We combine the latest technology with time-tested, cost-efficient practices. Pictured here are water-filled culvert pipes that store thermal mass.
On the heels of Climate Week and recent natural disasters in Morocco and Libya, we reflect on the role that the built environment plays in both mitigating climate change and fostering resilience in the face of extreme conditions. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals include, “making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe sustainable and resilient.” As a firm, we are also thinking about how our mission of building with nature can contribute to building back stronger around the world, from Maui to Marrakech.
A hallmark of our approach is whole-systems design that integrates elegant, energy-efficient and cost-saving solutions from the very beginning of the design process. We study and adapt vernacular building techniques and materials for the modern world, from straw bale to climate-adapted landscaping. For low-cost, low carbon and resilient design, we focus on:
Using energy available on-site. Solar orientation, natural light, night sky, shallow geo-source, water-to-water heat pumps
Locally available, inexpensive, low-embodied carbon materials
Passive, energy-saving solutions from available materials, such as culvert pipes and masonry heat sinks
Local-risk adaptation. Fire-resistant structures, nature-based solutions, earthquake and flood mitigation
Solar control using inexpensive metal overhangs, orientation, managing light and heat
Neighborhood planning for solar orientation, climate and local culture
These techniques lead us to design for the specifics of local climate, terrain, habitat and culture to harness the energy available on-site, ensuring resilience to climate change and disaster at no extra cost.
For nearly 50 years, the Indigo team has designed buildings and places for a decarbonized future. Firm leadership is LEED and EDGE certified. Our mission is aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals. We want our projects to contribute to a world where people can live full lives supported by a sustainable, resilient and inclusive built environment.
