A new 5,900 sf science building for a private school in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The building contains four laboratory/classrooms, a seminar room, and offices. Its green design features include a high performance envelope, optimal daylighting, natural ventilation for nighttime cooling, and composting toilets. The building teaches by example and has become an integral part of the Environmental Studies curriculum.
SITE
Limit site disturbance
Minimize development footprint
Minimize impervious surfaces
Reduce or eliminate light pollution
Landscape with native plants
Limit or eliminate use of potable water for irrigation
Increase water use efficiency
BUILDING
Maximize desirable solar orientation
High performance envelope
ENERGY
Efficient heating system - no air conditioning
Reduce or eliminate use of CFCs in HVAC and refrigeration equipment
Model and improve energy performance
Digital controls on heating system
Provide heat recovery in ventilation system
Maximize daylighting
Occupancy sensors for lights
Solar photovoltaic system
MATERIALS
Provide for storage and collection of recyclables
Use materials with recycled content
Use durable materials and easily maintained finishes
Use sustainably harvested wood
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Increase ventilation effectiveness
Use low VOC materials
Operable windows
Provide views to outside from most occupied spaces
