Glavé & Holmes Architecture (G&HA) is pleased to announce that the renovation of O’Neil Hall at the University of Virginia has achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification.
G&HA adapted the former Rugby Road Administration Building, now O’Neil Hall, for new use as office space for senior administrative staff and other administrative functions. Originally constructed in 1924 for faculty housing, this historically significant structure is an example of the Jeffersonian classicism prominent during the early-twentieth century. This project was completed in compliance with Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation. Goals included preserving the historic and architectural significance and restoring the facility’s aesthetic, while upgrading the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Sustainable features include:
- 20% of recycled and regional materials
- 40% water reduction by using low consumption plumbing fixtures
- 75% of building reuse of existing walls, floors, and roof
- 75% of construction debris diverted from disposal
- Bicycle storage, shower, and changing room
- Bioretention basins for stormwater management
- Native plant species planted, no irrigation systems will be installed
- Low VOC wood products, paints, sealants, adhesives, and carpets
In 2007, the University of Virginia Board of Visitors enacted a policy requiring all major new construction and major renovations to achieve LEED certification. LEED evaluates buildings using criteria in six areas: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy & Atmosphere, Materials & Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation & Design Process. By earning points for specific credits, projects can work their way through the levels of certification: certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
