Dorm of Distinction Receives Green Distinction

The 10 West Street residence hall at Suffolk University in Boston -- which earned a runner up designation in the University Business Dorms of Distinction competition -- has now been awarded LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Suffolk acquired the historic, partially-renovated property, located in the Downtown Crossing neighborhood, after a developer's condominium project failed. Sustainable highlights of 10 West Street include:

• Its location in a high-density urban area that's readily accessible via public transportation.
• Reuse of an existing building to prevent demolition waste and reduce the amount of new building materials required.
• Recycling of more than 75% of construction waste.
• More than 80% of the regularly occupied spaces being daylit.
• An HVAC design with direct digital controls for centralized monitoring, adjustment, and alarms for each piece of equipment.
• Low-flow plumbing fixtures.
• Low-emitting carpets, paints and coatings, adhesives and sealants, wood, and furnishings to protect indoor air quality.
• Local and regional building materials and furnishings.
• A green housekeeping program.
• Signage to educate occupants and visitors of environmental features.

CBT Architects deserves kudos for transforming the fixed individual condo configurations with minimal demolition into a residence that now houses a far larger number of people per unit and per floor than the condos would have. The hall was designed to hold nearly 270 students and will no doubt continue to be a popular on-campus housing option for students.