The purpose of this project was to implement sustainable design by utilizing the LEED rating system.  The project consists of two 14,000 square foot floors of a tenant fit-out within an existing building.  Focusing on the idea of social justice, the design combines a recording studio and community center to enhance the accessibility of music and instruments to the public.  In order to create the relaxing and creative atmosphere needed for music, a Zen garden was chosen as the concept.  In this meditative, open and natural space, occupants feel peaceful, inspired, and comfortable.  The design elements include a dynamic layout reiterated by furniture selections, ceiling, and wall design.  There is also a division of defined spaces radiating from a centralized point which energizes the design and creates movement.  Acoustics were a main challenge with this design which limited the amount of 90 degree angles with the walls and ceiling.  However the solution reiterated the concept by imitating the patterns found in a Zen garden.  Overall the design is a balanced union between the necessary spaces for both a recording studio and community center.   The combination allows musicians multiple ways to improve their community such as instrument donation, free lessons for adults or children, accessible library and classrooms, and stages for community concerts.   

                         

 Sustainability supports this project’s design because it was the main goal in completing this project.  The project met the LEED rating system requirements but also took it a step further.  The focus of the idea of social justice in this project is what sets it apart from others.  Not only is this project environmentally friendly but its main purpose to improve the lives of the people in the community.  There is an obvious need to focus on social justice in our communities and as designers we play a vital role in improving the quality of life.  This project gives musicians and a recording studio a chance to give back to their community through music.  It would be a place of growth and learning for individuals bringing the community together in a safe, positive environment.

 For this project, students were asked to concentrate on two LEED categories achieving a minimum rating of LEED Silver in Commercial Interiors.  In order to achieve the certification, LEED CI checklist indicating points achieved, submittal templates for the credits, and additional requirements by LEED submission guidelines were submitted.  This design focused on daylighting, natural ventilation and social justice.  Daylighting credits were achieved by allowing natural light and views throughout the entire space and studies were conducted using Revit to avoid glare and hot spots.  Also to improve thermal performance horizontal and vertical louvers were added to the building façade.  Operable windows and controlled air flow were ways natural ventilation was introduced to the building.  Research and studies showed that the prevailing northwest winds flowed efficiently through the space.  Overall this project was driven by the idea of social justice to improve the local community through music.