Sustainable Design for Susi Q Seniors

Several years in the making, Laguna Beach now gets its Susi Q Senior and Community Center.  The project is the culmination of the efforts of many — designed by LPA, Inc., built by Swinerton Builders, and project management by Griffin Structures Inc. — and includes 8,200 square feet for the Senior Center and 8,000 square feet for the Community Center.  The pictures below show a beautiful, fresh, and contemporary space with clean lines, but let's also take note of a few sustainable design elements:

• Natural daylight through skylights and solar tubes;
• Operable aluminum-clad wood windows;
• Water efficiency through drip irrigation and water efficient fixtures;
• Heat island reduction through a cool roof and covered parking;
• Use of building materials with high recycled content; and
• The recycling of 75 percent of the construction waste.

There's a YouTube video providing background information about the project and an explanation of the designer's challenge with the problematic site.  With abundant natural light, clean design, and a number of custom materials, Susi Q Senior and Community Center is certain to impress …

Photo credits: LPA.