Green Field Notes
Nov 1, 2009 12:00 PM
Sustainable-design principles put into action in today's education institutions.
The Atrium School — Watertown, Mass.
Architect: Maryann Thompson Architects
When planning this facility, what considerations were given to green products and processes?
Environmentally responsible values guided the design team from the first phase to the last detail. By choosing to renovate an existing industrial building, the school conducted the largest form of recycling, and each finish material selection prioritized recycled content. A new raised floor level admits daylighting and natural ventilation of the occupied spaces. High-efficiency lighting supplements these natural resources, and advanced mechanical systems provide healthy fresh air even in the winter, while saving energy through heat recovery.
What are some unique green aspects of the facility?
The experience of the Atrium student highlights many aspects of sustainable living. Every rainy day, students enter the building under a waterfall of rainwater collection so they can understand how their playground's grass stays green during dry weeks. From the recycled wheatboard lockers to dual-flush toilets, everyday habits remind the children that their choices impact the world around them. That world is present in each classroom through daylighting and cross-ventilation, keeping nature in the child's daily environment.
What was the community response to the project being environmentally responsible?
The warehouse site occupies the middle of a mixed-use block. By renovating the building and reclaiming former paved areas for pervious landscaping, The Atrium School created a good neighbor for the industry on one side and residences on the other. Now parents, students, teachers and staff love the building they use every day, and the whole community is supportive of the new school in their midst. The greater community also has embraced the building with design and environmental awards, and publications sharing The Atrium School's ideas from Massachusetts to California.
- Return to the 2009 Architectural Portfolio's Green Field Notes main page to view more projects where sustainable-design principles were used in today's educational institutions.
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