The Residence Hall for Mt. Holyoke College consists of a mix of single, double and suite residence configurations, with a total of 176 student beds. In addition, the facility includes bathrooms, lobby, lounge spaces, student activity spaces, dining area and support spaces. The total building area is approximately 72,000 SF. It was constructed in conformance with the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system to create a high performing green building. Energy efficient systems incorporated into this building include Solar Hot Water panels, Energy Recovery Ventilators, Radiant Heat, and low E Glass. The new building is 45 percent more energy efficient than the Massachusetts building code required for new construction, and the Massachusetts code is one of the more stringent in the country. van Zelm used energy performance computer modeling during design, which takes into account all conservation features of the building, from its high-tech envelope insulation and high-performance windows to its solar hot water system and daylight level sensors that adjust lighting levels. The new dorm also scored the maximum number of points for water-use efficiency, using 35 percent less water than the Massachusetts code allowed. Additionally, the building has a high recycled material content, many components were manufactured locally, and was built using low impact construction methods. The project was awarded LEED Gold certification. Students can track their energy use through the building’s energy monitoring system.

Energy and Atmosphere

• building is 45% more efficient than the Massachusetts building code requires
• greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 404 tons/year – equivalent to taking 70 cars off the road
• heat recovery wheel
• continuously monitored building management control system
• daylight dimming and occupancy sensors in public spaces
• green power purchased to run the building for its first two years
• energy efficient lighting with occupancy sensors
• 24 solar collectors provide 22% of domestic hot water
• water efficiency – efficient plumbing fixtures use 30% less water than allowed by Massachusetts code

Sustainable Materials

• synthetic roof shingles made from 40% post-consumer recycled materials
• 20% of all materials used in the building were purchased locally
• renewable bamboo and cork flooring in common spaces
• 15% of all building materials were made from recycled content
• 93% of all construction waste was recycled

Indoor Environment

• CO2 monitoring system
• light pollution reduction
• low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in carpet, paint, sealants and adhesives
• composite wood products low emitting and free of added urea formaldehyde resins