Green Field Notes
Nov 1, 2009 12:00 PM
Sustainable-design principles put into action in today's education institutions.
The Chapin School, Addition and Alterations — New York, New York
Architect: Marner Architecture
When planning this facility, what considerations were given to green products and processes?
The Chapin School was committed to sustainable design from the beginning, so the architect took a comprehensive approach to sustainability, from mechanical systems to finishes. All of the sustainable initiatives were maintained within the strict cost-control parameters of the project.
Unique green aspects of the facility
A daylight dimming system dims or turns off the light fixtures depending on the amount of natural light available.
Finish materials, such as linoleum, carpet tile and toilet partitions, either have high recycled content or are made of rapidly renewable plant materials.
Water-based paints, adhesives and sealants are low-emitting.
Water-efficiency measures included harvesting rainwater for greenhouse irrigation, dual-flush toilets and metered faucets.
On the exterior, two different types of shading devices control sunlight before it hits the low-e glass of the large operable window assemblies. The daylight diffusing glass in the transoms creates a milky stripe above the clear vision glass and provides an additional layer of glare-free natural light.
What was the community response to the project being environmentally responsible?
The school community was extremely responsive to the sustainable aspects of the project. A group of students formed an environmental committee and educated the rest of the school community about these aspects. They also prepared boards and presented at the Green Schools Alliance meeting, a nationwide organization of K-12 schools committed to the environment.
- 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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