Harold C. Schott Education Center Cincinnati, Ohio
Project Background The Education Center is a dynamic facility that integrates the excitement and wonder of exploring a rain forest habitat with the creative approach to educating children and adults for which the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is nationally renowned. The Center is at the corner of Erkenbrecher Ave. and Dury Ave, 45220. It is home to the Zoo's expanded educational programs as well as a 250-seat general-purpose auditorium. Ten new classrooms encircle a "Discovery Forest," a large round greenhouse containing both plants and animals that will greatly enrich the overall learning experience. The Center accommodates overnight student groups and clubs that participate in the ever-popular Nocturnal Adventures program.
Strategies and Results A 20kW photovoltaic array helps reduce reliance on grid-power. Waterless urinals and low-flow plumbing fixtures reduce water consumption. Interior finishes and materials are recyclable, rapidly renewable and low-VOC emitting. Roofing materials are high-emissivity / Energy Star rated. Exterior lighting is dark-sky compliant, interior lighting control is automated. The building also includes a rain garden to reduce urban stormwater pollution and improve local water quality at 30-40% higher efficiency than a standard lawn. When it was determined that an old oak tree on the site could not be saved, it was cut down, kiln-dried and incorporated into the structure in the form of a reception desk, benches and interior woodworking.
"In the City of Cincinnati, 70% of all green house gas emissions are generated from the operation of buildings. We will be pursuing LEED Certification on all of our future projects."
Architect: Glaserworks Owner: Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens Contractor:Turner Construction Subcontractor: Ken Neyer Plumbing, Inc. Size: 38,000 sq. ft. Cost: $8.4 million
