Innovation in Design
Environmental design contributes to strategies of conservation, stewardship, and regeneration that can be applied to all levels of scale from individual buildings to communities. The goal is designing this facility was to reduce the environmental impact of the production of building components, the construction process, and energy consumption throughout the lifecycle of the building. The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition incorporates numerous innovations in its design.
Daylighting and Views
The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition is designed with full dimming of both natural and artificial lighting. Responsive controls are incorporated into the lighting controls to maintain consistent light levels and minimize occupant perception of the transition from natural light to artificial light.
By using daylighting, energy was saved during construction and will continue throughout the life of the building.
Maximum Open Space
By providing optimal sight lines from a maximum number of locations this building creates an enhanced connection between indoor space and the outdoors.
The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition provides views outdoors from over 98% of its regularly occupied spaces
Professional Design
LEED Accredited Professional Jon Feind was hired as a consultant along with Alley Associates, P.C. Architects-Planners in order to ensure that certification was achieved. The LEED rating system offers four certification levels for new construction -- Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum -- that correspond to the number of credits accrued. The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition has attempted enough points for a Gold Rating.
Interactive Kiosk
The Gadsden Center Remodel and Addition provides this kiosk to facilitate interactive learning. It is a permanent display and provides components of each of the five major green building categories in the LEED rating system. Please use this informational tool to learn more about the various aspects of the Green Building industry and how its principals were applied to the construction of this facility.