We are delighted to announce that 6845 Silacci Way in Gilroy has been awarded LEED Silver certification! The 30,000 SF project includes office space and a mechanics workshop that will be used by the State of California.
Although security requirements dictated much of the exterior architecture, the team was able to emphasize energy efficiency and onsite renewable energy production, securing over half of the total points needed for certification in just the EA category. A flat roof was used to maximize renewable energy production via a 64kW photovoltaic system, ultimately offsetting 37% of the project’s annual energy use. One challenge was presented by the use of radiant heaters in the building’s semi-conditioned spaces, which represented almost two-thirds of the total footprint. By fine-tuning the operating schedule and controls, modeled energy use was reduced significantly.
Sustainable site measures such as large bioretention basins and drought-tolerant landscaping combined with highly efficient irrigation and indoor water fixtures reduced outdoor and indoor water use by 70% and 41% respectively.
Indoors, the project team focused on pollutant source reduction (walk off mats, ultra low-emitting materials, ventilation with filtered outside air) and natural daylighting to produce a comfortable and healthy work environment.
Congratulations to the entire team!
Architect: Jeff Krauss
Owner: Patrick Howes, Bram Investments
MEP: Kern Mechanical
Landscape: K&D Landscaping