FXFOWLE

New York, New York

FXFOWLE logoFXFOWLE demonstrates how a small business that is a tenant in a building can achieve greater energy efficiency and cost savings, even if it takes some negotiation with the landlord.

FXFOWLE is a 30-year-old architectural, planning, and interior design firm with offices in New York and Dubai. "As a sustainable design firm, it is important that our workplace communicate our philosophy and commitment to the environment to our employees and our clients," says Bruce Fowle, FAIA, LEED, senor partner. "As an architectural practice, we are dedicated to urbanism and the revitalization of our cities both in the U.S. and abroad."

Since 1986, the firm has been located on the top floor of a former 11-story garment factory built in the early 20th century. The office offers an open plan with ample natural daylight and expansive views. In the last five years, the firm has grown and decided to expand into additional space on the 9th and 10th floors rather than relocate.

In January 2005, the firm began using EPA's Portfolio Manager, a free on-line tool available through the ENERGY STAR website. This provided baseline information on energy consumption and helped FXFOWLE measure and track energy usage as renovations and new additions were made. A multi-year renovation and expansion began in 2006.

The office features large 42x96 inch windows on the north, south and western exposures. To reduce energy loads related to heat gain, the firm negotiated with the landlord to install wood, double-hung ENERGY STAR qualified windows. Manually operated shades and shadecloths were added on the south and western exposures to minimize heat gain and glare on all floors. Additionally, hanging sunshades were installed under the 11th floor's twelve 6x8 foot skylights.

FXFOWLE entranceIn 2005, FXFOWLE also worked with the landlord to replace old HVAC equipment with more efficient ENERGY STAR qualified equipment. The office is currently designing a green roof for the building to reduce heat gain and heat island effect as well as provide an amenity to staff.

Lighting loads were reduced following ENERGY STAR recommendations such as replacing incandescent bulbs in desk lamps with compact florescent fixtures. Energy-efficient, lower wattage fluorescent lamps were used in existing T12 ballasts for a 15% to 20% energy cost savings versus standard full wattage T12 lamps. In newly constructed space on the 9th and 10th floors, T5 and T8 ballasts were installed and energy efficient bulbs were used.

As part of the renovation, restrooms on the 11th and 10th floors were remodeled with low-flow and energy-efficient fixtures. This included low-flow sink faucets with a fly-wheel self-recharging technology. Also, dual flush toilets and waterless urinals were installed. Lighting is motion activated and kitchens on the 9th and 10th floor are equipped with water filtration systems (reducing the need for bottled water) and ENERGY STAR qualified refrigerators.

ENERGY STAR also has helped FXFOWLE manage the ever increasing electrical demand of advancing technology. Since 2005, the firm has added 63 computer workstations with 30 more scheduled for 2008. During the same period, 33 workstations were upgraded and six new servers were added. The firm replaced and added 16 printers. Six copiers and seven large format printers are in use with a service agreement from a third-party provider. ENERGY STAR qualified equipment was selected whenever available, and energy-efficient models were always chosen.

FXFOWLE interiorFXFOWLE is the first architecture firm to join the EPA Climate Leaders program and is working to develop an action plan, establish a baseline and set aggressive goals to reduce the firm's indirect emissions from electric consumption, business travel and employee commuting. Electric usage is tracked with Portfolio Manager, and the firm plans to offset its emissions to become carbon neutral.

FXFOWLE is also using ENERGY STAR to bring added value to its clients. At least two of the firm's projects have achieved Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR for superior estimated energy use. Architects have used EPA's Target Finder to set energy performance targets and rate the energy intent of the client projects to illustrate that energy efficiency is part of the firm's commitment to sustainability.

Employee education has been part of the overall program with reminders to turn off computers and monitors to reduce power consumption when not in use. Employees are also asked to turn out lights in their workspace after hours. FXFOWLE works through its projects, by example and through outreach, to educate the industry and the public about sustainable architecture. Partners are frequently asked to address trade associations and events on the urgent state of the environment and the role we can each play in minimizing damage moving forward.

When compared to similar type buildings, FXFOWLE is saving the equivalent of nearly $18,500 in annual energy costs as a result of their energy saving program. This represents a reduction in annual greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) of nearly 99 tons, the equivalent of the CO2 emissions from the electricity use of nearly 12 homes.

Contact Information:

Bruce Fowle, Senior Partner
22 W. 19th Street
New York City, NY 10011
Phone: (212) 627-1700
www.fxfowle.com Exit ENERGY STAR

*Questions Contact
Aaron Slodounik, Executive Assistant
Phone: (646) 616-7085