Orchard School library in California wins LEED Gold
The Orchard School in San Jose, California has secured LEED Gold certification from the US Green Building Council for its library building, which was completed recently.
Constructed by US-based Blach Construction Company, the new library spans 6,000 square feet. The library is located in the centre of the school and establishes a connection between the elementary and middle schools. It boasts of several sustainable elements, which include natural wood screen and full-height glass.
The library won LEED points for the re-usage of more than 95% of existing building floors, walls and roof. Blach also worked towards diversification of more than 96% of the construction waste from the landfills. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood and wood-based products were used in the construction. The restrooms also achieved a total of 33% water demand reduction.
The library's energy-efficient features also include HVAC Energy Management software, daylight and occupancy lighting sensors and controls, a cool roof, window film, window shades, light harvesting, a new high efficiency boiler and Energy Star appliances.
Certain power requirements of the facility is met by the power generated by the 240KW photovoltaic system, installed at Orchard School. The glass exterior of the building brings in natural light into the facility, which aids in improving the interior environment.
The building has superior ventilation and low-emitting materials and adhesive, which aid in improving the interior air quality. The building also has large walk off mats, which absorbs most of the dust, thereby reducing the need for cleaning. The facility is also connected to the community and local train station through bus services.
The library represents the third K-12 public school building in California and the first in Santa Clara County to be awarded the Gold designation for new construction.
