CWU Sustainability

Virtual LEED Tour of Samuelson Hall

Samuelson Hall is the 5th building on CWU's Ellensburg Campus to be considered for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

Samuelson Hall was Built with Reused and Renovated Materials

Samuelson Hall was constructed using materials from older buildings built between 1928 and 1967, including the Samuelson Union Building. Reused and renovated assets include floor slabs, the main concrete frame, and a foundation covering 39,000 square feet. The south wing of Samuelson was constructed from salvaged parts from another building that was deemed unsafe.

Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood was used in the building, which requires the wood to be responsibly harvested and minimized environmental impacts.

Designed to Minimize the Heat Island Effect

The Heat Island Effect occurs when natural land cover is removed and replaced with buildings and pavement that retain heat, leading to localized warming. To minimize the heat island effect, a thermoplastic polyolefin membrane (TPO) was installed on the roof of the building that increases its reflectivity, reducing heat absorption and the heat island effect. The TPO membrane can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.

Optimize Energy Performance

For increased heating and cooling efficiency, chilled beams that use water to control the building’s temperature were installed in the ceiling. This system mixes newly heated/cooled air with the room temperature air to distribute the desired temperature more evenly and is much more efficient than systems that heat/cool the air directly.

Bicycle Storage

To encourage alternative modes of transportation and limit greenhouse gas emissions, Samuelson Hall has bicycle lockers and racks.

Water Efficient Landscaping

The landscaping around Samuelson Hall requires minimal water, reducing water consumption.