LEED Gold
MEDIA ARTS LAB AWARDED LEED GOLD RATING
The Jacob Burns Film Center's Media Arts Lab has been awarded the prestigious LEED ® Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. Developed by the USGBC, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the recognized certification system for the design, construction and operation of green buildings. In achieving LEED Gold status, the 27,000 square foot Media Arts Lab proudly joins other notable structures such as New York City's Hearst Tower and the Boston Children's Museum.
The most obvious example of sustainability to any Media Arts Lab visitor is the Lab’s industrial look. Natural materials were used throughout the building, such as steel beams that were left exposed. This raw aesthetic is a perfect reflection of the theatrics and technology for which the Lab is known; but that is just the beginning. Incorporated into the building are numerous features that make the structure eco-friendly and help achieve the lofty LEED Gold status. These include:
- The revitalization of an existing site – 87% of demolition material was diverted from landfill and recycled
- Ground-source heat pump – geothermal system for heating and cooling
- Roof design surrounded by a vegetative ‘green’ roof system that helps keep the building cool
- Solar panels for on-site electricity generation, in addition to energy efficient fixtures and smart controls, such as daylight dimming and occupancy sensors
- Utilization of latest technology in water management
- Radiant heating system
- Dual flush toilets
- Use of environmentally friendly materials such as countertops made of recycled glass or banana fiber
- Windows have clear and fritted glass that reduce heat and glare
- Natural demand-controlled fresh-air ventilation detects and reduces air flow in unoccupied space
From the start of the building process, when the old Higham Press printing plant was demolished and carefully recycled, the Media Arts Lab has put a public stamp on its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Erik Kaeyer, Principal and Vice President of KG&D Architects explains, “This client was willing to go above and beyond in that they were willing to construct, then operate the building properly. It’s an important distinction. You can create a wonderful green building, and then say this is too difficult to maintain. This building is being used the way it should be.”
And as the building hums, it also serves as a teaching instrument. Signs highlighting some of the green facts are posted throughout the building, informing visitors about the eco-friendly materials that were used, such as the cork flooring in the lobby. Anyone who enters the building is treated to a mini-lesson in sustainability.
View a comprehensive presentation about the building created by KG&D Architects (3MB pdf)
View the press release announcement.
