Sustainability Highlights - Meinel Optical Sciences Expansion
Light sensitive research functions are organized along the southern, windowless side of the building. The building’s unique copper sheathing is designed as a breathable shield for the inner wall, shading the envelope of the building from the harsh desert sun and moving heat by convection away from the building core.
The glass curtain wall, and programmatic spaces for which views and daylight are desired, face north toward the Catalina Mountains. A limited number of punched windows are used on the east and west facades to minimize the solar exposure, heat gain and glare.
The use of daylight is central to the design concept for the building and is introduced from several sources. The glass curtain wall provides views and indirect natural light to offices and a conference center located along the north elevation of the building. Internal clerestory windows allow light to extend further into the central corridor at each floor. Internal light shafts provide a dramatic source of daylight for the internal spaces of the building.
Relief air from the high performance HVAC system is utilized to temper the exterior plaza space. This cooled air, which is typically exhausted where convenient, is conveyed via an underground duct to the outside amphitheater. The sunken plaza creates a depression which helps contain the cooler air.
The plaza's design maximizes the use of permeable surfaces. Rip rap was used around the planted terraces and decomposed granite at the tree grove and around pathways. This promotes the absorption of surface water and minimizes the impact of runoff water from the site.
The landscaping concept for the building utilizes low water use and regional plants and trees, such as the Desert Museum Palo Verde.
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