Page 40 - CCD-Mag-Summer-Fall-2020

Net Zero Energy, the building’s sustainable features include: onsite solar; a radiant slab powered by the complex’s central utility plant to conserve heat and energy; a high- efficiency triple pane-glazed window system; and biophilic design. Further ingenuity in energy efficiency is realized by tapping into one of the adjacent potable water conduits from Denver Water’s own water supply as a variable temperature heat-sync.
But the achievements of the building don’t stop there. The team has advanced the energy efficient systems and controls strategies and the creative design applications that make it arguably the most sustainable building in all of Colorado.
For example, for energy savings
the systems include an ultra-high- efficiency central utility plant with thermal storage and heat recovery. Perhaps the most pioneering aspect of the campus, and particularly of the administration building, is how it addresses water sustainability. Named “One Water”, Denver Water has developed a holistic plan for water efficiency and reuse that promotes the right water source
for the right use. The philosophy
40 | Colorado Construction & Design
is integrated into and around the building’s core design, through a number of effective potable and non-potable strategies, including low water-use landscaping, bioswales, wetlands for water quality and control; as well as low flow, WaterSense-labeled fixtures for restrooms, break areas, and the employee cafeteria.
The facility’s two most innovative “One Water” strategies are the rainwater capture for irrigation and onsite wastewater treatment and recycling for reuse in the building and on the site. The design of these systems is a first in Colorado, with Denver Water working to expand state regulations, clearing the way for other new developments to work on their own One Water solutions. The entire filtration system is located in the building’s lobby, making a powerfully designed statement about the vision and mission of Denver Water.
“The building isn’t only about it’s carbon footprint and energy use, it’s also – and understandably
so -- about water use,” said Josh Gould, Stantec’s Denver-based Vice President, Buildings. “Stantec’s commitment to sustainability
aligns with Denver Water’s aspiration to make a long-lasting difference in the region. Together we pushed the boundaries of water use and reuse, creating safe and replicable water efficiency solutions that
are scalable nationwide.”
“Denver Water’s goal of demonstrating best practice sustainability concepts was the driving force for this project and for every member of the team,” said Renee Azerbegi, President
of Ambient Energy. “We feel a
great sense of pride in being
part of the team that developed sustainability, One Water, and zero net energy goals during the initial planning process, and then further refined and tracked those goals through the entire design and construction process. As a result, the administration building has truly set new standards
in sustainability.”
Some of the ways the new facility exceeds-LEED include:
• Some of the many green building features include heat recovery using one of Denver Water’s water conduits, radiant slab heating and
Photo: Denver Water Admin exterior - Mike Branigan, Publisher- CCD Magazine
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