GOOD AS GOLD with Quinn Evans Architects National Academies of Science Headquarters Washington, DC The modernization of the National Academies of Science Headquarters was among the first projects to proceed under standards set by the DC Green Building Act of 2006. The Academy sought to exceed these standards, however, not only bringing the building into compliance with current guidelines for sustainability but creating a showcase for cutting-edge green building technology. Highlights within the LEED-Gold building include the first-ever interior use of building-integrated photovoltaics, a solar domestic hot water system, energy-efficient mechanical systems with digital controls, window upgrades, daylight harvesting, an efficient LED and florescent lighting with digital controls. New interior materials are low-VOC, locally produced where possible, and contain recycled content. Site strategies include previous paving, drip irrigation, and storm filters. The use of Building Information Modeling aided in the sustainable modernization of this historic structure, enabling engineers to integrate state-of-the-art systems carefully within though existing building. Lighting an shading studies supported the incorporation of the BIPVs into the skylights above the courtyards. The courtyard areas also feature innovative light shelves. In early 2014, the NAS headquarters was cited as one of the top ten privately owned office buildings in the city with the fewest greenhouse gas emissions, according to the DC Department of the Environment.
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 16:38:57 +0000
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