Architect Studio Meng Strazzara
Owner Seattle Public Schools
Size 7,200 sf
Sustainability Washington Sustainable Schools Protocol, Net-Zero Ready
FSi was the mechanical engineer for the addition of a stand-alone cafeteria building at Green Lake Elementary. Based on the district’s commitment to sustainability, the project team set the goal of achieving net zero energy use for the building, as well as complying with all requirements of the Washington Sustainable Schools Protocol (WSSP), even though the building is not large enough to require a WSSP submittal.
Our team had a design charrette at the project outset, setting ambitious goals for the project. FSi designed an efficient hydronic heating system, along with a 100% outside air ventilation system with heat recovery. Solar panels heat domestic hot water, with a gas back-up. Additional solar panels for energy generation were included as a bid alternate. We designed a system to harvest rainwater to irrigate a garden run by students during the school year, and the community during the summer.
We love buildings that focus on kids and sustainability. The SEED classroom is another one of our favorites.