April 13, 2009
The Energy Foundation Office in San Francisco has been certified a LEED Platinum space under the USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program for Commercial Interiors. This is the first LEED Platinum Commercial Interiors project in the San Francisco Bay Area and the second in the entire State of California. CB Engineers is proud to have been the Engineer-of-Record for this prestigious project.
The Energy Foundation Office covers over 17,600 sq.ft. on the 5th floor of the existing Bently Reserve Building in San Francisco, which is the historic Old Federal Reserve Building initially constructed in 1926. In 2006, the Bently Reserve Building, retaining its character and historic fabric, was remodeled by its new Owner. CB Engineers was the Engineer-of-Record for the building remodel, which is currently targeting LEED Core & Shell Silver this year.
Beginning in late 2007, CB Engineers working with TannerHecht Architecture commenced the schematic design for Energy Foundation Office. From the initial kickoff meeting, energy efficiency and sustainability was an integral facet of the project. The Owner, The Energy Foundation, is a non-profit entity that focuses on promoting energy efficiency in the rapidly growing international market of China and domestically in the United States. In line with their mission, the Owner felt strongly about the need to have their space reflect their ideas. To achieve the goals set forth for energy efficiency and functionality, CB Engineers designed a mechanical system that utilizes thermally powered diffusers at all the perimeter offices; carbon dioxide sensors at all the densely occupied spaces; fully programmable and controlled thermostats and zone controllers, and a low pressure duct air distribution system. The electrical design included a high efficiency lighting system that utilizes daylight harvesting through the use of photocells at the perimeter zones and dimmable electronic ballasts on the fluorescent light fixtures. Occupancy sensors are also provided for all enclosed spaces and the fluorescent fixtures are high efficacy type. This is all part of a fully automated and addressable lighting control system with an operator work station for the Building Engineer.
This efficient MEP systems design enabled the project to realize significant energy savings and achieve LEED Platinum certification.