Construction Zone: Green behavior

The $23.4 million, 84,222-square-foot Behavioral and Social Sciences Building at Humboldt State University, Arcata, Calif., was designed to LEED gold standards.

Sustainable features of the project include: maximized north and south exposure to optimize daylighting; minimized air-conditioning requirements; operable windows; thirty-percent greater energy efficiency than California code; a stormwater-recovery system; high-efficiency water closets, urinals, faucets and showerheads; use of 50 percent or more certified wood; recycling of 75 percent construction waste; bike parking and showers for bicycle commuters; natural lighting and ventilation systems.

The facility opened for classes last fall. The architect is Yost Grube Hall Architecture (Portland, Ore).