Dimensions - January/February 2008 - (Page 5)

Oakton Library Completed The recent completion of the Oakton Library in Oakton, Virginia, is a hallmark of energy efficient project design for the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES). The library is part of the county’s initiative to design new projects to sustainable criteria, and PSADewberry, the project’s architect, utilized the site, modern equipment and specialized materials to help realize this goal. “This library has wonderful sustainable features,” says Katayoon Shaya, RA, a senior architect with the DPWES Planning and Design Division. “We have native vegetation planted on the site. There is a recycling program in place at the library, and all of the materials and finishes installed were selected to contain high recycled content and/ or minimize the release of volatile organic compounds into the air. Thoughtful Design Promotes Energy Savings Large windows and open spaces allow natural light to flood the reading areas. “I think that we are most impressed, however, with the energy and water saving measures that have been put in place. We anticipate an annual savings of about $10,000 on our energy bill, and 90,000 gallons or 40% reduction in water use,” says Shaya. The 17,200-square-foot library is oriented on the site to maximize southern exposure, while clerestory windows provide optimal natural light in the building. The lighting system installed around the interior perimeter is designed to automatically dim when sufficient daylight is detected. The electrical and mechanical systems are also designed to reduce energy consumption, and advanced sensors monitor occupancy in some of the library’s larger rooms, turning off air conditioning and lights when the spaces are unoccupied. Energy Star rated equipment and appliances were installed and are running on “green power,” which in this case is wind energy. The library’s light-colored roof reflects heat, which reduces the air cooling load in the summer. “The project met our sustainable design goals, and we are planning to submit it for U.S. Green Building Council LEED® certification,” says Shaya. “It is an enticing and welcoming meeting place for this community and a wonderful addition to the neighborhood.” Clad in brick, metal panes and glass, the library’s striking, tri-color entrance welcomes visitors from the Oakton neighborhood. 5 http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/ok/ http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/ok/

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Dimensions - January/February 2008

Dimensions - January/February 2008 Contents The Greening of Fort Bragg: Post Works to Implement LEED Goals LiDAR and the California Wildfires: High Density Imagery Shows Effects on Terrain Energy Saving Design: A New Green Library Promotes Efficiency Giant Improvements: New Shopping and Housing Development Opens The Disposable World: PSA-Dewberry Participates in National Building Museum Discussion

Dimensions - January/February 2008

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