Building Science encompasses the entire system of elements that go into the construction of any building. It is an architect's responsibility to be well educated and knowledgeable of just how a building is put together. No detail can be left unchecked when designing a high performance building because any glitch will negatively affect the project's sustainability. The proper application of building science lies within the architect's ability to understand how each physical aspect affects all others and then integrate each component into harmonious assembly.

Green Design extends the reach of building science to cover the environmental ramifications of each project. It involves a range of ideas from the use of solar power to something as simple as the use of day lighting to reduce the need for electric lighting. Proper green design must be climate and site specific, and must minimize waste while maximizing efficiency.