Rosa Parks Elementary School Expansion

Elementary School Expansion a Model for Sustainability
Tulsa, Oklahoma

The 16,240-square-foot expansion of Rosa Parks Elementary School was designed to achieve a strong energy performance. The addition qualifies as an Architecture 2030-compliant project. In order to earn this distinction, a project must meet a 70-percent reduction in fossil fuel use, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy consumption over the regional or national standard. Using virtual energy modeling software, we were able to exceed that with a total of 71.2-percent reduction over standard energy performance.

12

classrooms

71.2%

reduction in predicted energy usage over minimum standards

We provided architecture; interior design; and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering. The expansion includes 12 classrooms, a nurse's office, and a public clinic. Each classroom has its own bathroom, and each pair of rooms has a shared storage room which allows teachers to help monitor adjacent classrooms. Site orientation strategies and various design features improved the building's energy performance. Clerestory windows bring in natural light from the double-loaded corridors, and occupancy sensors reduce the use of artificial light. The height of the corridor allows heat to rise and helps maintain the conditioned space at the occupant level. An efficient air-to-air heating and cooling system was installed, and a unique air supply design for the classrooms includes a vent in each corner of the room that provides conditioned air closer to the students. We completed this project on budget and a month early.

Client

Union Public Schools

Square Footage

16,240 SF

Cost

$3.8 million

Services

  • Architecture
  • Engineering

Markets

  • Education

Regions

  • Southwest