The U.S Green Building Council has awarded LEED Gold certification to the Orchard School library. The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has verified this library.
Orchard School District New Library Receives LEED Gold Certification
Blach Construction Company has built the school's new library, which is the third K-12 public school building in California and also the first to receive Gold designation in Santa Clara County.
Jackie Felbinger, Director of Educational Services for the Orchard School District, stated they planned to construct a library that is contemporary and communal for 21st century learning and at the same time should be run affordably and efficiently. The facility features eco-friendly design elements to promote a healthy learning set up for the students.
The Orchard School library of 6,000 sq. ft. is situated at the campus’ center. The middle and elementary schools are located near to the library. The building features a natural wood screen, full-height glass, and houses shelving for 18,000-volume collection. A new technology lab is also provided in the library and it can accommodate up to 36 students.
Ken Schroeder, Project Executive of Blach Construction Company, stated that they feel honored to play a role in widening the culture of sustainability in the Orchard School.
Construction features and sustainable design of the building have resulted in LEED Gold certification, positively influencing the project and broader community. The construction features included in the building were resource demand reduction, indoor environmental quality, alternative transportation options, use of renewable energy, and reuse of existing building.
Source: http://www.blach.com