Sustainability at the heart of campus life: Connecting design with nature

This blog post was authored by Matthew Gifford, AIA, LEED AP, Principal, Shepley Bulfinch; and Carrie Leneweaver, AIA, WELL AP, LEED GA, Senior Architect and Associate, Shepley Bulfinch.

Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the Student Center’s sustainability strategy. Designed to be Net Zero Ready, the building integrates multiple systems that work together to reduce energy demand and operational carbon:

• Nestled into a steeply sloped site, the building is able to utilize the earth’s thermal mass for natural temperature regulation. A dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) and make up air unit (MUA) are located underground, taking advantage of naturally cooled fresh air intake.
• Radiant floors provide both heating and cooling, improving thermal comfort and energy efficiency while reducing the amount of ductwork required.
• Double and triple pane exterior glazing paired with carefully detailed air‑barrier connections contribute to a high performance envelope that improves thermal performance, reduces perimeter heating demand, and limits air leakage.
• Deep roof overhangs, particularly on the southern side, provide shading that reduces summertime solar heat gain and HVAC loads.
• Photovoltaic panels are integrated across the roofs and carefully coordinated with pavers and roof planes to maintain a clean and intentional aesthetic.

Together, these strategies support long‑term efficiency while maintaining comfort for daily use.

Landscape Integration and Water Stewardship

At the Bloomberg Student Center, sustainable strategies extend beyond the building itself.  Through careful placement on a previously developed site, disruption to the historic mature tree grove to the north was minimized. The building is designed to fit seamlessly into the steeply sloped landscape, creating ample opportunities for indoor/outdoor connections and accessible pathways across all levels. On-site bicycle shelters and proximity to public transit encourage visitors to use alternative modes of transportation.

Rainwater cisterns enable capture and reuse for site irrigation and, in combination with variable frequency drives that respond to seasonal load variations, reduce potable water demand by 78% from baseline while supporting landscape needs. A stormwater retention tank and planted areas utilizing native species further manage stormwater runoff and support local ecosystems.

Together, these strategies reinforce a close integration between building and landscape, aligning performance goals with the character of the surrounding site.

Protecting Local Ecology

Given the extensive use of glass throughout the building exterior, the project team incorporated bird‑friendly glazing strategies including fritted patterns that reduce bird strikes without compromising transparency.

It’s a subtle but meaningful move that reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship; it acknowledges that sustainable buildings must coexist responsibly within their surrounding ecosystems.