New Recreation Center at the University of Hawaii Campus Center

This project included many sustainable design features, including a solar photovoltaic system, solar water heating, an energy management system that automatically switches the building air conditioning system off if weather conditions permit, automatic daylight dimming, extensive use of natural ventilation and lighting, and rainwater storage. The energy management system will automatically open or close approximately 200 motorized awning windows to provide natural ventilation when the air conditioning system is turned off. Micro switches monitor the window positions and provide warnings if the window is in the wrong position. The building was sited to make maximum use of the trade winds in Manoa to provide natural ventilation. Rain and wind sensors were provided to automatically close the windows and start the air conditioning system in the event that wind driven rain can potentially enter the building through the windows. The lighting system is controlled by a central Lutron light control system. This allows the facility to turn off lights from the front desk when rooms are not in use. Local control panels provide light and fan controls in specific rooms. These control panels are preset to scenes with a manual dimmer override to provide recommended light levels in each room. Small offices, conference rooms, and restrooms were provided with automatic motion sensors. Larger exercise rooms and the gymnasium are provided with daylight sensors and automatic dimming. This project received a LEED Gold rating.