Located along the Fox River, the new Fox River Water Reclamation District (FRWRD) Administrative Offices and Laboratory, gently rests upon and is integrated into the site, while respecting the surrounding prairie. Adjacent to the 100 year flood plain and wetlands, the building is sited in an east-west orientation, with primary glazing toward the south. This helps to control solar heat gain, while maximizing views.
Stormwater is controlled through the use of permeable pavers, allowing stormwater to dissipate through the sandy soil and through bioswales having native landscaping.
The large glazed openings, protected by engineered solar shading, provide all of the offices with outstanding views toward the river, as well as provide daylighting which reduces the dependence on artificial lighting.
Being adjacent to the existing West Plant affords the unique opportunity in the design of the mechanical system, using the effluent from the existing tanks in a closed loop heat transfer system. The facility is heated and cooled using a water-to-water heat pump with an effluent exchange system. This will save energy and translate to a 27% cost savings above the ASHRAE baseline.
Underscoring FRWRD’s mission of environmental stewardship, the facility is LEED Silver certified.
View Original