Oak Point Associates was initially asked by the GSA to design a small addition to expand conference room space for a 1970’s-era office building. After several meetings to discuss the design program, it became apparent that the client required additional office and classroom space, as well as a lobby, and that a reorganization of the existing facility was required.
An overall reduction in energy consumption also became a primary project goal.
The design solution allowed the addition to swing away from the existing building to face its long axis to the south, creating maximum passive solar advantage. The new lobby is filled with natural light from clerestory windows, creating a pleasant space for the informal gatherings that foster collaboration and a sense of workplace community. Indirect natural light fills the classroom and office spaces and is controlled with light shelves that direct light deep into the building, exterior sunscreens, and roller shades. Evacuated heat tubes positioned on the roof of the existing building collect enough solar energy to heat the entire addition through radiant floor tubing.
Each office has an operable window and the lobby space is equipped with a “nice day switch”, which turns off the heating and cooling system and opens clerestory windows. Office occupants control their individual comfort by opening or closing their own operable windows.
Existing trees were carefully preserved during construction. A vegetated roof planted with native materials replaces habitat lost due to the new addition, and slows stormwater runoff. Runoff is directed into a rain garden, which allows on site infiltration and provides water to the plantings. Downward-directed exterior lighting reduces light pollution and light-colored roofing materials reduce the heat island effect.
This project achieved a 61% energy savings.
Maximized the orientation of the building addition to take advantage of solar properties and minimize site disturbance Achieved a 61% energy savings Passive and active solar systems were incorporated Features a user-controlled natural ventilation system Includes vegetated roof and rain gardens for low impact development Employed natural daylighting and lighting controls Recycled content and rapidly-renewable finishes