Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Innovative MEP Engineering Solutions in Arlington, VA
GHT has been delivering innovative mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering solutions for the built environment since 1965. Our approach integrates proven techniques with cutting-edge technologies and sustainable design practices, focusing on creating high-performance buildings that optimize functionality, efficiency, and occupant wellness. With over six decades of experience in the Washington, DC region, we specialize in MEP design, commissioning, net zero energy design, and operations & energy services for commercial, institutional, and government real estate. Our team of experts, with an average tenure of 22 years among project principals, leverages deep local market knowledge and technical expertise across 14 market sectors to deliver tailored solutions that meet client-specific needs.We prioritize innovation, integrity, and client-focused relationships, ensuring every project reflects our commitment to excellence and accountability. As industry leaders in advancing sustainable building practices, we have contributed to over 170 certified projects, including LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy designs, while maintaining a culture of inclusion and continuous improvement. Our vision is to remain the leading partner for client and community-driven solutions in the built environment through creative thinking and technical excellence.
Services
MEP Engineering
Net Zero Energy Design
Building Assessments
Operations & Energy Services
Commissioning
Sustainable Programs
Carbon Accounting
Educational Workshops
Real Estate Advisory
Peer Review
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We offer 60 years of specialized MEP engineering expertise in the Washington, DC region.
- Our team includes certified professionals with an average 22-year tenure in project leadership.
- We provide holistic solutions combining design innovation with operational efficiency strategies.
- Our portfolio includes over 170 LEED-certified projects, including Amazon HQ2 and USGBC HQ.
- We maintain local jurisdiction expertise through decades of code development participation.
Services
MEP Engineering
Our MEP engineering services create high-performance environments through customized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design solutions. We optimize building systems to enhance occupant experience while delivering practical results for owners and operators. With expertise in HVAC, power, lighting, and plumbing systems, our team develops unique solutions that achieve system performance goals while balancing energy efficiency and functionality.
Net Zero Energy Design
We specialize in net zero energy design through decades of regional experience creating resilient, efficient facilities. Our engineers develop solutions that reduce system usage, specify efficient equipment, and incorporate on-site power generation to offset consumption. This approach addresses climate-change responsive design, occupant health, and operational resiliency during utility outages while meeting jurisdictional requirements in the DC metropolitan area.
Building Assessments
Our building assessment services provide MEP consulting for pre-leasing evaluations, lease language review, and tax credit financing information. With 60 years of local market expertise, we help clients navigate regulatory requirements and code developments. Our assessments support informed decision-making for new and second-generation spaces through technical analysis and jurisdictional relationship leverage.
Operations & Energy Services
We offer lifecycle support for building owners through energy performance standards consulting, commissioning, and operations consulting. Our team combines design perspective with operational sensibilities to enhance building efficiency and asset values. Services include BEPS compliance strategies, energy audits, and implementation of energy conservation measures tailored to jurisdictional requirements.
Commissioning
Our commissioning services ensure optimal building system performance through testing and fine-tuning of HVAC, lighting, and plumbing systems. Certified professionals document baseline performance and implement improvements to achieve energy savings. We serve as commissioning authority for new and existing buildings, providing expertise that enhances decision-making and operational efficiency across project lifecycles.
People
Patrick Kunze
President
Patrick Kunze leads GHT's corporate vision while maintaining technical expertise in sustainable design. With decades of industry experience, he drives innovation in MEP engineering solutions and fosters a culture of continuous improvement across the firm's 14 market sectors.
Laura Morder
Principal Operations & Energy Services
Laura Morder specializes in energy services and sustainability initiatives with LEED accreditation. She develops strategies for building performance optimization and leads teams in implementing energy conservation measures that align with jurisdictional requirements and client objectives.
Donatien Norwood
Senior Principal Interiors Studio Leader
Donatien Norwood leads interior MEP design solutions with LEED AP certification. He focuses on creating functional, efficient systems for interior spaces while mentoring emerging professionals through GHT's internal development programs and workshops.
James Hansen
Senior Principal
James Hansen provides education sector expertise with mechanical engineering and LEED certification credentials. He specializes in designing MEP systems for academic facilities, balancing technical requirements with evolving educational environment needs across K-12 and higher education projects.
Jeffrey Salay
Expert Leader
Jeffrey Salay leads educational workshops on building operations lifecycle considerations. As a technical specialist, he develops continuing education content for AIA and GBCI credits while advising clients on sustainable design implementation strategies.
Questions
What MEP services does GHT offer?
GHT provides mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering services for new construction and existing buildings, including net zero energy design, commissioning, and operations consulting.
Which areas does GHT serve?
We serve Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia with localized expertise developed over 60 years of regional project experience.
How does GHT support sustainable design?
Our sustainability services include LEED certification management, carbon accounting, and net zero energy design strategies tailored to jurisdictional requirements.
What building types does GHT specialize in?
We work across 14 market sectors including commercial offices, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and life science projects like Amazon HQ2.
Does GHT offer educational resources?
Yes, we provide AIA and GBCI continuing education workshops on sustainable design and building operations topics for industry professionals.
