The materials library occupies pride of place in the LEED Platinum certified offices of Irvine, California–based firm LPA. The firm remains one of the few in the United States continuing to meet the requirements of the AIA 2030 commitment. Photo courtesy LPA Design Studios

Product Selection

Sample Responsibly 

Sample Selectively 

Only sample “Pass” products, i.e., sample or stock products that meet baseline sustainability standards. 

Sample Smaller 

Find ways to work with smaller samples and encourage manufacturers to reduce sample dimensions wherever possible. 

Standardize the Sampling Process 

Set best practices for sampling, especially in hotspot categories like flooring, walls and ceilings, and furniture (especially systems furniture). Change the sampling process during submittals, construction administration, and mockups to reduce duplications and bring down waste. 

Find Alternatives to Sampling 

Instead of ordering samples for all stakeholders, consider going to a showroom or using VR walkthroughs. Move toward digital review of standard, non-custom finishes. 

Optimize the Submittals Process 

Be specific with clients about the quantity of submittals and ask for return labels if more samples are needed. 


If you have feedback on the Climate Toolkit for Interior Design, write to: [email protected]