Business Details
49 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Green Design Solutions
Innovative Design has been a leader in sustainable architecture and green design since 1977. Our firm specializes in creating energy-efficient, environmentally responsible buildings tailored to client needs. With expertise in daylighting, solar energy, and water conservation, we deliver innovative solutions for commercial, residential, and public sector projects. Our team of architects and interior designers prioritizes integrated design, cost management, and proven green building systems. We are committed to advancing zero-carbon buildings and have contributed to industry standards through research, workshops, and partnerships. Our work includes award-winning projects like Equinox II Green Luxury Condos and Raleigh Union Station Office Fit Up.We utilize advanced tools like Daysim and eQUEST for energy modeling and daylighting analysis. Our principals bring decades of experience in LEED and WELL certifications, solar thermal systems, and sustainable interior design. We collaborate with global partners to promote environmentally sound practices and have received accolades such as the ASES Leadership in Solar Architecture and Design Award. Our legacy of innovation continues through a focus on holistic design, client satisfaction, and measurable environmental impact.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Green Consulting
Daylighting Analysis
Solar Design
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience in sustainable architecture and green design.
- Our team includes LEED and WELL certified professionals with expertise in energy modeling.
- We utilize proprietary daylighting and solar analysis tools for optimized building performance.
- Our principals have developed patented solar technologies like the Solar Power Roof.
- We provide post-occupancy support to ensure buildings meet energy efficiency goals.
What people say
Energy-efficient solutions
Award-winning projects
Daylighting expertise
Sustainable design leaders
Technical proficiency
Services
Architecture
We provide full-service architectural design focused on sustainable principles. Our team creates energy-efficient buildings that optimize environmental performance while meeting client needs. Services include new construction, renovations, and modular design with integrated energy modeling and LEED certification support.
Interior Design
Our interior design services combine aesthetics with sustainability. We create functional, healthy spaces using eco-friendly materials and holistic design principles. Projects range from commercial offices to residential developments, emphasizing human-centered design and environmental responsibility.
Green Consulting
We offer expert consulting on sustainable building practices, including daylighting strategies, solar system design, and water conservation. Our team provides energy modeling, carbon footprint analysis, and LEED/WELL certification guidance to help clients achieve environmental goals.
Daylighting Analysis
Our daylighting services use advanced software to optimize natural light in buildings. We analyze glazing placement and light distribution to reduce energy consumption while preventing glare and overheating, ensuring efficient lighting and cooling performance.
Solar Design
We specialize in solar energy system design, including photovoltaics and solar thermal systems. Our expertise covers feasibility studies, system integration, and REC documentation to help clients implement cost-effective renewable energy solutions.
People
Louis Gerics
Principal
AIA and NCARB-certified architect with over 35 years at Innovative Design. Led projects like Millbrook Elementary School and Raleigh Union Station. Developed the Solar Power Roof patent. Expert in sustainable design and energy simulations.
Brian Baewon Koh
Principal
LEED and WELL AP-certified principal with expertise in integrative design. Leads the $32M IUES R&D project. Spoke at 130+ conferences on green building. Holds architecture degrees from Rensselaer Polytechnic and Hanyang University.
Laura Padilla Bailey
Design Director
Sustainable interior design expert with 30 years of experience. Focuses on holistic design connecting human elements to spaces. Holds a BFA in Sustainable Interior Design from UNLV and specializes in commercial and residential projects.
Pascale Rosemain Trebeau
Senior Designer
French-licensed architect with tropical green design expertise from Martinique practice. Returns to Innovative Design after 2013 with climate-specific sustainability knowledge. Past board member of NCSEA and Caribbean architecture federations.
Mike H. Nicklas
Founder
Co-founded Innovative Design in 1977. Developed NC solar tax credits and served on UN Earth Summit committees. Architect of record for numerous NC sustainable buildings. Retired in 2021 after 44 years of leadership.
Questions
What sustainable design services do you offer?
We provide architecture, interior design, and green consulting with expertise in daylighting, solar energy, water conservation, and LEED certification. Our services cover commercial, residential, and public sector projects.
How do you ensure energy efficiency in buildings?
We use energy modeling software like eQUEST and Daysim for daylighting analysis, optimize glazing placement, and integrate renewable energy systems to reduce consumption and operational costs.
Can you help with LEED certification?
Yes, our team includes LEED AP-certified professionals who guide projects through LEED certification, focusing on sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and water conservation strategies.
What makes your firm unique?
We combine 45+ years of sustainable design experience with proprietary technologies like the Solar Power Roof and specialized expertise in zero-carbon building solutions.
Do you work outside North Carolina?
While based in Raleigh, we provide consulting services nationwide and collaborate with global partners on sustainable design initiatives and technology development.
