Research & Programs

Rooted in Research

We lead research and evaluation projects for many federal and state agencies, utilities, developers, and building owners. Our findings provide a deep understanding of building performance and serve as the foundation for our service offerings.

Research
We research and evaluate building technologies, IEQ, sustainability, equity, and accessibility. Our research digs into real performance of real buildings, and we pass on lessons learned to building professionals, owners, programs, and policy makers.

Programs & Policy Development
We provide program and policy development support including code advisory, green building program and rating criteria, incentive and funding programs, and competitions.

Technical Quality Assurance
We offer technical QA/QC services to incentive providers to ensure buildings and other projects meet program standards.

Filter Projects

Research & Programs

Building Innovation Hub: Decarbonization Resources for Washington DC

SWA has supported the Building Innovation Hub since its inception in 2019, and we continue to develop resources and share expertise to help break down local BEPS and net zero mandates and further building electrification.

Research & Programs

NYC Affordable Housing Retrofit Electrification Pilot

Through our work with these New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HUD) programs, SWA has provided technical assistance for the electrification of over 40 affordable housing buildings.

Research & Programs

NYC Accelerator Program

Helping New York City owners, building staff, and practitioners comply with Local Law 97 and reduce carbon emissions from the building stock.

Research & Programs

Alliance for Inclusive Design Practice and Research

North Carolina State University (NC State) and SWA have established a transformative partnership to revitalize the Center for Universal Design. The newly formed Alliance for Inclusive Design Practice and Research (the Alliance) represents a major leap forward in advancing equal…

Research & Programs

Con Edison Energy Efficiency Programs

Supporting New York City’s largest energy provider to improve efficiency and electrification programs.

Research & Programs

The Building Equity Standard

The Building Equity Standard™ (the Standard) aims to advance equity through the design of our buildings, spaces, and communities.

Research & Programs

NYC Multifamily Building Electric Heating Demand Profile Analysis

Is the New York City grid ready for the electrification of existing buildings with heat pumps?

Research & Programs

Heat Pump Planner: Clean Heating, Cooling, and Water Heating Options for Homes

A comprehensive end-user guide to help the public learn more about heat pump technology, the types available, installation and operation costs, and questions to ask an installer.

Research & Programs

Evolving Design Pedagogies: Broadening Universal Design for Social Justice

This research paper explores how current academic and practice-facing Universal Design pedagogies support the movement’s expansion to address social justice across demographic groups in this research paper. [Download]

dupont circle washington DC

Research & Programs

dupont circle washington DC

Washington DC Affordable Housing Retrofit Accelerator

Helping owners of DC affordable housing properties make improvements to reduce energy and carbon emissions, prepare for a changing climate, and enhance resident comfort and health.

Research & Programs

Exploring Health Equity and the Built Environment through the Social Determinants of Health

This research paper examines the relationship between health equity and the built environment through a 3-year study of how the environment of a hybrid YMCA/elementary school impacts the community. [Download]

Research & Programs

Inclusive Building Performance Guidelines: A Pathway for Advancing Equity in the Built Environment

This resource seeks to centralize Inclusive Design guidance that exists across building performance initiatives and underscores the important connection between Inclusive Design and building performance. [Download]