public structures
Left: The dining room of the VA Community Living Center. The glass follows the angle of the ceiling to further maximize the daylighting.
velope systems. The integration of these systems makes the projects more than 50 percent more energy efficient than conventional buildings. Additionally, the roofs of the steel, pre-engineered storage and maintenance buildings are designed to be PV ready, allowing future photovoltaic panels to be installed. A full installation of panels enables the campus to be a net generator of electricity. The project is designed for eligibility for LEED Gold status. Another project, The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Living Center at American Lake in Tacoma, Washington—A new, contemporary nursinghome building for veterans on a historic medical-center campus—shows off an eco-roof with generous daylighting that floods the rooms and circulation areas with natural light, glazing, detailing, and insulation systems that create a high-performance building envelope. The one-story, $31 million, 80,000-square-foot Community Living Center building allows the sloped roof to be seen by staff, residents, and visitors. The green roof reduces storm water runoff, integrates the building into the natural forest setting, and acts as a sound barrier to reduce noise from aircraft flying in and out of nearby Joint Base Lewis-McChord. TCF is proud of such projects and accredits the success to its vibrant staff. The company prides itself on developing young architects who become active participants in the award-winning firm’s leadership. “Because our firm is small, upcoming architects have an opportunity to be involved in all phases of a project,” Cook says. —Sandra Guy
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