A new 5,000 sf visitor center with galleries, offices, a store, and three classrooms, which can be converted into a meeting hall. Daylighting, passive solar heating, natural ventilation, high performance envelope, and a groundwater heat pump mechanical system are elements in a carefully balanced design. Richard Renner, Samuel Van Dam, and Carol Wilson collaborated on the project. Received design awards from Boston Society of Architects, Maine Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and Natural Resources Defense Council. Photographed by Brian Vanden Brink.
SITE
Limit site disturbance
Minimize development footprint
Choose sites that are already disturbed
Minimize impervious surfaces
Utilize existing stormwater paths
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
Exposed structure to reduce need for finishes
Test integrity of envelope
ENERGY
Model and improve energy performance
Provide natural, non-mechanical ventilation
Provide heat recovery in ventilation system
Ground water heat pump system
Maximize daylighting
Exterior sunshades
High performance lighting system
Occupancy sensors for lights
Daylight level sensors for lights
Measurement and verification of energy use
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
