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Sustainable Architecture at KSC

Keene State has an impressive record in sustainable architecture, even with its classic New England style. Each building is composed of red brick and granite, possessing a cohesive look and feel while also addressing energy efficiency. Although the buildings are traditional, the school has made major renovations, revamping two of our oldest residence halls. In order to increase the efficiency of these outdated buildings, we have added insulation and insulated windows, updated heating systems, and new appliances and lighting and plumbing fixtures.

The College has extended its progress in energy efficiency in more than just our residence halls. We have improved the cogeneration capability in the steam-heat plant and completed the installation of energy-conservative lighting. The College has invested in programmable HVAC systems installed during renovations and in new buildings, and works to schedule classes according to an efficiency plan set up to cluster classes in the same buildings around the same times in order to reduce heating and cooling energy use.

Keene State’s long-term sustainable architecture goal is to develop or partner with a nonprofit company that purchases residential homes to make them both more energy and water efficient. We hope to establish zero carbon buildings similar to the Technology, Design, and Safety Center (TDS), Pondside III, and the highly anticipated Living and Learning Commons residence hall that is scheduled for completion in 2016.

Technology, Design, and Safety Center

Our Technology, Design, and Safety Center earned LEED Platinum Certification by the US Green Building Council/Green Building Certification Institute. The building’s solar array, which was supported financially by businesses and organizations in the community, made it possible to achieve LEED Platinum Certification. The building features several academic disciplines including Sustainable Product Design and Innovation, a program that explores both the artistic and technical approach to design, and includes a focus on environmental sustainability. In addition to attaining LEED Certification, the TDS Center makes Keene State the third largest producer of solar energy on the Public Service of New Hampshire (PSNH) system.

Green features of the TDS Center

  • Photovoltaic arrays on the roof and on the adjacent Science Center were designed to provide 100% of the annual energy demand for the building.
  • A glass curtainwall and window area are positioned on the south side of the building to maximize passive solar heating.
  • Skylights help to brighten the interior of the building and electric lighting is energy efficient.
  • Building materials include recycled materials for the carpets, porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, acoustical ceiling tiles, plastic toilet partitions, tack board. Ceiling panels were crafted from fast-growing Aspen trees.
  • The absence of volatile organic compounds or carbon-based chemicals present in paint, polished concrete flooring, and exposed structuring, contribute to better air quality.

Pondside III is currently the most energy-efficient residence hall at Keene State College with a USGBC LEED Silver Certification. It features sustainable interior surfaces and furniture including countertops and window sills constructed of composite product that contains shaved soda cans. All flooring materials come from recycled products as well.

Contact the Sustainability Office

Kate Witte
Sustainability Coordinator
Katherine.Witte@keene.edu
603-358-2194