Some science-design experts once believed high levels of sustainability would be possible only for low-intensity labs in temperate zones. However, LEED Silver- and Gold-rated science projects, including chemistry-heavy facilities in extreme climates, are no longer viewed as particularly remarkable.
Advancements in HVAC get much of the credit since controlled pressurization and once-through airflow are the main reason labs have historically used so much energy. Today’s Building Teams are striving to understand actual environmental requirements for safety and good science, instead of using dubious rules of thumb that drive overdesign. For instance, continuous air-quality assessment is now possible through sensor-based demand-controlled ventilation, decreasing reliance on arbitrary guidelines for air changes per hour. Other enabling technologies include advanced ductless fume hoods and submetering to assess plug loads.
Chilled beams, geothermal, photovoltaics, radiant heating and cooling, process water recycling, and passive design are among the essential ingredients for the next generation of super-green S+T projects. To date, fewer than 40 labs have earned LEED-NC Platinum—reflecting the typology’s difficulty level, as well clients’ cautiousness. The short list of completed net-zero S+T buildings includes the J. Craig Venter Institute, opening this month in La Jolla, Calif.; Georgia Tech’s Carbon-Neutral Energy Solutions Laboratory, the Platinum winner in BD+C’s 2013 Building Team Awards; and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Research Support Facility, primarily devoted to computational work. Three small educational science buildings have also been certified under the Living Building Challenge.
The sector’s dedication to sustainability has been tested by the withdrawal of all federal funding for Labs21—an EPA- and DoE-sponsored program that long led the charge toward greener labs. Funding cuts have also constrained the participation of leading researchers, particularly at NREL and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories—a nonprofit that had already been running the group’s annual conferences and continuing ed programs—has instituted a new membership-based structure and a mechanism for regional and local chapter formation, similar to that of ASHRAE.
“I2SL perpetuates and expands on the mission of Labs21,” says Phil Wirdzek, President and Executive Director. “We are actively working to develop training and share expertise on creating sustainable labs and related high-tech facilities.” I2SL (www.i2sl.org) is now coordinating working groups to address the obstacles to achieving net-zero and other aggressive levels of green for new and existing facilities.
Perkins+Will recently completed the 120,000-sf Clinical and Translational Research Building for the University of Florida, serving not only the Gainesville campus but also the state at large. Tenants include the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute and Institute of Aging, as well as groups studying biostatics, epidemiology, muscular dystrophy, and health outcomes and policy. Targeting LEED Platinum, the building includes PVs that will generate 8-12% of its power needs, advanced daylighting, rainwater recycling, and displacement ventilation systems. Also on the Building Team: AEI (MEP), Structural Engineers Group (SE), and Skanska USA (GC). PHOTO: © ROBIN HILL
Related Stories
Geothermal Technology | Jul 29, 2024
Rochester, Minn., plans extensive geothermal network
The city of Rochester, Minn., home of the famed Mayo Clinic, is going big on geothermal networks. The city is constructing Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) that consist of ambient pipe loops connecting multiple buildings and delivering thermal heating and cooling energy via water-source heat pumps.
High-rise Construction | Jul 29, 2024
Safdie Architects’ Shanghai office tower features glass-enclosed corner garden that ascends the 35-story structure
Safdie Architects has announced the completion of LuOne Mixed-Use Complex—a business, retail, and entertainment development in the Luwan district of Shanghai, China. The mixed-use complex consists of an eight-level retail galleria, which opened in 2018, and a 35-story office tower, which recently reached completion.
Casinos | Jul 26, 2024
New luxury resort casino will be regional draw for Shreveport, Louisiana area
Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, the first land-based casino in the Shreveport-Bossier market, recently topped off. The $270+ project will serve as a regional destination for world-class gaming, dining, entertainment, and hotel amenities.
Smart Buildings | Jul 25, 2024
A Swiss startup devises an intelligent photovoltaic façade that tracks and moves with the sun
Zurich Soft Robotics says Solskin can reduce building energy consumption by up to 80% while producing up to 40% more electricity than comparable façade systems.
Codes and Standards | Jul 25, 2024
GSA and DOE select technologies to evaluate for commercial building decarbonization
The General Services Administration and the U.S. Department of Energy have selected 17 innovative building technologies to evaluate in real-world settings throughout GSA’s real estate portfolio.
Great Solutions | Jul 23, 2024
41 Great Solutions for architects, engineers, and contractors
AI ChatBots, ambient computing, floating MRIs, low-carbon cement, sunshine on demand, next-generation top-down construction. These and 35 other innovations make up our 2024 Great Solutions Report, which highlights fresh ideas and innovations from leading architecture, engineering, and construction firms.
Senior Living Design | Jul 23, 2024
The growing importance of cultural representation in senior living communities
Perkins Eastman architect Mwanzaa Brown reflects on the ties between architecture, interior design, and the history and heritage of a senior living community’s population.
MFPRO+ News | Jul 22, 2024
Miami luxury condominium tower will have more than 50,000 sf of amenities
Continuum Club & Residences, a new 32-story luxury condominium tower in the coveted North Bay Village of Miami will feature more than 50,000 sf of indoor and outdoor amenities. The program includes a waterfront restaurant, dining terraces with resident privileges, and a private dining room outdoor pavilion.
Healthcare Facilities | Jul 22, 2024
5 healthcare building sector trends for 2024-2025
Interactive patient care systems and trauma-informed design are among two emerging trends in the U.S. healthcare building sector, according to BD+C's 2024 Healthcare Annual Report (free download; short registration required).
MFPRO+ News | Jul 22, 2024
6 multifamily WAFX 2024 Prize winners
Over 30 projects tackling global challenges such as climate change, public health, and social inequality have been named winners of the World Architecture Festival’s WAFX Awards.