Lee H. Brown Conservation Learning Center

Tucson, Arizona

Dedicated in early 2008 the Lee H. Brown Conservation Learning Center is the newest addition to the Reid Park Zoo. The collaborative vision between the Tucson Zoological Society, the Reid Park Zoo and the Architect resulted in a building that embodies the amazing adaptations animals and plants have made to survive in our desert environment. The 10,000 SF Learning Center serves as an extension of the “Wild Solutions” exhibit, which teaches zoo visitors how this building relates to its natural environment. Targeting the highest achievable level of LEED certification represented a major commitment by the project team. As a result of their dedication and skill the Center is the first LEED Platinum certified building in Southern Arizona, the third in the entire State, and the first LEED Platinum building in any zoo or aquarium.

Sustainable Strategies

• Solar hot water system with dedicated photovoltaic panels to conserve energy

• ICF walls for superior insulation

• Operable fenestrations on North/South walls allow for natural ventilation

• Onsite rainwater and greywater harvesting systems

• Pervious concrete parking lot

• Shading structures along the south facade were salvaged from the Tucson General Hospital

• Remote Energy Management Control System (EMCS) monitors HVAC

• Shading structures along the south facade were salvaged from the Tucson General Hospital

Project Results

• LEED for New Construction PLATINUM level achieved

• 75% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-1999 energy standard

• 48% of building electricity supplied by onsite 14 kW photovoltaic system

• 100% savings of potable water use for irrigation

• 79% of construction waste was diverted from the landfill