With the green certification, the seminary’s residence hall has become the first facility in Decatur to earn LEED-Gold Certification.
The three-story structure includes studio, one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments, a recreation and workout area accessible to students, faculty, and staff; a community kitchen with indoor and outdoor seating and fireplaces, a laundry area for residents, and mechanical and facilities support spaces.
The facility is designed to use approximately 50% less energy than a conventionally constructed building. The exterior building envelope features above-average insulation values. Energy-efficient windows and a geothermal mechanical system that offers low operating costs and a long lifecycle are other green features.
The residence hall’s orientation minimizes east and west exposures to reduce sun angles, which helps in reducing unwanted glare and heat gain. Trees in the landscape provide natural sun shading from the south. Large windows help in allowing natural light into the interiors besides offering outside view. Energy efficiency is ensured through motion sensor switching and energy-efficient lamps.
Rainwater collection for landscape irrigation and water saving plumbing fixtures are installed to make the facility water-efficient. The use of low VOC adhesives and coatings improve indoor air quality. The construction process has made use of recycled and regional construction materials, with the construction waste being recycled and reused.
Columbia Theological Seminary is one of the ten theological institutions affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA).
