Peter Buck Center for Health and Fitness

Sustainable Sites

• The amount of impervious area was reduced within the site boundary. The square footage of new building footprint was less than the original building and walks & driveways were smaller in area compared to what was existing. This area gained from pre to post construction situation is vegetated, which creates a more permeable surface and in turn lowers runoff volumes and quantities.
• No additional parking was added to the site.
• To minimize heat island effect the building was designed with a highly reflective white roof, preventing localized temperature increases and reducing building cooling loads.
• Bike racks were installed to provide adequate bike parking for campus members arriving by bicycle.

Water Efficiency

• No irrigation was installed on site.
• By landscaping with indigenous plants that do not require irrigation and minimize maintenance, we conserve potable water and avoid compromising water quality.
• The fitness center restrooms and locker rooms utilize ultra low-flow showers, faucets, toilets, and urinals, resulting in a 48 percent reduction in water use over typical fixtures.

Energy & Atmosphere

• The buildings mechanical systems use less energy to provide a comfortable environment through building components such as low-e glass, white roof, heat recovery systems in the locker rooms, and an automated lighting system that adjusts light levels based on natural daylight.
• Seventy percent of the buildings electricity for the first two years of operation is offset by the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).  The RECs are procured from a green-e certified wind power facility in Mars Hill, Maine.

Materials & Resources

• Waste was reduced by diverting 95.7 percent of construction debris for reuse and recycling versus utilizing landfill space.
• Thirty-one percent of the building products include pre-and post-consumer recycled material, including the structural steel, aluminum window frames, carpet, floor tiles, gypsum board and foot grills.   
• Twenty-eight percent of building materials came from with 500 miles, reducing emissions from transportation while supporting the local economy.

Indoor Environmental Quality

• All adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings and carpet systems used are low in volatile organic compounds.
• During construction an indoor air quality plan was followed to limit indoor air quality issues for both construction workers and the eventual occupants of the building.
• The majority of building occupants, with the exception of the weight room in the basement of the fitness center, have excellent views of the outdoors.