The Ford Hall, home to the Picker Engineering Program, has been honored for the environmentally sustainable design and construction practices. Equipped with ultra-low-flow fixtures and captured rainwater system, it has received the highest possible rating for its water efficiency measures. Construction of Ford Hall reduced the overall storm water runoff at the site by 25% through a sophisticated retention system. The building features a planted rooftop spanning 20,000 square feet.
The project diverted about 96% of construction waste from the landfill. The Ford Hall has also installed energy-saving fixtures including high-efficiency electrical equipment and computer-monitored sensors for light, air and moisture control. The building has been integrated with passive-energy design, which maximizes daylight exposure through optimum window and glass position.
The 140,000 square feet, $73 million, Ford Hall was opened in early 2010. The facility is home to engineering, computer science, molecular biology, chemistry and biochemistry.
The recognition is considered as a notable achievement for a laboratory facility, as research laboratories traditionally have high energy loads, making it difficult to attain high efficiency levels.
