Gwinnett County Environmental and Heritage Center
Buford, GA
- 66,000 sq ft
- $15 million
- 2 stories
- LEED Gold
Structural Features
- This museum and interactive learning facility is devoted to water resources and sustainability. With environmental conservation as the project’s driving force, the design team was challenged to conceive of a building which respects its natural environment, conserves water resources, uses natural materials, and adheres to sustainable building principles.
- The structural design contributes to sustainability goals by using renewable wood, recycled steel, and high fly ash concrete in a unique and imaginative way.
- An extensive green roof and a cascading water feature draw non-potable reuse water from the nearby Gwinnett County wastewater treatment facility. It is used to provide air conditioning, to irrigate vegetation on the building site, and to flush toilets.
- Additional important sustainability strategies include the use of regional and local materials; a fan-assisted, natural ventilation system; and daylight harvesting.
Awards
State Award, 2008
American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia (ACEC)
State Award, 2008
Georgia Engineering Alliance (GEA)
1st Place Award – Environmental Category, 2006
American Concrete Institute (ACI), Georgia Chapter
Outstanding Project Award, 2009
Structural Engineers Association of Georgia (SEAOG)