Bellevue Community College

This 65,000 square foot Science + Technology Building for Bellevue College had the target of reaching LEED Silver certification, per the State of Washington’s mandate and the College’s own commitment to sustainability and leadership. Sustainable design elements include preservation of open space, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, water-efficient landscaping, materials with recycled content, and low-emitting paints, adhesives, and carpet systems.

O’Brien & Company supported the project by facilitating an eco-charrette and providing ongoing consulting as the project moved through design into construction. In addition to technical consulting, the firm wrote a Green Housekeeping Manual, which helps the maintenance staff avoid toxins, use energy efficiently, and minimize waste generation during occupancy.

The project beat its own goal and the state mandate by achieving a LEED Gold certification in 2009.