Type of Document	Thesis
Author	Prenger, Jessie Liane
Author's Email Address	jlp03d@fsu.edu
URN	etd-04092010-104457
Title	Identifying LEED and Sustainable Design Processes in the State University System in Florida
Degree	Master of Fine Arts
Department	Interior Design, Department of
Advisory Committee	Advisor Name Title David Butler Committee Co-Chair Lisa Waxman Committee Co-Chair Eric Wiedegreen Committee Member
Keywords	USGBC Environment State University System of Florida LEED Sustainable Design Interior Design Green Design
Date of Defense	2010-03-31
Availability	unrestricted
Abstract The environment has been taken for granted for far too long. In the last several years, there has been a rapid growth of interest in the environment, and sustainable design. To solve the problems mankind has created, creative problem solving and innovation is necessary. The built environment has played a part in the degradation of the environment. This study explored the processes the State University System of Florida follows to help design sustainable university buildings. The primary goal of the research was to identify the sustainable design practices the universities are using as well as the attitudes and motivation for sustainable design. The State University System of Florida includes 11 universities that are managed by the Board of Governors. Six of the universities were included in this study. Interviews with key employees, visits to the campuses, research on the universities, and photo documentation were examined. The interview questions focused on the challenges and philosophies of sustainable design, similarities between universities, goals, financial impact, designing for LEED standards and certification, and the future of sustainable design in the university setting. After all the information and data from interviews and visits were collected, the information was organized into themes for further analysis. After analyzing the research and interviews, the main theme that emerged was the universities all agree that sustainable design is the “right thing to do.” Another theme emerged regarding the need for administrative and financial support. Without support of the administration, sustainable design would not receive the proper funding. Another reoccurring theme was the importance of third party verification. Each of the universities design to LEED Silver design standards. Several universities have the option to pursue certification while others are required to pursue the certification. Benefits sought by the universities included people, planet, and profit. Incorporating the needs for people, and the environment can help save money in the long run. Conserving energy and using natural resources and sustainable materials saves money and creates a healthier built environment. Healthy people are more productive and have improved performance. When looking at the future of sustainable design, the focus was on minimizing the CO2 footprint and pursuing higher levels of sustainable design and certification. There is no reason that anyone should design without thinking what is best for the environment. It takes a community effort, so everyone has to do his or her part. Sustainability is the future of the design world. It is time to embrace it.
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