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
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.
