Supporting Pike

Building Green

A prime objective of the new Creative Learning Center is sustainable design—reducing the use of non-renewable resources and minimizing impact on the environment—often refered to as “green design.”

Attention to green design has characterized the new construction from the very start, even as the site was being cleared. Reuse of the site for construction, erosion control during construction, stormwater design, and reduction of light pollution by using full cut-off lights outside contributed to that end.

Choice of materials and resources further contributes to sustainability, from reuse of existing concrete pavers and recycling of gypsum board, steel, and acoustic ceiling tile, to the use of low-emittance glass in all new windows and insulation of the walls beyond the minimum code requirements.

The new building will also make use of dual-flush toilets and low-flow aerators on faucets to reduce water use; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment that uses ozone-friendly hydrofluorocarbons that contain no chlorine; energy recovery wheels that reuse heat energy exhausted from the building; an occupancy controlled ventilation system in the theater, which automatically cuts energy use when no one is present; and energy efficient lights.

While the Pike Building Committe made a conscious decision from the beginning not to spend the additional funds to secure LEED certification, the architects were asked to follow the LEED checklist in achieving maximum sustainability and making the project as green as possible.