A Sustainable Future
Case Study: Steven D. Bell Hall at UNC Kenan-Flagler
The new addition to UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, Steven D. Bell Hall, will soon allow for 50% more students to be admitted into its undergraduate business program with the new state-of-the-art learning environment. This facility is designed to foster collaboration, active learning, high-impact experiences, research, and industry engagement. The building will feature enhanced spaces for events, conferences, and case competitions, complemented by a unique 50-seat outdoor tiered teaching space and a magnificent four-story interior atrium.
The Challenge
“This project, being built in the heart of UNC’s campus, is committed to achieving a LEED Platinum rating from the U.S. Green Building Council and earning three stars from Fitwel.
The Steven D. Bell Hall at UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Business School stands as a testament to the power of sustainable design. As UNC’s inaugural project under the Three Zeroes program, this ambitious endeavor aims to achieve net-zero carbon, water, and waste. Barnhill’s team possesses a deep understanding of LEED certification and is adept at navigating the complex requirements to ensure this project’s goals are met. ”
The Solution
The project incorporates several innovative features to minimize its environmental impact:
- Sustainable Site Design: Landscaped areas are strategically designed to manage stormwater runoff, reducing the burden on local infrastructure. Reclaimed water is utilized for irrigation and flushing fixtures, conserving precious water resources.
- Renewable Energy: Photovoltaic panels installed on the rooftop harness solar energy, generating clean electricity to power the building.
- Energy Efficiency: An energy recovery unit in the mechanical penthouse captures and reuses waste heat, significantly reducing energy consumption.
- Daylighting and Natural Ventilation: Sawtooth skylights illuminate the atrium with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Overhangs and exterior walkways provide shade on the west facade, mitigating solar heat gain and improving thermal comfort.
By prioritizing sustainability, the new Steven D. Bell Hall sets a new standard for green building practices and demonstrates the positive impact of sustainable design on the environment and the community.