New Navajo elementary school characterized by energy-efficient upgrades

Serving the Eastern Navajo Agency in Albuquerque, N.M., the Crownpoint Elementary School is planned to replace a more than 50-year-old building, expanding school acreage to include athletic fields and age-appropriate playgrounds. Van H. Gilbert Architects is designing the 45,000-sf school, which will incorporate Navajo aesthetic influences, to achieve significant energy savings. Energy-efficient ventilation systems, high-performance glazing, natural light, daylight harvesting control sensors, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and extra insulation will help the school achieve 30% more energy savings than similar-sized schools. Classrooms will have state-of-the-art A/V systems, computers, wireless services, and data ports.