Green Architecture A Priority At GBBN Architects

Sustainable design and green architecture are alive and well at GBBN Architects, and can be found in a number of their past and current projects. The firm is currently working on its sixth project at Berea College.

(PRWEB) September 3, 2004 -- Sustainable Design and the importance of environmentally sound design is something a lot of architects are talking about these days. At GBBN Architects (Cincinnati [OH) and Lexington [KY, these design concepts have been around for years. As a matter of fact, for over four years, GBBN Architects has worked closely with the Administration at Berea College [Berea, KY regarding sustainable design on its campus. Nearly complete is the firms sixth project, bringing the total of new construction and renovation to nearly 115,000 square feet.

Talcott Hall and Annex is an existing dormitory originally constructed in 1917. The design concept for the renovation project provides multiple dorm room layouts, creating living spaces that support guided learning, community and collaboration. Bereas green" standards were followed by recycling demolished building materials, providing recyclable building products and energy efficient mechanical systems, upgrading all existing insulation values and providing daylighting to interior corridors and gathering spaces.

The Kentucky Hall project at Berea was awarded a 2003 Kentucky Society of Architects award for Excellence in Architectural Design. The jury commented, The interior reflects the future. The connection of the levels through new vertical spaces would seem to enliven the student experience. Through innovative detailing the project interiors are very strong, expressive of the nature of the materials. The unique quality of the artificial and natural lighting creates an inviting, lively space."

Bereas Child Development Laboratory is currently under construction! This project provides varied spaces for learning, direct access to outdoors from each indoor space, color schemes reflecting research on the interaction between color and child development. James Hall renovation is on schedule to be completed for the fall semester. The efforts of Messer Construction and GBBN Architects have combined to make this successful project for Berea College. GBBN is currently in the planning stages for a Visitors Center and Public Relations office remodeling in the existing Boone Tavern Garage.

In 2004 GBBN has already completed three projects with Berea College. James Hall will be completed for the beginning of the fall semester. The internal organization of the resident rooms provides exciting interaction spaces. Construction of architectural forms and use of bright colors help provide a sense of place for each student in the 100-room residence hall.

The Child Development Lab will also be completed this fall. The sensitivity to child anthropometrics, accessibility, day lighting, environmentally friendly building materials and site sensitivity creates a very successful project for the final phase of the Eco Village on the Berea College Campus.

The Visitors Center is expected to be complete by October. The existing Boone Tavern Garage was renovated to incorporate a new Visits Center and Berea College Public Relations Department. The use of the existing vaulted space for the Visitors center provides a spacious reception area and theatre. The use of daylight and a central corridor space for the public relations department creates a user-friendly environment. The building materials of bamboo floor, recycled drywall, insulated low E replacement windows and energy recovery unit contribute to the mission of Berea Colleges environmental friendly work.
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