community design studio

redefining affordable housing
through architecture & design

socially responsible, sustainable design

CHP's commitment to the environmental performance, durability, and cost effectiveness of affordable housing led us to establish the Community Design Studio, LLC (CDS). CDS is a regional design firm committed to promoting competent, socially responsible building practices. Utilizing a collaborative design process, CDS assists community development corporations and like-minded organizations with their design needs.

Our vision is to serve as a development resource within a collaborative studio work environment that values research and planning. Under the direction of Colin Arnold, AIA, LEED® Accredited Professional, CDS promotes design excellence by increasing the environmental, economic and social sustainability of affordable housing in the southeast.

environmental sustainability

CDS promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. In its role as environmental steward, CDS focuses on the following:

• Reducing, reusing and recycling construction materials
• Improving indoor air quality by eliminating toxic materials, finishes and furnishing
• Optimizing the building footprint and achieving space efficiency
• Integrating natural daylight and ventilation to promote health and well-being
• Recommending environmentally friendly maintenance practices and products

CDS team members are LEED® accredited professionals experienced in EarthCraft® and cohousing community development.

economic sustainability

Along with its focus on environmentally sound practices, CDS also works to promote the cost effectiveness of community-based architecture by selecting materials according to their life-cycle costs; conserving water by using water efficient appliances and fixtures and harvesting rainwater; maximizing energy conservation by using Energy Star® rated systems and appliances; implementing passive solar building design and orientation; and using solar thermal hot water collection systems to minimize energy consumption.

social sustainability

From its inception, CDS has focused on providing assistance to non-profit developers, community design corporations and other community-based organizations that share an interest in investigating contemporary design issues. As a strong advocate for competent and socially responsible building practices, CDS is committed to expanding public awareness and support for housing programs through education, non-political advocacy and assisting residents and neighborhoods to participate in the community design process.