Research & Guidelines
SWA's research focuses on new and emerging building technologies that improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of America’s housing stock. Our recent projects have been focused on optimizing mechanical systems, such as condensing boilers, air conditioners, heat pump water heaters, solar thermal collectors, ground-source heat pumps, and space conditioning/ventilation distribution. SWA has also worked with the country’s top manufacturers of building materials to develop and evaluate new and emerging technologies and products.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Urban Green Council, NY chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council
The UGC selected SWA to produce a research paper on the impact of room air conditioners on building envelope performance. SWA’s Multifamily team conducted the study and authored the paper titled "There Are Holes in Our Walls," finding that an average room AC accounts for as much air leakage as would a six square inch hole in the wall; room AC leaks add $130- $180 million to New York City heating costs every year.
|
|
|
|
|
Inclusive Design Guidelines, New York City
SWA's Accessibility Compliance and Consulting Group acted as a technical advisor on the Inclusive Design Guidelines, New York City.
The Inclusive Design Guidelines are a companion to the 2008 New York City Building Code, providing voluntary, prescriptive, technical guidance that helps designers go beyond code requirements to comprehensively create more user-friendly buildings and landscapes – improving quality of life for all. The IDG compiles a range of design approaches together in a single detailed and explicit source.
Released by the International Code Council and developed by the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Improving Ventilation series, National Center for Healthy Homes
SWA, along with Camroden Associates and Tohn Environmental Strategies, provided professional assistance in the writing of a series of user-friendly guides on improving ventilation in new and existing multifamily buildings, demonstrating expertise with a range of HVAC systems in various building types.
|
|
|