Jul 2 2012
Representing the Southwest Virginia chapter, Nick Safay awarded Heartwood the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credentials of the U.S. Green Building Council.
Heartwood: Southwest Virginia's Artisan Gateway
Receiving the award were People, president and CEO, Rob Goldsmith, Heartwood project manager Rob Jones and the project designer David Bandy. Safay conferred praise for the optimum use of regional goods and the innovative blueprint.
According to Goldsmith, the project is an apt example of the growth that was envisaged for the region by way of regional, financial and environmental development. Jones echoed similar opinions and expressed pride in the ingenious design that would project the region as a pioneer.
The construction measuring 30,000 sq. ft., based on the agrarian architecture of the region, is the brainchild of Spectrum Design architect David Bandy in partnership with 1717 Design of Richmond, and was constructed by MB Contractors, Roanoke, Va. Bandy was appreciative of the venture giving a leg up to the local craftsmen. More than 30% of the goods used in the venture were obtained from the region, including various types of wood. Of the materials, 25% got recycled as was the debris left over from the construction. LEED compliance was ascertained throughout the entire project through Commissioning WorCx of N.C.
Well-designed equipment allows water conservation by almost 40% and native plants and lawns help in water harvesting. The interiors are adorned with low-VOC materials. Windows and skylights utilize natural light to the optimum and geo-thermal wells reduce cooling and heating expenses considerably.
Source: http://www.heartwoodvirginia.org