cooling needs are handled by two highly effi‐ cient single port air‐sourced heat pumps. The instantaneous water heater is set at a low 110ºF and is only used intermittently. Health: Large, usable windows provide fresh air, daylight, and views to the Holyoke Range, Hog Mountain, and Grass Hill. Mechanical ven‐ tilation systems are triggered by rising carbon dioxide levels when people enter the building. MATERIALS: The lumber comes from local and sustainably managed forests (within 50 miles). No harmful materials or toxic chemi‐ cals were used anywhere in the building. For example, instead of using PVC piping, alterna‐ tives such as recycled and recyclable HDPE were used. The College paid a one‐time $3,000 fee to offset the carbon produced dur‐ ing construction of the building. EQUITY: This classroom is a “building‐in‐ nature,” a small structure tucked into a folding landscape. Exterior spaces are open to all at all times. Tree grafting sculptures by local artist Dan Ladd, marked trails, and easy access to the surrounding fields and forest encourage interaction with the natural and managed set‐
Photo Credit: Reid Bertone-Johnson
tings around the building. None of the existing trails are officially wheelchair accessible, how‐ ever approximately 1.5 miles could be up‐ graded to full accessibility with additional funding. BEAUTY: The classroom has been used by classes in a range of disciplines such as dance, biology, and Jewish Studies– embodying the multidisciplinary philosophy of a liberal arts education. The two tree columns that grace the multi‐purpose room are harvested from the property, thus recalling the acres of forest just outside. Student engagement and projects animate the slowly unfolding landscape.
As evidenced by petals such as equity and beauty, design is a blurry concept. Actual physical structure is important in facilitating these goals, but the realization of them depends on our investments and actions. This building is part of a Living Building Challenge, which inspires us to remain mindful of the de‐ sign imperative as we program and use our building +Emma Brown ‘13 and Clarissa Lyons ‘13 More information about the Living Building Challenge can be found at: http://living‐future.org/lbc CEEDS Design 23