© Flansburgh Architects
Conceived as a high school science building dedicated to the
study of alternative energy, the new Energy Lab at Hawaii Preparatory Academy
functions as a zero-net-energy, fully sustainable building. The project’s
fundamental goal is that of educating the next generation of students in the
understanding of environmentally conscious, sustainable living systems. The
project targets LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge certification.
Recently completed in January 2010, the Energy Lab today strives as a living
laboratory, furthering its educational goals as a functioning example of
sustainability.
© Flansburgh Architects
The Energy Lab was developed in response to the science
curriculum it houses. From small project rooms, to a large research center, to
a laboratory, spaces were designed to encourage student discovery, exploration
and experimentation. The building’s configuration facilitates scientific study
both indoors and out, linking interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
Students are surrounded by the systems that they study, and constantly reminded
of their methods. Hawaii Prep’s Energy Lab offers a continuous sustainable
‘teaching moment’.
The building is a LEED Platinum and Living Building
Challenge candidate. It attempts two exceptionally strict building programs,
the latter applying material restrictions and point-of-manufacture radius
limits. The building generates all power from photovoltaic and windmill
sources. It presently uses only eight percent of the energy it produces, the
remainder being net-metered back into the campus grid. The building captures
and filters all of its own drinking and wastewater, and generates hot water
from solar thermal panels. The building is entirely naturally ventilated, and
employs an experimental radiant cooling system as an alternative to air
conditioning. There are many other green features but perhaps the greatest
sustainable contribution is the building’s alternative energy educational
mission where students actively learn from the built environment that surrounds
them.
© Flansburgh Architects
Day lighting, Sun Shading & Views: Polycarbonate skylights,
wood sun screens, and interior roller shades all work together to introduce,
reflect and control natural day light. These components were strategically
employed to satisfy foot candle minimums, tackle glare, and enhance views,
resulting in a pleasantly lit interior environment.
Natural Ventilation: The building is entirely naturally
ventilated. Building automated louvers maintain temperature and relative
humidity levels to maintain interior comfort. If necessary exhaust fans are
activated to induce airflow.
Experimental Radiant Cooling System: As an alternative to
conventional air conditioning, a radiant cooling system was designed. At night
water is circulated through thermal roof panels, cooled via lower evening
temperatures, and then stored in a below-grade tank for use as a chilled water
for air handling units during warm afternoons.
© Flansburgh Architects
Courtesy: archdaily.com
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