Marc, today's charrette was terrific. Thank you for your truly generous collaboration. You've caused me to turn a mental corner. Until recently, I thought that that to do really intelligent buildings, we'd need the right clients, the right engineers, and a premium budget. Thanks to you, I now believe that to do intelligent buildings all we need is INTELLIGENCE!—and the guts to ask the simple questions until we get the answers, and the courage of our convictions to persuade others...

We can do this and it will change things. You've empowered us. Thanks. –Ellen

Vermont Law School Oakes Hall

Architectural design: Truex Cullins & Partners

Comprehensive integrated design consulting on new 24,000 ft2 classroom building - areas included integrated design process, including assisting the owner and architect in selecting consulting engineers; mechanical systems; building envelope; computer energy modeling; materials selection; composting toilets; central biomass heating system (not implemented); daylighting design; water conservation; and siting. Occupied Fall 1998.

In the rigorous climate of central Vermont, this building has an annual energy cost of about $0.65 per square foot, and its low energy use has become a standard by which other higher education buildings are judged. It was built in the latter part of the 1990s for $115/ft2.

A 2001 ASHRAE Technology Award winner, this building has won numerous other awards for green design.

References:
Randy Foose – Associate Dean, Finance - 802 763-8303
Rolf Kielman, AIA, Truex Cullins & Partners - 802 658-277

Links to more information on Oakes Hall