Santa Monica College has a strong approach to sustainable design and requires that all new buildings to obtain a USGBC LEED Certification. The stated goal for The Student Services Center was for a LEED ‘Gold’ Certification. With a strong commitment to sustainable design and the minimization of a buildings impact on the environment, project team took an aggressive approach to use as many design strategies possible for the project. The successful result achieved a USBGC LEED ‘Platinum’ Certification.
The Basis of Design document focused on the buildings energy efficiency to provide the largest impact to the project. Strategies included the following measures.
- Building envelope design with high performance glazing, rainscreen wall construction, and shading devices to control building heat gain and loss.
- Mechanical systems selection for maximum energy efficiency and building arrangement for occupant thermal comfort.
- LED lighting systems throughout for low use of energy, longevity, and minimization of heat loads on the mechanical systems.
- Renewable energy from roof top photovoltaic system provided to the local utility for the equivalent of 35% of buildings energy usage.
- Advanced water technology with a pressurized waste water system. System provides a significant 65% reduction of water usage and a reduction in size of piping required.
- Use of recycled materials in the content of steel, concrete, cabinetry, and furniture to reduce the amount material extraction required for production.
Additional measures to provide a safe and comfortable interior environment included
- Extensive use of natural light through glazing and light wells for views and to minimize the need for artificial lighting. Light wells bring light into the center of the building and provide courtyards for student gatherings.
- Improved air quality through the use of low VOC materials for carpet, paint, sealants, caulking, and furniture.
- Individual lighting fixtures at offices and workstations for personal light control.
Exterior sustainable project measures include
- Retention water system for all drainage to remain on site.
- Efficient watering systems and drought tolerant plant selection to minimize water usage.
- Trees and planting for shade and to reduce heat island effect.
- Recirculating water feature for sound mitigation from vehicular traffic.
LEED Dashboard
1900 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA, USA