LEED Gold for Natural History Building
The historic Natural History Building on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus recently received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council following a four-year renovation designed by LCM.
Using a number of sustainable strategies, LCM’s design focuses on energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and preservation of the building’s historic character.
Strategies
- 43% of existing structural and envelope systems salvaged and reused.
- Reactivated skylights, interior windows, and transoms to capture natural light.
- New mechanical systems, designed to improve indoor air quality, focus on airside heat recovery, reduced transport energy, and demand control.
- Many original interior wood and stone elements salvaged and reused; construction Waste Diversion was 76.2% for the total project.
- Focus on reducing lighting density and/or high efficiency products; LED lighting and occupancy sensors predominate.
- Low VOC paint and adhesives throughout.
- Durable materials with recycled content; GREENGUARD certified carpet and furniture in many spaces; new flooring is bamboo.