The Cambridge War Memorial Recreation Center achieved LEED-Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies.
Located at 1640 Cambridge Street, the renovation of the late 1950’s era physical education and recreation facility included improving and updating building systems, providing universal accessibility and revamping the layout of the locker rooms, restrooms, classrooms and administrative offices. The 78,000 square feet building houses three pools, a gymnasium with basketball and volleyball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness room, a multipurpose room and separate locker room facilities for school and public use.
The renovated student entrance opens into bright, spacious corridors lined with classrooms and administration, allowing for supervision of students as they move toward team locker rooms and physical education spaces. The community entrance has been designed to bring users directly past the reception desk and offers simplified navigation toward frequently-used facilities. Distinct administrative spaces have been created for team coaches, physical education, and the city’s recreation department.
Renovations have also improved the centre’s appearance and sustainability. Daylighting, vibrant tile work, and wave-patterned terrazzo flooring add visual appeal, durability, and sustainability to the centre.
Specific green design and construction features that positively impact the community include: water-saving shower heads, toilets and urinals that results in 41.5% of water savings; 18.5% energy savings achieved through day light dimming, efficient boilers and variable frequency drive motors; reduction of urban heat island effect and energy costs with use of white roof; and diversion of more than 88% of construction waste from landfills to be recycled or reused.
All materials used in the construction and design process contain an average of 22.85% recycled content. All wood used was Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood with long-life /low maintenance terrazzo flooring in the facility that requires no harsh chemical cleaners. Low VOC-emitting sealant, paint and other finishes provide the best indoor air quality. The facility also features Carpool preferred parking, bike racks and shower facility.
The City of Cambridge also achieved LEED-Silver Certification for the Cambridge Public Library Project designed by William Rawn Associates and Ann Beha, Associate Architect for the Historical Restoration.
