Tulane’s Lavin-Bernick Center Recognized by AIA for Sustainable Design

Tulane University’s Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life, which will be honored by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) as one of the nation’s top ten buildings in smart environmental design, has drawn national praise for its eco-friendly design.

The LEED Gold Lavin-Bernick Center (LBC) uses environmentally-forward design and innovations to minimize energy usage, including intelligent use of shading and natural lighting, energy-efficient air movement systems, and radiant cooling “water walls” connected to the LBC’s chilled water system, which helps cool the air and acts as a passive dehumidification system.

UPDATE 01/13/2009: The Lavin-Bernick Center was among only nine buildings chosen by the AIA to receive the 2009 Institute Honor Award for Architecture. According to AIA spokeswoman Tracy Ostroff, winners are buildings that exude spirit, foster community, display ingenuity, and “tread lightly on the earth and share a commitment to offer sanctuary for building users.”