The architect for the Babbio Center is Ecoplan, P.A., of Englewood Cliffs, N.J.. Ecoplan has already garnered three awards for the building's design. A visually strong masonry building is offset by a transparent glass atrium entrance hall and a sculptural circular stainless steel structure containing the main auditorium and several levels of lecture halls. Dynamic interior spaces are created by the interaction of these three major shapes. Accent lighting encircles the auditorium and more dramatic lighting enlivens the main atrium space, creating a glow to be seen throughout the campus and across the Hudson.
General Building Strategies
- Maximized use of high efficiency fluorescent lighting.
- High reflective light colored roofing system to minimize heat gain
- High performance exterior envelope, maximizes R-value, minimizes air infiltration and thermal bridging.
- High performance glazing systems.
- Recycled hot water system to heat ground floor slab.
Indoor Environment
- Community based open interior planning.
- Maximized natural day light with glazed interior partitions.
- Carbon Dioxide sensors for fresh air regulation in large occupancy rooms
- Operable windows.
- High acoustic rated ceiling systems.
- Paints containing no V.O.C.’s
- Linoleum flooring.
- Carpeting made of post consumer recycled materials.
