A comfortable environment.
For nearly every building, tenant comfort is a key concern. If a building is not comfortable for its tenants, then the building is not functioning as intended. This means that a building must have consistent heating and cooling, adequate lighting, fresh air, low-emitting materials (carpet, paint, ceiling tiles, etc.) and proper acoustics. These are especially crucial in classrooms where the goal is education of the tenants.
Air Delivery & Ventilation
Air quality in a building can effect the health of its occupants. As the building becomes more occupied, the CO² levels rise because our bodies emit this gas as a normal byproduct of cell function. Exposure to CO² can cause a variety of health effects including headaches, dizziness, restlessness, tingling feeling, sweating, tiredness, and many more.
Low-Emitting Materials
Both during and after construction, materials like sealants, paints, adhesives, carpet, and composite wood products give off a certain amount of contaminants. This effect is known as "offgassing" or "outgassing".
Where possible, the materials chosen for this facility are low-emitting, or have very little offgassing.
Comfort & Control
Temperature and lighting, if not controlled properly, can have a negative effect on the ability to work and learn. The environment in a building must be maintained at a consistent level while it is occupied. This building uses a variety of sensors and controls throughout the building to ensure that both temperature and lighting are kept at comfortable levels for its occupants.
Non Smoking
Building
Smoking is prohibited within The Advanced Business and Technology Education Center. Designated exterior smoking areas are located at least 25 feet away from entries, outdoor air intakes and operable windows. Scientific evidence shows that exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke causes serious health issues.