Kaplan Thompson Architects, one of Maine's top green architectural firms, has received the coveted LEED Gold designation for a newly constructed residence. It is only the third LEED Gold Certified home in the state of Maine.
"The U.S. Green Building Council is proud to help celebrate Kaplan Thompson Architects commitment to greener living," said Michelle Moore, senior vice President of policy & market development, U.S. Green Building Council. "Their leadership is at the national forefront of quality; and their example can help us all to live better by reducing our environment footprint, cutting our utility bills, and coming home to a healthier place to live."
Kaplan Thompson Architects was grateful to have Kolbert Building & Renovation on their team, as they were instrumental in the certification process and are one of the only construction firms in the state to have completed multiple LEED projects. KTA currently has 6 projects, completed or in the works, which are either LEED Certified or registered with the LEED For Homes program. In addition to their commitment to sustainable building, Kaplan Thompson Architects is helping to keep property ownership attainable. Green homes have been shown to substantially lower utility bills and may qualify for advantageous financing, lower insurance rates and government incentives.
Inspired by the nearby Maine Audubon, the building's north side, with its Cor-ten (naturally rusting) and corrugated steel claddings and few openings, acts as a privacy buffer while the south side opens wide to the water, inviting the light deep into all spaces. A second-story screen porch off an upper level bedroom and studio affords views into Casco Bay. Solar panels, reflective light shelves, and air-tight construction are just a few of the features that have helped this sustainable project receive LEED Gold certification.