Page 20 - spaces4learning, Spring 2023

spaces4learning SUSTAINABILITY
• A hard-wired teaching station that allows the instructor to send data from various presentation devices to and between student pods.
• A projector, screen, and chalkboard at the front of the room.
• Video conferencing and lecture capture capabilities.
• Large writing pads and whiteboards throughout the room.
• Windows with dual shades, dimmable lighting, a clear line of
sight, and superior acoustics.
With plug-and-play seating and technology, the reimagined
room is now an ideal setting for group projects, discussions, problem-solving, and other collaborative classroom activities in small or large groups. However, it is also capable of supporting traditional lectures. Furniture can be arranged to face the front of the room where the projector, screen, and chalkboard are located. With the touch of a button, the instructor can lower the other screens throughout the room to direct the audience’s attention.
In addition to providing opportunities for increased collaboration and engagement, the transformation of the outdated lecture hall helped Washington University reach its sustainability goals. It eliminated the need to construct multiple spaces designed for singular purposes because it accommodates for a wide range of activities. Now, one room can host a group working on a project, students studying by themselves, and a presentation—all at the same time.
To further optimize January Hall for modern teaching methods, Trivers combined several small rooms on the first floor into one large flexible learning environment. With seating for 22 students, it also features moveable furniture, a projector, screen, four chalkboards, equipment for recording lectures, and more.
Preserving History
This project required the team to balance two needs: preserving the heritage of the building and upgrading its environmental performance. One important way this equilibrium was achieved was through the renovation of the East Asian Library on the third floor.
The wood-paneled space—with its vaulted ceiling and
exposed wood trusses—was originally used as a library for the School of Law until the completion of the Seeley Mudd Law Building in the early 1970s. Shortly after, it became the home of Washington University’s extensive East Asian collection, which includes more than 800 volumes of rare and special books, manuscripts and other types of materials. Students count its three levels of book stacks, basement, and reading room among the best places to study on campus.
The restoration of the East Asian Library ensures students and faculty will be able to continue enjoying it for generations to come. The team preserved and reused more than 60 percent of its historic furniture and wall paneling, which substantially minimized the embodied carbon of the project. A new HVAC system was also installed to better protect the collection and improve energy efficiency.
Exceeding Expectations
The January Hall renovation achieved LEED Platinum certi- fication—the highest level of LEED certification possible. The project exceeded the university’s sustainability goals by allow- ing January Hall to:
• Accomplish a 35-percent increase in energy savings (compared to similar renovation projects) thanks to improvements to its outer façade, which include the updated windows, additional insulation, new roof, and mechanical system.
• Reduce potable water consumption by 46.5 percent compared to the baseline building water use due to the low-flow plumbing fixtures installed in the building.
• Cut down its carbon footprint via restoration of the East Asian Library.
• Divert 96.3 percent of construction and demolition waste from landfills.
Trivers is excited to help Washington University continue progressing toward its goal of becoming a national leader in sustainability by designing healthy, efficient spaces for students and faculty to learn and work.
20 SPRING 2023 | spaces4learning.com
Joe Brinkmann, AIA, LEED AP, is a principal at Trivers.