#United States #Energy Efficiency #Irvine #architecture #LPA Design Studios

LPA Design Studios Achieves Significant Energy Reduction

In 2024, LPA Design Studios marked a significant milestone in sustainable architecture by effectively reducing predicted energy use by an impressive 76.2% across a portfolio of 3.5 million square feet. This remarkable achievement not only exemplifies LPA's commitment to sustainability but also presents a viable model for the design industry. The reduction has a substantial financial impact, helping clients save over $2.3 million in annual operational costs.

This achievement comes as part of LPA's consistent efforts in line with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2030 Commitment, an initiative aimed at achieving carbon neutrality across all projects by 2030. The firm has consistently exceeded industry standards, achieving an average predicted energy use intensity (pEUI) reduction of 75% over the past five years, greatly surpassing the national average reduction of around 50% among reporting firms.

The detailed report released by LPA highlighted 131 projects that contributed to this record reduction, of which 56 were entirely new constructions. Interestingly, 28 of these projects exceeded the AIA's 2024 target of an 80% reduction in energy use intensity, while nine projects achieved net-zero energy status and 35 incorporated on-site renewable energy solutions.

Keith Hempel, President and Chief Design Officer at LPA, expressed pride in the firm's accomplishments but acknowledged the need for continuous improvement: "We continue to enhance our processes to create facilities that provide better performance for our clients. Although we were close to the 80% goal for 2024, we aim to challenge ourselves further with a target of 90% this year."

Ellen Mitchell, LPA’s Director of Sustainability + Applied Research, commented on the firm’s recent successes. Noting a slight decline to a 71.4% predicted energy reduction in 2023, she expressed that the firm took this as an opportunity to refine its approach and focus with greater rigor, resulting in the notable improvement in 2024.

The ongoing commitment to sustainable design and energy efficiency firmly positions LPA Design Studios as a frontrunner in the architectural sector. Recognized for their innovative 'no excuses' design process, the firm concentrates on collaborative efforts between architects, engineers, and other professionals to address performance, community wellness, and overall user experience.

Founded in 1965, LPA operates with a fundamentals-driven mission to create designs that not only serve contemporary needs but are also timeless and sustainable. With over 500 professionals on its team, LPA is geared toward enhancing building performance while ensuring design superiority. Their recognition as the recipient of the prestigious AIA Architecture Firm Award in 2025—a national honor reflecting excellence in architectural practice—further solidifies their role as pioneers in sustainable design. Under this accolade, LPA emphasizes their responsibility towards creating a better future through well-thought-out architectural practices.

As they forge ahead, LPA Design Studios remains focused on exceeding expectations while championing environmental stewardship, ensuring they not only lead the charge in energy-efficient design but also inspire others in the industry to follow suit.