NEW CENTRAL LIBRARY-LEED PLATINUM

Project Summary

The 198,000-square-foot, six-story Austin Central Library opened in October 2017. This public library building incorporates a variety of innovative exterior envelope features. Vegetated roof surfaces and rainwater collection are integrated into the roofs, and the exterior glazing is shaded by perforated metal screen walls. The spaces are arranged around a central full-height atrium. Demand controlled ventilation, variable air and water flow, day lighting control, extensive use of LEDs and on-site energy production are integrated into the design, which also features a 200kW photovoltaic array.

In July, 2018 the Austin Central Library was awarded LEED® Platinum status under the most widely used green building rating system in the world.  The Platinum designation is the highest level of recognition awarded and indicates a score of 80 or better on the LEED 110 point rating system.  The Central Library achieved LEED Platinum certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at achieving high performance in sustainable site development, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials and resources use, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design

As Director of Building Envelope Commissioning for Sebesta, Mr. Houk performed comprehensive design reviews and collaborated with the architects to develop details for the successful performance of building envelope assemblies including below-grade waterproofing, curtainwall systems, and single-ply membrane roofs on multiple levels. He managed construction-phase commissioning services that included a pre-installation trade coordination conference, submittal and shop drawing reviews, periodic on-site progress reviews, and performance testing observations.

See the library here.

Time Magazine –World’s greatest places in 2018