Since the 1970s, when mid-century founder Glen Cline, FAIA, designed award-winning and internationally acclaimed elementary schools that significantly reduced energy use, CSHQA has been an innovator and practitioner of “green” design. The terminology may change, but our commitment remains constant.

Smart and Sustainable Design

CSHQA engineers, architects, and landscape, environmental, and interior designers seek out the latest products and technologies. We are astute at evaluating return on investment. We bring thoughtful options to the table and help clients make sound choices for both the near-term and the life of their buildings. Contrary to what many people assume, it is not more expensive to design for sustainable outcomes.

What is Sustainable Design?

Sustainable design is energy efficient, water-wise, healthy, and conscious of material sources and components. It takes construction practices and building operations into account. To be successful, every team member, from owner to designer to tradesman, must be on board. It’s a mindset. It’s a commitment.

Recognition in Sustainability

CSHQA projects have earned silver, gold and platinum LEED™ certifications; one-, two- and three-star Green Globes; Energy Star Ratings; and an impressive variety of sustainable design awards from AIA, Engineering News Record, the City of Boise and Idaho Smart Growth.