ACC Rio Grande wins ‘Project of the Year’ at ATX 2022 Green Awards
In its seventh year, the independently organized Austin Green Awards is Austin’s first recognition program to specifically highlight outstanding accomplishments in the broad arena of sustainable design and innovation, recognizing forward facing design strategies that respond to rapidly evolving environmental, social, and health imperatives.
The overarching challenge was to transform a 100-year-old building into a state-of-the-art learning hub that enhances occupant well-being and comfort through sustainable building practices, while preserving its historical integrity. Restoration features included cleaning and patching the signature Elgin- Butler brick façade and integration of custom energy efficient aluminum clad wood windows. The new campus honors the character of the neighborhood, strengthens connections to the community and creates an inclusive experience for all.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
HONOR – Honor the campus’s architectural heritage and educational legacy. New architectural elements should lay lightly on the historic building by venerating the existing textures and ornamental features. New detailing is simple and palette is limited, clean, white, ethereal.
FLEX – Provide Flexible, state-of-the-art instructional spaces that is adaptable as programs and teaching styles change.
CONNECT – Eliminate barriers between students, faculty, and staff. Foster collaboration.
OPTIMIZE – Optimize existing structure and enhance campus open space.
PROMOTE – Promote sustainable design and achieve LEED Gold, at a minimum.
ENHANCE – Enhance student experience and success; Enhance occupant comfort, safety, and well-being; Enhance users’ access to technology.
Thank you to the judges, and congrats to all the project winners!
- Kendall Claus, AIA Assoc., LEED BD+C, Perkins+Will
- Aaron Seward, The Architect’s Newspaper
- Greg Wolfson, EcoSmart Solution
- Victor Olgyay, AIA, Rocky Mountain Institute’s Carbon Free Buildings Practice
Read more about the event here.
