The Frank N. and Jocelyne K. Linsalata Alumni Center was recently certified as LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification is awarded to newly constructed or renovated buildings meeting strict standards in green building practices, such as sustainable building materials, low energy consumption and use of interior furnishings and finishes that promote good air quality and occupant health.
The Linsalata Alumni Center is the fourth campus building to achieve LEED Gold, along with House 5 of The Village @ 115th, Tinkham Veale University Center and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Residence Hall. Several other campus buildings have reached LEED Silver certification.
The Linsalata Alumni Center features several innovative green features aimed at reducing energy and water consumption and also uses local and sustainably sourced building materials. Approximately 20 percent of building materials are either composed of recycled content—including wood wall paneling, steel plumbing pipe and carpeting—or sourced from within 500 miles of CWRU.
The architecture and engineering team selected paints and materials with low quantities of volatile organic compounds, thereby improving indoor air quality. More than 95 percent of all spaces exceed the minimum threshold for natural daylight, and windows line the great hall and lobby, allowing a direct view of the front lawn and courtyard. Though not a direct effect on energy consumption, natural light and outdoor views are known to improve occupant well-being.
Among the many advantages to CWRU’s urban campus is the walkability, bikeability, access to public transit and proximity to shops and restaurants, for which the U.S. Green Building Council awarded points.