Our firm provided full Architectural and Engineering Services to design a LEED, Gold Certified 12,325 sq. ft. branch library just outside of the Ocala National Forest. A “green” and sustainable building was the natural choice for this project and for a library in particular. The building’s overall design illustrates that common material can be used to facilitate a green building. We chose a metal roof system, natural looking stone veneer and stucco, all common materials in the area and typically cost effective. Our main challenge was to identify and select these types of products that can provide us the LEED Certification that we were looking for and still adhere to a strict budget. We chose local, incorporated many diverse energy efficient products and materials, and included water saving fixtures such as waterless urinals and a water cisterns was also included for irrigation. The overall project was the first and only Gold Certified building in Marion County.
