The Mark Jefferson Science builsing’s $90 million worth green make-over

The Mark Jefferson Science Building at the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) campus is undergoing a green makeover, complete with a spherical planetarium/classroom at the top, metal sunshades, a green roof, and a rain garden too. With $90 million to spend, the EMU’s energy-efficient additions and renovations might just help the building achieve a pursued LEED silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council too. The first phase of the project involved renovating an area of 80,000-square-feet and was completed in December while the second phase with the make-over of the 180,000-square-foot building dating back to the year 1969 will finish off in August 2012.

Using a natural stormwater management system that helps to retain and treat stormwater up on the roof, the building makes maximum use of natural lighting too. The building also shortens its electricity bills with the help of a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) with radiant cooling and dual energy recovery systems. Nothing gets better than giving the old a futuristic touch of green.
[dexigner]