Cambridge, MA – HMFH Architects recently announced that its design for the renovation of the City of Cambridge’s War Memorial Recreation Center has been awarded LEED® Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
Located at 1640 Cambridge Street, the renovation of the late 1950’s era physical education and recreation facility included improving and updating building systems, providing universal accessibility and revamping the layout of the locker rooms, restrooms, classrooms and administrative offices. The 78,000 square-foot building houses three pools, a gymnasium with basketball and volleyball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness room, a multipurpose room and separate locker room facilities for school and public use.
The Cambridge War Memorial Recreation Center achieved LEED Silver certification for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. Specific green design and construction features that positively
impact the project and the broader community include:
· Water: 41.5% savings with water-saving shower heads, toilets and urinals
· Energy: 18.5% savings with day light dimming, efficient boilers and variable frequency drive motors; reduction of urban heat island effect and energy costs with use of white roof
· Recycle: More than 88% of construction waste diverted from landfills to be recycled or reused
· Building Systems: Ensure proper performance of all energy consuming systems
· Sustainable Materials: All materials contain an average of 22.85% recycled content; all wood was Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood; long-life /low maintenance terrazzo flooring requires no harsh chemical cleaners; and low VOC-emitting sealant, paint and other finishes provide the best indoor air quality
· Transportation: Carpool preferred parking, bike racks and shower facility encourage alternative, more sustainable, modes of transportation
“The renovation of the War Memorial Recreation Center has greatly enriched the community and the recent LEED Silver certification demonstrates the City of Cambridge’s commitment to building a sustainable environment that benefits all of our citizens,” said Richard C. Rossi, Deputy City Manager for Cambridge.