Bank of America Cash Vault

Tempe, Arizona

The Tempe Cash Vault in Tempe, Arizona is a 30,000 SF project unique both structurally and internally. The building is part of Bank of America’s initiative to contribute to sustainable business practices addressing global climate change over the next 10 years. The exterior shell consists of eight inch thick poured in place concrete tilt panels made of regional river rock material. Desert landscaping, including the use of cacti and succulents, provide a low water use design that contribute to landscaping water efficiency. Heat island effect is reduced externally by use of covered parking and desert tree coverage, while underfloor air conditioning contributes to the indoor air quality and thermal comfort of the interior. The challenge of creating a credit strategy for a project with such specific security needs speaks to the significance of achieving such a high level of certification for this building.

Sustainable Strategies

• Bicycle parking stalls, showers, and changing rooms are provided for the building occupants to encourage alternative transportation

• Covered parking is provided that has a Super Therm roof coating with an SRI of at least 29 to reduce the heat island effect

• Potable water use is reduced through the installation of low-flow lavatories, dual-flush water closets, and waterless urinals

• Upgraded building envelope performance, damand control ventilation, occupancy controlled lighting, and efficient chillers improve energy efficiency

• Use of adhesives, sealants, paints and composite wood products with low or no volatile organic compound (VOC) content

Project Results

• LEED for New Construction GOLD level achieved

• 36% of construction materials were extracted and harvested within a 500 mile radius

• 29% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-2004 energy standard

• 50% savings of potable water use for irrigation

• 89% of construction waste was diverted from the landfill