Sponsored by:
Addressing the growing issue of climate change and its continued commitment to sustainability, HMTX Industries unveiled its new World Headquarters in Norwalk, CT in October, 2022. Working with McLennan Design and its founder Jason F. McLennan, one of the world’s most influential individuals in the field of architecture and the green building movement, the 24,000 square-foot building, which broke ground in April of 2021, is among the greenest in the state of Connecticut, and was awarded by BuildGreenCT’s former component, CT Green Building Council, for exemplary performance in both Energy and Health.
Among the structure’s unique features, it is designed to sit above the ground in an effort to preserve as much of the existing landscape as possible. This project is an excellent example of biophilic design through its strong connection to a beautiful landscape, which is designed with as much care and attention as the building itself. Built using only the healthiest non-toxic materials available, it will generate more energy on-site than it uses, produce zero carbon emissions, and will capture and re-use rainwater. The ecologically conscious facility also provides spaces for artists-in-residence design studios.
The new HMTX World Headquarters is in its performance period and poised to be the building certified with the most Living Building Petals in Connecticut. This system promotes the concept of regenerative design to create spaces that give more than they take. As a living building, the HMTX facility is intended to be largely self-sufficient while creating a positive impact on the people and natural systems that surround it.
Your Presenter (attending virtually):
Galen Carlson
Perkins & Will
Designer
Galen Carlson is a young designer with a passion for innovative, mission-based design and a deep belief in the value of transformative relationships. His work is driven by a desire to push the envelope of design, technologically, ecologically, and relationally. A native Northwesterner, his love of the mountainous Pacific landscape serves as a constant source of inspiration for his work and home life. Galen holds a Master of Architecture degree with a specialization in Urban Design from the University of Oregon, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of Washington.
Your Tour Guide:
Rick Taylor
HMTX Industries
Sr. Director of Community Engagement
During his tenure at HMTX Indsutries, Rick has been in Sales & Retail Store Support, Customer Service, Product Development, Technical Support, and recently served as Director of Training. In his current role, he is working with business leaders and non-profit organizations in the local community to help advance HMTX’s commitment to Environmental and Social Justice strategies. He is currently a member of the HMTX Leadership Academy, Carbon Neutral, Impact, Organization Development, and (IDEA) Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility Teams. Previously to his career at HMTX, Rick was a Certified Moving Consultant in the Relocation, Moving & Storage and Logistics Industry in New York City and CT for 18 years.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the process for Living Building Challenge Certification.
- Learn strategies for incorporating Biophilia in building design and experience them in person.
- Learn how this project was able to specify and source nontoxic materials.
- Learn how this project is able to achieve zero energy, all-electric design.