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Ian Shapiro, founder and chairman of Taitem Engineering in Ithaca, has co-authored a book, Green Building Illustrated, with legendary author, architect, and draftsman Francis D.K. Ching.. Published by John Wiley and Sons this month, the book explores the fundamental issues of sustainable design and construction.

Shapiro presents the theory, practices, and complexities of sustainable design, including site selection, passive design using building shape, water conservation, ventilation and air quality, heating and cooling, minimum-impact materials, and much more with graphical representations by Ching. 

"I have been a fan of his for over 30 years," notes Shapiro. "I bought one of his books on how to draw in the early 1980’s, and did exercises from it, and still have my drawings from those days." 

"When I decided to write the book, I asked myself, 'What kind of drawings would be good for this book?' And I answered myself 'Drawings like Frank Ching’s.' I reached out to him, and he surprised me by agreeing to collaborate. He was a pleasure to work with. And you will find him at the top of just about any list of architecture authors."

Green Building Illustrated provides a fitting cap to Shapiro's career. Launched in 1989, Taitem Engineering is an award-winning consulting firm that has experienced significant growth in recent years and has become a leader in green design and clean energy.

3/12/14