This New Year, look around at all of the new construction, especially in the residential, mid-rise multi-family and mixed-use sectors. How long will these buildings be around? As newly-baked buildings with artificial reclaimed materials sprinkled on top proliferate, let’s take a refreshing look at how to properly integrate authentic old stuff and durable, high-performance new stuff. As we pursue comfort and prettiness, construction defect attorneys chase after water infiltration. So how do we make buildings comfortable, pleasing to the eyes, kind to people and their wallets, and be lawsuit-resistant? How do we incorporate leaky old materials in new high-performing façades? Wood is a wonderful way of introduction to sustainable materials and reuse potential. It will be our companion, catalyst and challenge for answering these questions.
Aaron Gould has over 20 years of international experience in design and construction, with an emphasis on craftsmanship, health and durable materials. After several seasons in the trades, while guiding climbing and whitewater, he went on to lead and found design, construction, and consulting businesses. Aaron is currently enjoying his 12th year with VaproShield, of Gig Harbor, WA, heading up Sustainability globally. Examples from his project CV include experience on: mass timber structures, Living Buildins/LEED, hospitals, hotels, high rises, mixed use, net zero developments, government facilities, art museums, historic restorations, schools/universities, and the occasional tree house. Recent speaking engagements include: A'23 (AIA) International Conference, University of Miami School of Architecture, Auburn University CLT Conference, RDH NE Mass Timber Symposium. He currently lives outside of Chattanooga, TN, with his undeservedly extraordinary wife and their wily children. Aaron’s professional focus centers on fostering a spirit of collaboration with amazing people to achieve resilient, regenerative buildings. "If a building leaks, it is not sustainable." Aaron is a member of: Clemson University's WU+D, midfulMaterials, WMF, IIBEC, NIBS/BEC, ABAA, RAiNA, TVOS, Build ReUse, and Green|Spaces.