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What is the Green Plot Ratio?

The green plot ratio, known as GPR, is a powerful metric in urban design and development. GPR is an architectural metric utilized for assessing and planning the inclusion of greenery in cities and buildings. This metric was devised by Singaporean landscape architect Dr. On Boon. GPR was developed with the intent of optimizing the amount of green space, or plant coverage,...

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Has Your Facade Been Inspected in the Past 5 Years?

NYC Department of Buildings law requires that all big buildings (6 stories and higher) must have their facades professionally inspected every five years. This law was formerly known as Local Law 11 and was renamed as Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP). The current filing window for Cycle 8 has closed as of February 2019. The upcoming five year Cycle 9...

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Why the Prices of Houses in Historic Districts are Higher Than Most

The New York City Independent Budget Office (IBO) published a study detailing how the designation of historic districts in the city has affected home prices. The IBO found that prices for homes in historic districts have been consistently higher than those outside districts. In the report's introduction, the IBO evaluates the relationship between historic districts and the correlation of higher...

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How Having a Green Roof Can Reduce the Effect of Heat Islands

Changes in temperatures can be driven by the development of roads, infrastructure, and large buildings in a small area. Did you know that a “heat island” can be formed by replacing natural vegetation with concrete and urban structures, making a metropolitan area warmer than its surrounding areas? These elevated temperatures during warmer seasons create an increased demand for cooling solutions...