Architecture Firm:
Philip K. White & Associates
Completion Date:
August 2007
Project Format (not yet built / built):
Built
Project Size (sf / site acreage):
10,604 s.f.
Project Location:
Honolulu, Hawaii
Interior Designer:
Philip K. White & Associates, Philpotts & Associates
General Contractor:
Sutton Construction
Landscape Designer:
Umemoto Cassandro
Lighting Consultant:
Lighting & Engineering Integrated Inc
Structural Engineer:
Englekirk Partners
Mechanical Engineer:
Prepose Engineering Systems
Electrical Engineer:
Ron Ho & Associates
Commissioning Agent:
Engineering Economics Inc.
Civil Engineer:
Hida Okamoto & Associates
Other:
PV Consultant - Sun Edison, LEED Consultant - Rocky Mountain Institute
Owner:
40 S. School Street LLC
Sustainable Sites:
The project site was a neglected and empty 3-story concrete shell building sitting on a busy street several blocks from the downtown financial district of Honolulu. Originally built in 1963, the new owners chose to renovate and reuse the existing building shell instead of sending it the landfill. Its close proximity to downtown, as well as access to public transportation made the site ideal for a small office building of 60 occupants. New native planting, a revitalized building, and a few exciting additions gave new life to this dilapidated corner of a neighborhood rich in culture.
Toward Zero Energy:
The roof of the building hosts photovoltaic panels that will generate some of the electricity needed to operate the building, with other portions of the roof being covered with grass to help reduce the heat island effect. All light fixtures have fluorescent light bulbs with occupancy sensors to ensure all lights are turned off when not in use. The air-conditioning units are energy efficient with programmable thermostats designed to turn off during off-peak building use. The elevator is an eco-space elevator designed to use less energy than a regular traction elevator. Double-glazing at all windows as well as both permanent and retractable sunshades help keep the building cool during sunny days.
Local and Sustainable Materials:
In addition to reusing the existing building shell, all construction waste generated from the renovation was sent to a construction debris recycling station. A recycling station is located on site to encourage all occupants to recycle. Hand dryers were installed in bathrooms to reduce paper waste from towels. All of the custom-designed wood fixtures and furniture are constructed of either reclaimed wood, or locally grown Eucalyptus wood. Site planting will be native plants that require minimal water.
Sustainable Water:
All faucets and fixtures are low-flow to reduce potable water demand. All toilets are dual-flush, and all urinals are waterless. The native planting areas are on a drip system that supplies water only at the roots. In an effort to control and reduce runoff, all water from the parking area and roofs is directed in to drywells on-site where it is filtered before being returned into the ground.
IEQ and Comfort:
Several steps were taken to ensure that the building provides an optimum work environment for the users. Easily adjustable lighting controls and thermostats allow workspaces to be customizable, and recycled and low-VOC materials improve the air quality. All users are connected to outside lighting and views via windows and exterior balconies. Acoustical wall and ceiling panels mitigate acoustic issues. Bicycle parking and a rooftop shower/changing room provide building users with the choice of biking or walking to work.
Collective Wisdom and Feedback:
Because the project building is owned and occupied by two design firms, much research went in to the materials and equipment selected. The building’s intention is to speak to the community as a billboard that is a direct reflection of the talented designers within, as well as a tool for teaching the public and its users/occupants about environmentally responsible building practices. Each material, fixture, or equipment piece was selected for it’s sustainable qualities. A LEED consultant was also commissioned to assist with the project and a one-day seminar was provided for both firms educate employees with a better understanding of LEED practices.
Regional/Community Design:
The building is designed to be a learning tool for the community regarding the environmentally sensitive materials chosen and systems installed. PowerPoint tours of the building are available for building occupants and tours of the building are offered to students, clients, and members of the community. Many tours have already been given and the feedback has been positive.
