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International Green Building Challenge 2000 — Adam Joseph Lewis Center, Oberlin College

Photograph of the exterior of the Adam Joseph Lewis Center at Oberlin College in Oberlin, OH. There are photovoltaic (PV) panels covering the roof, numerous large windows for passive solar heating and daylighting, and window overhang eaves and natural ventilation to help maintain internal temperature during the summer.

Photograph of the atrium inside the Adam Joseph Lewis Center at Oberlin College in Oberlin, OH. The atrium has large operable windows that provide passive solar heating as well as natural ventilation.

The 13,600-square-foot Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies at Oberlin College is not just a place to hold classes. The building supports the college's mission of educating its students to make the world a better place. The building incorporates many features that will lessen its impact on the environment.

The projected energy use is 21% less than the average for new construction. Energy saving measures include water-source heat pumps for heating, cooling, and ventilation. Photovoltaic panels generate electricity; roof attachments will provide for PV upgrades as technology improves. The building is designed to optimize passive solar performance and daylighting. Thermal mass in the floors and walls retains and radiates heat. Energy efficient ventilation, roof assemblies, walls, building controls, lighting, and glazing are used. From materials specification through to operation, attention has been paid to indoor air quality. Recycled-content materials were selected when possible. All wood is from sustainable forests. A unique building component is the "living machine," a natural wastewater treatment system, powered by sunlight, which recycles water for non-potable greywater use.

Adam Joseph Lewis Center, Oberlin College Web site
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Last updated: 10 August 2006