Benson Hall

Benson Hall, home of the English and History departments, was awarded LEED Silver Certification for Commercial Interiors (CI). LEED-CI allows for the incorporation of sustainable interior features during renovations, as opposed to new construction, to reduce operating and maintenance costs while also reducing a facility’s environmental footprint. Built Environment Planning, Design, and Construction worked with Gobbell Hays Partners to incorporate sustainable and environmentally friendly elements into Benson Hall including:

• 77 percent of renovation waste was diverted from the landfill;
• Renovation materials were sourced locally;
• Energy-efficient lighting fixtures and water-conserving plumbing fixtures were installed;
• Renovation materials with post-consumer recycled content and little or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were used;
• Energy Star-rated computers, monitors, printers, copiers, fax machines, refrigerators and televisions were purchased; and
• A green cleaning program was implemented which uses cleaning products with a low impact on the environment.