KSQ Architects' Latest Student Housing Project at Texas Christian University Earns LEED Gold

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TCU Marion-Clark Halls, Worth Hills Village

'Attaining LEED Gold was a specific goal we had for this project,' says David Short, KSQ Director and Principal.

Dallas, Texas (PRWEB) March 18, 2014

Two new student housing projects completed by KSQ Architects for Texas Christian University (TCU) have received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The certification of both Marion and Clark Halls on the TCU campus is identification and reward for best practices of the buildings' energy, water and natural resource performance. LEED Gold certification is the second highest honor from the USGBC’s third-party verification program.

LEED certification is awarded based on the total number of points earned in six different categories; water efficiency, materials and resources, innovation and design, sustainable sites, energy and atmosphere, and indoor environmental quality.

A partial list of the residence halls sustainability initiatives includes:

•     Re-formulating custom Ludowici roof tiles that mitigate heat island effect (reducing heat and saving energy)
•     Installing LED lighting for interiors–resulting in a 57% energy reduction.
•     Purchasing 80% of the predicted energy use from renewable energy sources, and using regional materials
•     Utilizing low-emitting materials to improve indoor environmental quality.
•     Installing low flow shower heads and faucets as well as water smart toilets–reducing water usage by 44%
•     Offering a 20% reduction in campus parking rates for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles, as well as public transportation access

Marion and Clark Halls is the first of three phases planned for the Worth Hills Village development. KSQ Architects has provided architectural services for more than 16 new or renovated residence halls on the TCU campus since 1995. To date, the number of student beds provided in these projects is more than 3,000.

“Attaining LEED Gold was a specific goal we had for this project,” says David Short, KSQ Director and Principal. “We were able to address overcrowding issues, remain true to TCU’s architectural style, and offer students all the comforts of home as well as energy efficient systems.”

To learn more about the Marion and Clark Halls and to see project photos, please visit KSQarchitects.com.

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