Old Town School of Folk Music

LEED Criteria: Sustainable design (or "green building") elements were rated as the most important non-educational requirements of the project, according to surveys of staff, faculty, board and students. Every avenue of sustainability and construction has been evaluated and incorporated in design where feasible, to meet or exceed the expectations of the Old Town School community.; Project architects VOA Associates, who are active members of the U.S. Green Builders Council, identified and evaluated sustainable initiatives throughout the integrated design process using the LEED Green Building rating system (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). With LEED-accredited professionals on the design and construction teams, the project has the benefit of extensive experience in green design and construction.; From site choice to energy-saving heating and cooling systems, green roof and sustainable, regional materials, the new facility will demonstrate environmental stewardship through LEED certification. The completed project is expected to meet silver certification standards, according to the six LEED criteria categories: Sustainable Sites -- The site is located within walking distance of public bus and train lines, and designs include bicycle storage and locker rooms/showers to promote alternative transportation. Heat island and storm water runoff effects are reduced by a green roof system and energy-star rated roofing.; Green roof and landscape plantings that are native to the region will be employed to reduce potable water consumption. Plumbing technology is designed to reduce water use throughout the interior.; The heating and cooling systems will be zoned to allow reduction of energy loads when portions of the building are not in use. The systems will provide for peak demand only as required. Cooling systems are designed to reduce ozone depletion. Once installed, all building energy systems will be calibrated and verified to ensure optimized energy performance. Energy performance above the prerequisite LEED standard is expected.; A majority of construction waste will be diverted to recycling and reuse, diverting it away from incineration and landfill. Recycled products, regional materials, and/or renewable resources such as bamboo will be used throughout.; Classrooms feature a high level of lighting control and natural light/outside views where ever possible. Natural light will be maximized with energy-rated windows that let in the daylight but keep out the sunlight. An interior light well on the west side will also pull day lighting in further back into interior classroom spaces. Extensive use of low-emitting materials for adhesives, sealants, paint, carpet systems and composite wood and agrifiber will reduce interior air contaminants and irritants.