Iowa State University's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring adaptable, open-concept laboratories and office spaces to support future growth. Despite the challenge of high air-flow requirements in the lab setting, energy efficiency measures have resulted in a 30% reduction in energy use, saving over $195,000 annually. The site prioritizes environmental sustainability with native landscaping that requires no irrigation, reducing potable water usage by 38.8%, and providing electric vehicle charging stations to promote cleaner transportation.
The Stark Performance Center exemplifies sustainable design tailored for high-occupancy athletic facilities. Key features include an advanced HVAC system that purifies air, removes moisture and odor, and maximizes energy efficiency. Chilled water is used for air conditioning and refrigeration, while high-efficiency de-stratification fans enhance cooling. These systems reduce indoor water usage by over 55% and save 17.4% in projected energy costs. Energy consumption is minimized through LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and natural daylighting. Additionally, low-emitting materials improve indoor air quality, and the design includes a dining hall, nutrition center, study spaces, and a mental health and wellness room to support overall student-athlete wellbeing.
The Student Innovation Center's LEED Gold certification showcases a commitment to sustainability. Specialized areas, like welding and woodworking shops, production studios, and paint booths, benefit from a continuous air filtration system. The air supply system incorporates energy recovery to minimize peak heating and cooling loads and overall energy consumption. Adjacent to the historic Marston Water Tower, the 146,000 square-foot building is heated and cooled using campus chilled water and steam, while a green prairie roof captures rainwater and reduces the nonporous footprint. Stormwater impact is further mitigated with below-grade detention, easing the burden on campus infrastructure. The Student Innovation Center stands as a model of sustainable design and environmental responsibility.
The LEED Gold Advanced Teaching and Research Building (ATRB) at Iowa State University is a cutting edge research facility that houses three departments: Genetics Development and Cell Biology (GDCB) Plat Pathology and Microbiology (PLPM), Entomology (ENT). Its secondary function is a teaching facility, with teaching labs and single lecture hall. Sustainable features include a combination of shade and heat prevention strategies to reduce utility usage. Low flow plumbing fixtures contributed to water reduction along with water efficient landscaping which reduce potable water by at least 50% through a combination of plant species, density and microclimate factor, and irrigation efficiency. The atrium can be viewed by three of the five floors of the building, allowing for natural, daylit rooms throughout. The site is designed to enhance the gateway to campus. The 121,600-square-foot building maintains a compact footprint, allowing for open space to the north end of the site. This provides outdoor spaces for the building users and reduces the amount of hardscape from existing conditions. It also provides flexibility for future growth of the biosciences.
Originally built in 1967 to support Iowa State University’s botany programs, Bessey Hall faced significant space challenges as biology classes grew, often requiring extended hours to accommodate students. To address these needs, a 2016 renovation and expansion project transformed Bessey Hall into a modern facility housing the Departments of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, and Genetics Development and Cell Biology. The project preserved the building’s historic exterior while enhancing user experience through sustainable design choices. Located in a densely trafficked area of campus, the building integrates seamlessly with the campus plan and prioritizes sustainability through water-efficient landscaping, energy and water-efficient systems, and healthy material selection, creating a space that supports both education and environmental responsibility.
Affectionately known as "Freddy" by students, Iowa State University's Frederiksen Court complex includes six LEED Gold-certified apartment buildings, housing 180 apartments. These buildings were added to the existing residence halls under a fast-track schedule, with just 12 months from contract award to project completion. The expedited timeline required close collaboration between the architect and contractor, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrative processes. As some of the first student housing in Iowa to receive LEED certification, Frederiksen Court exemplifies the university’s commitment to sustainable building practices.
Marston Hall achieved LEED Gold certification with a focus on sustainable practices. Notable features include low-flow fixtures, reducing potable water use by 40% compared to state code. The building incorporates a white roof for sunlight reflection, materials emitting low toxins, and a significant proportion of locally sourced and recycled materials. Landscaping choices eliminate the need for a permanent irrigation system. Convenient access to eight CyRide routes within a quarter-mile enhances transportation options, and the custodial plan aligns with LEED's green cleaning policy. Overall, Marston Hall demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and resource conservation.
Geoffroy Hall achieved LEED Gold certification by implementing various sustainable strategies. The building's heating, cooling, and electrical designs reduce energy consumption by 31% below state code requirements, while low-flow fixtures contribute to a 45% reduction in potable water use. Green aspects include a white roof for heat reflection, low-toxin materials, and landscaping that avoids the need for a permanent irrigation system. Notably, 77% of construction waste was recycled, and residents benefit from convenient access to four CyRide routes. The project maximizes outdoor space with its L-shaped design, prioritizes indoor air quality with a larger air handling system, refrains from adding parking spaces, and incorporates occupancy sensors and dimming controls for efficient lighting. The use of pre-cast exterior panels minimizes construction waste, and stormwater runoff is reduced and filtered through landscaping, land swales, and underground retention areas. The custodial plan aligns with LEED's green cleaning policy, contributing to the overall success of the green-focused Geoffroy Hall project.
The Biorenewables Complex achieved LEED Gold certification, emphasizing sustainable design elements. Notable features include office window interior light shelves that reduced the need for overhead lights, contributing to enhanced energy efficiency. The four-story atrium was designed to diffuse noise and maintain acoustic neutrality. Sidewalks and the west loading dock area, constructed from reflective concrete, helped keep the site cooler. Two roof sections featured vegetation, while the rest of the roof surfaces were white to reflect light and minimize heat absorption. Interior materials, including carpet, composite wood, paints, adhesives, and sealants, emitted low levels of toxins to ensure indoor air quality.
Originally part of Iowa State’s “Quadrangle” housing the College of Veterinary Medicine from 1912 to 1979, Lagomarcino Hall is now home to the College of Education and the Department of Psychology. A recent renovation and expansion prioritized preserving its historical features while seamlessly integrating modern upgrades. Located in the heart of campus, the renovation emphasizes sustainability, encouraging walking and public transit use, optimizing energy efficiency with advanced lighting, equipment, and Green Power to reduce carbon emissions. The project also enhances occupant experience through outdoor air monitoring, healthy materials, and thermal comfort controls.
Curtiss Hall achieved LEED Gold certification with shared achievements between two projects, Harl Commons and the student services mall. Notable accomplishments include the use of materials within 500 miles of campus, with all office furniture meeting this requirement. Recycled materials constitute a significant portion of building materials, and all office appliances purchased are Energy Star rated. Both projects saw high rates of construction waste recycling—98% for Harl Commons and 78% for the student services mall. Low VOC-emitting paints, varnishes, and flooring enhance indoor air quality, and the custodial team utilizes certified green cleaning solutions. The site boasts earth-friendly features such as the absence of an irrigation system, proximity to bus stops, and accessibility to community services within half a mile. Project-specific design decisions include daylight-responsive lighting controls and zoning for heating and cooling in the student services mall, while Harl Commons incorporates LED lighting and water-efficient fixtures, reducing water use by 41% compared to state building code.
The Hanson Agriculture Student Learning Center achieved LEED Gold certification with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Notable features include a geothermal heating and cooling system, funded in part by an ISU Live Green! loan, resulting in energy consumption 33% better than state code. Water conservation measures include low-flow fixtures, reducing potable water use by 43%. Indoor environmental quality is prioritized with paints, flooring, and adhesives emitting low toxins. Approximately 41% of building materials are locally sourced, and 26% contain recycled materials, with 60% of construction waste recycled. "Super white" concrete in parking lots reduces the "heat island" effect, and premium stalls are reserved for fuel-efficient vehicles. The site is well-connected with two CyRide bus routes, and landscaping avoids the need for a permanent irrigation system. Additionally, custodial practices adhere to LEED's green cleaning policy.
The Berstrom Football Complex achieved LEED Silver certification with a strong focus on sustainability. Notable achievements include recycling 98% of construction waste, utilizing almost 34% recycled materials in the building, and sourcing 12% of materials within 500 miles of Ames. Water consumption is reduced by 53% through low-flow fixtures, and the building features a sun-reflective white membrane roof to mitigate the "heat island" effect. The energy operating cost is nearly 22% lower than a code-designed building. Finishing materials emit low levels of gaseous compounds, and the custodial team follows green cleaning practices. The facility promotes alternative transportation with frequent CyRide routes, bike parking, and showers, and no additional parking stalls were added to replace those lost during construction.
Troxel Hall achieved LEED Gold certification, exemplifying sustainability in its design and operation. With convenient access to six bus routes and extensive bicycle parking, the building refrained from adding new vehicle parking stalls. Approximately 65% of the roof featured vegetation, contributing to reduced heat retention. Water efficiency measures, including the absence of outdoor irrigation and a 36% reduction in water use compared to state code, were implemented. The building showcased energy efficiency with a 25% lower energy cost, increased ventilation drawing in 30% more outside air, and a utility metering plan. Material and resource considerations involved diverting 89% of construction waste from landfills, utilizing 29% recycled materials, and sourcing 30% of materials locally. Indoor environmental quality prioritized low-toxin materials, with occupants having control over temperature and lighting, complemented by automatic adjustments based on motion.
The Veterinary Medicine Small Animal Hospital achieved LEED Gold certification with sustainable features, including low-toxin indoor materials, 22% recycled content in new materials, and 70% renewable electricity for the first two years. Water consumption is reduced by 45% through low-flush fixtures, and landscaping with native plants eliminates the need for irrigation. The hospital employs a heat recovery system, cutting energy use by 15%, and uses ozone-friendly refrigerants in the HVAC system. About 58% of wood is sustainably certified, and 22% of materials are locally sourced. Additionally, the faculty office building addition integrates energy-efficient elements like in-floor radiant heating, chilled beam cooling, and exterior awnings for seasonal sun control.
The State Gym Expansion and Renovation project achieved LEED Platinum certification through sustainable practices. Features include light fixture sensors optimizing natural daylight, a green roof, and reusing 87% of the original structure. Water conservation measures are implemented, such as low-consumption flush valves and stormwater reuse. Locally sourced materials comprise 25% of construction, and 65% of wood is certified sustainable. Native plant landscaping eliminates the need for irrigation. The project recycled over 1,560 tons of construction waste. Interior choices prioritize low-toxicity materials, and an automated thermostat increases energy efficiency.
The Biorenewables Research Laboratory (BRL) is a modern and sustainable building with a design that complements its teaching and research mission. Using materials like concrete, red brick, and metal panels, the BRL wing aims to be 35% more efficient than code minimums for a laboratory building, employing technologies like chilled beams and energy recovery systems. Notable features include a 25,000-gallon rainwater cistern, green roof, and native plantings, emphasizing water conservation. The facility encourages alternative transportation with bike racks, showers, and proximity to public transportation, showcasing a comprehensive commitment to sustainable practices. Read more about Biorenewables Research Facility's journey to LEED certification in the Biorenewables Research Laboratory Walking Tour Guide.
Hach Hall at Iowa State University, designed to enhance the Chemistry Department's competitiveness, incorporates sustainable features for LEED certification. Noteworthy elements include a reclaimed water system, reducing potable water usage by 74%, and energy-efficient design, resulting in a 47.7% increase in efficiency compared to code requirements. The building maximizes natural light, utilizes motion sensors, and provides views to create a conducive and eco-friendly environment for research and education. Read more about Hach Hall's journey to LEED certification in the Hach Hall Walking Tour Guide.
The King Pavilion at the Iowa State University College of Design earned LEED Platinum certification, marking its distinction as the first higher education building in Iowa to achieve this recognition. Notable sustainable features included outstanding daylighting with 100% natural lighting, a 42% increase in energy efficiency through occupancy sensors and automatic climate control, and a 50% reduction in water usage due to dual-flush toilets and automatic sink faucets. Additionally, the construction incorporated 32% recycled content, demonstrating the commitment to sustainability. This accomplishment showcased Iowa State University's dedication to green initiatives in both daily operations and academic programs, setting a precedent for eco-conscious construction in higher education. Read more about King Pavilion's journey to LEED certification in the King Pavilion Walking Tour Guide.
Morrill Hall, originally constructed in 1890, features numerous sustainable elements that contribute to its LEED certification. It utilizes locally sourced materials, including brick and limestone, and incorporates sustainable design, such as bamboo floors and natural lighting to reduce energy usage. The building also employs recycled materials in its restrooms and carpeting. Notably, the rooftop tiles are made from 100% recycled rubber, resembling the original slate roofing. These sustainable features make Morrill Hall a prime example of environmentally responsible architecture, resulting in its LEED certification. Read more about Morrill Hall's journey to LEED certification in the Morrill Hall Walking Tour Guide.
