This is a building called the Guild and Commons at the high school that I attended. It was built when I was a junior in high school and is an example of the crossroads of elegance and sustainability. It is a zero net energy building, is Zero Carbon and Petal certified, has achieved a LEED Platinum rating. It features a community garden where all of the produce used in the kitchens comes from. It uses natural ventilation and ceiling fans and “the mechanical system captures waste heat from the ventilation air and refrigeration system in the commercial kitchen — used for space heating and domestic hot water production.” The kitchen is 100% electric to reduce energy usage. There is a central usage of large windows to provide natural light and heat, with movable wooden slats to cover the windows during the colder months. Rain chains are utilized for water conservation and functional drainage. This building is my perfect example of how sustainable buildings are not only better for the environment, but can be beautiful and sleek as well.
