by Matthew Ramon
One of the most visually striking features of the teamMADE ADU is the shade wall that naturally folds down from the roof. This month, we’re excited to introduce the people who turned our architectural vision into reality.
Founded by three architects, Arktura looks at cutting-edge manufacturing technology and repurposes it to bring their (and their client’s) artistic vision to life. The architectural pieces they develop are all designed to provide flexibility and ease-of-use to ensure their products can fit into any environment while achieving their desired outcome – whether that be stylish noise control, fashionable paneling, or snazzy-yet-effective building facades. Don’t just take our word for it! You can see their products in action at notable locations, such as UCLA, LAX, or even at the Great Park right here in Irvine. Not to mention the corporate offices of giants such as McDonald’s, Grubhub, LinkedIn, and more.
And even better, Arktura’s success hasn’t come at the expense of sustainability. Rather, sustainability has been, and continues to be, a driving force for the company. But how is this measured? Simple, just look at the company’s carbon-footprint! In Arktura’s case, they’ve actually managed to achieve Scope 1 and 2 carbon-neutrality all the way back in 2014, and have maintained that ever since. That means that the company has looked at the amount of emissions they are directly responsible for, and have managed to offset that. At Arktura, efficient workflows and infrastructure at their Los Angeles and Amsterdam factories produce recyclable products made from materials that have been recycled. That’s evident in their use of PET plastic (recycled plastic made from household plastic like water bottles), certified sustainably sourced wood, and specialized shipping crates to minimize waste. And whatever they can’t offset on their own, Arktura funds reforestation in the Amazon through the Carbon Fund. If only every company could achieve what they have!
Don’t know the scopes of carbon emissions? Here’s a quick guide to the different scopes of carbon emissions created by Arktura. https://arktura.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-sustainable-company/
It’s not just the sustainability initiatives that have impressed us. At Arktura, they make the most of their diverse, multidisciplinary team of architects, engineers, and technology experts. It’s a spirit that has also emerged at teamMADE as our project has developed over the past one and a half years. This project has brought together students and perspectives from all-paths, whether they come from OCC or UCI or even local high schools, be they architects, engineers, urban planners, business-people, horticulturalists, and more, all in pursuit of producing a sustainable home worth living in. That’s why teamMADE is proud to have the support of Arktura as we rapidly approach the OC Sustainability Decathlon.
Want to learn more about Arktura? Visit them here at https://arktura.com/. And if you want to see their products in action, visit teamMADE at the OC Fairgrounds for the OC Sustainability Decathlon, October 5th-15th!