Designed for LEED

Thermal chimneys and an underground rainwater tank revolutionize this 1981 laboratory building. Fresh air is cooled by manifolds in the underground tank and induced through the building´s louvered glazed partitions by thermal chimneys. The original concrete structure was stripped back to expose thermal mass for improved cooling and heating performance. Rainw... more

A contemporary addition at the rear of this historic school incorporates solar panels that reduce the overall energy consumption of the building. The solar panels also act as shades to control the amount of lighting that penetrates into the building. The shades help to decrease solar gain in the warmer months, while allowing the sun to penetrate the interior... more

This cost-efficient roof framing system utilizes economical, pre-fabricated wood trusses to not only create a clear span and vaulted ceiling in the classrooms, but also to allow natural lighting through north-facing clerestory windows. Coupled with large protected openings on the Southern exposure of the building, the system allows passive cross ventilation ... more

Bertschi School is a pre-kindergarten through 5th grade school in Seattle. A high degree of environmental consciousness among the children has been fostered by the teachers. All of the sustainable features and systems of this new building (including photovoltaic energy, natural ventilation, rain water cisterns, cotton insulation and recycled materials) are r... more

Deep underground the Woodbury High School’s new state-of-the-art Athletic Complex stems the Board of Education’s commitment to a “greener” future. You would never imagine that below the grassy surface exists a 176-bore geothermal field. Faced with open space restrictions at the urban school, the architects proposed that the wells be placed underneath the new... more

This project involved the renovation of an existing 12,800-square-foot building built in the 1900’s which originally served as a schoolhouse. The new school offers a safe, vibrant, non-toxic environment which utilizes many sustainable elements. Original wood flooring was restored and carpeting made of recycled material was also used. A geothermal ground sour... more

Sustainable design isn’t always about just bricks and mortar solutions. The American International School at Chennai is designed around a series of landscaped courtyards and fountains to provide the school with natural cooling options in a geographic region known for its hot temperatures, grueling sun exposure and frequent power outages. The water features p... more

The architectural forms evolved in order to create the most beneficial passive daylighting design strategy. Classrooms on the second level have direct light from above via roof monitors and windows, allowing for even lighting throughout the room. Classrooms on the first floor receive daylight via light shafts that penetrate between classrooms on the second f... more

Given a 1950’s strip window system and making it work with today’s educational technologies, mechanical and lighting systems, and student behavioral concerns, is a challenge. The solution employs an insulated tack surface at the seated viewing height to prevent outside distractions, reduce heat gain, and provide needed pin-up area. There’s also an exterior s... more

The cistern provides a green design element to the Elementary School, being both attractive and functional. It serves as a retaining system for rainwater and is then used for multiple watering services on a year-round basis. The school saves a significant amount on their water usage due to the cistern. Inside the front vestibule, students can monitor the wat... more

The rain garden is an interactive learning tool that teaches children about the water cycle. Rain water channels off the roof of the play shed, spouting water from a 4 foot long scupper. River rocks and granite slabs are great for climbing when dry, and gurgle when wet. The rocks are anchored into concrete to stabilize the walking surface, and to prevent van... more

Learning is mostly a product of motivated parents and students, and skilled and dedicated teachers. The largest tool used to deliver better education is the Healthy Classroom, our chosen Element. St Rose of Lima Catholic Church is providing a safe, supportive and health promoting place for student education, featuring daylighted classrooms. The Architect, at... more