Exemplars of Yale University’s commitment to sustainability, Kroon Hall and Stoeckel Hall have been recognized as two of the most intriguing green buildings of 2010 by the Connecticut Green Building Council. The award, presented to Yale at its own Peabody Museum, is one of many Yale has received in acknowledgment of the school’s 15-year strategic plan to reduce emissions. Atelier Ten, environmental design and lighting designers, led the sustainability process for both buildings.
LEED Platinum Kroon Hall, designed by Centerbrook Architects and Hopkins Architects, is carbon neutral in operations, with 25% of its electricity generated on site. Overall, Kroon achieves a site energy savings of 58% and uses 81% less water than a comparable building. Above-grade spaces are fully daylit and naturally ventilated when outdoor conditions permit. The unique water feature outside of the building filters rainwater using aquatic plant species which is then used to provide for all on-site irrigation and indoor toilet flushing.
Stoeckel Hall, originally built in 1897, was renovated by Charney Architects and earned a LEED Gold rating in 2010. The building demonstrates exceptional material reuse, with 87% of the existing envelope and structural components being used in the restoration, including the preservation of the historic existing fireplace, bookshelves, and many walls, floors and ceilings. In addition, Stoeckel Hall demonstrates 36% potable water savings due to dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets, as well as landscaping that uses no additional irrigation.
The Connecticut Green Building Council grants awards to projects completed by design firms based in Connecticut that demonstrate excellence in high performance and energy efficient buildings. Categories judged are residential, commercial and public/institutional.