendous
influence upon our architecture, setting the proper orientation of a
building or its overhangs, allowing sun to penetrate inside during the
winter for heating, and providing shade during the summer for cooling.
Being in tune with the climate is, of course, nothing new under the
sun. Indigenous peoples have, of necessity, had an intimate
understanding of working in collaboration with Nature. Although
this
native wisdom is easily lost or ignored in the hustle and bustle of
modern day living, it is no less important.
 It is the nature of this
collaboration that numerous ideas are
considered until the final design emerges. The business of architecture
frequently involves the combination of the seemingly divergent
viewpoints into one, integrated whole.
At Catalyst, our
most fruitful experiences arise from encouraging feedback from all of
the stakeholders involved on any one project. Thus, an idea evolves,
survives, and ultimately prospers based upon the collective wisdom of
the group. It is in collaborating that we thrive.
With Nature as our mentor, and through careful observation of the
workings of the environment in which we live, we are able to develop
successful, enduring designs. In Janine Benyus’ book “Biomimicry-
Innovation Inspired by Nature,” she recommends four steps for
“studying Nature’s wellsprings of good ideas.” These are:
Quieting– Immerse ourselves in
Nature
Listening– Interview the flora and fauna
of our own planet
Echoing–
Encourage biologists and engineers to
collaborate,
using Nature as model and measure
Stewarding– Preserve
life’s diversity and genius
The daffodils arise through the snow.
The collaboration of Nature surrounds us.
Enjoy your Spring.
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| Green Product of
the Month: |
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US Tile's Smog-Busting Roof Tiles Absorb
Auto Emissions 
Read More
|
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| Green Technology of
the
Month: |
| |
Extremely Flexible New Thin-Film PV
Technology is Durable and Self-Cleansing |
|
| Green Builder's Tip of
the Month: |
| |
The Danger's of CFL Lighting
LED Lighting: Is it Ready?
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| Green Project of
the
Month: |
| |
NREL's New LEED-Platinum/ Net-Zero Seeking
Facility Practices What it Researches
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|
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Deb's Green Activist Corner:
EASY Steps YOU
Can Take
To Help!
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| |
Learn How You Can Design & Grow Your Own
Home-Scale
Permaculture Garden
Read More 
|
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 Questions?
Email Deb. |
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--
|
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News from the Blue |
Our
Featured AZUR Project:
Smart Growth Mixed-Use
Masterplan for Playa Vista, CA
AZUR-Ecotecture is the
master-
planning and large-scale projects
division of Catalyst Architecture.
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|
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CATALYST
ARCHITECTURE
is an award winning, full-service sustainable design
firm located in Prescott, Arizona. We specialize in educational,
commercial, master planning and custom residential work, with an
emphasis on high- performance design, and caring client relationships.
At CATALYST, our
mission is to creatively transform the space and budget needs of our
clients, with the opportunities and ecology of the site, into
functional and sustainable solutions that move the spirit.
Comments
or
feedback? Email
us.
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