Sustainability Studio Qualifications

College of the Desert, Student Services Center

Palm Desert, CA

TYPE: SIZE: ACCREDITATION:

New Construction 45,000 SF

LEED Gold

The firm provided MEP engineering design services for a new 2-story building consisting of approximately 45,000 SF. The building includes new smart classrooms, office space, administration for student services, and a new bookstore.

The mechanical system consists of one large air-handling unit located on the roof that uses fan wall technology to save space, energy, and enhance acoustical performance. Chilled and hot water are provided from a central plant. The air handling unit serves a variable volume hot water reheat system A photovoltaic system is located on the roof of the building to supplement the primary electrical service and feed excess power back into the public grid. A central elongated skylight also makes very effective use of day-lighting. The building exterior has been designed with wall fins to provide window shading in this very hot climate.

The project was awarded a LEED Gold Certification.