The 335,000 square-foot area has incorporated various environmentally friendly design features. The V-shaped building features a pond on the grounds which doubles as a retention pool and collects rainwater from the roof. A concrete bunker with a capacity of 200,000-gallon transfers water from the roof into the pond, which is again transferred into another pond that flows into the Cambridge Reservoir. The harvested rainwater will be used to irrigate the landscaping. It is expected to reduce water use by 40%.
The 62,000 tons of concrete and masonry debris found after the demolition of the previous building was recycled and used for structural fill at the site. Almost 95% of the previous building was recycled. The 200,000-gallon bunker was constructed out of a fire protection vault in the old building. Locally produced products were mainly used in the construction.
Permanent sunshades along the tops of all windows are placed to enhance the energy efficiency in the building. The roof of the building has been colored in white to prevent the surface from becoming too hot. Native and drought-resistant fir and birch trees along with some wildflowers and grasses will be planted in the landscape.
Additional eco-friendly features will be incorporated in the building such as offering closer parking spaces to those who drive a hybrid car or car pool; healthy, fresh, dining-hall food prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen; and eco-friendly cleaning products.
