Delivering Sustainable, Healthy, High Performance Buildings
Project Detail
Alabama 4-H Environmental Science Education Center
Columbiana, Ala.
Size: 33,000 SF
Date of completion: 2006
CxGBS Services:
Sustainable Design Consulting, LEED® Certification, Whole Building Design and Construction Phase Commissioning, Energy Modeling for optimal building envelope and HVAC system performance.
Project Overview:
This multi-functional building will provide a place where citizens of Alabama can learn to be custodians and protectors of the environment. Its facilities include spaces for classrooms, laboratories, lodging, administration and outdoor education.
It is designed and constructed to minimize maintenance requirements, exceed typical energy and water efficiency standards, and provide exceptional indoor environmental quality.
The facility’s goal is to become LEED Gold Certified.
Sustainable Design Features:
- Low or no volatile organic compounds in sealants, paint and finishes
- Natural daylighting minimizes need for artificial electrical lighting
- Rain water collection system for flushing toilets and landscape irrigation
- Solar photovoltaic thermal systems
- 50 percent greater energy efficiency that a 2001 code-compliant building
- Extensive green roof
- Life Cycle efficient materials to minimize maintenance and operating costs
- Environmental education initiatives that use the building design and construction to educate visitors and students on the application of sustainable development principles.