The Erma Lowe Hall located within the campus of Texas Christian University (TCU), designed by Michael Bennett of Bennett Benner Pettit Architects and Planners (BBPAP), has received the LEED Gold Certification.
LEED Gold Erma Lowe Hall - TCU Studio B (former gymnasium). (Photo: Business Wire)
The certification has been verified by the Green Building Certification Institute. The Erma Lowe Hall is TCU’s centre for classic and contemporary dance.
Features that led to the certification included usage of motion sensors and timers for interior and outdoor lighting, employing large windows to allow natural daylight, reduction of water consumption by using low water usage plumbing fixtures, and diversion of 75% construction waste from landfill. Materials used for the construction of the building were sourced locally. Water usage for outside irrigation was reduced by 50%. In addition, 75% of the old building that was originally built in 1921 has been retained.
According to Michael Bennett, the Erma Lowe Hall not only provides substantial contributions to TCU’s dance program but also has a positive impact on the environment.
Other energy-saving projects that have been designed by BBPAP include the Tarrant Regional Water District Annex which was completed in 2009 and has received LEED Gold Certification, the Westlake Academy at Rogers Road Pavilion, also known as the Woodshed Smokehouse, and the more recent Tarrant County Jail that is being constructed and is likely to receive LEED Gold Certification.
Source: http://www.bbptx.com