Making the Case for High Performance Building

Overview

• Location: South Royalton, VT
• Building type(s): Higher education, Campus
• New construction
• 23,500 ft2 (2,180 m2)
• Project scope: 3-story building
• Other setting
• Completed August 1998

Vermont Law School's James L. and Evelena S. Oakes Hall is the law school's primary classroom facility. The building is set on the banks of the White River and houses eight classrooms, a courtroom, a student lounge, and an outdoor deck.

Environmental Aspects

Vermont Law School is a national leader in environmental law, and interest in designing and constructing a green building was strong. Special attention was paid to durability, the use of recycled and recyclable building materials, energy efficiency, water efficiency, and indoor air quality.

Owner & Occupancy

• Owned and occupied by Vermont Law School, Corporation, nonprofit

Oakes Hall is in use throughout the day, with as many as 300 people using the building during peak periods.

Building Programs

Keywords

Integrated team, Simulation, Performance measurement and verification, Efficient fixtures and appliances, Wastewater treatment, Massing and orientation, Insulation levels, Glazing, Airtightness, HVAC, Lighting control and daylight harvesting, Efficient lighting, Adaptable design, Durability, Benign materials, Recycled materials, Local materials, Certified wood, Connection to outdoors, Daylighting, Ventilation effectiveness, Moisture control, Thermal comfort, Low-emitting materials

Photo credit: GBH Studios